BUSINESS | Page 1 QATAR | Page 7 Qatar education QGBC launches system ‘on par’ with Al Tadweer developed nations: programme Alpen Capital for recycling benchmark in Qatar

published in QATAR since 1978

WEDNESDAY Vol. XXXXII No. 11855 March 17, 2021 Sha’aban 4, 1442 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

PM, Saudi interior Amir visits Milipol Qatar 2021 minister review ties in phone call HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani held yesterday a telephone call with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz al-Saud. At the beginning of the call, HE the Prime Minister conveyed the greetings of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence Prince Mohamed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud, wishing them good health and the Saudi people progress and development. For his part, the Saudi interior minister conveyed the greetings of the Saudi king and the crown prince to the Amir, wishing him success and rectitude, and the Qatari people further progress His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani visited yesterday the 13th edition of international exhibition for homeland security and civil defence (Milipol Qatar 2021) at the Doha Exhibition and and prosperity. The call dealt Convention Centre. The Amir was briefed on the pavilions and sections of the exhibition as well as the latest innovations and technologies exhibited by local and international companies in the fields of with reviewing fraternal relations security, safety, cybersecurity and civil defence devices and equipment, and major event security management, in addition to a number of modern military armoured vehicles, weapons and armoured cars. between the two countries and the His Highness the Amir was accompanied by HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani and a number of senior off icials. (QNA) Page 12 means to enhance them, particularly in the security field. Additionally, it discussed a number of topics of joint interest. (QNA) Amir meets Iraqi foreign minister Qatar to pay $10mn to back WHO efforts ‘510,000 vaccine doses Qatar, represented by Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), and the World Health Organization (WHO) have signed a Core Contribution administered in Qatar’ Agreement for $10mn to support WHO’s 13th General Programme of Work (GPW 13) and for Covid-19 O 14,000 people getting vaccinated against Covid every day: MoPH response through the Access to O 15% of Qatar’s adult population have received at least one dose Covid-19 Tools Accelerator (ACT-A). This is the first Core Contribution Agreement signed between Qatar QNA each week has increased by 270% and WHO, highlighting the strong Doha and more than one in seven adults, partnership and commitment to 15% of Qatar’s adult population, work jointly to ensure that the most have now received at least one vac- vulnerable communities around he Ministry of Public Health cine dose. the world receive immediate and (MoPH) has announced that Dr Abdullatif al-Khal, Chair of unhampered assistance when it is T510,000 Covid-19 vaccine the National Health Strategic Group most needed. Page 3 doses have been administered since on Covid-19 and Head of Infectious the start of the National Vaccina- Diseases at HMC, explained that Moderna starts vaccine tion Programme in Qatar. safety has always been prioritised in Recent availability of greater the Covid-19 National Vaccination trial for children quantities of both the Moderna Programme. Drugmaker Moderna says it has and Pfi zer-BioNTech vaccines has “We were clear from the outset started Covid-19 vaccine trials for helped increase the pace of the that we only wanted to administer thousands of children aged under vaccination programme, with over internationally approved, safe and 12, a first step towards a new phase 100,000 doses being administered ple receiving the vaccine is con- eff ective vaccines for the people of the immunisation campaign each week, meaning that every day stantly rising. It is very reassur- of Qatar. Extensive clinical stud- experts say might be necessary around 14,000 of our most vulner- ing to know that more than six out ies have showed the Moderna and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met yesterday at the Amiri to stamp out the pandemic. “If we able members of society and essen- of every ten people aged 60 and Pfi zer and BioNTech vaccines to be Diwan with Iraqi foreign minister Fuad Mohamed Hussein, and the accompanying really want to get towards herd tial workers are getting vaccinated above have now received at least safe, and it is reassuring that with delegation. At the outset of the meeting, the Iraqi foreign minister conveyed the immunity, that’s going to require and becoming protected against their first dose of the vaccine, more than 500,000 vaccine doses greetings of the Iraqi President Dr Barham Salih to the Amir, wishing him continued as much as 80% of our population Covid-19, the ministry said in a with 67% of people over 70 years administered in Qatar, no reported success and the Qatari people further progress and prosperity. For his part, the Amir to be vaccinated, and we really statement. of age, and 63% of people over 60 serious side eff ects have been di- entrusted Fuad Mohamed Hussein to convey his greetings to the Iraqi President, can’t do that without vaccinating The ministry said that as it years of age having received the rectly associated with the vaccine, wishing him good health and wellness and the Iraqi people continued development children,” Lee Savio Beers, president continues to highlight the im- vaccine. and I encourage everyone to take and growth. They reviewed bilateral relations between the two countries and means of the American Academy of portance of vaccination for the Since the beginning of February, the vaccine when their turn comes,” of developing them, as well as the most prominent regional and international Pediatrics said. Page 11 elderly, the number of older peo- the number of doses administered added Dr al-Khal. To Page 6 developments. (QNA) Page 5 UNDP to open office in Doha UK bans fl ights from Qatar, Oman

ritain has added Qatar to its Here’s a Q&A on the latest develop- travel ‘red list’ and has banned O Aviation analyst Alex ments with Qatar being added to the Ball fl ights from Qatar from Fri- UK’s red list day early morning. Macheras examines the “Ethiopia, Oman, Somalia and Qa- Q: With Qatar being placed on the tar to be added to England’s red list,” impact of the move on UK’s red list, what does this mean? England’s Department for Transport Direct passenger flights from said. potential passengers to Doha to the UK will end on by 4am “From 4am on 19 March, direct on the 19th March 2021, until fur- fl ights from Qatar to England are pro- the UK in a Question ther notice. hibited. As per the announcement, all air- Visitors who have been in or trans- & Answer format craft carrying passengers will not be ited through Qatar in the previous 10 permitted to depart Doha bound for Qatar and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed an days cannot enter England,” British additional called the ‘red list’ which quarantine facility at a cost of £1,750 the UK. agreement to establish an off ice for the programme in Qatar. HE the Permanent Embassy in Qatar tweeted. takes these measures much, much per passenger. This will have a signifi cant impact Representative of Qatar to the United Nations in New York Ambassador Sheikha Here’s some background: All ar- further. If you are not a British citizen, or on transit passengers too, as for any Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani signed the agreement on behalf of Qatar, while rivals to the UK from anywhere in Countries already on the ‘red list’ a person with residency rights in the passengers who are fl ying via Doha to UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner signed the agreement on the UNDP’s behalf. the world must follow the following include South Africa, Brazil, and most UK, you cannot travel to the UK from a the UK (such as from Sydney to Doha The agreement comes within the framework of increasing the eff ectiveness of procedure: must test negative before of the continent of Africa. red-list country, even indirectly. to London) will now have their fi nal government-funded development programmes and strengthening co-operation departure to the UK, quarantine for Only British citizens or those with It doesn’t end there. part of the journey (Doha to London) in areas of common interest. The off ice will focus on strengthening co-operation ten days upon arrival to the UK, and residency rights in the UK are permit- Most red list countries also have one- cancelled, due to the UK’s fl ight ban between UNDP and the government of Qatar, in order to promote sustainable take two compulsory tests during the ted to travel from countries that are on way fl ight bans applied on them, mean- on Qatar. development goals at the global level and other goals that the programme seeks quarantine. the red list to the UK, and they must ing direct passenger fl ights from those Passengers will be able to obtain re- to achieve in the development field. (QNA) However, the UK has something pay to quarantine in a mandatory hotel nations to the UK are banned entirely. funds, or rebook. To Page 12 Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, March 17, 2021 QATAR

OffiPM cial meets interior ministers, officials of countries taking part in Milipol Qatar

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani yesterday met a number of interior ministers and senior off icials of countries participating in Milipol Qatar 2021. He met Ukrainian Minister of Interior Arsen Avakov, Kenyan Minister of Interior Fred Matiang’i, Belarus Minister of Interior Major General Ivan Vladimirovich Kubrakov, Moldovan Minister of Interior Pavel Fico, Somali Minister of Internal Security Hassan Handabi Jamaali, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Minister of Security Dr Selmo Cikotic, and Turkey’s Director of General Directorate of Security Mehmet Aktas. The meetings reviewed relations between Qatar and their countries and aspects of developing them, especially in the security fields, in addition to reviewing a number of issues of common concern. — QNA

Qatar participates in UN Conference on Women

QNA Fakhro. In Qatar’s speech, the ination against women, he said. The minister aff irmed Qatari support pation of Qatari women by pro- national practices and experi- Doha minister affi rmed Qatari support HE the Minister pointed out viding easy lending programmes ences. HE the Minister stressed for all women’s issues, particu- that the permanent constitu- for all women’s issues, particularly the for the establishment of small that all this indicates Qatar’s larly the Beijing Declaration and tion of the State stipulates that Beijing Declaration and Platform for enterprises, facilitate the estab- confi dent and determined steps atar participated yester- Platform for Action and the out- “The Citizens of Qatar shall be lishment of nurseries to provide to achieve its development vi- day via video conferenc- come of the 23th special session equal in public rights and du- Action and outcome of the 23th special the appropriate environment to sion, as necessary measures have Qing in the Fourth Con- of the General Assembly. ties. session of the General Assembly receive and care for children, in been taken to fi ll the gender gaps, ference on Women and the 23th In order to enhance the role of “All persons are equal before addition to increasing work fl ex- reinforcing women’s participa- session of the UN General As- women in community and ensure the law and there shall be no Qatar has ratifi ed the Conven- International Convention on the ibility for women in government tion in public life and empower- sembly. Qatar was represented at their participation and represen- discrimination whatsoever on tion on the Elimination of All Rights of the Child and Conven- institutions and in the private ing them economically, socially the conference by HE the Min- tation in decision-making posi- grounds of sex, race, language, Forms of Discrimination against tion on the Rights of Persons with sector. This includes providing and politically, especially in light ister of Administrative Develop- tions, Qatar has taken many leg- or religion.” Women, international conven- Disabilities. He expressed Doha’s all protection, social and family of the State’s intention to hold ment, Labour and Social Aff airs islative and executive measures Regarding the international tions related to social aff airs, the aspiration to increase the eff ec- care programmes and services in the fi rst elections for the Shura Yousef bin Mohamed al-Othman to eliminate all forms of discrim- obligations, the minister said most important of which is the tiveness of the economic partici- accordance with the best inter- Council in October 2021. Gulf Times Wednesday, March 17, 2021 3 QATAR QFFD signs core contribution agreement to support WHO

