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Wednesday 26 June 2019 | 23 Shawwal 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 7934 | 2 Riyals

Deputy Amir meets Ambassador of Australia Qatar urges UN Rights Amir's $3bn Council to end coercive measures support lauded by siege nations QNA/GENEVA

The State of Qatar stressed the by Pakistan PM importance of the role of the Human Rights Council and of During a telephone call, Imran Khan expressed The Office of the United Nations gratitude to H H the Amir for his directives High Commissioner for Human to support Pakistan’s economy with $3bn in Rights in working to end the discriminatory unilateral deposits and investments, adding that this coercive measures imposed on directive and H H Amir’s recent visit reflect the Qatar by a number of States in deep relations and ties between both countries the region and to hold those and peoples. responsible accountable. This came in the speech of the State of Qatar delivered yes- QNA Pakistan reflect the deep rela- terday by Permanent Repre- DOHA tions and ties between both sentative of the State of Qatar countries and peoples. to the United Nations Office in Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin For his part, H H the Amir Geneva, Ali Khalfan Al Man- Hamad Al Thani yesterday expressed thanks and appreci- souri, under the second item of received a telephone call from ation for the warm hospitality the general discussion on the Prime Minister of the Islamic accorded to him during his visit updated statement of the High Republic of Pakistan, Imran to Pakistan. Commissioner for Human Khan. In a related development, Rights at the Human Rights During the call, Imran Khan Pakistani media reacted posi- Council at its forty-first session. Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani with Ambassador of Australia, Dr Axel expressed gratitude to H H the tively with the announcement He said that this month Wabenhorst, who called on the Deputy Amir to greet him on the occasion of the end of his tenure Amir for his directives to support that H H the Amir issued direc- marks two years of discrimi- Pakistan’s economy with $3bn tives to support the Asian coun- in the country, at Amiri Diwan, yesterday. H H the Deputy Amir granted the outgoing Ambassador natory unilateral coercive in deposits and investments, try’s economy with $3bn worth the Decoration of Al Wajbah in recognition of his role in enhancing bilateral relations, wishing him measures caused by a blockade adding that this directive and H of deposits and direct invest- success in future assignments. The Deputy Amir also met with Ambassadors of the People’s Republic imposed on Qatar by a number ` H the Amir’s recent visit to ments. `P2 of China, Li Chen, and the Republic of Burkina Faso, Adama Compaore. P2 of countries in the region. `P3 PM meets World Islamic Economic Forum Chairman HMC’s services on par with world’s best, JCI report says THE PENINSULA to performance improvements to make quality of care and DOHA and efficiency, and an official patient safety top priorities. has revealed the survey report “In 2018 we cared for over The Joint Commission Interna- findings indicate HMC’s general 350,000 patients across our tional (JCI) said in its accredi- hospitals are on par with the emergency department, various tation report that the health world’s best hospitals. outpatient departments, and day services of Hamad Medical In 2016, HMC made history care, radiology, and dialysis Corporation (HMC) general becoming the first healthcare units. In spite of increased hospitals are on par with the organization in the world to have patient numbers, we’ve con- world’s best hospitals. all its hospitals qualified under tinued to implement key HMC announced the accred- the JCI Academic Medical Center improvement initiatives that are itation of 13 of its facilities and accreditation program. making a real difference to the services by the Joint Com- Since this time HMC’s quality of care we provide,” said mission International (JCI), general hospitals have Al Jusaiman, who is also Deputy including the re-accreditation undergone considerable growth, Chief of HMC’s General Hospitals of three of its general hospitals both in terms of the number of Group. – Al Khor Hospital, The Cuban patients treated and the services Al Jusaiman said that one Hospital, and Al Wakra Hospital, offered. improvement initiative recently recently. Al Khor Hospital’s Chief introduced led to the estab- Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani met yesterday As part of the re-accredi- Executive Officer, Mohammed lishment of two new clinics with the Chairman of the World Islamic Economic Forum, Tun Musa Hitam, and his accompanying tation, a team of JCI surveyors Al Jusaiman said amidst which have reduced patient wait delegation. They reviewed cooperation and means to boost them especially those related to Islamic evaluated a number of areas expanding patient needs, HMC’s times and improved patient economy. They also discussed topics of mutual interest. ranging from patient satisfaction, general hospitals have continued experience. `P3 QA wins four APEX Passenger Choice Awards Qatar Chamber reviews criteria THE PENINSULA we have soared during the past year. Qatar Airways has invested into con- to increase private schools fees DOHA This accomplishment sets a new stantly improving passenger expe- benchmark for the airline going rience has resonated strongly in the QNA bin Ahmed bin Towar Al Assistant Undersecretary for Qatar Airways announced yesterday forward, and we renew our com- airline’s success and is a positive DOHA Kuwari. During the Educational Affairs at the Min- that it has won four out of six 2019 mitment to continuing to innovate leadership influence on our industry.” meeting, several other istry of Education and Higher Airline Passenger Experience Asso- to offer our passengers the very finest The APEX Passenger Choice The Education Committee issues were discussed, Education in the meeting ciation’s (APEX) Passenger Choice experience when they fly.” Awards are based on passenger of Qatar Chamber reviewed including the issuance of emphasises the Ministry’s interest Awards, an all-time record for a APEX Chief Executive Officer, Joe feedback gathered through APEX’s a number of topics related to the Private Schools Law and seriousness in addressing all single airline in a region. Qatar Leader, said: “With more than a partnership with TripIt from Concur, the private sector, including and its executive regula- issues of private education, which Airways was named ‘Best Overall million verified passenger votes the world’s highest-rated travel- the capacity of private tions without consultation opens a new page of cooperation Carrier in the Middle East’, ‘Best counted for the 2019 Official Airline organising app. Using a five-star scale, schools, the development of with representatives of the between the Chamber repre- Cabin Service in the Middle East’, Ratings and Passenger Choice more than one million flights are rated a reference framework for private sector, the high sented by the education com- ‘Best Food & Beverage in the Middle Awards, Qatar Airways received an by passengers across nearly 500 air- determining the criteria for costs of licensing, the mittee and the Ministry of Edu- East’, and ‘Best Seat Comfort in the overwhelmingly positive response lines from around the world from July increasing tuition fees, the shortening of licenses for cation. `P2 Middle East’, at a ceremony that took by passengers around the globe. In 1, 2017 - June 31, 2018. Passengers rate absence of mechanisms to educational establish- place in Istanbul, Turkey. addition to being a 2019 APEX Five their overall flight experience from one control the relationship ments and the lack of ade- Qatar Airways Group Chief Exec- Star Global Airline, Qatar Airways to five stars. On the same screen, pas- between private schools and quate school buildings. utive, Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are earned the 2019 Passenger Choice sengers are also given the opportunity teachers, in addition to the He stressed the role Public Health SPONSORS PHCC emphasizes In Vitro Fertilization importance centre and Fertility thrilled to have swept four out of the Award for the ‘Best Airline in the to provide anonymous ratings in five high costs of licensing and its played by government of timely Lab at Al-Ahli screening Hospital

MAIN SPONSOR six APEX Passenger Choice awards Middle East’. That is an amazing subcategories: seat comfort, cabin renewal. agencies in improving and PAGE | 2 PAGE | 4-5 in the Middle East category, and we accomplishment in one of the most service, food and beverage, enter- This came at the fourth facilitating the business SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 extend our sincere thanks to our competitive regions in the world. tainment, and Wi-Fi. The single screen meeting of the Education environment in front of the many loyal passengers who have Qatar also achieved a record number rating allows airline passengers to Committee during the private sector and business Included with voted for us. To have been recognised of Passenger Choice Awards by also easily rate their flight in less than 15 current year, which was owners, especially in the for excellence across so many key winning the 2019 Middle East Awards seconds. The Passenger Choice Awards chaired by First Vice- educational sector, as one today’s edition is a categories is a tremendous for ‘Best Cabin Service’, ‘Best Food & are independently certified by a pro- Chairman of Qatar of the most important eco- achievement for Qatar Airways, and Beverage’, and ‘Best Seat Comfort’. fessional external auditing company Chamber and Chairman of nomic sectors. He pointed special supplement is proof of the great heights to which The innovation and level of care that hired by APEX. `P2 the Committee, Mohamed out that the presence of the 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS Deputy Amir honours outgoing envoys of Burkina Faso, China FAJR 03. 16 AM SHOROOK 04. 45 AM

ZUHR 11. 37 AM MAGHRIB 06. 30 PM ASR 02. 59 PM ISHA 08. 00 PM

WEATHER TODAY

Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani with the outgoing ambassadors of the Republic of Burkina Faso, Adama Compaore (left), and People’s Republic of China, Li Chen, at his Amiri Diwan office yesterday. H H the Deputy Amir granted the outgoing ambassadors the Decoration of Al Wajbah in recognition of their role in enhancing bilateral relations, wishing them success in their future assignments and further progress and prosperity for relations between the two countries. For their part, the ambassadors expressed thanks and appreciation to H H the Deputy Amir and to the State’s officials for the cooperation they received during their term of office.

35oC 41oC Dreama opens accommodation for orphans Minimum Maximum SANAULLAH ATAULLAH The inauguration ceremony THE PENINSULA was attended by Amal bint Abdullatif Al Manai, Chief Misty at first at North area’s, Hot daytime with slight dust at some places and some The Orphan Care Center, Executive Officer of Qatar clouds. ‘Dreama’, has inaugurated a Foundation for Social Work;

new accommodation Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser,

HIGH TIDE 22:24–00:00 LOW TIDE 06:32 – 16:25 comprising facilities of inter- Executive Manager of the Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department national standard ensuring Orphan Care Center ‘Dreama’; complete comfort, privacy and and the representatives of sup- security of orphans at Al Khisa porting companies and Al Jazeera signs area. organisations. The new accommodation “The inauguration of this pact with IDMC includes buildings for boys and accommodation comes within girls, a villa for children, a villa the context of our quest for the THE PENINSULA / DOHA for academic guidance and realisation of the Foundation’s Amal bint Abdullatif Al Manai, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Foundation for Social Work, educational services, activity vision toward supporting the opens the new centre of Dreama. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA Al Jazeera Media Network signed building, a recreation building, civil societies’ organizations yesterday a new partnership agreement a restaurant and the adminis- operating under the Founda- with the Internal Displacement Monitoring trative building. Moreover, tion’s umbrella,” said Amal society. “This new accommo- of human and child rights, on embodying all the interna- Centre (IDMC) to raise the voices of the some areas are assigned for bint Abdullatif Al Mannai, CEO dation will help achieving the top of which comes the pro- tional standards relevant to millions of people displaced within their practicing sports and other of Qatar Foundation for Social moral, social, educational, and vision of the best services that observing and protecting countries’ borders due to conflict, violence various games for children in Works told the media persons health care to Dreama Center oriented to realizing family human rights. Ali Al Fadhala, and disasters. an appropriate and pleasant on the sidelines of the community, in addition to cohesion in the State of Qatar”. Senior Vice President and This partnership aims to increase jour- environment for living. ceremony. securing their privacy and psy- Mariam bint Ali Bin Nasser Chief Executive Officer of nalists’ awareness and coverage of issue The new facility is com- She further confirmed the chological stability,” said Al Al Mesnad, Executive Director Qatar Insurance Group of internal displacement in the media and pletely separated from the Foundation’s concern for Mannai. of the Orphan Care Center expressed his satisfaction for to tell the stories of the women, men and administrative buildings, with developing and supporting She said that the inaugu- ‘Dreama’, said that Qatar, has the company’s keenness children displaced or at risk of becoming the purpose of availing further such affiliating social firms to ration of this new building gone during a relatively short towards providing continuous displaced in the future and to shine light privacy, stability and securing practice their role in serving reflects our concern for period a long way ahead support to the community on the humanitarian and development a family-likewise atmosphere. the target segment of the applying the global standards towards applying and efforts. challenges of this global phenomenon. Qatar Chamber reviews Qatar Airways wins four awards criteria to increase private schools fees FROM PAGE 1 The Assistant Undersecretary for Edu- cational Affairs at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Omar Abdul Aziz Al Namaa, stressed the ministry’s keenness to maintain continuous communication with the chamber, meet representatives of the private educational sector and members of the committee. Al Namaa also suggested a monthly meeting to be held between members of the committee and the ministry to come up with proposals and ideas that will contribute to the for- Qatar Airways officials with Airline Passenger Experience Association’s mulation of the ministry’s general Passenger Choice Awards at a ceremony in Istanbul, Turkey. policies.

H E Sheikha Alya bint Ahmed Al Thani (centre), Permanent Representative of Qatar Amir’s $3bn support lauded by Pakistan PM to UN; ICSS INSIGHT CEO, Massimiliano Montanari, and Vladimir Voronkov, Under- Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, at the event. FROM PAGE 1 develop tourism sector in Pakistan. She three memoranda of understanding also hailed Qatar’s lifting of the ban on (MoU). They touched a wide range of News media outlets in Pakistan Pakistani rice, saying it was good news fields that included trade, investment, UNOCT and ICSS sign pact reported that the move will support the for rice exporters and the economy of and tourism. growing bilateral ties, following the his- the country. Dunya News TV channel mean- QNA tools, guidelines and capacity-building toric visit carried out by H H the Amir. Express Tribune said that the Qatari while quoted Awan as saying that the NEW YORK programmes to enhance the security of Special Assistant to Prime Minister announcement came three days before investments will create new business major sporting events and promote Imran Khan on Information and Broad- Pakistan was scheduled to make about opportunities in Pakistan, and will also The United Nations Office of Counter- sports and its values to prevent terrorism casting, Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan, $700m in repayments to its interna- strengthen the investment initiative of Terrorism (UNOCT) and the International and violent extremism. “We are pleased thanked the Amir and the cabinet for tional creditors, which was going to hit the government. She added that the Centre on Sport Security (ICSS) through to launch a new initiative that will con- the support, Radio Pakistan reported. its already low reserves. The paper announcement was proof of interna- ICSS INSIGHT, signed an agreement tribute to better support Member States She said that this amount will help noted that the visit of H H the Amir to tional leaders confidence in the current yesterday, at the United Nations Head- in addressing both areas and we are Pakistan overcome its economic chal- Pakistan concluded with no mention government led by Prime Minister quarters in New York. grateful to have ICSS as an important lenges, adding that Prime Minister of the $3bn aid package in the official Imran Khan. She also said this was a This new agreement will foster coop- partner of this endeavour,” Vladimir Imran Khan’s announcement to grant handout. The paper also highlighted first step to further boost bilateral ties eration around matters related to pre- Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General of visa on arrival for Qatari citizens will that Qatar and Pakistan had also signed between Qatar and Pakistan. venting and countering terrorism, par- the United Nations Office of Counter- ticularly with regard to the protection of Terrorism said at the signing. vulnerable targets in the context of major H E Sheikha Alya bint Ahmed Al sporting events. Thani, Permanent Representative of the Ashghal opens new interchange on Al Khor Road The agreement aims at promoting State of Qatar to the United Nations was the implementation of the United Nations present at the signing ceremony and wel- THE PENINSULA is located at exit No. 32, three kilo- allowing direct connectivity to several Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and comed this important partnership. “The DOHA metres to the north of the recently public and sports facilities since it enhancing public-private partnerships State of Qatar assigns high priority to opened interchange at the intersection delivers direct access to Lusail Sports in preparation, and during, major sports as a means for peace and devel- The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) of Al Khor Road with Al Majd Road. Complex, Lusail International Circuit, sporting events and other international opment,” she said. opened yesterday a new interchange The interchange includes a bridge Lusail Shooting Club and Lusail sporting competitions ICSS INSIGHT CEO, Massimiliano on Al Khor Road, as part of Al Khor with two lanes in each direction, pri- Reserves. Ashghal has recently fully As a result, UNOCT and ICSS, which Montanari, said: “Protecting major Expressway upgrade Project in a record marily serves road users of Al Khor opened the 33-kilometre-long main is a global, non-for-profit organization sporting events means protecting all the time and four months before the Road, Al Shamal and Al Majd Roads carriageway of Al Khor Road last April, based in Doha, will convene international socio-economic opportunities these contractual date. The new interchange coming from Doha and Al Khor and one year ahead of schedule. and regional events, develop events can generate.” WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 HOME 03

OFFICIAL NEWS IJSO team lauds Qatar’s readiness to host Olympiad Amir sends QNA good preparations for Qatar’s congratulations to DOHA hosting of this important scien- Mozambique President tific event, making the tour- The Minister of Education and nament, which is the first in the Doha: Amir H H Sheikh Higher Education, H E Dr. Arab world, distinguished by all Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al standards in many ways, and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Hammadi, met yesterday with including the development of Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani the President of the International systems of testing, correction, sent yesterday a cable of con- Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO), voting, and other logistical gratulations to the President Prof. Paresh Joshi, and his matters. Prof. Paresh Joshi said of the Republic of Mozam- accompanying delegation, that the organisation’s delegation bique, Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, on currently visiting the country. held many meetings with the the anniversary of his coun- The meeting reviewed the organising committee of the IJSO try’s Independence Day. The Ministry’s preparations to host Qatar 2019, and found Prime Minister and Interior the 16th International Junior remarkable progress in the Minister, H E Sheikh Abdul- Science Olympiad, which will be planning and implementation lah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al held in the State of Qatar in aspects of the events that have Thani, also sent a cable of December. been well planned, stressing that The Minister of Education and Higher Education, H E Dr. Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al Hammadi, congratulations to the Prime In statements following the the 16th edition in Qatar will be with the President of the International Junior Science Olympiad, Prof. Paresh Joshi. Minister of the Republic of meeting, Assistant Undersec- a well planned and excellent Mozambique, Carlos Ago- retary for Educational Affairs event. stinho do Rosario. QNA Fawzia Abdulaziz Al Khater said Assistant Undersecretary for Olympiad, said that many organisation to discuss the place. Qatar will host the 16th that the final report issued by the Higher Education Affairs Dr. meetings were held between the measures and preparations, in International Junior Science Amir congratulates IJSO team, headed by Prof. Khalid Al Ali, who is chairman of scientific and organising com- addition to field visits, which Olympiad from December 3 to President of Slovenia Paresh Joshi, was reassuring and the scientific committee of the mittees of Qatar Olympiad and were conducted to the facilities 12 as the first Arab country to emphasised the readiness and International Junior Science representatives of the where the contests will take host the event. DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Qatar Media Corporation CEO meets Ethiopian official Al Muraikhi meets ambassadors Thani sent yesterday a cable of congratulations to the President of the Repub- lic of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, on the occasion of his coun- try’s Statehood Day. The Prime Minister and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdul- lah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, also sent a cable of congratulations to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Marjan Sarec. QNA Amir greets President of Croatia DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received yesterday a Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani written message from the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, pertaining to bilateral relations and the Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani means to enhance them. The message was received by the Minister sent yesterday a cable of con- of State for Foreign Affairs, H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, during gratulations to the President a meeting with the Ambassador of Kazakhstan, Askar Shokybayev. of the Republic of Croatia, The Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Media Corporation, H E Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al Thani, The Minister also met with Ambassador of Tunisia to Qatar Salah Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, on met with the Director-General of the Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority Dr. Getachew Dinku, currently Al Salhi, on the occasion of the end of his tenure in the country, the occasion of her country’s visiting the country. The meeting reviewed various areas of cooperation in the media field between Ambassador of the French Republic, Frank Geely, and Ambassador Statehood Day. The Prime the two sides and ways of promoting them. The meeting was attended by Ambassador of Ethiopia of the Republic of Tajikistan, Sohibzoda Khisrav Sohib. Minister and Interior Minis- to Qatar, Samia Zekaria. ter, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, also sent a cable of congratu- Qatar asks UN Rights Council to end lations to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia, Andrej coercive measures by siege nations Plenkovic. QNA FROM PAGE 1 crimes committed by Israel, the Qatar condemns The Permanent Represent- occupying Power, against the attack in northern Iraq ative of Qatar to the UN Office Palestinian people. He called on in Geneva, Ali Khalfan Al Man- the international community to Doha: The State of Qatar souri, added that the human shoulder its responsibility in expressed strong condem- rights violations of families, stu- protecting the Palestinian nation and denunciation dents and citizens continue, people and to restore their legit- of the attack on a village in affecting their right to education, imate rights. Al Mansouri the northern Iraqi province freedom of movement, freedom pointed out that the military of Kirkuk, which resulted in of expression, and ownership escalation by the Syrian regime’s deaths. In a statement yes- among other rights. forces and their supporters in terday, the Ministry of Foreign The ambassador reiterated Idlib in targeting of civilian facil- Affairs reiterated the State that Qatar condemned the ities, is evidence that the Syrian of Qatar’s firm stance reject- incitement of violence against regime believes only in the mil- ing violence and terrorism people based on religion, itary option. Al Mansouri regardless of the motives stressing the responsibility of the stressed that the perpetrators of and causes. The statement Council and all governments in those violations must be held to expressed the State of Qatar’s standing strong against the hate account. He also said that Qatar condolences to the families of speech against immigrants, for- condemned the attacks on victims as well as to the gov- eigners and minorities, espe- civilians in Libya, especially the ernment and people of Iraq. cially Muslims. He also regretted recent military attacks on the QNA that the High Commissioner did city of Tripoli, warning of the not address the violations and danger of sliding into chaos.

HMC’s services on par with world’s best: JCI report FROM PAGE 1 eye surgery clinic, dental spe- Medical Director, said while the cialty services, bariatric and cos- expansion of new services have The establishment of a post- metic services, and a 24-hour been important and are note- discharge clinic to provide translation service. worthy, the introduction of follow-up care for discharged Officially opened in January patient safety and prevention patients and a pre-operative 2012 as a joint project between programs were a major focus of clinic to assess patients before the governments of Qatar and the JCI inspector’s recent visit. surgery have both improved Cuba, The Cuban Hospital pro- “Qatar Early Warning patient satisfaction and reduced vides medical and surgical System, a scoring system that wait times from up to eight services across more than 25 helps clinical staff recognize weeks for the pre-operative specialties to patients in Dukhan, deteriorating patients before clinic and up to ten weeks for Zekreet, Shahaniya, Umm Bab, they become very sick. This the post-discharge clinic to just and the surrounding areas. It program has been instrumental one week. also supports the public health in diagnosing and treating “We are delighted to have system as a whole, caring for patients who need intervention once again achieved JCI accred- patients from Doha. to prevent their condition from itation. Since our last surveyor Since its last JCI accredi- worsening. visit in 2016, we have expanded tation visit in 2016, the hospital The program has had a real the quality and range of services has seen a sharp rise in the impact on patient care by acting we deliver to our patients. We’ve number of patients being seen, as a safety net, identifying opened a new Admissions and recording over 85,727 outpatient clinical deterioration in a Discharge Lounge to improve visits and 6,756 inpatient visits patient’s condition and our patient’s care experience and in 2018, compared to 63,358 out- prompting specific action. Our we speed up the admission and patient visits and 4,700 inpatient VTE (venous thromboembolism) discharge process,” said Dr visits in 2016. The hospital has prevention program has also Sabah Al Kadhi, Al Wakra Hos- also experienced a 35 percent been instrumental in improving pital’s Medical Director. growth in the number of surgical patient care and health out- The Cuban Hospital was also procedures it performed since comes by preventing potentially acknowledged for its expansion 2016. Dr Angel Mario Felipe Gar- life-threatening blood clots,” of services which include a laser mendia, The Cuban Hospital’s said Dr Garmendia. 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 Transport Minister meets ACAO chief QF-funded technology aims to enhance cybersecurity globally