QNA pered assistance when it is most the pivotal role of WHO, es- tions and strong collaboration Doha needed. HE the Minister of Pub- pecially in the current diffi cult are needed for favourable re- lic Health Dr Hanan Mohamed time as the world is fi ghting the sults. Therefore, Qatar through al-Kuwari said: “Qatar’s contri- coronavirus pandemic. She also Qatar Fund for Development is atar, represented by bution to the WHO affi rms Qa- affi rms Qatar’s keenness to en- providing its fi rst fl exible fund- Qatar Fund for Devel- tar’s fulfi lment of its obligations hance its partnership with the ing to WHO in support of the Qopment (QFFD), and and keenness to support WHO’s WHO. She also praised the out- eff orts done by the agency to the World Health Organisa- Thirteenth General Programme standing role of QFFD in sup- combat the pandemic and sup- tion (WHO) have signed a core of Work (GPW 13) 2019-2023, to porting global eff ort to alleviate port WHO’s Thirteenth General contribution agreement for attain the “triple billion” target human suff ering and support Programme of Work (GPW 13).” $10,000,000 to support WHO’s to ensure that 1bn more people health, education, and economic The contribution shall be used Thirteenth General Programme benefi ting from UHC, 1bn more empowerment. for the implementation of the of Work (GPW 13) and for Cov- people supported during emer- Director General of QFFD Thirteenth General Programme id-19 response through the Ac- gencies and 1bn more enjoying Khalifa bin Jassim al-Kuwari of Work (GPW13) to enable WHO cess to Covid-19 Tools Accelera- better health and well-being. said: “This month last year Cov- to address health emergencies, tor (ACT-A). It also supports the initia- id-19 was declared a pandemic ensure healthy lives and well- This is the fi rst core contribu- tives of speeding up the access by the World Health Organisa- being for all at all ages, achieve tion agreement signed between to the essential supplies needed tion. The coronavirus knows no universal health coverage, con- This is the first core contribution agreement signed between Qatar and WHO. Qatar and WHO, highlight- in the fi ght against Covid-19, to borders, aff ecting people who tribute to the achievement of the ing the strong partnership and include accelerating the devel- are particularly vulnerable. Ef- SDGs and support the world on a powerful demonstration that foundation of social, economic contribution, which will sup- commitment to work jointly opment of Covid-19 tests, treat- fectively addressing Covid-19 prevention, containment, treat- health is not a luxury item or and political stability,” said port WHO to achieve its mis- ensuring the most vulnerable ment and vaccination while en- cannot be achieved in isolation ment and co-ordination of Cov- merely a product of strong and WHO Director-General Dr Te- sion to promote health, keep the communities around the world suring fair access.” as it aff ects everyone. id-19 response eff orts. prosperous societies; it is a fun- dros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “I world safe and serve the vulner- receive immediate and unham- HE Dr al-Kuwari commended “During such times, bold ac- “The Covid-19 pandemic is damental human right and the thank the State of Qatar for its able.”

‘Qatari-Pakistani relations MoI, Lekhwiya see strong presence at Milipol Qatar 2021 distinguished and positive’ akistani Min- he Ministry of Interior (MoI) Maj Abdul Aziz al-Ruwaili, assistant force with its advanced equipment ister of Inte- and Internal Security Force director of the Information Systems and mechanisms. Also, the Personal Prior Sheikh T(Lekhwiya) have a strong Department, said they are exhibiting Protection Force, forces dealing with Rasheed Ahmad presence at the ongoing Milipol Qa- fi ve major projects in their pavilion. communication and removal of ex- has affi rmed the tar 2021, showcasing latest innova- These include the maritime registra- plosives are also participating from strength of the tions and state-of-the-art equip- tion service, traffi c systems on tab- Lekhwiya. Qatari-Pakistani ment. The exhibition concludes at lets and coastal and border security “Through our participation in relations, describ- the Doha Exhibition and Convention services on tablets, among others. this edition, we aim to showcase the ing them as distin- Centre today. The General Directorate of Coasts latest technologies and devices we guished and posi- In a statement yesterday, the MoI and Borders Security showcases the own, whether for the mechanisms or tive at all levels, and Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said it is participating in the 13th maritime registration service for weapons used in our force,” Brig al- constantly develop- edition of the homeland security marine vessels through Matrash2, Muhannadi said. ing. Talking to reporters on the sidelines of and civil defence exhibition with a which was launched on Monday dur- Lt-Col Dr Ali al-Rashed, Com- his participation in the Milipol Qatar 2021 large pavilion comprising several de- ing the exhibition, while the General mander of Security Technologies at events, he praised the distinguished level of partments. Displayed are models of Directorate of Traffi c displays vari- Brig Ibrahim Khalil al-Muhannadi Lt-Col Dr Ali al-Rashed Lekhwiya, reviewed the most im- the Qatari companies in the current edition modern equipment acquired by some ous types of traffi c patrols and latest portant developments, especially the of the event. of the departments, while others are radars, including dual-side radars. international certifi cation. These in- groups, noting that there are mul- “pride of the Qatari industry”, which He also praised the expo’s attraction of showcasing models of services pro- Meanwhile, Lekhwiya is partici- clude an eye detection device to de- tiple specialisations of the force. is the eye detection device that de- major companies from various countries of vided to the public and their aware- pating in Milipol Qatar 2021 with a tect stress and anxiety among those Participation in this edition of the tects tension and anxiety among the world despite the coronavirus (Covid-19) ness eff orts. large pavilion comprising its vari- carrying contraband as well as detect exhibition includes some security those carrying contraband or drug pandemic. With its good organisation, Qatar The stall of the the General Direc- ous departments and multi-tasking drug users. It is manufactured in Qa- innovations developed by Lekhwiya, users, as well as determining the type was able to make the event a distinctive des- torate of Civil Defence introduces groups and specialisations, includ- tar. which have obtained international of narcotic substance used. tination for international security manufac- visitors to the necessary procedures ing the group meant for the protec- Speaking on the sidelines of the certifi cation, he added. He said the device is 100% Qatari- turers and experts, he said. He added that is- for obtaining licences and building tion of important visiting dignitaries expo, Brig Ibrahim Khalil al-Mu- He also informed that among the owned and manufactured, adding sues of safety and security have become a top certifi cates as well as how to pre- and guests as well as the Search and hannadi said the participation of groups participating in Milipol 2021 also used are many other devices that priority, and that the international event for vent fi res. Talking about the par- Rescue Group. The Lekhwiya pavil- Lekhwiya in Milipol comes within is one called Lafdaviyya, which ex- have been developed by Lekhwiya in homeland security and civil defence (Milipol ticipation of the MoI’s Information ion showcases some innovations in the framework of its keenness to hibits advanced devices and weap- co-operation with its strategic part- Qatar) meets all the needs in this fi eld. Systems Directorate in Milipol 2021, security devices that have received participate with its departments and ons, in addition to the anti-riot ners.

Milipol Qatar Day 2 snapshots

PICTURES: Thajudheen

MoI signs three deals at Milipol Qatar

The Ministry of Interior yesterday signed three deals with Qatari companies on the sidelines of Milipol Qatar 2021. In a press conference, Assistant Director-General of Logistics Department of the Ministry of Interior and member of Milipol Qatar Committee Brig Saud Rashid al-Shafi said that the deals are worth QR172,287,817. He said that the ministry has signed a QR3,586,248 deal to purchase some equipment and traff ic devices maintenance. A QR161,875,000 contract has been signed with a Qatari company to purchase 57 fire-extinguishing vehicles, in addition to a QR6,826,500 contract with another Qatari company for the maintenance of security vehicles tracking system. — QNA Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, March 17, 2021 QATAR

Lekhwiya chief meets participating ministers, officials at Milipol Qatar

HE the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior and Commander of Lekhwiya Major-General Abdulaziz bin Faisal al-Thani has met separately with a number of ministers and security off icials, on the sidelines of Milipol Qatar 2021. He met with Head of the National Police of Ukraine General Ihor Klymenko, Minister of Internal Aff airs of Belarus Ivan Vladimirovich Kubrakov, Deputy Minister of Internal Aff airs of Azerbaijan Lieutenant-General Zalov Oruj. He also met with Deputy Director General of Public Security and Central Director of the Italian Criminal Police Vittorio Rizzi, Inspector General of the Gendarmerie of Romania Colonel Alin-Ionel Mastan, and Colonel Emilio Jose, head of Spanish aviation services. During the meetings, they discussed ways to enhance co-operation in the security and police fields. — QNA

Civil defence, cyber threats in focus at Milipol seminars AAB Main Sponsor

QNA Doha

n the sidelines of of Milipol Qatar ’21 Milipol Qatar 2021, Ospecialised seminars bdullah Abdulghani & Bros began yesterday, with the Co (AAB), sole agent for participation of experts in AToyota vehicles in Qatar, security and civil protection. is the Main Offi cial Sponsor of In a seminar devoted to the 13th edition of Milipol Qatar. civil defence, Qatar’s General A talk at Milipol Qatar 2021. Milipol Qatar is one of the leading Directorate of Civil Defence international exhibitions for home- presented its experience in various aspects, which ena- number of technology, com- land security and civil defence in the fi eld, highlighting its ef- bled it to develop operations munications and informa- the Middle East, which is running forts in securing World Cup to respond to accidents of all tion companies participating at the Doha Exhibition and Con- 2022 facilities and develop- kinds, such as rescue acci- in Milipol Qatar 2021. vention Centre until today. ing its operations according dents, fi res, hazardous ma- It addressed the current Held under the patronage of His to the highest international terials accidents and special reality of cyber threats, their Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim standards. services accidents. risks and complexities, and bin Hamad al-Thani, the exhibition Capt Mohamed Ali al-Su- Capt al-Suwaidi also re- their implications for the se- was inaugurated on Monday by HE waidi, from the Civil Defence vealed that the General Di- curity and stability of coun- the Prime Minister and Minister Operations Department, rectorate of Civil Defence tries, as well as their implica- of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Kha- affi rmed the department’s recorded 8,171 accidents last tions for the global economy. lifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani. “AAB is readiness for the 2022 World year and that its response Participants stressed extremely privileged and honoured Cup, stating that the goal of time to these incidents was the importance of provid- to sponsor, in a signifi cant manner, operations department is to only about 7 minutes. For his ing adequate infrastructure all the Milipol Qatar events since protect individuals, public part, Eng Khalifa al-Dossary, to achieve the highest lev- 1996,” the company said in a state- and private properties from from the Prevention Depart- els of safety and protection ment. the dangers of various fi res ment at the General Directo- for entities, institutions and Abdulrahman Abduljaeel Ab- and disasters, ensuring regu- rate of Civil Defence, noted companies, through qualifi ed dulghani, chairman of AAB, re- AAB off icials with the all-new Toyota Corolla Cross HEV. lar workfl ow in vital facilities the eff orts to spread aware- human cadres, and advanced ceived HE the Prime Minister and and installations, and pro- ness of civil protection and systems to confront cyber Minister of Interior and the ac- HEV. As the Main Offi cial Sponsor tecting wealth, part of which graduate specialised cadres attacks and reduce their companying delegation at the Toy- of Milipol Qatar, AAB is also sup- is World Cup 2022 facilities. in this fi eld, pointing out to damages and repercussions, ota booth. Also present at the booth porting the event with a fl eet of He pointed out that secu- plans to teach civil defence calling for international co- were R K Murugan, acting CEO, and Toyota and Lexus vehicles for the rity and safety requirements at the College of Engineer- operation to confront these senior management from AAB. AAB transportation of delegates attend- have been provided in the ing at Qatar University and to new challenges related to has a booth measuring 371sqm at the ing the event. Toyota and Lexus facilities that will host the provide training programmes cyber attacks and piracy due venue, where it is displaying Toyota vehicles are designated as ‘Offi cial tournament activities, in- for students at the General to their seriousness and ex- Land Cruiser vehicles used by Al- Cars’ for the event. cluding stadiums, residential Directorate. pansion. They asserted that Fazaa and the Industrial Security “AAB always looks forward to the headquarters and celebration A presentation on the all countries, without ex- Force, Land Cruiser ambulance used future and has always been keen in areas in accordance with in- foundations of scientifi c fi re ception, are exposed to such by Hamad Medical Corporation in nurturing its corporate mission to ternational standards, in ad- risk analysis was also given risks. addition to a line-up of Toyota Hy- maintain the No 1 position in the dition to providing the nec- during the seminar by Capt The programme of semi- brid Electric Vehicles (HEVs). automobile business in Qatar. Be- essary equipment at these Abdulrahman Sultan al- nars accompanying the AAB launched the all-new Toy- ing the market leader, it has been its sites and installations, add- Ghanim from the General Milipol Qatar 2021 includes ota Corolla Cross HEV at the exhi- rich tradition to support major gov- ing that the General Direc- Administration of Civil De- vital topics such as civil de- bition, which is a new member to ernment-sponsored events in the torate of Civil Defence has fence. Another seminar on fence, cybersecurity, cyber Toyota’s line-up. With the launch country. With a record of over 50 The AAB booth at Milipol Qatar 2021. witnessed an important de- cyber threats saw the partici- threats, and managing the of Corolla Cross HEV, Toyota now years of service in Qatar, AAB’s has velopment in recent years in pation of representatives of a security of major events. has six vehicles in its HEV line-up become a synonym for customer sorship,” the statement noted. for giving them another opportuni- – Corolla HEV, Camry HEV, C-HR loyalty and is pleased to enhance its The AAB management took the ty to sponsor Milipol Qatar, wish- HEV, RAV4 HEV and Highlander corporate history with this spon- opportunity to thank the organisers ing the event all success. ‘Global co-operation needed to face data protection challenges’