FAZEENA SALEEM THE PENINSULA

A homegrown technology funded by Qatar Foundation (QF) has given Qatar the potential to play a leading role in the global fight against cybercrime. Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) — part of Qatar Foun- dation Research, Development, and Innovation (QF RDI) — has supported the Qatari company Application Design for Global Solutions (ADGS), co-founded by Hassan Al Ansari, Christophe Bil- Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti met yesterday with the Director liottet, and a team of engineers General of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization, Eng. Abdennabi Manar. The meeting reviewed Qatar- Hassan Al Ansari Christophe Billiottet directed by an Argentinian expert, ACAO relations in the field of civil aviation and means of further enhancing them. Qatar’s Civil Aviation Nahuel Gonzalez, to develop Authority (CAA) Chairman, H E Abdulla bin Nasser Turki Al Subaey, also attended the meeting. STROKK, a software that adds an Based on behavioural biometrics, such as human-centric extra level of cybersecurity. The technology that analyses how people type on a computer software uses behavioural bio- keyboard, rather than just what they type, the innovation Acclaimed Filipino singers’ concert tomorrow metrics to combat cyber threats. aims to combat data breaches that pose a threat to ADGS has also now been users of digital tools such as smartphones, tablets, and RAYNALD C RIVERA three decades, Nievera has Relations (PCR) - programme of named as the first beneficiary of computers across the globe. THE PENINSULA released dozens of best-selling the Philippine National Police QF RDI’s ‘Innovation Coupon’, a albums, starred in movies, fea- (PNP) in which Nievera and Mis- fund designed to benefit com- The Philippines’ concert king tured in television shows and gar- alucha have been appointed panies that have the capacity and enhancing global data security. just as it has done in education and Martin Nievera and Asia’s night- nered awards. “To the 250,000- ambassadors. technical knowledge to develop Having heard about QSTP and health. ingale Lani Misalucha, two inter- strong Filipinos here in Qatar, we General Rhodel Sermonia, their product or service, but its role in supporting tech entre- In a global context, STROKK’s nationally acclaimed Filipino would love to see you all and thank Global PCR Director, said the pro- require more support to resolve preneurs to transform their ideas development is quite timely: a singers, are both keen to perform you so much for what you do here gramme launched nearly a year a specific technical or business into reality, Billiottet and Al Ansari 2018 study by IBM revealed that, for Filipinos in Qatar at their show in Qatar and for what you do, not ago aims to be inclusive forging challenge. Based on behavioural approached the QF member with worldwide, the average cost of a at Aspire Ladies Sports Hall only for your families back home stronger relations with Filipinos biometrics, such as human-centric a detailed proposal that reflected data breach is over $3m, with the tomorrow. Qatar is the first stop but also all of us in the Philippines. abroad and partnerships with technology that analyses how their product’s purpose. US and the Middle East being the of the duo’s three-nation concert I really do hope and pray that all other agencies to promote Phil- people type on a computer key- “From encouraging our idea, most affected areas. An estimate tour in the region dubbed “World of you here are doing well, healthy ippine tourism and investment. board, rather than just what they to supporting us to the point of 4 billion passwords are stolen Alliance Serenading the OFWs and strong,” said Misalucha on her “We want to tell our kaba- type, the innovation aims to where we could market our every year, and 83% of the data Middle East Tour 2019.” message to overseas Filipino bayans that PNP is not just pro- combat data breaches that pose a software both in Qatar and breaches come from hacked “We will be serenading the workers (OFWs) in Qatar. tecting and serving the Filipino threat to users of digital tools such abroad, QSTP’s and QF’s role in passwords. people who are the least sere- Known for her extraordinary people in the Philippines but as smartphones, tablets, and com- the development of the product “The concerns for privacy and naded, the hardworking overseas ability to sing across genres such worldwide. We want them to puters across the globe. was crucial,” Billiottet said. “It’s security are perennial issues that Filipino workers who are all over as pop, rock, jazz, soul, RnB and know we are protecting their The technology has already only because of the funding we companies involved in producing the world and make sure they feel operatic arias, Misalucha is the loved ones in the Philippines been deployed within Qatar in have received through Qatar smart devices have to deal with. important because they truly are first Asian to headline a main because we want them to work sectors where the risks, and reper- Foundation that we were able to At the moment, you have solutions the heroes of our country. I think showroom in Las Vegas and has with peace of mind while away cussions, of cyber threats are con- develop it in a way that allows it based on biometrics, such as fin- after this concert we will be less worked with many local and from their loved ones,” stressed sidered to be high, such as the to be launched globally, to coun- gerprint or facial recognition. proud as singers but more proud international artistes including Sermonia. Sermonia said Nievera financial sector. STROKK has been tries such as Kuwait, Turkey, When these biometrics are being as Filipinos because we will all be Nievera. and Misalucha were chosen as adopted by international banks, Algeria, Iraq and Argentina. compromised, so is the identity of united that night,” Nievera said at The show is organised by Star ambassadors “because they are and perhaps even more impor- “You can have the best idea in the user, for biometrics cannot be a press meet yesterday at Radisson Media Production, Doha City world class performers who can tantly, is being tested by some mil- the world, but without time, replaced. And, the consequences Blu Hotel Doha. Event Management and the reach out to more Filipinos in any itary and defence intelligence money and resources, it will can be devastating,” said Billiottet. With a career spanning over Global Police Community part of the world.” services in Europe and South remain an idea. Thanks to QF, our “Behavioural biometrics address America for potential use. algorithms have placed Qatar the limitations of biometrics. Just It was also recently show- ahead of countries such as as your signature is unique to you, cased in Kuwait at the third Germany and the US, in improving so is the way you type on a key- edition of the MENA Dojo, a behavioural biometrics for board. STROKK is a software that unique regional accelerator pro- cyber-security.” learns the way you type and gramme – organised jointly by According to Al Ansari, ADGS clearly recognises you from QSTP and global venture capital is already a serious actor in Qatar’s anyone else. firm 500 Startups. Kuwait was the high-tech export sector. “With It adds a security layer to any first country to buy copies of almost 10 percent of Qatar’s high- system, in any language. It even STROKK software from ADGS. tech exports, ADGS is already con- makes stolen passwords useless Although the idea for the tributing to achieving the objec- to hackers by knowing how you software came to Al Ansari, Billi- tives of Qatar National Vision type. The advantage is that ottet, and Gonzalez four years ago, 2030,” said Al Ansari. behaviour, unlike biometrics, can FROM LEFT: General Rhodel Sermonia, Director of Global Police Community Relations; Filipino singers they needed financial support to He said QF was elevating be consciously changed by the Lani Misalucha and Martin Nievera; and Victor Magnipes, CEO of DC Events Management Company, during develop it into a product that Qatar’s capacity and impact in the user to eliminate any prospective a press conference held at the Radisson Blue Hotel Doha yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN / THE PENINSULA would achieve their goal of field of technology development, risks,” he added. Ministry of AJ+ Español wins World Education to Digital Media Award start receiving THE PENINSULA/DOHA scholarship Verificado 2018, the collaborative initiative applications co-founded by AJ+ Español to verify content during the 2018 Mexican elections, won QNA/DOHA the 2019 World Digital Media Award in the category of Best Innovation to Engage The Scholarship Department of the Young Audiences. “Verificado is a living Ministry of Education and Higher example of how far AJ+ can go in excel- Education has announced that it lence and innovation: this is our first-ever will start receiving application for journalistic initiative of this size and scope. scholarships for academic year It has become a multi-awarded project and 2019-20 on June 30 at https://schol- a reference within the journalism arship.edu.gov.qa for bachelor’s community from Latin America to India. degree and technical diplomas in Congratulations to all the AJ+ Español and general and sub-specialties that Verificado teams”, said Dima Khatib, serve development orientations of Managing Director of AJ+ Channels. the state. The submission of the During its 119 days of operation and application for scholarships for with its 90 partner organisations, Veri- academic year 2019-20 will begin ficado 2018 successfully engaged young on June 30 at https://scholarship. people between 18 and 34 years old, who edu.gov.qa for bachelor’s degree represented 65% of the initiative’s fans and and technical diplomas in general AJ+ officials with the award. 52% of registered interactions on Facebook. and sub-specialties. These were mainly first time or one-time The department has allocated voters. Overall, the initiative’s Twitter and became a global finalist at the World Digital Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday Facebook accounts racked up more than Media Awards, competing against the each week to discuss with the 200,000 followers in each platform. winners of the same category in other public all aspects of the schol- “We are thrilled with the fact that the Digital Awards’ regional editions, namely arship and to answer their ques- initiative, born in Doha, keeps being rec- Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North tions and queries, from 8am to ognised by the industry for its impact within America and South Asia. Verificado 2018 1pm. Director of Admissions and young audiences and its collaborative beat regional winners from the United Registration at the Department of nature. Without the room for experimen- States, India and South Africa. Scholarships Saleh Al Muftah said tation that we have at AJ+, we couldn’t have This is the third award won by Verificado that this year’s specialisations done this!”, said Diana Larrea, Senior Strat- 2018. In addition to the World Digital Media include medicine, education, agri- egist at AJ+ and creator and co-founder of Award, the initiative has been honoured with culture, livestock, fisheries, policy, Verificado 2018. a LATAM Digital Award and an Online Jour- planning, statistics, veterinary The World Digital Media Awards Cer- nalism Award, from the Online News Asso- medicine, science, laboratories, emony took place on June 2, during WAN- ciation (ONA). It was also a finalist at the standardisation, law, languages, IFRA’s 71st World News Media Congress, Premio Gabo, of the Gabriel García Márquez translation, engineering, politics, in Glasgow, Scotland. After winning the Foundation, one of the most prestigious international relations and com- LATAM Digital Award, Verificado 2018 awards in the Spanish-speaking world. puter and information sciences. WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 HOME 05 CMU students meet Rwanda President, discuss education

THE PENINSULA The students were Qatar and the main campus in DOHA participating in Project Pittsburgh team up with students from the African campus. Students from three of Carnegie Rwanda, a community Together, they work with Mellon University’s global service initiative that Rwandan students and teachers campuses, including CMU in brings together CMU to explore ways to teach and learn Qatar, met with the President of students from Qatar, with technology. Rwanda, Paul Kagame, to discuss Carnegie Mellon University their passion for education and US and Rwanda. has a distinct approach to edu- technology. cation, emphasising collaboration, The students were participating “Meeting with President technology and bringing together in Project Rwanda, a community Kagame was an incredible different disciplines to innovate service initiative that brings moment for Project Rwanda,” said and solve problems. together CMU students from Edward. “When we sent the tweet, Carnegie Mellon Qatar Qatar, US and Rwanda. we didn’t expect this great opened its doors in 2004, and While in Kigali, Andrew response. offers undergraduate programs Edward, a junior in the Infor- We really felt he wanted to in biological sciences, business mation Systems Program at the listen to our ideas and experiences administration, computational Qatar campus, sent a tweet to and help in making these ideas biology, computer science and President Kagame to tell him impactful for education in information systems. CMU-Q stu- about the team’s enthusiasm for Rwanda.” Project Rwanda aims dents are globally-minded, with education in Rwanda. To the to enhance the educational expe- more than half travelling for team’s surprise, the president rience of Rwandan youth through study, service or personal devel- reached out and invited the group technology. Each year, a group of opment during their under- Carnegie Mellon University students pose for a group photo with the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. to speak with him. Carnegie Mellon students from graduate years. QIC supports Dreama in building new orphanage Disney adds magic to Summer in Qatar with Toy Story 4 premiere THE PENINSULA relationships and building trust. DOHA Speaking at the inauguration THE PENINSULA 3 to 9pm on weekdays and ceremony, Ali S Al Fadala said: “We DOHA between 4 to 10pm on As part of its commitment towards take pride in being a part of this weekends. Corporate Social Responsibility coveted ceremony. It highlights QIC A Disney Activation at Doha The fourth and final (CSR), Senior Deputy Group Pres- Group’s long standing commitment, Festival City is set to enhance instalment of the animated ident & CEO of QIC Group, Ali S Al values and vision as a trusted and the Toy Story experience for classic comes 9 years after the Fadala inaugurated the newly estab- ethical partner for the community. fans. The highly anticipated last movie in the franchise, and lished orphan accommodation for In fact, it is a clear testament to our Toy Story 4 is now showing in features Toy Story veterans Dreama. significant role in the development cinemas across the country, Tom Hanks and Tim Allen as Last year, QIC Group collabo- of Qatar’s social fabric and in and from June 28 to July 20. Woody and Buzz Lightyear, as rated with Dreama to provide spon- achieving our goals towards Doha Festival City will be well as Keanu Reeves, Tony sorship for quality housing refur- sustainability.” home to a Disney activation Hale, Christina Hendricks and bishment for orphans. He said that QIC ensured that the with exciting games and photos Timothy Dalton. QIC Group has been engaging in core values of the business and oper- with movie characters. Summer in Qatar is a many CSR collaborations that make ating principles align with its objec- Children aged 4 and up can nationwide program that cel- significant developments in the fields tives for CSR. “In effect, being socially enjoy a Toy Story 4 themed ebrates the country’s family of human and social development. Amal bint Abdullatif Al Manai (left), CEO of Qatar Foundation for conscious has allowed us to respond, activity area with interactive entertainment, retail, travel Evolving with the trends that Social Work, honouring Senior Deputy Group President & CEO of QIC engage and solve common concerns games designed by Disney. and hospitality offerings. underpin the changing CSR landscape Group, Ali S Al Fadala, during the inauguration ceremony. of society along with cooperation of In addition to a 3-D photo Qatar National Tourism in Qatar, QIC Group has been our customers, business partners and with the full cast of characters, Council (QNTC) has announced involved in various activities that integral pillar for achieving sus- initiatives is a two-way process. affiliates. With this strategic collab- children can play games on a number of entertainment contribute to the advancement of the tainable development; not only in First is when the organisation ben- oration with Dreama, we pledge to interactive digital screens, do shows, meet & greets with society, including cultural, social and business, but also in the society it efits from a business perspective continue to create resilient commu- a number of art & craft activ- popular characters and new human values that create scalable operates in. In fact, QIC Group and second, when the company nities which inherently would create ities and test their Toy Story attractions that will be open to impact. firmly believes that engaging with gives back to the community in a a stable society and a sustainable knowledge with quizzes. The the public from June 4 till Today, CSR is considered an the society through various CSR variety of ways, developing strong Nation for our future generation.” activity timings are between August 16. VCUarts Qatar Interior Design professors get CIDA merit award

THE PENINSULA/DOHA advance the cause of excellence activating all the “good forces,” of in interior design education. CIDA the university; and creating a Three professors from the Interior is an independent, non-profit, cohesive and holistic learning Design programme at Virginia accrediting organisation respon- environment based on design Commonwealth University School sible for setting standards and practice. “We plotted out all the of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts evaluating degree-granting projects that we were going to Qatar) in Education City have interior design programmes. cover and we correlated them received a merit award from the There are 179 CIDA-accredited with the themes of the week that US Council for Interior Design programmes in the US, Canada, we were going to have during the Accreditation (CIDA) for their Qatar, and the UAE. entire semester, so in a sense it entry, “Meta Studio.” The basis for Meta Studio was: was more project driven,” said Professors Johan Granberg, “How do we turn good students Assistant Professor Suleiman. Mohammad Suleiman and into good designers?” With that The schedule and matrix were Haithem El Hammali were given in mind, the professors decided designed to provide a flexible and the award at a ceremony at the that Meta Studio would combine collaborative structure. The Interior Design Educators Council three Interior Design classes schedule was kept “live” and conference in Charlotte, North (Design Studio, Materials, and evolved throughout the semester. Carolina. This is the second CIDA Graphics) into one interconnected This provided opportunities for real- award that the department has unit with a number of aims. The time calibration, flexibility, and won, with the previous project aims included breaking educa- adaptability to address learning titled: “Exploring Space through tional silos, encouraging students deficiencies. It also helped manage the Lens—Production Design.” to synthesise increased com- a coordinated and synchronised The award recognises and cel- plexity; balancing their schedules; sequencing of deadlines, breathing ebrates outstanding practices that utilising, coordinating and space for students.

Texas A&M at Qatar students build car for race Texas A&M University at Qatar mechanical engineering students Ahmad Jamal Al Kuwari, Alaa Abdalla and Ali Al Ashar built and raced a car at the SAE Supermileage event, in Michigan earlier this month. The SAE Supermileage programme is an engineering design competition for students that provides an opportunity to enhance their engineering design and project management skills by applying what they’ve learned in the classroom. The design goal was to develop and construct a single-person, fuel-efficient vehicle. The vehicle was fully inspected in a series of tests to ensure it complied with competition rules and passed. 06 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 Iran vows to ditch more nuclear curbs

AFP Iran had announced on May had “held the door open to real TEHRAN 8 that it was suspending two of negotiations” but that “in response, Iran foreign minister accuses its 2015 pledges and gave Europe, Iran’s silence has been deafening”. Iran said yesterday it will further China and Russia a two-month Bolton also warned Iran against free itself from the 2015 nuclear Bolton of plotting for war ultimatum to help it circumvent disrupting a Bahrain conference deal in defiance of new American US sanctions and sell oil or it on Middle East peace that gets sanctions as US President Donald AGENCIES/TEHRAN National Review. The Joint supreme leader and other top would abandon two more com- underway on Tuesday night. Trump warned the Islamic Comprehensive Plan of Action, officials meant “closing the doors mitments. “As of July 7, Iran will Iran’s Foreign Minister republic of “overwhelming” Iran’s Foreign Minister or JCPOA, is the landmark 2015 of diplomacy” between Tehran forcefully take the second step Mohammad Javad Zarif said the retaliation for any attacks. Mohammad Javad Zarif accused nuclear deal Iran signed with and Washington amid heightened of reducing its commitments” to drone had violated Iranian air- Tensions between Iran and US National Security Adviser world powers. tensions, even as President the nuclear deal, Rear Admiral space, a claim the US denies. But the US have spiralled since last John Bolton of plotting for war “Iran never left the negoti- Hassan Rouhani derided the Ali Shamkhani, secretary of Russia, a key ally of Tehran, year when Trump withdrew the against Iran in a tweet ation table. #B_Team dragged the White House as being “afflicted Iran’s Supreme National Security backed Zarif’s version of events. United States from the deal yesterday. US out, while plotting for war,” by mental retardation.” Council, was quoted as saying by Rouhani noted there had been under which Tehran was to curb “Wanna know why those Zarif added. Zarif has in the past “The useless sanctioning of Fars news agency. chances for talks between the two its nuclear programme in with proven record of detesting said that a “B-team” including Islamic Revolution Supreme This was so “countries who sides. Zarif met former US sec- exchange for relief from eco- diplomacy are suddenly inter- Bolton, an ardent Iran hawk, and Leader (Khamenei) and the com- interpreted Iran’s ‘patience’ with retary of state Rex Tillerson several nomic sanctions. ested in talks? Just read @Amb- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin mander of Iranian diplomacy weakness and inaction realise times before Washington unilat- The two arch-rivals have JohnBolton’s 2017 recipe for Netanyahu, could goad Trump means closing the doors of that Iran’s answer to the erally withdrew from the nuclear been locked in an escalating war destroying the #JCPOA,” Zarif into a conflict with Tehran. diplomacy by the US’ desperate American drone’s violation of its deal in May 2018 and reimposed of words since Iran shot down a wrote, adding a link to a 2017 Meanwhile, Iran warned that administration,” Foreign Ministry airspace will be no different than sanctions. “You do not seek to US surveillance drone in what it article written by Bolton in the new US sanctions targeting its spokesman tweeted. its reaction to devious political negotiate. If you did, we could said was its own airspace, a claim efforts to limit Iranian people’s have,” Rouhani said. Zarif, a the US vehemently denies. absolute rights,” he added. political moderate, was a key On Monday, Washington military chiefs, saying it would yesterday, saying the new US A top security official said The statements came as US architect of the deal under which stepped up pressure by black- also sanction Foreign Minister sanctions against Iran showed Iran would “resolutely” abandon national security adviser John Iran agreed to curb its nuclear listing Iran’s supreme leader Mohammad Javad Zarif later in Washington was “lying” about more commitments under the Bolton, on a visit to Iran’s arch- programme in exchange for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and top the week. Tehran was defiant an offer of talks. nuclear deal on July 7. enemy Israel, said Washington sanctions relief. Gazans on strike to protest US conference on Mideast peace

AP impoverished territory, where At this week’s conference, GAZA CITY unemployment exceeds 50%, the Trump administration hopes voiced opposition to the $50bn to draw pledges from business Palestinians in Gaza are on Palestinian investment and infra- leaders and wealthy Gulf states general strike, with stores and structure proposal, which does not to fund its economic plan, which public institutions shuttering in deal with the Israeli occupation calls for $50m of investment and protest of the Trump adminis- of the West Bank or blockade of infrastructure projects in the tration’s conference in Bahrain, Gaza. Physician Said Jadba says: West Bank, Gaza and neigh- which focuses on the economic “We don’t need money. We are boring Arab countries with large portion of the White House’s not hungry for bread. We are populations of Palestinian plan for Mideast peace. hungry for dignity.” refugees. Gaza’s Hamas rulers have Palestinians burned effigies “Palestine is not for sale!” called for mass protests across of President Trump and marched protesters chanted as they filled the coastal enclave today, the a donkey pasted over with the streets of major West Bank second day of the gathering. A images of Gulf royals in the West cities. “From Bahrain to Saudi black-and-white banner Bank on Tuesday, as the U.S. pre- Arabia we are not tempted by declaring a strike replaced the pares to open its conference in your millions!” usually illuminated billboard Bahrain, which focuses on the Egypt, Saudi Arabia, United Nations special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, Agnes Callamard over Gaza City’s central Omar Al economic portion of the White Morocco, Jordan and various (left), who issued a report of the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, greets Khashoggi’s fiancee Mukhtar street. House’s long-awaited plan for Gulf states have sent finance Residents of the Mideast peace. officials to the workshop. and Turkish writer Hatice Cengiz at the UN Human Rights Council headquarters in Geneva, yesterday. Fiancee of slain Saudi journalist Khashoggi urges UN action

AP dead haunts her because his Agnes Callamard’s findings, GENEVA body hasn’t been found, com- which were released last week pounding her loss with “an in a 101-page report. The fiancee of slain journalist unbelievably different kind of Callamard, a fellow Jamal Khashoggi took her trauma.” “Silencing Dissent” panelist, laid campaign for justice in his killing She appeared at a 90-minute out an excruciatingly detailed to the United Nations’ top human council “side event” organised account of The Washington Post rights body yesterday and urged by Canada and hosted by columnist’s alleged final the UN to take “the next step” advocacy group No Peace moments at the consulate. She following a key investigator’s Without Justice. Cengiz provided said more investigation was finding that Saudi Arabia bears one of several testimonials on warranted of Saudi crown prince responsibility. the theme “Silencing Dissent.” Mohammed bin Salman’s pos- Hatice Cengiz, a Turkish Most of the speakers criti- sible role in Khashoggi’s killing. citizen, told a Human Rights cized alleged rights abuses in Speaking through a trans- Council event in Geneva about Saudi Arabia and the United lator, Cengiz said the report her grief over Khashoggi’s Arab Emirates. Diplomats from needed to be acted upon and October 2 slaying at the Saudi Western nations and regional noted the crown prince may one Consulate in Istanbul when he countries like Turkey and Qatar day be Saudi Arabia’s head of went there to pick up a doc- were in the audience. state. “The report points to the ument for their marriage. In her testimony on fact that important Saudi offi- Cengiz said the possibility Khashoggi’s killing, Cengiz cited cials, big officials, may have been her fiancee might not really be many of independent UN expert involved,” she said. Ethiopia pays tribute Egypt detains prominent to slain military chief oppn leader REUTERS government and each other for ADDIS ABABA greater influence and resources. REUTERS/CAIRO The foiled plot to seize Ethiopia held a memorial control of the northern Amhara Egypt detained a leading oppo- yesterday for the army chief of region and the assassinations in sition figure and allies yesterday staff slain with four other senior the national capital Addis Ababa on charges of plotting to bring officials in weekend attacks that underscored the threat of spi- down the government, but posed the biggest threat yet to ralling violence in Africa’s opposition groups said the the prime minister’s reforms. second-most populous nation. arrests aimed to stymie their Abiy Ahmed, who survived In addition to the killing of preparations for parliamentary a grenade attack at a rally in his the chief of staff in the capital, elections next year. honour last year, sat in the front Amhara state president Zyad Elelaimy, a prominent row at the memorial and wiped Ambachew Mekonnen and an member of the Social Demo- tears from his eyes with a white adviser were killed in the cratic Party and the Civil Dem- handkerchief. Abiy took power region’s main city Bahir Dar. ocratic Movement, was held 15 months ago and has won The attacks were led by along with at least three others, widespread international praise Amhara’s head of state security the interior ministry said in a for kickstarting political and General Asamnew Tsige, who statement. economic reforms. But his had been openly recruiting Elelaimy, who was also a shake-up of the military and fighters for ethnic militias in a leading member of the 2011 intelligence services has earned state that has become a flash- protests that unseated long time him powerful enemies at home. point for violence. Asamnew, ruler Hosni Mubarak, was His government is also the alleged coup plotter, was arrested minutes after leaving struggling to contain discontent shot on Monday near Bahir Dar, a friend’s house in Cairo’s Maadi from Ethiopia’s myriad ethnic according to the prime minis- district around 2:20 am, eye- groups fighting the federal ter’s office. witnesses said. WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 ASIA 07

Who imposed India expects US emergency and waiver on S-400 ignored others’ contributions, deal with Russia asks Modi IANS IANS India is buying five NEW DELHI NEW DELHI S-400 Triumf air India expects the US adminis- defence missile Prime Minister Narendra Modi tration to grant a waiver from systems from Russia yesterday took a veiled swipe sanctions to its procurement of at an estimated cost at the Congress, saying there five S-400 missile defence of $5.43bn, but the US are some people who believe systems from Russia over which that only a few contributed to a threat of sanctions is looming wants India to cancel the progress of the country large. the deal with Russia, while flaying it for imposing India is of the firm view that failing which sanctions Emergency in 1975. the waiver can be granted by the could be imposed. In his reply to the debate in US government as it meets the the Lok Sabha on the Motion of requirements prescribed in the Thanks to President Ram Nath Demonstrators shouting slogans as they hold placards during a protest against US Secretary of State American legislation on The US wants India to cancel Kovind’s address to Parliament, Mike Pompeo’s visit to India, in New Delhi, yesterday. sanctions. the deal with Russia, failing Modi said: “There are some “It is an issue (with the US). which sanctions could be people who feel only a few There has been some discussion imposed. sources said. With regard to and Iran. But there is enough the US). We mostly want to see names contributed to national in private with the US gov- The sources noted that the sanctions, the sources said, the resilience in the Indo-US rela- what happens inside the room, progress. They only want to ernment,” diplomatic sources US has some concerns, which American legislation is clear tionship, they added. rather than what happens hear those few names and said here yesterday, just ahead they have articulated. about the conditions under On Pompeo’s visit, the outside the room, in terms of ignore the others. of the visit of US Secretary of However, India has “long- which a waiver can be granted sources said that India is not MoUs,” the sources underlined. “But we think differently, State Mike Pompeo here for talks standing defence relations” with by the US administration. looking at it from the aspect of Acknowledging that “issues” we feel each and every citizen with External Affairs Minister S Russia, which “we can’t wish India is confident that it deliverables. are there, they said the “broad has worked for India’s Jaishankar in the first high-level away”, the sources asserted. meets those requirements, the The visit is to establish early trajectory” of the relationship, progress.” Attacking the oppo- contact with the Modi gov- They said the deal was under dis- sources said, adding the US connection and to know each however, remains very strong. sition party further, Modi said: ernment during its second term. cussion for a long time before it administration can give a waiver, other, they said, adding the trip They referred to the recent “Did those in power from 2004 India decided to buy the five was signed in 2018. legally. Commenting on the is useful for input on what the speech by Pompeo where he to 2014 ever talk about the good S-400 Triumf air defence missile The US is well aware of the overall relationship between two sides are going to do in talked about convergence. work of Atalji (former Prime systems from Russia in Sep- reasons and the Indian gov- India and the US, the sources said future. There has been a lot of Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee)? tember 2018 at an estimated cost ernment has explained the that sometimes the ties face “col- “We are looking beyond the progress in the five years and Did they ever speak about the of $5.43bn. rationale behind the deal, the lateral damage because of Russia MoUs in the relationship (with more, the sources said. good work of (former Prime Minister PV) Narasimha Raoji? In this Lok Sabha debate, the same people did not even speak Police arrest 11 for torturing Muslim man to death of Manmohan Singhji. “A few people were con- AFP media. The 24-year-old is seen Saturday. “We have arrested 11 rejected a US State Department accused the government of not stantly asking during the debate NEW DELHI in the video crying and pleading people. Two police have also report that said religious violence doing enough to stop lynchings. — ‘Who did it? Who did it?’ I as a mob in Jharkhand state been suspended because they against minorities has spiked Minority Affairs Minister want to ask them — today is 25th Indian police arrested 11 people forces him to chant “Jai Sri Ram” failed to inform seniors about the under the right-wing Hindu Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi con- June. Who imposed the Emer- yesterday over the killing of a — hail Lord Ram — a slogan case and tried to manage it at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. demned the killing however, and gency? Who trampled over the Muslim man who was tortured widely used by Hindu their level,” Seraikela police chief The US religious freedom said the government would not spirit of the Constitution, gagged and forced to chant Hindu hardliners. Karthik S said. report said there had been let a “destructive agenda” dom- the media and bullied the judi- slogans in the latest mob Ansari had been accused by Media reports said Ansari’s growing numbers of attacks by inate India’s development ciary? We cannot forget those violence to shock the nation. villagers of carrying out a bur- wife has accused police of delib- groups claiming to protect cows efforts. dark days.” Two police officers have also glary. He was tied to a pole and erately taking him to jail first — — considered sacred by Hindus “People who are involved in Accusing the opposition of been suspended over the han- beaten for up to 12 hours before instead of a hospital — despite — on Muslims and low-caste such incidents have only one losing its connect with people, dling of the lynching of Tabrez police first detained him in the critical injuries he suffered. Dalits since 2014 when Modi motive — to spoil the positive he said: “You have gone so up in Ansari, captured on a video that Seraikela, and then took him to News of the death emerged came to power. atmosphere created by the gov- the air that you cannot see the went viral on Indian social hospital — where he died on as the Indian government Opponents in India have also ernment,” he said. ground, you have lost your roots. J&K news publisher arrested in 1993 case REUTERS SRINAGAR