By Shafeeq Alingal Staff Reporter

lobal co-operation is needed to overcome cybersecurity Gand privacy protection chal- lenges, Mika Lauhde, vice-president of Cybersecurity and Privacy, Global Public Aff airs at Huawei Technolo- gies, has said. In an exclusive inter- view to Gulf Times on the sidelines of Milipol Qatar 2021, Mika said co-operation is key for the suc- cess of transformation and it can be achieved through partnerships be- tween government, private enter- prises and educational institutions. “Companies and government en- Mika Lauhde at Milipol Qatar 2021. tities as well as individuals fall prey PICTURE: Thajudeen Huawei at Milipol Qatar. Supplied picture to cyber threats. People need to share information in secured ways. They the need to further explore in order geries will be done by making use of educational institutions and govern- rely upon governments that are ac- to exchange information and over- a reliable telecommunication system ment entities. countable for providing them with come the threat. “This pandemic is from far away. Telecommunication is “We help local people and innova- security. The government can ensure not the last and we have to fi nd so- enabling the future where pandemic tors by enabling them to do their job,” security by sharing information and lutions by tapping the potential of and emergencies will be dealt with by he said. “We are creating a new eco- co-operating. A lot of co-operation technology. Technology has played using technology and telecommuni- system and working with universities is needed,” he said. a pivotal role in minimising the ad- cation,” he said. in Qatar,” he said, noting that Huawei The offi cial hailed Milipol 2021, versity of the pandemic. We need tel- Mika noted that 5G is a revolution has a long history of co-operation saying it contributes much to the ecommunication to take care of the that ensures a better system and de- with Qatar while supporting private global co-operation and sharing of pandemic. Next time, we have to be velops a new ecosystem. It’s much and public entities here to combat ideas between companies and coun- much prepared,” Mika said, adding more secure with speed, capacity and cyber threats. tries. “Society becomes increasingly that Huawei could ensure connec- latency while addressing risks, mak- He said Milipol assumes signifi - dependent on the Internet and cy- tion between the people while they ing networks and information more cance as it ensures the sharing of ide- bersecurity has become a matter of were isolated. secure and protecting users’ privacy. as and experiences. “We are in need concern with new cybersecurity vul- He explained that healthcare Mika went on to say that Huawei for international policies and joint nerabilities emerging,” he noted. needs connectivity to become fur- is helping build a new ecosystem and eff orts to overcome the threats and He said the Covid-19 pandemic ther hi-tech. “In the future, medical this is achieved by helping stake- understanding about technologies is has changed the world, stressing prescription, consultation and sur- holders like healthcare providers, also needed,” he added. Gulf Times Wednesday, March 17, 2021 5 QATAR

FM meets his Iraqi counterpart Qatar pays great focus to sustainable development: minister atar, represented various aspects; social, the MoTC, Mashael Ali al- by the Ministry economic and environ- Hammadi, said Qatar real- Qof Transport and mental, in line with the ises the paramount role that Communications (MoTC), Sustainable Development the ICT sector plays in accel- participated in the World Goals 2030. erating the pace of social and Summit on the Information Qatar understands that economic development and Society (WSIS2021) virtual achieving sustainable de- creating a knowledge-based exhibition. velopment is a key chal- economy. According to an offi cial lenge to countries at the “Accordingly, the Qatar HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin MoTC press statement, in national level as well as a Digital Government Strat- Abdulrahman al-Thani met yesterday with the visiting Iraqi Minister of Foreign Aff airs remarks broadcast dur- global challenge and that egy 2026 will be an ambi- Fuad Hussein. During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral relations, and means to ing the inauguration of the international commu- tious one that complies stabilise and calm the situation in the region. HE Sheikh Mohamed reiterated that the exhibition, HE the nity must joint forces to with the UN Sustainable Qatar stands by Iraq. (QNA) Minister of Transport and prioritise and make it a re- Development Goals 2030, Communications Jassim ality. “Qatar is an active and fostering values through Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti said eff ective contributor with ICT such as increased ac- Qatar, as part of the inte- other nations on this front,” cessibility, and focusing on grated vision of it’s policy he said. the quality of education, at the national, regional “Qatar is participating healthcare, and justice, and global level, pays great in the World Summit on while striving to make a Shura Council HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim attention to sustainable the Information Society better environmental im- Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti. development with all its as a Gold Partner this year pact for a more sustainable to express it’s support to model, and empowering all participates in the universal goals that social elements equally,” aim at benefiting from she said. the potential of ICT in Qatar, which partici- parliamentary accelerating the pace of pates as a Gold Partner social and economic de- in the WSIS Forum 2021 velopment. The ministry slated for this May, is look- SDGs webinar also works on monitoring ing forward to showcasing the Summit Action Lines some of Qatar’s milestones for realising the globally with relation to WSIS Ac- QNA defined sustainable de- tion Lines, some projects Doha velopment goals through carried out under the um- ICT, and which match brella of the Qatar Digital with our national endeav- Government Strategy, as he Shura Council yesterday partici- our to establish a knowl- well as highlights from the pated in a parliamentary webinar on edge-based economy,” he Tasmu Smart Qatar Pro- T“Building a better future where no- added. gramme and several ini- body is left behind: How can parliaments en- During her participation tiatives on digital inclusion sure that Covid-19 recovery strategies are in in the inauguration event, for all sections of the soci- line with the SDGs”. acting assistant undersec- ety, including the disabled, Organised by the Inter-Parliamentary retary of Government In- the elderly and migrant Union and the United Nations Economic Participants of the WSIS2021 Virtual Exhibition. formation Technology at workers. and Social Commission for Asia and the Pa- cifi c (UNESCAP), the webinar focused on the SDGs and their implementation in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, the exchange of views and suggestions among the partici- pants on how to accelerate the development steps in the region, and to ensure that Cov- Diplomatic Institute and Doha id-19 recovery strategies help in achieving the 2030 SDGs. The Shura Council was represented in the seminar by HE the Member of the Council Shura Council participation in the symposium Yousif bin Rashid al-Khater. on recovery strategies from Covid-19. Institute sign co-operation deal Shura Council committees hold meetings he Diplomatic Institute of achieve the ministry’s vision of he Financial and Economic Aff airs ficulties they face due to the coronavirus the Ministry of Foreign Af- excellence in performance to have Committee of the Shura Council held pandemic. The committee decided to Tfairs and Doha Institute cadres capable of representing Qa- Ta meeting yesterday chaired by its complete the study of this issue at its next for Graduate Studies (DI) signed tar in a decent manner in interna- Rapporteur HE Ali bin Abdullatif al-Misnad meeting. a co-operation agreement for the tional forums, and perform its dip- al-Mohannadi. The Services and Public Utilities Com- implementation of the Executive lomatic duties effi ciently, protect During the meeting, the committee mittee also held a meeting under its Rap- Master of Diplomatic Studies and the interests of the State in line studied the situation of small and medium porteur HE Mohamed bin Mahdi al-Ahbabi. International Co-operation Pro- with developments in diplomatic enterprises (SMEs) in light of the support The committee studied a draft law organis- gramme, which was launched by work, and follow-up international provided by His Highness the Amir Sheikh ing healthcare services in the country, and the DI’s School of Public Adminis- changes. Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to these en- decided to complete its study at its next tration and Development Econom- For his part, Dr al-Afandi said terprises to help them confront the dif- meeting. ics (SPADE) in partnership with the that the Executive Master of Dip- Diplomatic Institute for the aca- lomatic Studies and International demic year 2020-2021. Co-operation Programme is the The agreement was signed by fi rst of its kind in Qatar. Director of the Diplomatic Insti- He explained that the pro- tute, Ambassador Dr Abdulaziz bin gramme will provide learners with Mohamed al-Horr and Doha Insti- a global level of study and train- tute’s Acting President Dr Abdul ing, supervised by a team of in- Wahab al-Afandi. ister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mo- prepare reports, studies and re- stitute professors, supported by Dr al-Horr said the programme hamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani search specialised in foreign policy elite professors and international is the implementation of the vi- to develop human resources in the and international co-operation to experts, through international sion and directives of HE the ministry to perform the diplomatic contribute to the decision-making academic and professional part- Deputy Prime Minister and Min- role in an outstanding manner, to process in foreign aff airs, and to nerships. Qatar congratulates Sudan on rights council membership

ice-President and Secre- as a member of the Human Rights welcome of the decision to establish- write the law establishing the na- tary-General of the Global Council for 2021 as a representative ing an steering committee for the na- tional human rights commission. VAlliance of National Human of the African group. tional human rights commission, and He also called for forming a na- Rights Institutions (GANHRI) Dr This came in the meeting held on GANHRI’s commitment to support tional strategy on human rights to Ali bin Smaikh al-Marri has called Monday between Lieutenant General Sudan in all aspects related to human be a building block for transitioning for providing the necessary support Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo and Dr rights. He called for institutionalis- towards democracy, justice, and the to non-governmental organisations al-Marri at the headquarters of the ing a dialogue between the Sudanese rule of law in Sudan. (NGOs) by the transitional govern- transitional government of Sudan. government and GANHRI, stressing He also welcomed the lifting ment in Sudan. Dr al-Marri praised Sudan’s join- that the transitional period requires of economic sanctions on Sudan, He also congratulated the First ing of the Convention against Torture the consolidation of all governmental adding that those sanctions had Vice-President of the Transitional and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrad- eff orts with the support of NGOs to grave implications on the ability Sovereign Council and Commander ing Treatment or Punishment and enhance the state of human rights. to practise basic human rights and of the Rapid Support Forces Lieu- the International Convention for the He expressed his delight that called on the international commu- tenant General Mohamed Hamdan Protection of All Persons from En- GANHRI pledged to provide the nity to accelerate the procedures of Dagalo on the election of Sudan forced Disappearance, renewing his necessary technical support to lifting the economic embargo. Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, March 17, 2021 QATAR