Police arrested the publisher of one of the most widely read newspapers in Indian Kashmir in a midnight raid over a decades-old case, the police and his brother said yesterday, high- Journalist and publisher Ghulam Jeelani Qadri (centre, front) leaves lighting the difficulties facing after a court granted him bail, in Srinagar yesterday. media in the region. Ghulam Jeelani Qadri, 62, a journalist and the publisher of the executed today? And why against An arrest warrant for Qadri was Urdu-language newspaper Daily him only?” Qadri was released issued in 1993, but it was never Afaaq, was arrested at his home on bail after a court appearance served. Qadri had visited the in Srinagar, half an hour before yesterday. The case dates from police station involved in the midnight on Monday. “It is har- 1990, when Qadri was one of nine arrest multiple times since the assment,” his brother, journalists to publish a statement warrant was issued, most Mohammad Morifat Qadri, said. by a militant group fighting recently in 2017 to apply for a “Why is a 1993 arrest warrant against Indian rule in Kashmir. passport, his brother added. SC rejects Congress plea against RS by-polls

IANS NEW DELHI regular vacancies the polls were the BJP has 100 MLAs, Congress to be held simultaneously. 71 while seven seats are vacant. Vivek Tankha, senior “Separate elections for the The Supreme Court yesterday advocate, representing peti- two Rajya Sabha seats in Gujarat dismissed a plea by the Gujarat tioner Pareshbhai Dhanani, who would upset the scheme of pro- Congress challenging the is the Leader of Opposition in the portional representation as man- Election Commission’s (EC) Gujarat Assembly, submitted dated under the Representation decision to conduct separate before the court that the matter of People’s Act (RPA), 1951,” said by-polls for two Rajya Sabha at hand is a constitutional the petition. seats which fell vacant after BJP matter. Senior advocate Rakesh It also contended that the leaders Amit Shah and Smriti Dwivedi, representing the poll representatives of each state in Irani were elected to the Lok body, objected to the writ the Council of States (Rajya Sabha. petition. Sabha) shall be picked by the A vacation bench comprising The court noted that con- elected members from the Leg- Justices Sanjiv Khanna and BR testing an election is a statutory islative Assembly of the state “in Gavai observed that after the right and not a fundamental accordance with the system of notice was issued by the poll right. In his plea, Dhanani proportional representation by body, the court cannot intervene, opposed the EC decision to means of single transferable and under such circumstances, conduct separate by-polls for the vote”. The petition said the basic the only option available is to two Rajya Sabha seats. Filed principle, both under the Con- move the election petition before through advocate Varun K stitution and the RPA, was that the High Court concerned. Chopra, the petition sought an the elections be held together so The top court said that casual early hearing on the matter as that the system of proportional vacancies which arise due to the the elections for the two seats representation by means of a resignation of the members will were scheduled for July 5. In the single transferable vote can be be treated separately, and for 182-member Gujarat Assembly, applied. 08 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 How to make the G-20 ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN matter more effective SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMED A. EL-ERIAN MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED BLOOMBERG [email protected] his week’s G-20 summit in Japan will showcase both DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR what’s best and most frus- MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI Ttrating about this once-prom- [email protected] ising construct for coordinating global policy. A simple institutional fix could address many of the problems. All that’s required is some bold leadership on the multilateral stage. Founded in 1999 to include 19 countries and the European Union, the EDITORIAL G-20 was the result of frustration with the effectiveness of existing multi- lateral institutions and the realization Ensuring energy security that smaller entities such as the G-7 had become insufficiently represent- atar notched an important milestone in the global pet- ative. It included systemically rochemicals market on Monday, when H E Saad bin important countries and other influ- Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga during the inspection of INTEX QSherida Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs encers which together accounted for Osaka, the G20 leaders summit meeting venue, in Osaka, Japan. and President and CEO of Qatar Petroleum (QP) announced two-thirds of the world’s population, QP’ decision to develop a new Petrochemicals Complex in Ras some 90% of its annual production undermined by a growing list of to set up a regional Asian Monetary Laffan Industrial City. and over three-quarters of its trade. invitees, including permanent guests, Fund. The Complex will have an ethane cracker with a capacity Purposely designed to be agile and and a proliferation of parallel Yet some of what the founders of 1.9 million tonnes of ethylene per annum. It will also include effective, its presidency was to rotate groupings and gatherings. wished to avoid has transpired two high-density polyethylene derivative units, which will rise annually among the membership. It This is not to say that the G-20 has anyway. Successive national presi- Qatar’s current Polyethylene production capacity by 82 percent was, for the same reasons, denied a been a failure. Year after year, it has dencies have found it easier to add by 2025. The global ethane market is estimated to grow at a permanent secretariat. Instead, the provided a useful forum for officials to topics than to remove those they’ve CAGR of 6.14 percent. In the global ethane market, Asia-Pacific task of following up on the group’s meet bilaterally outside the intense inherited, and they have been exces- held the largest market share in 2018 and is expected to grow decisions and crafting a strategic media glare and the sky-high expecta- sively open to inviting guests and cre- at a fastest rate. North America accounted for the second largest arc was left to a rotating grouping of tions that tend to accompany state ating new parallel structures. In market share. The Middle East & Africa market and Latin three presidencies (current, past and visits. It also provides a good oppor- addition, the lasting impact of the America markets are expected to show increasing growth going future). tunity to deal with urgent issues that, G-20’s work has been hindered by forward. The G-20’s potential to reach more often than not, pop up in today’s insufficient follow-through, as well as Growing polyethylene demand across various industrial timely, col- more fluid and unpredictable global operational priorities that change too verticals is largely driving the global ethane market. Increasing lective solu- economy. rapidly from year to year as the presi- use of ethanol as a biofuel is also contributing significantly to tions to tough This year’s gathering in Japan is a dency rotates. the growth of the product market. With the new project coming global good example. It is providing the The addition of a small secretariat on line, Qatar will be grabbing a significant share from the problems forum for a meeting between the US (3-4 people) would help address these global market. was illus- and Chinese leaders to discuss issues without creating a big Industry commentators love to Getting future trated most bilateral trade issues that have cast a bureaucracy that would gain a claim the consumption rate of pet- G-20 summits to vividly in cloud over global growth. The growing momentum of its own. With prefer- rochemicals products in Middle focus productively 2009. Under tensions in the Middle East, including ential access to the analytical East is much smaller. For example, on both, tactical the insightful the US desire for more coordinated resources of existing large multilat- market analysts at Mc Kinsey & presidency of pressure on Iran, is also likely to be a erals, something that G-20 members The Complex will Company, point out that in 2014 and strategic, U.K. Prime topic of discussion. And then there are can easily ensure given their com- have an ethane polymers consumption was 10 is much less of Minister the thematic issues identified by the manding role in global economic gov- cracker with a million tonnes in the Middle East, an engineering Gordon Japanese presidency. ernance, it could provide the multi- capacity of 1.9 compared to 35 million in the US problem than Brown, it But, what is likely to again be year strategic air cover that the G-20 and 118 million in China. As a spearheaded missing is a sense of collective mean- urgently needs, while allowing for million tonnes of result, the majority of chemicals a political one. dramatic ingful progress on longstanding issues much better operational monitoring ethylene per annum. produced in the Middle East needs The faster that’s global actions that threaten global growth and and follow-up. Being less bound by It will also include to be exported. addressed, the that helped financial stability. Indeed, we need diplomatic niceties, it could also better two high-density In addition, many export des- the world only go back and look at the lack of resist the proliferation of attendees tinations are already becoming greater the chance avoid what sufficient follow-through on the and topics. polyethylene more self-sufficient, making com- of the G-20 being would have themes that other member countries For all this to work, however, a derivative units, petition with local producers much more effective in been a devas- embraced during their presidency, currently more inward-oriented US which will rise tougher. From 2020, China is supporting robust, tating multi- including those where attempts were would need to take a leadership role, expected to produce 90 percent of year made to specify metrics to be especially as neither China nor Qatar’s current its petrochemical products self- inclusive growth depression. monitored. Europe are in a position to do so on Polyethylene sufficiently (up from 65 percent and genuine global Yet many Part of this failure is, I believe, due their own. The need will again be production capacity today). Another concern shared by financial stability. observers to the G-20 lacking a permanent sec- demonstrated in Japan this week, by 82 percent by market analysts is that in the and partici- retariat. According to several officials when a focus on tactical issues is Middle East, operational costs for pants would involved in the formation of the G-20, unlikely to be accompanied by suffi- 2025. a cracker are 35-40 percent higher agree that the G-20 has fallen short of the hope was that the grouping could cient progress on the strategic chal- than in China and 5-10 percent its promise overall. Most notably, the thereby maintain an agile and lenges facing the global economy and higher than in the USA, mostly due to higher personnel and group has repeatedly struggled to act responsive structure that would avoid the financial system. other fixed costs. The Middle East region has also had lower as an effective catalyst for solving capture by a large bureaucracy, Getting future G-20 summits to equipment efficiency due to shutdowns, underutilisation and long-term challenges facing the global endless mission creep and ever-deep- focus productively on both, tactical some lost debottlenecking opportunities. economy. Its meetings have prolif- ening principal-agent problems. It also and strategic, is much less of an engi- To cope with these challenges and maintain the growth erated to include a wider group of offi- reflected late 1990s frustration with neering problem than a political one. pace going forward, Middle East petrochemical players should cials and topics that extend well the International Monetary Fund, The faster that’s addressed, the greater focus on several development areas. Specifically, they should beyond what was initially viewed as which was viewed by some as having the chance of the G-20 being more achieve functional excellence; increase synergies with refinery; its core mission. Meanwhile, the mishandled the Asian crisis, and the effective in supporting robust, and make strategic decisions around entering the downstream intimacy of its gathering, once viewed fear of fragmentation highlighted by inclusive growth and genuine global sector. We are confident that QP’s visionary leadership is well as a powerful differentiator, has been Asia’s (ultimately unsuccessful) efforts financial stability. capable of addressing these market challenges. H E Al Kaabi’s another major Monday announcement, that Barzan Project will be operational by this year-end, is a shot in the arm for Qatar’s domestic energy sector. The much-awaited Don’t give hackers what they want project will provide natural gas to complement the current and future infrastructural developments, such as power plants, desal- BLOOMBERG the case for giving hackers what they of critical data. Then the Department ination plants, as the country prepares itself to host the FIFA want. But that’s the point of ran- of Homeland Security could set up a World Cup in 2022. ackers are taking cities somware: It is designed to convince digital ghostbusters task force to help hostage, and some cities are victims that complying is cheaper and municipalities come back online after paying ransom to the crim- easier than the alternative. The an attack. Those that had imple- Hinals. That needs to change. argument for refusing to put taxpayer mented adequate defenses could get Ransomware attacks on munici- money into malicious actors’ coffers is aid from the feds in footing the bill. QUOTE OF THE DAY palities are on the rise. Last year, it stronger. Morally, taxpayer money Those who surrender to hackers was Atlanta, which spent $2.6 million should not be used to reward criminal would face fines sufficiently larger The Arab peace plan to recover rather than pay the enterprises. Practically, if cities collec- than the ransom. was a redline that demanded $51,000. Before that, it was tively stop providing that reward, Those facing punishment might neither Kushner nor suburbs of Dallas and of Birmingham, hackers may pack up their keyboards. protest that resisting the criminals is Alabama, and localities in North Every dollar - or, more accurately, too costly in money, time offline and anyone else could Carolina and New Mexico. Last month, every bitcoin - that cities turn over to information lost forever. But the redraft. Any peace plan hackers crippled Baltimore, which is cybercriminals encourages them to money is an investment in preventing that disregards the still working to restore its systems continue attacking, and it also gives more attacks across the country, and it Palestinian legitimacy without paying the $100,000 or so the them the resources to do so more takes substantial time, too, to pay a hackers demand. And then there are effectively and more often. ransom and reboot an entire gov- is doomed to failure. places that decide to pay, such as the There is a way to break the cycle: ernment. As for the information, the Florida town that decided to fork over pass a federal law barring ran- threat of losing it should be an Nabil Abu Rudeinah a whopping $600,000 to the bad guys somware payments. Along with such a incentive to governments to get Palestinian Authority last week, desperate to deparalyze its prohibition, funds should be devoted moving on backup systems. An anti- Spokesman computer systems and restore to helping cities and states become ransom law would be a dramatic step, essential services to its residents. more secure in the first place, focusing but it’s the route to a dramatically pos- The numbers may seem to make especially on the need to have backups itive result. WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 ASIA 09 Govt gets data of 152,000 Pakistanis abroad INTERNEWS Pakistan has now when knew that the FBR Shahbar Zaidi, he said that the of raising tax revenues through scheme,” said one tax expert who ISLAMABAD remained unable to move against FBR would allow opportunity to this ongoing tax amnesty had dealt with the tax issues in obtained data from them. rectify wrong information if dis- scheme. The FBR and SBP also last 30 years. One person in LTU Pakistani tax authorities have the countries of the When contacted the top FBR played on FBR website through decided that they would remain Islamabad showed intention to obtained data about 152,000 Organisation for officials said that the Benami law Tax Profiling System about any open on coming weekend on deposit Rs700m into tax by Pakistani nationals from OECD Economic Cooperation was not operationalised at time individual. Saturday and Sunday in order to availing tax scheme. The sources mechanism who live abroad but of last scheme but now rules However, other top official facilitate those who would avail said that so far the FBR received own bank accounts and prop- and Development were in place and the long arm sources said that people were this scheme. Rs2.6bn through ongoing tax erties after earning money here (OECD) and efforts are of law would move against those availing this ongoing scheme but In the last tax amnesty amnesty scheme. and now they can avail them- underway to share who own Benami bank accounts there were some caveats linked scheme introduced during the Another FBR official said that selves of amnesty scheme to exchange of data from or assets on the name of others. to this scheme as the government PML-N-led regime, total 5929 Pakistanis living abroad would whiten undeclared income/ But one former official who made it mandatory to deposit foreign declarations had only avail the amnesty scheme assets. 10 more countries. had worked in FBR explained cash into bank accounts for whitened Rs1040bn and paid tax if they would find themselves Pakistan has obtained data that the tax machinery had availing this amnesty scheme. amount of Rs47bn out of total comfortable before tax author- from the countries of the Organ- issued clarification on the Earlier, in the last scheme collected taxes of Rs124bn. ities of foreign jurisdictions. isation for Economic Cooper- possessed data of these accounts occasion of last amnesty scheme there was no such restriction so “I think that the people are If anything declared here ation and Development (OECD) from last one year since Sep- that the Benami accounts and people used to exploit the facility liable to pay taxes have already resulted into creating difficulties and efforts are underway to tember/October 2018 but nothing assets were allowed to be and misused to pay their future availed amnesty last time so less outside Pakistan the non-res- share exchange of data from 10 substantial was done in such declared so there was nothing liabilities. The government people left so there are no expec- ident Pakistanis would not prefer more countries. But tax experts cases so question arises why they new. claims that they were aiming to tations for any matching to come into such scheme at any pointed out that the FBR would prefer to come into tax net When asked FBR Chairman promote documentation instead response for this ongoing cost. Pakistan proposes Pakistan’s role imperative for plan at UN to address peace: Nato faith-based hatred INTERNEWS / ISLAMABAD The Secretary-General of North INTERNEWS called for effective steps to Atlantic Treaty Organisation, ISLAMABAD counter the challenge posed by Jens Stoltenberg, has said Paki- the growing phenomenon of stan’s positive role is imperative Pakistan has proposed a six- faith-based hatred and violence for regional peace and stability. point plan to address the new so as to promote peaceful, During his meeting with manifestations of racism and inclusive and just societies Foreign Minister Makhdoom faith-based hatred especially around the world. “A particu- Shah Mahmood Qureshi at Islamophobia at the United larly alarming development is Brussels, he appreciated Paki- Nations Headquarters organised the rise of Islamophobia which stan’s crucial role in Afghan by Pakistan along with Turkey, represents the recent manifes- peace process. He hoped Nato the Holy See and the UN. tation of the age-old hatred that want to work with Pakistan on The plan was proposed by spawned anti-Semitism, racism, bilateral understanding. Pakistan’s Permanent Repre- apartheid and many other forms Foreign Minister Shah sentative to the UN Maleeha of discrimination,” the ambas- Mahmood Qureshi said there Lodhi at a session titled “Coun- sador said in her speech. are similarities in its work tering terrorism and other acts She added, Prime Minister vogue for regional peace. of violence based on religion or Imran Khan had repeatedly belief” in the wake of the launch called for urgent action to EU-Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan signed 7 dead in Sindh last week by UN Secretary- counter Islamophobia at various High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the General Antonio Guterres of his forums. “We encourage the UN European Commission, Federica Mogherini (right), poses with Pakistan’s Foreign Affairs Minister Shah coach-car strategy and action plan against and other relevant organisations hate speech. Other speakers also to address this issue.” Mehmood Qureshi after signing the EU-Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan in Brussels, yesterday. collision

INTERNEWS Taliban condemned for threats to media in Afghanistan ISLAMABAD A speeding passenger coach REUTERS Radio stations, TV channels government of Afghanistan,” it organisations is in contradiction scheduled to begin on June 29 in rammed into a car in Pakistan’s KABUL and other media organisations said, adding “reporters and staff to human and Islamic values,” Doha. John Bass, the US ambas- southern Sindh province had one week to stop trans- members will not remain safe”. Ghani’s office said in a statement. sador to Afghanistan, said the yesterday, leaving seven people The United States and Afghan- mitting “anti-Taliban advertise- President Ashraf Ghani’s The warning comes as Taliban should stop threatening killed and 15 others injured, istan yesterday denounced a ments”, the group’s military office condemned the threats by Taliban leaders prepare for a Afghan journalists. “More vio- local media reported. Taliban warning that Afghan commission said in a statement the insurgent group, which has seventh round of peace talks lence, against journalists or According to the reports, media will be targeted unless on Monday. “Those who continue previously targeted reporters with US officials aimed at finding civilians, will not bring security the crash happened when the they stop broadcasting what the doing so will be recognised by and employees of media organ- a political settlement to end the and opportunity to Afghanistan, speeding van coming from the group called “anti-Taliban state- the group as military targets who isations. “Freedom of expression 18-year-old war in Afghanistan. nor will it help Taliban reach opposite direction hit the car on ments”. are helping the Western-backed and attacks on media The next round of talks is political objectives,” Bass said. the Indus Highway near Numnara area in Shikarpur, a district in Sindh. Suspected Rohingya traffickers Following the incident, res- cuers, police and local people dead in Bangladesh clashes rushed to the site and shifted the bodies and injured to the REUTERS / COX’S BAZAR on police, and police also Civil Hospital in the district for responded,” said Prodip Kumar treatment, where several of the Bangladesh police killed three Das, a police official in the wounded were said to be in people suspected of trying to nearby town of Teknaf. critical condition. smuggle 15 Rohingya Muslim The men attempting to Police said that five refugees to Malaysia in a clash smuggle the refugees, who members of a same family, yesterday near the South Asian included some girls, were shot including three women, were nation’s main refugee camp, an and died on the way to hospital, among the killed people, adding official said, the second such Das added. The refugees were that an investigation had been incident in as many months. rescued and sent to two different launched into the accident. Nearly 900,000 Rohingya camps after initial questioning. who fled a military-led The clash, around 30km Sri Lankans charged crackdown in neighbouring from Kutupalong, followed a over illegal trade of Buddhist-dominated Myanmar tip-off to police, Das said, adding in 2017 live in Kutupalong, the that they had retrieved three baby elephants world’s largest refugee camp, locally-made guns and 15 rounds and other temporary settlements of ammunition. AFP / COLOMBO Cooling down in Bangladesh’s beach town of The men were themselves A zookeeper sprays water on an elephant in an enclosure at Zoological Garden during hot and humid Cox’s Bazar. “On sensing the Rohingya known to be human A senior Sri Lankan conser- weather in Karachi, Pakistan, yesterday. presence of our team, they fired traffickers living in the area. vation official was among eight people charged yesterday in a landmark case over the capture UN fears Myanmar human rights and sale to the wealthy of Sri Lanka police overturn dozens of baby elephants as abuses in Internet shutdown status symbols. Wildlife experts say about AFP / YANGON data across at least eight town- local council ban on Muslims 40 calves may have been stolen ships in Rakhine and one in from their herds during a An Internet blackout in parts of neighbouring Chin states. AFP Pradeshiya Saba (council) At least 258 people were killed 10-year period and sold for Myanmar could be cover for “I fear for all civilians there,” COLOMBO because we can’t allow this and nearly 500 wounded in the around $125,000 each. “gross human rights violations” said UN Special Rapporteur to Islamophobia,” local police attacks. However, police said The deputy director of the in an area where a brutal army Myanmar Yanghee Lee, calling Sri Lanka’s police yesterday Superintendent K A B Kumar- there was no basis for yester- wildlife conservation crackdown has already forced for the immediate lifting of stepped in to prevent a local apeli said. day’s action by the council when department, Upali Pathmasiri, hundreds of thousands of restrictions. The military’s council from banning Muslim He said the local council communal tensions had eased and seven others were charged Rohingya to flee, a UN rights “clearance operations” can be a traders from a weekly fair in chairman representing a political and the region was returning to with 33 counts of capturing and investigator said. “cover for committing gross another backlash from the party affiliated to former pres- normality after several days of possessing baby elephants in The military is locked in human rights violations against devastating Easter attacks ident Mahinda Rajapakse anti-Muslim riots last month. 2014-15, state attorney Nishara battle with the Arakan Army the civilian population,” she said, blamed on extremists. ordered Muslims to stay away, “We have asked courts to Jayaratne said. It is the “first (AA), insurgents fighting for referencing alleged mass atroc- The local government body saying their presence could take action against the council ever elephant trafficking case more autonomy for the region’s ities committed against had ordered minority Muslims trigger violence in the region. chairman for causing tension in our legal history”, Jayaratne ethnic Rakhine Buddhists. Rohingya Muslims in 2017. not to participate in the farmer’s The region has a high con- between communities,” Kuma- said. If convicted they face up On Friday the government The decree was made under market in the town of centration of Christians who suf- rapeli said. Sri Lanka has been to 20 years in jail. The practice took the unprecedented step of the Telecommunications Law, Dankotuwa, 47km north of the fered the most in the April 21 under a state of emergency since stopped when the current gov- ordering mobile phone oper- hitting all mobile operators for capital. “We got a court order suicide bombings that targeted the Easter Sunday suicide ernment came to power in 2015 ators to shut down all Internet an unspecified period. against the Wennappuwa three churches and three hotels. bombings. and launched a crackdown. 10 ASIA / EUROPE WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 Five Chinese charged over Cambodia building collapse UK demands probe into HK AFP investments from Chinese devel- A regional governor According to Cambodian in Cambodia, mostly unskilled, SIHANOUKVILLE, CAMBODIA opers, including in the booming has resigned and a top law, all seven could face a three- reliant on day wages and not police action gambling hub of Sihanoukville. disaster management year maximum sentence for protected by union rules, Seven people, including five But the building frenzy has official has been fired manslaughter. according to the International AFP Chinese nationals, have been raised concerns about sub- Cambodian authorities have Labour Organization (ILO). LONDON charged with manslaughter or standard safety regulations in a over the collapse launched an investigation into At least 26 people were as accomplices to manslaughter country where most construction which killed at least the fatal accident, which Prime injured in the building collapse, Britain urged Hong Kong in connection with a building workers are informal 26 people. Minister Hun Sen has blamed on which prompted a desperate, yesterday to conduct an inde- collapse in Cambodia that killed day-labourers. “carelessness”. days-long search for survivors pendent investigation into 28 people and sparked anger Chinese building owner Recriminations have been in the mound of rubble. clashes between police and over shoddy construction regu- Cheng Kun was yesterday offences. swift, with Preah Sihanouk’s On Monday afternoon, two protesters, and suspended lations. charged with involuntary man- “Now they are in jail provi- governor Yun Min resigning people were pulled from the export licences for crowd The collapse of a seven- slaughter, causing bodily harm sionally,” Lim Bun Heng, a court Monday over managerial errors. wreckage alive — bruised and control equipment. storey, under-construction and causing destruction of spokesman in Preah Sihanouk Another top disaster man- weak but spared of serious “We remain very concerned Chinese building in the resort property, according to a court province, said. agement official has been fired injuries — more than two days with the situation in Hong town of Sihanoukville on Sat- warrant. Another Chinese citizen, a for not being “quick enough to after the building went down. Kong,” Foreign Secretary urday is the deadliest industrial Three other Chinese citizens Vietnamese man and a Cam- respond”, said Hun Sen, warning Sihanoukville was once a Jeremy Hunt told MPs in par- accident in recent memory in — contractor Deng Xin Gui, site bodian landowner have also others “to be more sleepy fishing town turned back- liament’s lower House of Cambodia. manager Xie Ya Ping and been charged as accomplices to responsible”. packer-favourite, but today is a Commons. A close Beijing ally, Cam- engineer Gao Yu — were accused manslaughter but remain on the There are an estimated hotspot for throngs of Chinese “I today urge the Hong bodia has seen an influx of as accomplices on all three run. 200,000 construction workers tourists. Kong SAR government to establish a robust, independent investigation into the violent scenes that we saw. Belt & Road News “The outcome of that inves- tigation will inform our assessment of future export considers setting license applications to the Hong Kong police. “And we will not issue any further export licenses for crowd control equipment to up HQ in Doha Hong Kong unless we are sat- isfied that concerns raised on THE PENINSULA “The total investment for the human rights and fundamental DOHA project will reach $500m to be freedoms have been thoroughly financed partly by debt and addressed.” A Foreign Office Belt and Road News Network shareholder’s equity. Allowing source said there were cur- (BRN), an emerging international us to tap into lucrative and rently no live licences for these media organisation which is the opportunistic investment in this kind of exports, but there would world’s first and only news spectrum of media, positioning now be no new ones until con- network dedicated to China’s us to achieve its full potential.” ditions were met. massive Belt and Road Initiative “We are currently studying The last UK export licence (BRI) (also known as Silk Road Middle East in general and Qatar for tear gas hand grenades and Initiative) offering news, views in particular for its policies tear gas cartridges for Hong and analysis on BRI and it’s towards media networks and Kong police to use in training 150-member countries, their support in this sector. If was issued in July 2018, the announced yesterday of consid- found favourable, we can con- ministry said earlier this month. ering Middle East for their head- sider setting up our head- The last export licence for quarters that will create 3,500 quarters in Doha, as Qatar was rubber bullets was in July 2015 jobs in the region. amongst the first ones to support while an open licence for riot “Our mission is to be com- BRI and signed several agree- Korean War anniversary shields was rejected in April pletely unbiased. We’re loyal to ments and MoUs that supported 2019. South Korean soldiers salute during a ceremony marking the 69th anniversary of the outbreak of the neither nations nor its leaders the initiative,” Khan said. Korean War in Seoul yesterday. The 1950-53 Korean War ended in an armistice with no peace treaty. but only to truth. With BRN will disseminate its responsive reporting and their news through various spectrums Austria court analysis, ascertaining the truth including wire services, 24-hours from every angle and source. English language news and doc- Trump to meet Xi, Putin at G20 in Japan approves US While fake news continues to be umentary television channel, checked and blocked, there are independent Arabic and French AFP Tayyip Erdogan, Japanese Prime President will head to Seoul. extradition still countless assertions that go news channels, 24-hour English WASHINGTON Minister Shinzo Abe and Aus- When asked if Trump was unchecked. We endure to fill in language radio, a multilingual tralian Prime Minister Scott planning a visit to the Demilita- the gap. We are committed to digital newspaper and magazine President Donald Trump will Morrison. rised Zone (DMZ) on the border for Firtash being fully transparent with how in English, French and Arabic meet an array of world leaders The meeting with the of North and South Korea, the AFP we report our stories. BRN is providing comprehensive cov- on the sidelines of G20 summit Chinese president — which is official neither confirmed nor VIENNA prone to be the leader in pro- erage of BRI and its projects in Japan, including China’s Xi highly anticipated as the two denied. viding dedicated news, views accurately and in a timely Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir sides try to reach a deal on trade The official did however say Austria’s Supreme Court and analyst on BRI; we are an manner. Over 152 countries and Putin, a US official has said. — is expected to take place on there were “no plans” for Trump yesterday approved the extra- organization to be recognised international organisations have Also on the list are Indian Saturday, the second day of the to meet with North Korean dition of Ukrainian oligarch globally for its authority, joined the initiative, which has Prime Minister Narendra Modi, summit, in Osaka. leader Kim Jong Un during his Dmytro Firtash to the US, the integrity and accuracy” said already witnessed investments German Chancellor Angela After the Group of 20 trip to Asia. Trump and Kim have latest twist in a long-running Dawood Khan, BRN Chairman. of over $1.6 trillion. Merkel, Turkish President Recep summit, the Republican so far met twice. saga which has become a headache for Vienna. Firtash, one of Ukraine’s Russia jails richest men, is wanted in the Schools closed in Malaysia due to toxic fumes US on charges that he paid Polish citizen bribes to officials in India to AFP Sahruddin Jamal said 75 people secure titanium mining licences for 14 years on KUALA LUMPUR had so far been sent to hospital in 2006. The 54-year-old for treatment, according to denies all wrongdoing and spying charges Scores of people have fallen ill official news agency Bernama. accuses the US of pursuing and hundreds of schools have Authorities have now politically motivated charges AFP been closed in Malaysia due to ordered the closure of all 475 against him because of his links MOSCOW toxic fumes believed to have educational institutions in the to Moscow. come from a chemical factory, area until tomorrow, including The Austrian government Russia yesterday sentenced a authorities said yesterday. three institutes of higher edu- will now have to take the final Polish citizen to 14 years in It was the second serious cation, 111 public schools, 14 decision in the case. prison camps on spying incident involving poisonous private schools and 347 The court rejected a request charges, Moscow’s FSB security gas in Pasir Gudang district, in kindergartens. by the procurator general’s service said. southern Johor state, in three The latest incident is not office to block the extradition Marian Radzajewski tried months after thousands of believed to be linked to the first. and upheld a 2017 ruling from to bring military information people became sick in March Prime Minister Mahathir a Vienna appeals court which that included “state secrets” when waste was dumped in a Mohamad vowed to act against found there was sufficient proof from Russia to Poland, the FSB river and emitted noxious those responsible. of a case to answer against said in a statement. fumes. “It seems like there are fac- Firtash. Firtash was arrested in He also tried to obtain Residents first noticed the tories that are not very con- Vienna in 2014 on a US warrant. Emergency personnel wearing protective suits check the air quality “secret components of Russian fumes wafting across the indus- cerned about safety,” he said. He had to pay bail of ¤125m and in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia, yesterday. S-300 air defence systems”, it trial area late last week and “We have to identify those has since not been able to leave said. many people, including school- responsible for causing the pol- the country. The FSB said he was children, started vomiting and lution and take stern action It was not clear what had factories in the area. After the Firtash’s case will now go arrested “while attempting to developing breathing against them.” Residents caused the latest incident. March incident, three men were to Clemens Jabloner, justice complete the transaction”. difficulties. expressed anger over the latest Sahruddin said authorities were arrested and charged over minister in Austria’s interim “The investigation con- Johor Chief Minister toxic leak. investigating 30 chemical dumping waste. technocratic government. firmed that Marian Radzajewski acted in the interests of a Polish organisation that is a leading supplier of (Poland’s) national Papua New Guinea demands end to Australia refugee contract armed and special forces,” the statement said. AFP arrangement should be From 2012 to 2017 Australia operations given to Paladin, a include food or medical care — He was sentenced at a PORT MORESBY “reviewed to the fullest, or we ran detention facilities on Manus little-known private company, has been backed by Australian closed trial in Moscow. ask for this contract to be under a hardline policy of under a contract issued without Home Affairs Minister Peter His lawyer, cited by the Australia must end or completely terminated”. turning back anyone trying to any competitive tender. Dutton — who has advocated for Interfax news agency, said he rework a controversial multi- Marape said the Paladin arrive in the country by sea — The 500 men still on Manus an extension. “did not agree with the terms million dollar contract to manage Group’s contract to manage facil- including refugees fleeing wars have been in the island camps Marape seemed to shoot of the charges” and intended to refugees stuck in tropical island ities on Manus Island holding and unrest as far afield as Sudan for at least five years. down that possibility, at least appeal the decision. camps, Papua New Guinea’s around 500 refugees and asylum and Iranian Kurdistan. In recent weeks the camps without significant revisions. According to Interfax, prime minister demanded seekers turned away by Australia But after the PNG Supreme have seen a rash of suicide “We don’t intend for foreign Marian Radzajewski was born yesterday. must include local companies. Court ruled the arrangement attempts as refugees and asylum contractors to operate here in in 1977 and was the director of “I will ask the Australian gov- The contract, worth over unconstitutional, Australia seekers try to draw international business like security. These are a transport company in Bia- ernment to stop this contract Aus$400m over the last two handed the camps over to local attention to their plight. businesses that local companies lystok, a city in northeastern forthwith,” James Marape told years, has been the subject of authorities, with daily man- The Paladin contract — can participate in, “ he told a Poland. parliament, saying the deep controversy. agement of security and other which reportedly does not regular session of question time. WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 EUROPE 11 Council of Europe readmits Russia; Ukraine walks out