QRCS signs pact with JRCS, IFRC to combat Covid-19 in Jordan Qatar Red Crescent Society Jordan, praised the effective (QRCS) has entered into a tripar- joint work with QRCS. tite agreement with Jordan Red Following the signing cer- QC supports Crescent Society (JRCS) and the emony, there was a meeting of International Federation of the the Co-ordinative Committee Red Cross and Red Crescent So- on Auxiliary Role of National cieties (IFRC), to work together Societies. Dr Oussedik deliv- in the fight against coronavirus ered a speech to the members (Covid-19) in Jordan. of the committee, in which he open-heart The signing ceremony was emphasised the importance attended by a high-profile del- of dialogue with different egation from QRCS, currently organisations and concerted on an official visit to Jordan, efforts to upgrade the National comprising secretary-general Societies’ auxiliary role to gov- Ali bin Hassan al-Hammadi, ernment bodies, especially in surgeries for kids International Relations and times of emergencies. International Humanitarian The session was attended Law (IHL) head Dr Fawzi Ous- Off icials at the signing ceremony. by Dr Mohamed Tarawneh, sedik, and IHL co-ordinator Judge; Maamoun Tarawneh, Zahra Adnan Lafi, who were In his remarks, Dr Mohamed Mot- QRCS through its humanitarian head of the Jordanian Com- in Kyrgyzstan accompanied by the head of lak al-Hadid, president of JRCS, operations in Jordan. mittee for IHL, and Dr Omar QRCS’ mission in Jordan, Dr highlighted the close co-operation Dr Moftah Tuwailib, director Saleh al-Akour from School of Nehal Said Hefny. with, and constant support from of the IFRC Office in Amman, Law, the University of Jordan. atar Charity (QC) has started performing Qopen-heart valve surger- ies for children with congenital heart disease in the Kyrgyz Re- public. Some 21 surgeries have suc- cessfully been conducted, while Vodafone gifts Al Noor Institute another 81 are scheduled to be performed, at a total estimated cost of more than QR1.3mn. Some 60 surgeries will be students assistive smartwatches conducted during the coming period in co-ordination with the Ministry of Health and the Heart odafone Qatar showed its To make sure students Hospital management. support for the Al Noor don’t run out of data on their Seeking to extend the appro- VInstitute for the Blind smartphones, Vodafone Qa- priate support to carry out these by presenting the institute’s tar also provided them with surgeries, QC has purchased the Some 21 surgeries have successfully been conducted, while another 81 students with assistive braille complimentary Vodafone Un- necessary equipment, provided are scheduled to be performed. smartwatches made by Dot In- limited plans under the com- medical care to patients at the corporation. pany’s ‘Vodafone for All’ pro- hospital and taken care of the This “pioneering innova- gramme. laboratory tests, in addition to tion” for the blind and visually Launched in 2012 as part undertaking to provide the re- impaired instantly translates of Vodafone Qatar’s ongoing quired medicines to patients messages received on the user’s commitment to support the during the period of medical smartphone to braille and for- disabled community, ‘Voda- care, according to a press state- wards it to their watch, Voda- fone for All’ off ers specialist ment. fone Qatar said in a statement. services and rates for custom- The deputy minister of health This is in addition to a range ers with disabilities, the state- in Kyrgyzstan expressed grati- of practical features needed ment adds. tude to Qatar, the donors and throughout each day such as Customers holding a valid Qatar Charity for supporting all time and date, alarm clock and Special Needs Card from the development, educational and more. fone Qatar has always sought to ple with disabilities.” Qatar Society for Rehabilita- health projects in the country, Vodafone Qatar’s chief hu- utilise the power of technology For his part, Salah Ahmed tion of Special Needs are off ered and for carrying out qualitative man resources offi cer Khames in the service of society as part al-Sindi, head of Activities and a 50% discount on all of Voda- projects such as open-heart sur- al-Mohamed Naimi said: “We of the company’s expanding Programmes at Al Noor Insti- fone’s Unlimited 5G postpaid geries, which were desperately are humbled to partner with Al corporate social responsibil- tute for the Blind, thanked Vo- plans and 10% discount on se- needed. Noor Institute for the Blind to ity, and our commitment to dafone for the support provided lected handsets equipped with This came in a meeting held improve the lives of their stu- achieving inclusivity through to the students in an eff ort to accessibility features and ap- at Heart Hospital in the Kyrgyz dents using technology. Voda- technology, especially for peo- connect with all communities. plications. Republic after performing the surgeries, in the presence of Qa- tar’s ambassador to the Kyrgyz HMC uses Republic, Abdullah al-Sulaiti. The deputy health minister Convalescent also indicated that this type of Plasma Therapy surgery is very expensive and it MoPH reports 479 is diffi cult to provide heart valve Hamad Medical Corpora- devices, as they are not available tion (HMC) has explained in the country, and therefore, are how the Convalescent Plasma purchased from abroad. Therapy, which it is using to “Qatar Charity and the em- new Covid cases treat Covid-19 patients in Qa- bassy of Qatar in the Kyrgyz Re- tar, works. public are working on a perma- he Ministry of Public This treatment involves nent collaboration to provide the Health (MoPH) yester- taking plasma obtained from necessary support for the broth- they help save children’s lives. the coronavirus pandemic, and Tday reported 479 new patients who have recovered ers in the Kyrgyz Republic,” said In addition to this project, protective equipment for medi- confi rmed cases of coronavirus from Covid-19 and transfus- al-Sulaiti. QC’s health projects for Kyr- cal staff , in addition to other (Covid-19) during the last 24 ing it into patients currently He also indicated that open- gyzstan include building health health and social projects such hours, of which 430 were from battling the virus, HMC says heart surgeries are among the most centres and delivering assistance as providing wheelchairs for the community and 49 from in an infographic. important health projects, because like respirators, provided during persons with special needs. travellers returning from abroad “As people fi ght the Cov- who are subject to quarantine. id-19 virus, their body pro- duce antibodies to attack it. 355 face prosecution These antibodies are secreted for Covid violations by immune cells known as B lymphocytes. These are Qatar Museums’ internship The designated authorities found in plasma — the liq- referred 355 people to the Public uid part of blood which helps Prosecution for violating the the blood clot and increases preventive and precautionary immunity. Once a person re- programmes start next month measures enforced by the coun- covers, the antibodies stay try to contain the spread of the in the body to fi ght the virus coronavirus. if it returns,” the infographic niversity students, recent graduates and Among them, 341 people were explains. community members in the country will referred to the prosecution for Plasma from one recovered Uhave the opportunity to take part in Qatar not wearing masks in places patient can be used to treat Museums’ (QM) internship programmes starting where they are mandatory, while two infected patients. One next month. five were found violating the transfusion is enough to see In a post on its Instagram page, QM said it “off ers maximum number of four people results, HMC stressed, add- internship programmes that integrate knowledge allowed in a vehicle including ing that anyone who has re- and theory acquired in the classroom with practi- the driver, except when they are covered from Covid-19 can cal application and skills development in a profes- members of one family. donate plasma. sional setting of its museums, programmes depart- Nine people were also referred to The treatment is being ments and heritage sites”. the prosecution for not installing used on Covid-1 9 patients The deadline for applications is on March 29. Ehteraz app on their mobile in Qatar, and a Plasma Dona- For a period of three, six and 12 months (accord- phones. tion Center has been set up at ing to QM’s operational requirements and needs the Communicable Disease of the interns; with an option of Remote, Regular Center. and Blended programmes), QM noted that interns The Ministry of Public Health new death of a patient aged 55 lier the disease is detected the More information is avail- can explore, learn and develop new skills by “par- also recorded 345 recoveries who was receiving the necessary easier it will be to receive the able at https://www.hamad. ticipating in challenging projects, tasks and assign- from the virus during the past 24 medical care. right treatment and recover qa/EN/Hospitals-and-serv- ments”, as well as “getting adequate, reliable and hours, bringing the total number Anyone suff ering from Cov- from it. The MoPH urges peo- ices/Communicable-Dis- regular supervision and mentoring”. of cases recovered in Qatar to id-19 symptoms should contact ple to visit its website for regu- ease-Center/Documents/ According to QM, students from abroad will be partment, Children’s Museum, Qatar Olympic and 158,853. 16000 helpline immediately. lar updates and new informa- Plasma-Donation-COVID- eligible to attend remote internship programmes Sports Museum Library department, Information The ministry reported one This is important as the ear- tion. 19-EN.pdf only. Internships are off ered during the following and Technology department, General Collections periods: Spring (April onwards) – call for applica- department, Msheireb Culture Forum (M7), Hu- tions opens in March; and Fall (October onwards) – man Capital department, Enterprises Group, Se- call for applications opens in September. curity Management department, Orientalist Mu- QM has internship programmes available in the seum, Exhibition department, National Museum of following departments: Chairperson’s Offi ce, Li- Qatar (NMoQ) Learning and Outreach department, wan Design Studios, Museum of Islamic Art Library NMoQ Curatorial department, NMoQ Exhibitions, ‘510,000 vaccine doses department, Strategy and Quality Assurance de- Learning and Outreach. Mercedes-Benz E-Class and CLS-Class models recalled administered in Qatar’ he Ministry of Com- The recall campaign comes The MoCI has urged all cus- merce and Industry within the framework of the tomers to report any violations T(MoCI), in co-operation MoCI’s continuous eff orts to to its Consumer Protection From Page 1 ing Director of Primary Health ministered daily across our 27 and other priority groups. with Nasser Bin Khaled Auto- protect consumers and ensure and Anti-Commercial Fraud Care Corporation (PHCC), centres.” “Additionally, the recent mobiles, dealer of Mercedes- that dealers follow up on vehicle Department, which processes The recent ramping up of explained: “Since the start of “Additionally, the PHCC opening of the Lusail Covid-19 Benz in Qatar, has announced defects and repairs. complaints, inquiries and sug- the vaccination drive has been the vaccination programme we vaccination centre at the Qatar Drive-Through Vaccination a recall of Mercedes-Benz E- The ministry has said it will gestions through the call cen- made possible by the increased have focused on streamlining National Convention Center Centre, run by Hamad Medi- Class and CLS-Class models co-ordinate with the dealer to tre: 16001, e-mail: info@moci. availability of vaccines, but the vaccination process within which opened at the start of cal Corporation in partnership of 2018-2019 as the software of follow up on the maintenance gov.qa, Twitter: @MOCIQA- signifi cant work has been done our primary health centres. February now regularly vacci- with PHCC, has also signifi - the belt-driven starter alterna- and repair works and will com- TAR, Instagram: MOCIQATAR, to expand the options for peo- “This has enabled us to nates more than 5,000 people cantly boosted capacity,” the tor (BSA) control unit does not municate with customers to and the ministry’s mobile app ple to access the vaccines, as Dr achieve a constant increase in each day including teachers, director of Primary Health Care correspond to manufacturer ensure that they carried out the for Android and iOS: MOCIQ- Mariam Abdulmalik, Manag- the number of vaccines ad- school administration staff Corporation said. specification. necessary repairs. ATAR Gulf Times Wednesday, March 17, 2021 7 QATAR QGBC launches Al Tadweer programme to establish recycling benchmark in Qatar QF member aims to ensure confidence in quality of recycled materials produced from solid waste