AFP Kiev insists there related to stripping the Russian STRASBOURG, FRANCE should be no delegation of its rights”. international He wrote on Facebook that Ukraine yesterday expressed concessions to Moscow the delegation asked the anger at its Western partners Ukrainian parliament to after lawmakers at the Council until it hands back “urgently” consider the country’s of Europe agreed to allow Crimea and ends membership of the assembly. Russian representatives back support for separatists The move paves the way for following a five year absence in Ukraine’s east. Russia to participate in the prompted by Moscow’s annex- election of a new secretary ation of Crimea. general of the Council of Europe Russian delegates had been Merkel on his visits to Paris and today to replace Norway’s Thor- stripped of their voting rights in Berlin last week. bjorn Jagland. the pan-European rights body in “It’s a pity that our European The Council of Europe, which 2014 after Russia annexed partners did not listen to us,” Zel- is separate from the European Crimea from Ukraine. ensky said, adding he had told Union, has no binding powers but Russia’s absence from the the EU’s two most powerful brings together 47 European Activists hold placard as they shout slogans in front of the German embassy in Kiev, yesterday. Protesters Parliamentary Assembly of the figures that Russia should only states to make recommendations demonstrated outside embassies of the countries that voted for Russia’s return to Parliamentary Council of Europe (PACE) — return to the assembly when it on rights and democracy. whose members are MPs drawn had fulfilled its demands. Its key institution is the Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). from parliaments of Council of In the vote, one hundred and European Court of Human Rights, Europe member states — had eighteen members of the Stras- to which citizens in member raised questions about its future bourg-based PACE agreed that states can appeal if they feel their Kremlin hails return to Europe body membership of the rights body. Russia could present a dele- rights have been infringed. The decision by lawmakers gation, with 62 against. Russia had responded to the AFP continent’s foremost human “victory of common sense” in — taken in a vote in the early Kiev insists there should be loss of voting rights by boycotting MOSCOW rights body. Kremlin critics say Strasbourg. hours yesterday — effectively no international concessions to the assembly and has since 2017 that Russia’s comeback is the Earlier yesterday, the represented the first crack in the Moscow until it hands back refused to pay its 33-million- The Kremlin hailed yesterday first crack in international sanc- Council of Europe’s parlia- international sanctions that were Crimea and ends support for sep- euro share of the annual budget Russia’s return to the Council of tions imposed on Moscow after mentary assembly (PACE) agreed imposed on Moscow after the aratists in Ukraine’s east. of the Council of Europe. Europe’s parliamentary it annexed Crimea in 2014. to allow Russian representatives Crimean annexation. The Ukrainian delegates It had even threatened to quit assembly as “victory of common “This is a very positive to return, to prevent Russia Ukrainian President Volo- walked out of the assembly’s the body altogether if it was not sense”, after Moscow was event,” Russian President crashing out of the top rights dymyr Zelensky said he was “dis- session. allowed to take part in today’s stripped of its voting rights over Vladimir Putin’s spokesman body. But Ukraine and the Baltic appointed”, recalling how he had Delegation chief Volodymyr election, a move that would have the annexation of Crimea. Dmitry Peskov said. countries say the move sends the discussed the issue with French Ariev said Ukraine decided “to prevented Russian citizens from A decision to allow Russia to “PACE cannot fully operate wrong signal to the world, President Emmanuel Macron and suspend its participation in the being able to appeal to the return is a deeply controversial without Russia’s participation,” adding Moscow did nothing to German Chancellor Angela work of PACE except issues European Court of Human Rights. issue and divided the European Peskov added, praising the deserve the lifting of sanctions. Ship’s captain Next British PM to be announced on July 23 Klitschko rescued threatens to at sea after yacht AFP Her replacement would then fire off Spain bring stranded LONDON make his own visit to Buck- ingham Palace to be confirmed AP migrants to The winner of the contest to in office. LISBON, PORTUGAL replace Theresa May as leader The Conservatives do not Italy of Britain’s ruling Conservatives have a majority in parliament’s Former heavyweight champion and prime minister will be lower House of Commons, but Wladimir Klitschko said his boat AFP announced on July 23, the ruling govern through an alliance with trip off Spain with family and ROME party said yesterday. Northern Ireland’s Democratic friends was cut short after a fire Former foreign minister Unionist Party (DUP). broke out on board. The The captain of the Sea-Watch Boris Johnson is the favourite in May announced her resig- 43-year-old Ukrainian said in a 3 charity rescue vessel the race, battling Britain’s nation last month after failing to tweet yesterday the group was threatened yesterday to enter current top diplomat, Jeremy get her Brexit deal through par- evacuated from the motor yacht Italian waters illegally to bring Hunt. liament, faced with opposition in the Mediterranean Sea on 42 migrants to shore after 13 The two candidates were from both Conservative MPs and Sunday night. Spain’s Maritime days in limbo at sea. chosen from a field of 10 by the the DUP. Rescue Service confirmed it “I will enter Italian waters Conservative party’s 313 MPs, It is possible that the main responded to an emergency call, and bring them to safety on and are now seeking to woo an opposition Labour party calls an though a spokeswoman Boris Johnson, a leadership candidate for Britain’s Conservative Lampedusa,” Carola Rackete estimated 160,000 party immediate vote of confidence in declined to provide the identities Party, poses for a selfie in Oxshott, Surrey, Britain, yesterday. said in an interview with La members who will make the the new prime minister, to force of those involved because of Repubblica daily, in reference final choice. them to prove they have the privacy rules. The spokeswoman to the island off Italy’s southern Postal ballots will be sent out next leader of the Conservative Once a successor is con- support to govern. This would said the yacht carrying nine tip. between July 6 and 8, and the party will be made on Tuesday. firmed, May would be expected have to happen by July 25 when people reported a fire in its Italian Interior Minister deadline for returning them has 23 July. This process has been to visit Queen Elizabeth II to for- parliament breaks for its engine room and was drifting Matteo Salvini has banned the been set at 5:00pm on July 22. agreed with both candidates,” mally tender her resignation as summer holiday, or wait until 10 miles southwest of Port Dutch-flagged vessel from “The announcement of the the statement said. premier. MPs return on September 3. Adriano. Nobody was hurt. approaching under a “closed ports” policy, which has seen migrants repeatedly left in limbo at sea. Dutch probe outage of emergency phone line In legal first, court faults Rackete said she was AFP ambulance workers took to the The Dutch national counter- waiting for a decision from the THE HAGUE streets so they could be con- terrorism coordinator will also France over air pollution European Court of Human tacted if necessary and the gov- be involved in the meeting, local Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg, on The Netherlands yesterday ernment issued alternatives to media said. AFP against pollution and the victims a request by the German NGO investigated the source of a the 112 emergency hotline on Hacking was however not MONTREUIL, FRANCE can hope to have what they suf- Sea-Watch for it to impose massive telephone network social media. believed to be the cause of the fered recognised.” Nadir Saifi, “interim measures” on Italy. breakdown that disabled the Justice and Security Minister breakdown, senior KPN official A court yesterday found the of Ecologie sans Frontiere, a The ECHR could ask Italy to country’s emergency numbers. Ferd Grapperhaus summoned Joost Farwerck told the Nieu- French state had failed to take French NGO which backed the adopt urgent measures to The disruption late Monday KPN’s management yesterday wsuur programme on Monday sufficient steps to limit air case, said the decision was resolve the standoff, to “prevent started with the KPN national to explain the breakdown and evening. Dutch media reported pollution around Paris, a legal “historic”. serious and irremediable vio- network and then spread to ensure that it will “not happen yesterday that KPN’s chief exec- first in the country hailed by “I am very moved. We have lations of human rights”. linked providers across the again.” Grapperhaus tweeted utive Maximo Ibarra was going environmental campaigners as been waiting for this for 20 Salvini said yesterday the country, lasting for four hours that they must “carefully figure to step down, but said it was due a victory for victims of dirty air. years,” said the activist. charity vessel could “stay there before it was fixed. out how this malfunction could to family matters and was not The case at the adminis- However the court rejected until Christmas and New Year” Police, firefighters and have arisen”. connected to the breakdown. trative court in Montreuil the pair’s demand for ¤160,000 but would never be allowed in. outside Paris was brought by a in damages, saying it could not Of the 53 migrants initially mother and daughter who find a direct link between their rescued by the Sea-Watch 3 off argued their health had been health problems and the state’s Libya on June 12, Italy took in harmed by the air in a notori- failings. 11 vulnerable people. ously congested area of the city. The mother Farida, 52, and “That’s enough! Whatever But the court also said it did daughter said the authorities did Strasbourg tells us, with great not find any direct link between not take effective steps against serenity we will maintain our the pair’s health problems and atmospheric pollution, in par- position. failures of the state, throwing ticular during a pollution high “Imagine if a country like out their demand for damages. in December 2016. Italy — the second-largest Backed by NGOs, the com- They argued that this industrial power in Europe — plaint was the first brought by affected their health, especially let an NGO dictate immigration individuals against the French as they were living at the time rules,” he said. On Lampedusa, state over health problems in the northern Paris suburb of where Salvini’s far-right League caused by air pollution. Saint-Ouen, just outside the won 45 percent in May’s “The state committed a fault clogged peripherique ring road. European elections, a priest has by taking insufficient measures They have now moved to the camped in the street to demand concerning the quality of air,” Loire city of Orleans. those onboard — including the court said in a statement. The peripherique — opened three minors — be allowed to It said that between 2012 in 1973 — takes 1.1 million disembark. Dozens of German and 2016, the state had failed to drivers a day but is also a cities have said they are ready take sufficient measures to bring nightmare for the 100,000 to welcome them. concentrations of certain pol- people living around it. In January, 32 migrants luting gases below allowed The ruling said, however, rescued by the vessel were limits. that the Paris authorities had not stranded on board for 18 days Fire at Spanish chemical plant “For victims of pollution, this been at fault during the 2016 before they were allowed to is a first,” the plaintiffs’ lawyer pollution crisis and had intro- A cloud of smoke is seen during a fire in a chemical factory in San Roque, near Algeciras, Spain, disembark in Malta thanks to a Francois Lafforgue said. “From duced measures such as yesterday. Emergency services said the fire was under control by yesterday afternoon. distribution deal made between now, the state will have to take restricting the number of cars several European countries. effective measures in the fight on the road. 12 AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 26 JUNE 2019 White House threatens to veto border aid bill AP In a letter, White House officials said: “Because WASHINGTON this bill does not provide adequate funding to meet the current crisis, and because it contains The White House is threatening partisan provisions designed to hamstring the to veto a $4.5bn House bill aimed at improving the treatment of Administration’s border enforcement efforts, the migrant families detained after Administration opposes its passage.” crossing the US southern border, saying the measure would lawmakers don’t want to depart contains partisan provisions hamstring the administration’s without acting on the legislation designed to hamstring the Admin- border security efforts and raising for fear of being accused of not istration’s border enforcement fresh questions about the legis- responding to humanitarian efforts, the Administration lation’s fate. problems at the border, it seems opposes its passage,” the letter The warning came as His- unlikely that Congress would said. panic and liberal Democrats press have time to send a House-Senate Several Democrats said some House leaders to add provisions compromise to Trump by week’s language they were seeking could to the legislation strengthening end. end up in separate legislation. Members of Mexico’s National Guard patrolling the border between Mexico and the US, in Ciudad protections for migrant children, In a letter yesterday threat- Several said changes might Juarez, Mexico, yesterday. changes that might make the ening the veto, White House offi- include provisions aimed at measure even less palatable to cials told lawmakers they ensuring that detained children President Donald Trump. Though objected that the House package are treated humanely. revisions are possible, House lacked money for beds the federal Much of the legislation’s ‘Mexico not to detain migrants at border’ leaders are still hoping for Immigration and Customs money would help care for approval. Enforcement agency needs to let migrants at a time when federal AFP versial detention last week. a journalist’s images of heavily The Senate planned to vote it detain more migrants. Officials officials say their agencies have MEXICO CITY “No such order has been armed National Guardsmen for- this week on similar legislation also complained in the letter that been overwhelmed by the influx issued, and we are going to cibly detaining two women and that has bipartisan backing, but the bill had no money to toughen of migrants and are running out Mexico’s president said review that case, so that it a young girl at the edge of the many House Democrats say the border security, including funds of funds. yesterday that the 15,000 doesn’t happen again, because Rio Grande river triggered Senate version’s provisions aimed for building Trump’s proposed The back-and-forth on the troops his government has that’s not our job,” leftist Pres- backlash in Mexico, whose gov- at helping migrant children are border wall. spending measure came as Con- deployed to the US border do ident Andres Manuel Lopez ernment faces pressure from US not strong enough. House Dem- “Because this bill does not gress’ top Democrats criticised not have orders to stop Obrador said at a press President Donald Trump to slow ocrats seeking changes met with provide adequate funding to meet Trump for threatening coast-to- migrants from crossing, and conference. the northward flow of Central Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. the current crisis, and because it coast deportations of migrants vowed to investigate a contro- He made the comment after American migrants. “Right now, the goal is really to stop — one death is just too much,” said Rep Adriano Democrats slam Trump’s mass deportation plan Espaillat, D-NY, as he left the meeting. AP a weekend tweet in which Pelosi, D-Calif, said the phone call to Trump in which she separating children from their Many children detained WASHINGTON Trump said he would give Con- threatened raids were asked him to call off the raids, parents as a bargaining chip? entering the US from Mexico have gress two weeks to solve “the “appalling.” “It is outside the she told him, “You are scaring the That’s the very definition of cal- been held under harsh conditions, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Asylum and Loopholes circle of civilised human children of America, not just in lousness,” Schumer said. and Customs and Border Pro- called President Donald Trump’s problems” along the border with behaviour, just kicking down those families but their neigh- It is not clear exactly what tection Chief Operating Officer threatened coast-to-coast Mexico. “If not, Deportations doors, splitting up families and bours and their communities.” Trump, who has started his John Sanders said last week that deportations of migrants start!” he tweeted. the rest of that in addition to the On the Senate floor, Minority 2020 re-election bid, means children have died after being in “outside the circle of civilised The president had earlier injustices that are happening at Leader Chuck Schumer, D-NY, regarding asylum and loophole the agency’s care, adding that human behaviour,” while the warned that there would soon the border.” described Trump’s “chilling, changes. He’s long been trying Border Patrol stations are holding Senate’s top Democrat labelled be a nationwide sweep aimed That was a reference to nasty, obnoxious threats” and said to restrict the numbers of people 15,000 people — more than triple the warning “the very definition at “millions” of people living detentions — often in harsh con- the president “seems far more being allowed to enter the US their maximum capacity of 4,000. of callousness” in remarks that illegally in the US, including ditions— of people caught comfortable terrorising immi- after claiming asylum and Congress plans to leave underscored the gap between families. The sweeps were sup- entering the country, including grant families” than addressing impose other restrictions, a path Washington in a few days for a the two sides over immigration. posed to begin on Sunday, but children. immigration problems. he’s followed since he began his week-long July 4 recess. While The two leaders spoke after Trump said he postponed them. She also said that in a Friday “I mean, my God, to threaten quest for president years ago. House probes Trump’s overhaul of security clearance process Melania’s spokeswoman REUTERS defence secretary, requesting under the Trump administra- Security clearance back- is supposed to begin the transfer WASHINGTON documents and communications tion’s plan. The committee also ground checks are a routine of 3,300 agency employees and appointed as US by July 8 relating to the ongoing requested a briefing on the status requirement for people hoping 6,000 OPM contractors to the Press Secretary A US congressional committee overhaul, which some US offi- of the project, which President to be hired by the federal gov- Defense Department by June 24. demanded documents from the cials have said is disorganised Donald Trump outlined in an ernment and for contractors, as It was reported on June 19 that BLOOMBERG/WASHINGTON Trump administration relating and behind schedule. April 24 executive order. well as current employees. the transfer of contractors to the to its overhaul of the background The committee sent a sep- “Troubling reports have Over the years, OPM has Pentagon faced steep challenges. President Donald Trump picked check process that determines arate letter demanding similar emerged that the transfer may accumulated a backlog of more The House Oversight Committee long-time aide Stephanie who can handle America’s secret documents from the head of the not be on track,” the committee’s than 400,000 uncompleted is already investigating whether Grisham to serve as the next information. US Office of Personnel Man- letter said, saying there is clearance investigations, with some staffers in Trump’s White White House press secretary The House of Representa- agement (OPM), which is trans- “concern” that it may not occur some taking more than a year to House received high-level security and communications director. tives Oversight Committee sent ferring its background check by the September 30 deadline finish, congressional experts said. clearances over the objections of Since the early days of the a letter to Mark Esper, the acting responsibilities to the Pentagon given in Trump’s order. OPM, under Trump’s order, career officials. administration, Grisham served as a fierce and loyal spokes- woman for the president’s wife, Melania Trump, who US woman may face life announced the appointment yesterday on Twitter. Grishman sentence over IS links replaces Sarah Huckabee Sanders as press secretary and REUTERS papers. Bill Shine, who left the commu- NEW YORK Donoghue laid out a cloak- nications director job in March. and-dagger saga that began with As the White House heads A US woman charged with Ceasar’s arrest 2-1/2 years ago into re-election mode, Grisham working as an IS militant group’s as he asked a judge to deny bail will inherit an office in flux, recruiter under the code name in a letter unsealed on Monday with a number of staffing “Umm Nutella,” who agreed to and dated February 6. vacancies that need to be filled. cooperate with the prosecutors Ceasar was taken into In taking over the dual role, she but then divulged her deal to custody in November 2016 at will become Trump’s sixth com- extremists while out on bail, could Kennedy International Airport munications director and third be sentenced to life in prison. as she tried to leave the United press secretary. Sinmyah Amera Ceasar, who States. She confessed to using Grisham is one of the few has used that pseudonym, has Facebook and other platforms remaining staffers who has pleaded guilty to two federal to connect people with IS been with Trump since the charges for her efforts to aid IS members who would help them early days of the campaign, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko (centre), Nasa astronaut Anne McClain (right) and David Saint- group and other extremist travel to territory controlled by when she was a traveling press Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency rest in chairs shortly after landing in a remote area outside groups, according to papers filed the group, Donoghue said. “She aide. the town of Dzhezkazgan (Zhezkazgan), in Kazakhstan, yesterday. in federal court in Brooklyn. pleaded guilty to related charges “I can think of no better “The defendant’s conduct is in February 2017 under a coop- person to serve the Adminis- deeply troubling,” US Attorney eration agreement and was tration & our country,” Melania Space Station crew return to earth Richard Donoghue said in court released on bail in April 2018,.” Trump wrote on Twitter.