atar Green Building growing challenges that has prepared, and tasks and activities Council (QGBC) has un- emerged from rapid economic performed by the organisation to Qveiled Al Tadweer – a Re- growth and urban development. deliver recycled products to meet cycling Validation Scheme (RVS) The country has one of the high- specifi c requirements. It also cov- that provides scalable guidance est per capita waste genera- ers the commitment made by the for the recycling industry in Qa- tion rates worldwide with 1.8kg organisation to manage and im- tar. per day. As a result, the Qatar prove quality of production. On The programme, partly spon- Second National Development successful completion of the au- sored by HSBC Qatar, was Strategy (NDS2) has set a target dits, QGBC will issue the organi- launched via a webinar attended to recycle 15% of solid waste by sation with a certifi cate showing by key stakeholders who intro- 2022, the statement notes. their compliance with the solid duced the programme’s features, QGBC has worked closely waste RVS. requirements, and application with subject-matter experts to The Al Tadweer programme processes. develop the programme to en- comes at a crucial time as a re- Al Tadweer ensures confi - sure quality assurance of solid sponse to the challenges high- dence in recycled products from waste recycling processes. The lighted by market stakeholders solid waste through a quality programme aligns with QGBC’s taking part in QGBC’s ongoing audit and certifi cation system. goal to educate stakeholders and programmes and campaigns, like The programme off ers a vali- the wider community about best The Green Key, Eco-Schools, dation pathway covering the practices to achieve a new low- a programme that will ensure “The Recycling Validation of Al Tadweer. Greta Madgwick, san, chair of QGBC’s Solid Waste Eco-Campus, Qatar Sustainability whole recycling lifecycle: solid carbon culture of waste manage- further streamlining of the re- Scheme guarantees consumer HSBC head of Communica- Interest Group, programme ad- Week and No Paper Day. waste collections and haulers to ment. cycling industry in Qatar. Recy- confi dence in the recycled solid tions – Qatar and International viser and subject-matter expert, “Thanks to HSBC Qatar’s sup- waste; sorting and processing; Meshal al-Shamari, director cling is a key element of waste waste product being fi t for pur- Markets, discussed the bank’s who provided a brief on the pro- port, QGBC will waive the registra- and waste recycling into manu- of QGBC, said: “QGBC is proud reduction, which is a national pose and having the required support of the programme be- gramme and outlined the RVS tion fees for the fi rst fi ve validated facturing, QGBC has said in a to be able to further support sus- priority as the country works to level of performance.” fore handing over to Hamoda processes. organisations,” the statement adds. statement. tainability processes and green reduce its solid waste genera- Al-Shamari kicked off the Youssef, QGBC’s head of Tech- The RVS includes reviewing QGBC is a member of Qatar Solid waste is one of Qatar’s initiatives through Al Tadweer, tion. webinar with the offi cial launch nical Aff airs, and Dr Khaled Has- and auditing all the documents Foundation. VCUarts Qatar steps up Art in the time of Covid with new resource for oha British School (DBS) the job that doctors and nurses recently inaugurated the do and the fact that superheroes DIB Art Exhibit, an an- save lives. I love how it turned out nual event curated by IB Visual as it looked action packed and creatives, TinkerLab Art students from the school’s had a good meaning behind it: Sixth Form Centre. doctors and nurses are out there The exhibit highlights a saving lives during the time we rtists, designers and in- wide selection of original fi ne are stuck inside,” Garv Kalera, a novators from across the art, photography, graphic arts, Year 8 student who participated Alocal education sector fashion & textile design, and in the BSME Art competition. and the wider community now 3D movie animation, the school “Without Covid-19 and all have one more resource to turn has said in a statement. the restrictions, the annual IB to when inspiration strikes them The art exhibit “showcases Art Exhibit must have been cel- – the TinkerLab, a new shared the students’ learnt techniques ebrated with much fanfare, food space at Virginia Common- and skills and how they are able and gathering. Needless to say, wealth University School of the to translate these into wonder- this year has been exceptionally Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), a ful pieces using varied media The exhibit highlights a wide selection of original fine art, pho- challenging and yet, the works Qatar Foundation partner uni- such as oil paint, fabric, clay or tography, graphic arts, fashion & textile design, and 3D movie presented in the exhibit were versity. digital platform”. animation. nothing short of outstanding,” Situated in an easily accessi- “All the students have an in- the statement noted. ble location – in the university’s dividual theme for their work, “I am extremely proud of the popular Material Library, just something that they decided work of our students. These off the entrance to the main uni- themselves and are passionate pieces that we see here are not versity building – the TinkerLab ports additional forms of learn- VCUarts Qatar students, faculty, about. This exhibit is an integral only a refl ection of how excel- off ers a variety of tools that may ing, experimentation, and and staff who would want to work part of our two-year IB Visual lent our students are, but also not be currently available or ac- production that may be cross- and create in a cool, inspiring en- Arts course and worth 50% of a testament of their character cessible at the university, or else- disciplinary and multi-faceted in vironment,” she added. the student’s fi nal grade,” said and resilience during these try- where, for creatives. nature. Suleiman worked closely with Katie Dearden, subject leader ing times. At DBS, we set high Aside from augmenting the “There is no better way to learn Saga Elkabbash, a VCUarts Qatar of Art. expectations and standards for Material Library’s scope, the about materials than by engaging Interior Design alumna, current- “The students have really our students. These pieces of fact that the TinkerLab is open with them,” says Yasmeen Na- ly a Woodshop & Fabrication Lab tried to communicate their work are a result of hard work – by appointment – to the gen- beel Suleiman, Materials Library technician at the university, and ideas through their artwork and and commitment both from the eral public in addition to VCUarts curator & assistant professor, Abdul Rahman Anwar – assistant create an insightful experience wonderful teaching staff at DBS Qatar’s students, staff and facul- VCUarts Qatar. “Our new space materials curator at the Materials for the viewer. The standard of and our dedicated students. ty, further boosts the art and de- in the Materials Library with Library – to conceive the design work improves every year and We can see how our students sign university’s commitment to its well-stocked array of tools, of the TinkerLab, from scratch. we are really proud of what our critically process ideas and how promote hands-on engagement, means that the Materials Library According to Suleiman, future students have achieved,” added these ideas are then translated exploration and experimentation expands beyond just showing off plans include a series of activi- Dearden. practically into these amazing in creative practices among the its incredible collection of mate- ties that will serve to broaden the When asked about her piece, works of art,” said Paul Sher- local community, a press state- rial samples, to providing oppor- exposure, knowledge and discus- Haanin Shafeegue, a Year 13 lock, principal at Doha British ment notes. tunities for designers to use those sion of materials and making, student, said: “My exhibition School – Ain Khaled campus. The inventory of tools and materials in creative research and among the VCUarts Qatar and presents a journey through Doha British School’s Sixth equipment supports work rang- experimentation. wider communities. human emotion. I strongly be- Form Centre off ers a diverse ing from detailed, delicate work “Furthermore, as a shared These include workshops and lieve mental health is a topic learning pathway – IB Diploma, to more elaborate, experimen- space, the TinkerLab will allow talks that will catalyse the Tink- that has to be talked about es- BTEC, and AS/A Level. tal work. Examples of tools and students from diff erent depart- erLab and Material Library as pecially in these current times. “Through the IB art course, I equipment include, but are not ments and with varying skill learning tools, helping attend- Due to the pandemic, many personally liked following a set- limited to, handheld digital mi- levels to experiment and explore ees benefi t from the expertise people are at their breaking out theme in making my art- croscopes, a sewing machine, creative work beyond their dis- of guest speakers selected based points. The journey that I am works as it gave me a sense of di- a desktop vacuum former, as ciplinary parameters, allowing on the relevance of their work to portraying fi nishes with a hap- rection throughout the journey. well as a wide variety of cutting for more nuanced and varied materials education, exploration, py ending to show people that Although meeting deadlines was blades, precision tools, modelling outcomes. For instance, graphic fabrication and expertise in the there is always hope and love tough every so often, it helped me tools, etc. Additionally, equip- design students who want to ex- art and design world. that can guide you outside of manage my time when it came ment for papermaking, dyeing plore patterns within weaving, or To book an appointment or to your negative space.” to submitting my artwork. Even and biomaterial explorations will fashion design student who want learn more about VCUarts Qa- Also joining this year’s ex- with a high workload, I man- also be available to experiment to cast embellishments, can do tar’s new addition to its existing hibit are Year 11 GCSE Fine aged to complete it all because of with. so at the TinkerLab. It also pro- array of resources, one can con- Art & Textile Design students, DBS’s representatives to vari- country. this rigorous course,” said Dina The TinkerLab further sup- vides an alternative ambience for tact [email protected] some Year 12 students, and ous art competitions in the “For my work, I combined Fraihat, Year 13 student. ‘Challenge 22 helped us become better innovators’

aunched in 2015 to en- Arabia, Tunisia and the UAE, the receive support with the com- with Challenge 22? licity for our team, which helped courage entrepreneurs and SC said in a statement yesterday. pletion of his academic work. Challenge 22 called for inno- us with raising investment, ad- Linnovators from across the Successful applicants re- There, we interacted with blind vations in the region. It felt like vancing our product and get- region to play their part in sup- ceived fi nancial grants and ac- students and were extremely it was our duty to participate ting closer to launching in the porting Qatar to deliver the fi rst cess to businesses and individu- shocked by the diffi culty they and show the world the inno- market. FIFA World Cup in the Middle als in order to help deliver their went through to access their vations that spark from within East and Arab world, Challenge products to the market. study material. Qatar itself. How will your business 22 has played a key role in sup- As part of a closer look at The problem was clear and we help enhance the fan experi- porting new businesses, the Su- Challenge 22, the SC caught up had to solve it. Hence, Bonocle How has Challenge 22 ence during Qatar 2022? preme Committee for Delivery & with the founders of Bonocle to was born. changed your startup busi- Bonocle will enable the blind Legacy (SC) has stressed. fi nd out about the impact the What we developed was a ness? community all over the world As the SC’s fl agship innova- programme has had on their Braille entertainment platform It has defi nitely helped us to experience the World Cup tion programme, Challenge 22 business. that works with applications on become better innovators. in 2022 in new ways that were has received more than 1,400 current smart devices to pro- The training and pitching ses- never available before. It will applications till date from entre- Tell us a bit about your- vide users with the ability to sions we had were illuminat- improve their ability to move preneurs, innovators and star- selves and Bonocle? read Braille, learn Braille or play ing and encouraging in every around Doha with fewer re- tups that were keen to support Our names are Ramy and Ab- games using Braille. Bonocle will possible way. Since joining the strictions, and more freedom to Qatar 2022. The applications delrazek. We are the founders continue to expand and provide programme, the support from navigate and interact. It will re- were submitted from business- of Bonocle. We started Bonocle more uses and features to the the Challenge 22 team has been move the barriers that have kept es based in 10 Arab countries: back in university when Abdel- blind community worldwide. amazing. They helped us with blind people restricted and open Qatar, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, razek broke his hand and had to funding and industry connec- doors for them to explore new The SC’s flagship innovation programme has supported Bonocle, Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Saudi join the special needs centre to Why did you get involved tions, as well as being great pub- things and new places. which has developed a Braille entertainment platform. Gulf Times 8 Wednesday, March 17, 2021 QATAR/ARAB WORLD/AFRICA