AFP The trio’s launch on ahead of their successful launch DZHEZKAZGAN December 3 last year was the and remained upbeat throughout first after a Soyuz rocket car- their time aboard the orbital lab Maduro could yet fall: Former spy chief The first crew to blast off to the rying Russia’s Aleksey Ovchinin which is seen as a rare example International Space Station and American astronaut Nick of cooperation between Russia AFP The highest-profile defector government were engaged in following a launch accident that Hague failed in October just and the West. WASHINGTON against the Maduro regime, money laundering and corruption, deepened doubts over Russia’s minutes after blast-off, forcing “A beautiful night pass over Figuera was sacked after sup- and alleged that Hezbollah cells space programme returned to the pair to make an emergency Africa on my last night on @ Former Venezuela’s intelligence porting the April 30 uprising by were allowed to operate in Ven- earth yesterday. landing. Space_Station,” tweeted chief, Cristopher Figuera, who opposition leader Juan Guaido ezuela and raise funds. Nasa astronaut Anne They escaped unharmed but McClain, who completed two fled the country after backing a and spent two months in hiding “I quickly realised that McClain, veteran cosmonaut the failed launch was the first spacewalks during her virgin failed uprising against President in Colombia before his arrival in Maduro is the head of a criminal Oleg Kononenko of Roscosmos, such incident in Russia’s post- mission to the ISS. Nicolas Maduro in April, has said the United States on Monday, enterprise, with his own family and Canadian Space Agency Soviet history and a new setback Fellow first-time flyer Saint- the regime could still fall. according to Washington Post. involved,” he said, accusing the record-holder David Saint- for the country’s once proud Jacques broke the record for the “I’m proud of what I did,” he The former head of security president’s son, Nicolas Maduro Jacques touched down on the space industry. longest single spaceflight by a said in an interview. “For now, for late president Hugo Chavez, Guerra, of running an illicit steppes of Kazakhstan at 0247 McClain, Kononenko and Canadian astronaut, previously the regime has gotten ahead of Figuera said that members of scheme involving the sale of gold GMT, Nasa said. Saint-Jacques were optimistic held by Robert Thirsk. us. But that can quickly change.” Maduro’s family and his at high prices to central bank.