Tunisia president to visit Libya

Tunisia’s president will travel to Libya today for the first such visit between the neighbouring Libya’s unity govt takes offi ce countries since 2012, his off ice announced, in a boost for Libya’s Reuters new UN-backed administration. Tripoli President Kais Saied’s trip aims to show “Tunisia’s support for the democratic process in Libya” ibya’s new unity govern- following the swearing in on ment took offi ce yesterday Monday of new interim Prime Lfrom two warring admin- Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah istrations that had ruled eastern on a pledge to reunite the divided and western regions, completing country and lead it to December a smooth transition of power af- elections, the president’s off ice ter a decade of violent chaos. said. The visit also aims to Fayez al-Serraj, the presiden- “strengthen co-operation between cy council head and prime min- Tunisia and Libya” and to develop ister in the outgoing Govern- “solidarity” for increased “stability ment of National Accord (GNA) and prosperity”, it added. No in Tripoli, embraced his suc- details on Saied’s programme cessor as premier Abdulhamid were provided. Tunisia hosted Dbeibeh as he gave up his pow- UN-backed talks between ers. “I am here today consolidat- Libya’s new interim PM Abdulhamid Dbeibeh shakes hands with representatives of Libya’s warring ing the principles of democracy,” outgoing GNA head Fayez al-Serraj during the formal handover at the factions late last year that helped he said at a brief ceremony. Presidential Council headquarters in Libya’s capital Tripoli yesterday. pave the way for the fragile Dbeibeh’s government, which breakthrough. Before Libya’s emerged from talks involving the the country’s oil wealth. Foreign A ceasefi re commission ap- descent into chaos following United Nations, was approved powers that backed each side pointed last year has made lit- the 2011 overthrow of veteran last week by the country’s long- have not pulled out fi ghters or tle progress in reopening it. dictator Muammar Gaddafi in a divided parliament. arms. And Libyan political lead- Dbeibeh’s own appointment Nato-backed uprising, the oil-rich It is mandated to improve Libya’s Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibeh, Libya’s internationally recognised former prime minister ers who fear losing sway could is itself clouded by allegations country was a major customer services, unify state institutions Fayez al-Serraj, and Mohamed al-Menfi, Head of the Presidency Council, pose for a photo after the still challenge or sabotage the of corruption that have not yet for Tunisian farm produce and and oversee national elections in handover ceremony in Tripoli, Libya, yesterday. transition. been publicly aired by the UN building materials as well as December. A sign of the continued mis- team invigilating the process. migrant labour. The long years of The Tripoli-based ministries showed the GNA interior minis- based administration had also for many years of an eventual trust is visible to any who seek Holding an election – and conflict have resulted in border of health, education and fi nance ter Fathi Bashagha departing in welcomed his appointment. resolution after the decade of to cross the country by road: the crafting a constitutional proc- closures that have hit the volume each put out statements affi rm- his own personal car. Coming after months of a chaos. However, big problems main coastal highway remains ess to allow it to take place – will of business, particularly in the ing they had handed over to the Dbeibeh took the oath of of- ceasefi re between the two main persist. On the streets, power closed between Misrata and also be a huge challenge beyond informal trade in consumer goods new ministers. fi ce in the eastern city of Tobruk sides in the civil war, it appears is still held by an array of local Sirte where the frontline solidi- the government’s other set task that is an economic mainstay in Images on social media on Monday, where the eastern- to represent Libya’s best hope armed groups that have looted fi ed last summer. of restoring unifi ed services. border areas.

Qatar participates in Arab media plan for Qatar provides contribution for security awareness evaluation meeting Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Interior, participated in a meeting educating Palestinian youths of the working group on the evaluation of the 7th Arab media plan for secu- QNA education in Gaza that aims to rity awareness and crime Doha restore and reconstruct universi- prevention, which was ties and schools demolished by held today through video the Israeli aggression on Gaza. conference technology. atar, represented by Qatar The education sector, which The meeting of the work- Fund For Development is the fourth amongst the UN’s ing group of the General Q(QFFD), and the State Sustainable Development Goals, Secretariat of the Council of Palestine, represented by the has the largest share of the pro- of Arab Interior Ministers Ministry of Higher Education grammes that Qatar is keen to reviewed several topics and Scientifi c Research, signed a support globally through QFFD, related to the evaluation memorandum of understanding as it seeks to ensure quality, eq- of the 7th Arab media plan (MoU) for a contribution through uitable and comprehensive edu- for security awareness and the Education Above All Founda- especially to the aff ected and For his part, the CEO of the cation and enhances lifelong crime prevention, and the tion, which is meant to benefi t marginalised Palestinian refugee Education Above All Foundation learning opportunities for all, adoption of the current 339 young Palestinians from the students due to crises, poverty Fahad Hamad al-Sulaiti hailed based on Qatar’s belief that edu- year’s plan. marginalised and refugees in the and asylum. the MoU, expressing the Founda- cation is the basis element for the countries of the diaspora, to be For his part, Dr Mouis praised tion’s appreciation for the gener- development of nations. implemented over fi ve years with the continuous support that Qa- ous support provided by Qatar Through its programme, the co-fi nancing. tar provides to the Palestinian through QFFD, the Foundation’s Education Above All Foundation The MoU provides support to people, expressing his apprecia- strategic partner. also aims to promote the right Palestinian refugee students and tion for the eff orts of QFFD and Al-Sulaiti stressed the impor- of education in countries that South Africa’s largest ethnic assistance in completing their the Education Above All Founda- tance of education being inclu- struggle with armed confl ict (in- university education, as an ex- tion in supporting the rights of sive and accessible to all to sup- cluding refugees and internally pression of the commitment and Palestinian students to get their port Palestinian refugee students displaced persons) by providing responsibility of Qatar towards university education, while also to complete and empower their a comprehensive higher model of group, Zulus await new king marginalised students and refu- expressing his aspiration to en- university education, and to en- higher education. gees and its support to help them hance future cooperation. sure that marginalised youth af- Since 2009, 1,000 scholar- continue their learning journey. He expressed the ministry’s fected by confl ict are not exclud- ships have been contributed to AFP rather than a burial. The Zulus have been the eldest son born to The MoU was signed by Direc- gratitude for this initiative tak- ed, pointing out that investing in higher education in Gaza, 51 of Johannesburg are popularly known for their the senior of his six wives, with tor General of QFFD Khalifa bin en by QFFD and the Education these young people helps them which in the West Bank, and 50 vibrant culture, especially the whom he sired 28 children. But Jassim al-Kuwari and Palestin- Above Education Foundation, unleash their full potential to educational facilities that were timeless and riveting ancient war his fi rst son, Prince Lethukuthula ian Minister of Higher Education saying that this agreement can be play an active role in the renais- damaged in the 2014 aggression outh Africa’s largest ethnic dance performed by the rhythmic Zulu, was killed aged 50 last No- and Scientifi c Research Dr Mah- a remarkable milestone for aspir- sance and development of their have been reconstructed and re- group, the Zulus, will bid stomping of feet. The late king vember at his Johannesburg home. moud Abu Mouis. ing and promising students. societies, as well as inspire hope, habilitated, including 35 schools, Sfarewell tomorrow to their exuded the image of a traditional It is a “complicating factor” On the sidelines of the sign- He also expressed his hope improve their lives and face the 5 training centres, and 10 univer- king, Goodwill Zwelithini, who chief, typically sporting a pon- that the man who would likely ing ceremony which was held via that the bonds of co-operation educational challenges that have sities, as the goal of the Foun- for half a century was their char- cho-like leopard-skin chest cover have been the “designated” king videoconferencing, al-Kuwari will continue to be strengthened been aff ected during this diffi - dation is to support a new gen- ismatic but also controversial fi g- and wielding an unquestionable is already dead, said Somadoda stressed the importance of sign- in the future to support Pales- cult period education is facing all eration of marginalised youth to urehead. spiritual authority. He spoke to Fikeni, a cultural heritage ex- ing the memorandum, express- tinian higher education and sci- around the world after the coro- become educated, highly-skilled The longest-serving king in powerful political leaders, and pert. Historian and cultural ana- ing in this regard, the QFFD’s entifi c research in all its sectors, navirus (Covid-19) pandemic. professional leaders, and a source Zulu history, the monarch died appeared in public with Nelson lyst Ntuli Pikita said that while pride of its work alongside stra- renewing his gratitude and ap- In 2014, QFFD in cooperation of inspiration to others and are last Friday after 50 years on the Mandela. the palace will have resorted to tegic partners like the Education preciation to the people of Qa- with the Education Above All capable of leading their families throne. Under Zulu funeral rites, For now, secrecy shrouds the a “very intricate way” of pick- Above All Foundation, to help tar, and hoping that Qatar’s joint Foundation, established Al Fa- and communities towards cohe- he should be interred by a few identity of Zwelithini’s successor, ing the successor, its inner circle rebuild the education system and work and co-operation with the khoora Program, which is a vital sion and prosperity in the future. select men – an event the palace although the question is on eve- should know already who the next provide the necessary support, people of Palestine will continue. and comprehensive system of (QNA) calls a “planting” of his remains rybody’s lips. Ordinarily it would king will be. Art of cinematography ‘should focus on telling the story’

masterclass by Academy Lincoln Centre and the director ically but very rewarding ulti- He also discussed the making Award-nominated and of the New York Film Festival mately.” of Sideways and Nebraska, both Ainternationally acclaimed from 1988 until 2012, at Qumra He said several key scenes were directed by Payne, the latter in cinematographer, Qumra Master 2021, Papamichael also pro- not rehearsed and “we took ad- black and white. Phedon Papamichael, underlined vided an insider view of Holly- vantage of not preconceiving too For Sideways, “for the fi rst the importance of focusing on wood, working with some of the much. time we used two cameras to performances and characters in all-the-time greatest directors I am fortunate to have worked capture the overlapping per- cinematography. and being part of several time- with directors like Mangold, who formances though Alexander was Papamichael took audiences less classics. are not scared to work off the sto- not used to multiple cameras. through a spell-binding journey Describing his move to cinema ryboard and be reactive.” Nebraska, on the other hand, was of his ouvre of fi lms, all the while from being a still photographer, The lesson for aspiring fi lm- shot on a single camera. maintaining that “cinematog- Papamichael said: “One of the makers from Papamichael is to I like to see the performances raphy is not about great shots movies that infl uenced me was “look at great actors and what actors bring in. or camera moves but telling the Contempt (Le Mepris), [the 1963 they do and respond accordingly. Being reactive and taking ad- story and bringing out the per- French New Wave drama by Jean- Take advantage of the gems vantage of what actors deliver is formances”. The timing could Luc Godard]. It made a strong they give us. what matters. not have been better: The day fi rst impression because of its The key, even in action se- I have discovered that fi lm is of his masterclass closed with atypical approach and graphic Masterclass with Phedon Papamichael (left) at Qumra 2021. quences, is to connect audiences about telling the story. news that he had received yet an- composition.” His father was a to the protagonist. The moment I am conscious other Academy Award nomina- painter and art director, so ‘there ment in and observing.” Cinema II: Live Girls, both emerging with” — which Papamichael says It is all about the character. of the camera and think about tion for his work in The Trial of was some connection.’ fascinated him because he was from the three sets that Cor- was “a formula sports movie that That is a lesson I learnt from the camera work or lighting, the the Chicago 7, directed by Aaron But what really changed with “given a story where I could ap- man maintained to make a just became a cult classic.” Mangold and Alexander Payne – story is lost on me.” Sorkin, whom he praised for his watching Contempt was that it ply my visual interpretation.” flurry of movies.“It was a real He also described his work on it is not the genre that matters; it On making Nebraska in black writing.“The fi lm is written like instilled in Papamichael the be- Describing himself as self- film school; we had 15 days to 3:10 to Yuma, the western action is the character.” and white, Papamichael said it a play set in a courtroom intercut lief that “I could apply my visual taught, he says he too benefited do a feature.” It was learning on drama, directed by James Man- Talking about another semi- “was appropriate to the theme of with vignettes. interest and also tell a story un- from the school of Roger Cor- the go for Papamichael because gold and starring Russel Crowe nal work of his, Walk the Line, the fi lm of isolation and loneli- The challenge for me was to like still photography, which was man, the prolific film director “Roger never cared about what and Christian Bale. the biopic on Johnny Cash star- ness. able to shoot the courtroom in a a very lonely profession. called The Pope of Pop Cin- we did stylistically.” He said the challenge in doing ring Joaquin Phoenix and Reese As they say, black and white compact way.” It was me and myself, and I ema. This led to Papamichael A milestone in his career was the fi lm, especially some of its Witherspoon, and directed by is an actor’s best friend; it helps In the session moderated by would be destroying a moment – collaborating with Katt Shea Cool Innings, a comedy sports high-wattage action shots, was Mangold, Papamichael reiterated you focus on the character with- Richard Peña, programme di- not capturing it or busy captur- on films such as Dance of the fi lm, starring John Candy – “the “to think fast. the need to be reactive, “to go out distractions from the colour rector of the Film Society of ing it – without taking the mo- Damned and Stripped to Kill most brilliant man to hang out It was the hardest movie phys- with the fl ow.” palette.” Gulf Times Wednesday, March 17, 2021 9 WORLD

CRIME LAW AND ORDER PANDEMIC LEGAL STUDY UK police off icer remanded Sri Lankan Muslim leader Manila widens Covid Court to hear plea against New Delhi ‘world’s on kidnap, murder charges held under anti-terror laws curbs as cases soar Modi clean chit in riots case most polluted capital’

A British police off icer was remanded in custody Sri Lankan police yesterday arrested a top Muslim The Philippine capital Manila will widen a ban The Supreme Court will on April 13 hear a plea New Delhi was the world’s most polluted capital when he appeared in court yesterday charged with politician on allegations of supporting extremism, on minors leaving their residences to include by slain former lawmaker Ehsan Jafri’s wife Zakia for the third straight year in 2020, according to the kidnap and murder of a woman who vanished days after the government invoked new regulations youths of up to 18 years old for two weeks start- Jafri, challenging the special investigation team’s IQAir, a Swiss group that measures air quality as she walked home in London this month. The to combat what it calls religious radicalisation. Azath ing today, tightening coronavirus restrictions in clean chit to then Gujarat chief minister Narendra levels based on the concentration of lung- disappearance of Sarah Everard sparked outrage and Salley, 57, was detained in connection with an investi- a bid to tackle a new surge of infections. Only Modi in the 2002 riots. Senior advocate Kapil damaging airborne particles known as PM2.5. a national debate on women’s safety, prompting the gation into the 2019 Easter Sunday suicide bombings those aged 18-65 years old will be allowed out Sibal, representing Zakia Jafri, submitted before a India was home to 35 of the world’s 50 most government to promise enhanced police patrols at blamed on a local militant group, police spokesman of their homes, the Metro Manila Development bench that the matter could be heard sometime polluted cities, according to IQAir’s 2020 World night and funding to make the streets safer alongside Ajith Rohana said. “He was arrested in terms of the Authority said in a statement, citing an agree- in April, as many lawyers are involved in the Mar- Air Quality Report, which gathered data for 106 a broader eff ort to address the problem. London’s PTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act), especially in con- ment among mayors. The Philippines late last atha reservation matter. The top court noted it countries. The findings were based on the coun- Metropolitan police is also under pressure after nection with the incident on April 21, 2019,” Rohana year started easing one of the world’s longest will not entertain any request for adjournment on try’s annual average of particulate matter PM2.5, off icers broke up a vigil for Everard on Saturday. Po- said, referring to the attacks that killed 279 people. His and strictest lockdowns though a rule that the next date of hearing. Solicitor general Tushar airborne particles with less than 2.5 microns in liceman Wayne Couzens, 48, appeared via videolink arrest came days after Colombo used the controver- anyone under 15 must stay indoors in Manila Mehta, representing the Gujarat government, sub- diameter. Prolonged exposure to PM2.5 can lead in a London court to face charges of kidnapping and sial PTA and gave itself sweeping powers to detain remained in place. The country has seen a surge mitted the case should be heard next week and to deadly diseases, including cancer and cardiac murdering Everard, a 33-year-old executive. suspects for up to two years for “deradicalisation”. in Covid-19 cases this month. objected to the plea seeking adjournment. problems.

Prince Philip US and Japan leaves hospital warn China on AFP London

ueen Elizabeth II’s 99-year-old husband ‘destabilising QPrince Philip left a cen- tral London hospital yesterday, after four weeks of treatment that sparked fears for his health. The Duke of Edinburgh, as he is formally known, was seen leaving the private King Edward behaviour’ VII’s Hospital in the back of a black BMW car, wearing a white AFP North Korea were also on the attempts by the US to engage.” shirt and a yellow jumper. Tokyo table. President Joe Biden’s deci- Buckingham Palace confi rmed Blinken accused the Myan- sion to dispatch the two top his discharge and said he had re- mar military of “attempting to offi cials to Asia has been inter- turned to Windsor Castle, west he US and Japan warned overturn the results of a demo- preted as evidence of the ad- of London, where he had been Beijing against “coercion cratic election”, saying it was ministration’s determination to isolating with the Queen, 94, Tand destabilising behav- “brutally repressing peaceful set the agenda with Beijing. since the start of the coronavirus iour” yesterday after top-level protesters”. But he declined to Even before Blinken and Aus- pandemic last year. diplomatic and defence talks comment on the latest bom- tin set out, they made clear in a Royal aides said he had been aimed at bolstering their alliance bastic pronouncement from joint opinion piece that counter- treated for an unspecifi ed infec- against rising Chinese infl uence. North Korea, where leader ing Beijing’s moves in the region tion and had “a successful pro- Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin Kim Jong-un’s sister earlier would be top of their agenda. cedure for a pre-existing condi- and top US diplomat Antony yesterday warned Washington “Together, we will hold Chi- tion”. Blinken are on their fi rst over- against “struggling to spread na accountable,” they wrote “The prince wishes to thank seas trip, which began Monday the smell of gunpowder on our in the Washington Post. “If we all the medical staff who looked in Japan, looking to shore up land from across the ocean”. don’t act decisively and lead, after him at both King Edward regional alliances and send a The joint statement called Beijing will.” The joint state- VII’s Hospital and St Bar- message to Beijing. again for Pyongyang’s “com- ment issued yesterday specifi - tholomew’s Hospital, and eve- They will continue on to plete denuclearisation”, warn- cally referenced the “impor- ryone who has sent their good South Korea, and a policy re- ing North Korea’s arsenal tance of peace and stability in wishes,” a statement from the view by the new administration “poses a threat to international the Taiwan Strait”. palace said. of its approach to Pyongyang is peace and stability”. “My job is to make sure that The prince, who turns 100 in also a key part of the diplomatic Blinken said Washington was we are as ready, as fast as we can June, was said to be in good spir- outreach. still examining “whether various possibly be to face any chal- its. His eldest son, the Queen’s But discussions in Tokyo fo- additional pressure measures lenge that would face us or the heir Prince Charles, said he was cused on China’s manoeuvres could be eff ective, whether there alliance,” he said. “thrilled” that his father had in the region, including its in- are diplomatic paths that make The ministers also specifi - now left hospital. creasing presence around is- sense” as it reviews US policy cally referenced the increasing Charles, 72, visited the duke lands disputed with Japan. on the issue. “We reached out Chinese presence in the waters last month, but said nothing to Blinken said at a joint press to the North Korean govern- around the Senkaku islands, the waiting media. conference “we’re united in a ment through several chan- known in Beijing as the Diaoyu On a visit to a coronavirus vision of a free and open Indo- nels, starting in mid-February, islands. The disputed islets vaccination centre in north Lon- Pacifi c region, where countries including in New York. To date are administered by Tokyo but don yesterday, he said he had follow the rules, co-operate we have not received a response claimed by Beijing, and Japan “spoken to him several times”. wherever they can and resolve from Pyongyang,” he added. has voiced repeated protests Prince Philip’s month-long their diff erences peacefully.” “This follows over a year over Chinese boats around the stay at King Edward VII’s Hos- “We will push back if neces- without active dialogue with islands, as well as a new Chi- pital and the state-run St Bar- sary, when China uses coercion North Korea, despite multiple nese law involving the area. tholomew’s, also in London, is or aggression to get its way.” his longest stint in hospital. In a joint statement, the US He was transferred to a spe- offi cials and their Japanese UK seeks more influence in Indo-Pacific cialist cardiac unit at St Bar- counterparts also warned that Britain wants to expand its security threats, and underlines tholomew’s hospital for a heart “China’s behaviour, where in- influence among countries in the importance of strong ties procedure before returning to consistent with the existing in- the Indo-Pacific region to try with the US while naming Russia the private hospital on March 5. ternational order, presents po- to moderate China’s global as the top regional threat. Calling He was fi rst admitted on Feb- litical, economic, military and dominance, a document the Indo-Pacific “increasingly the ruary 16 on the advice of his doc- technological challenges”. laying out post-Brexit foreign geopolitical centre of the world”, tor after he complained of feeling “The ministers committed to and defence policy priorities the government highlighted a unwell. Buckingham Palace said opposing coercion and destabil- said yesterday. The document planned British aircraft carrier initially that he was expected to ising behaviour towards others sets out a planned increase deployment to the region and stay there for a “few days”, but in the region,” they added. to Britain’s nuclear arsenal to said a previously postponed visit stressed his illness was not re- Prince Charles, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, both wearing a face covering, visit a temporary Issues from the coup in My- weigh against evolving global to India would go ahead in April. lated to Covid-19. Covid-19 vaccination centre at Finsbury Park Mosque in east London yesterday. anmar to the way forward with CPI-M, BJP leadership Trouble for BJP Modi govt fl ayed for ‘in secret pact in Kerala’ Covid jab exports Reuters fering from health conditions. New Delhi “The priority of the Modi IANS other BJP candidate was named while now.” “The CPI-M is aim- government is not the state but Thiruvananthapuram for Chengannur, I realised that ing to retain power, while the BJP foreign nations,” Congress said there was some alleged secret wants to get a few more legislators he Congress party yes- on Twitter, using the tag #Indi- deal between the BJP and CPI-M, and this is what we have been say- terday hit out at Prime aNeedsMoreVaccines and accus- n a revelation that could have as the candidate was close to the ing that there is a deal. Look, noth- TMinister Narendra Modi’s ing the premier of focusing on large scale ramifi cations in the present sitting CPI-M legislator. ing can be kept as a secret for long government for exporting nearly “PR over people”. “The pace of Iupcoming April 6 assembly “A similar candidate has also and just see, what we have been twice the number of coronavirus vaccination in states is slow due polls, a top Rashtriya Swayamse- been listed to contest from Aran- saying has come out from their vaccine doses than immunisa- to the centralisation in vaccine vak Sangh ideologue has alleged mula,” said Balasankar. Inciden- side itself. The people of Kerala are tions conducted at home, despite distribution,” it said. that there seems to be a secret tally, for a while now, even the observing everything and they can a surge in infections. Health Minister Harsh Var- deal between the CPI-M in Kerala Congress leaders here have been never be fooled,” Chandy said. India, the world’s biggest vac- dhan told parliament that vac- and the state BJP leadership. harping on the alleged secret link Meanwhile, anger seems to be cine maker, has gifted or sold 59mn cines were not being exported R Balasankar, a former editor between the BJP and the CPI-M brewing in the Congress camp as locally produced doses compared at the “expense of the people of of the RSS mouthpiece Organ- and it became all the more strong- well. Two days after the Congress with 33mn doses given to its own India” and that a balance was iser, while speaking to a Malay- er after the investigation into the released its list of 86 candidates people since its inoculation cam- being struck. India’s immunisa- alam TV channel yesterday said infamous gold smuggling and for the upcoming Kerala Assembly paign began in mid-January. tion drive has picked up signifi - that he has now realised that reverse dollar smuggling cases, elections, senior party leader and While some rich countries cantly since Modi expanded it the reason for denying him the suddenly went into limbo. lawmaker K Sudhakaran yesterday such as the US are being accused this month. Chengannur assembly seat was And now with the RSS ideo- expressed his displeasure over the of vaccine nationalism, India is Still, Bangladesh is vaccinating perhaps due to an alleged secret logue’s allegations also surfac- list, saying that he has lost both being lauded globally for sending more people relative to its popula- deal between the state units of ing, it’s going to be taken forward “hope” and “confi dence”. shots to 71 countries, mainly the tion using India-made shots. the BJP and the CPI-M. by the Congress during the on- “I feel that the party’s high AstraZeneca vaccine as well as India plans to vaccinate 300mn “Chengannur and Aranmula going election campaign, which command has been misled by Activists of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) shout some of Bharat Biotech’s home- of its 1.35bn people by August. are two constituencies where the has just commenced. the state leaders. Those who are slogans during a protest against the party leaders grown product. It reported 24,492 new coro- BJP is strong and I had started Reacting to Balasankar’s state- responsible include Oommen and to demand changing the candidates for their Many Indians, however, now navirus cases yesterday, the sixth my campaign at Chengannur. ment, two time former chief min- Chandy, Ramesh Chennithala respective assembly constituency, in front of the BJP want the government to make straight day of more than 20,000 I managed to strike a relation ister Oommen Chandy, after fi ling and AICC general secretary K C election office in Kolkata yesterday ahead of West vaccines available to more of its infections. Total cases have now with three major social groups. his nomination papers said “this Venugopal,” said Sudhakaran, the Bengal’s state assembly election. own people instead of only the risen to 11.41mn, the highest af- But later when I found that an- is what we have been saying for a Lok Sabha member from Kannur. elderly and those above 45 suf- ter the US and Brazil. Gulf Times 10 Wednesday, March 17, 2021 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Divided world: Oil rally and global growth concerns

The surprise move by the 23 producing nations, collectively known as Opec+, to tighten crude markets has left the oil world starkly divided. The shock decision, steered by Saudi Arabia, to delay the restart of oil output halted during the pandemic is being lauded by many as a masterstroke of supply management, but seen by others as misjudged. Just as Vitol Group, the world’s biggest trader, says “Opec+ have control” of the market, Wall Street banks like Goldman Sachs Group and JPMorgan Chase & Co are upgrading their Milipol Qatar consolidates its place on price forecasts. On the other hand, others warn that the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies including Russia risk over-tightening crude markets just as demand international security exhibitions map recovers. The recent rally could hasten the recovery of US shale QNA that it also has its impact at the local the internal security and civil defence advanced security devices this year and plays, according to Citigroup. It’s also seen accelerating Doha level in enhancing expertise and experi- sector, which respond to the needs and will look into the possibility in using efforts to find other energy sources, as in India, the world’s ences, and getting acquainted with the requirements of the current stage, espe- them in security operations. third biggest oil importer and consumer. latest security systems and part of them cially the security systems that serve the He noted that the fi eld of internal More broadly, the spike in oil prices has focused attention he International Event for Home- serves the work in the GAC in protecting 2022 World Cup. security and public safety are seeing land Security and Civil Defence the country’s border crossings. For his part, Assistant Director of continuous growth, which prompts the on how surging energy costs is threatening to derail the T(Milipol Qatar), organised by the HE the Adviser to the Minister of In- Public Security Major General Abdullah NCC to look at the latest innovations in global economic recovery and stoking fears of inflation. Ministry of the Interior in co-operation terior Major General Dr Abdullah Yousef Mohamed al-Suwaidi, pointed out that the fi eld security monitoring. After jumping more than 30% this year on coordinated with the Paris-based Comexposium al-Mal said the organising committee the security personnel are in constant Director of the Telecom Depart- supply constraints and demand returning from the depths company, consolidated its position on of the Milipol Qatar 2021 succeeded in need of identifying the latest products ment at the Ministry of Interior Major of Covid-19 crisis, the the map of specialised international ex- attracting many exhibitors from diff er- of the specialised security and safety General Ali Salim al-Henzab said there recent missile attack hibitions, which enhances the eff orts of ent countries of the world despite such companies as well as the latest equip- was no doubt that government entities Brent has rallied on a key Saudi Arabian Qatar and regional countries in enhanc- exceptional circumstances. ment and innovations that help them in benefi t from the new security technolo- ing security, exchanging expertise and He added the exhibition hosts many the performance of their duties with the gies available at Milipol Qatar. more than 200% export facility sent Brent, experiences, and getting informed on specialised companies in the fi eld of required effi ciency and this exhibition is He added that Qatar is highly the international crude the latest developments in the world of security, and this is a great opportu- a great chance for the concerned parties advanced in the fi eld of integrating aft er hitting benchmark, above $70 a technologies and security systems. nity to benefi t each other and sharing from the military and security fi elds technology in security work, which barrel for the first time The biennial exhibition is the fi rst experiences and therefore, this is an to discuss with the exhibitors, espe- helped improve the country’s status an 18-year low since January 2020. prominent international event spe- opportunity to learn about the latest cially, the country is about to organise in international indicators related to While prices have since cialised in this fi eld since the spread of developments in the security fi eld. a major sporting event like 2022 World security and peace. during the pulled back, the impact on the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, Brigadier General Saud al-Shafi , Cup and the Ministry of Interior and The civil defence sector is seeing as the organisers’ underlined that all director-general of supply and equipment the Committee for Security and Safety notable interest at Milipol Qatar 2021 pandemic inflation and the overall health measures are taken to limit the at the Ministry of Interior, confi rmed Operations of the World Cup are keen in order to protect their residents in global recovery depends on spread of the virus. that this year’s exhibition was a surprise to provide everything the teams need in situations of emergency, disasters, how sustained the underlying rally proves to be. The global reputation of the exhibi- in terms of attendance and participation, order to make this tournament a suc- dangers and daily challenges, as it sheds No matter crude prices are lower or higher, there are always tion, and Qatar’s capabilities in organis- despite many countries took strict meas- cessful event. light on a set of the latest civil defence, gainers and losers. ing and arranging, constituted a strong ures due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Al-Suwaidi expressed his apprecia- monitoring and prevention solutions Exporting nations - including Saudi Arabia, Russia, motivation for international companies There is no doubt that the exhibition tion to the eff orts of Milipol organising designed to protect the population. Norway and Nigeria - will enjoy a boost to corporate and to participate in it this year despite the and the modern equipment it displays committee in light of the coronavirus Director General of Civil Defence pandemic conditions, as it succeeded in will contribute to providing business- pandemic and their commitment to Hamad Othman al-Duhaimi stressed government revenues. Emerging economies dominate the attracting 72 local companies and 71 in- men and investors with ideas about the following health protocols to contain that Milipol Qatar was an important list of oil producers, which is why they’re affected more than ternational companies from all regions future of the internal security and civil the virus, with health authorities, add- exhibition because it contained the lat- developed ones. and continents of the world. defence sectors as well as allowing them ing that it was another achievement est devices and equipment in the fi eld But consuming nations will bear the cost of pricier energy, In a statement to Qatar News Agency to identify new international partners that should be added to the Ministry of of civil defence in addition to internal potentially fanning inflation and hurting their recoveries. (QNA), HE the Chairman of The General to supply and develop technologies and Interior who faced the challenge and security. Those emerging economies that rely on imported energy Authority of Customs (GAC) Ahmed systems that enhance the readiness of organised the event in these conditions. He added the department is keen on could see their current-account positions and fiscal deficits bin Abdullah al-Jamal said that despite these sectors in the future because the For his part, Head of the National following the latest in the world of civil the current diffi cult circumstances due exhibition is a destination for security Command Center (NCC) Major General defence and the equipment in the exhi- come under pressure. That could trigger capital outflows and to the pandemic, Qatar has succeeded agencies and private companies to know Khalifa Abdullah al-Nuaimi said that bition, which are then procured based weaker currencies, laying the groundwork for inflation and in attracting many international and the latest products in the world in secu- Milipol Qatar is considered one of the on the needs of the department. potentially forcing central banks to consider raising interest local companies to participate in the rity innovations, he explained. most important exhibitions in the fi eld He added the exhibition develops rates despite slow growth. exhibition. Milipol Qatar off ers the latest security of services and innovations in secu- considerably with each edition, which That includes Turkey, Ukraine and India. As the world’s The exhibition has left its mark products and systems, which accom- rity and civil defence, adding that this helps the civil defence benefi t from biggest oil importer, China is also vulnerable to higher prices. internationally in the fi eld of organis- modate a wide range of equipment, sys- serves Qatar’s strategy on that front. the amazing technologies that are on Despite the lingering memories of oil’s unprecedented ing security exhibitions, he said, adding tems, products, and consultations for He said that they have seen many display each year. collapse, rumblings are starting to emerge that by the end of next year prices could once again top $100 a barrel. Azerbaijan’s Socar Trading predicts Brent could hit triple digits in the next 18 to 24 months, and Bank of America sees potential spikes above $100 over the next few years on improving fundamentals and global stimulus. True, the views are ultra bullish. But they highlight increased confidence in the oil market after Brent rallied more than 200% after hitting an 18-year low during the pandemic. Matter-of-factly, few analysts would realistically expect oil prices to return to the sustainable $100-plus levels in the near future. But oil companies say global energy future envisages rising demand and population growth, making oil an important fuel for decades to come. The world is in need of a stable oil market with price equilibrium.

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

© 2021 Gulf Times. All rights reserved NOW SHOWING: Milipol Qatar 2021. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam Gulf Times Wednesday, March 17, 2021 11 WORLD

In Moscow, testing flying taxi Defence spending up despite Covid: Nato

AFP European nations have faced pressure from Brussels Washington to bolster their defence spending to a target threshold of two percent of gross domestic product, set in 2014 in the aftermath of Russia’s ato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg annexation of Crimea. yesterday said European allies had in- Former US president Donald Trump harangued Ncreased defence spending in 2020 despite leading members like Germany to cough up more the economic pain infl icted by the coronavirus and accused them of taking advantage of American pandemic. largesse. “Despite the economic impact of Covid-19 New US leader Joe Biden has adopted a more 2020 was the sixth consecutive year of increased diplomatic tone as he looks to rebuild relations, but defence spending across European allies and his administration is expected to remain fi rm on Canada with an increase in real terms of 3.9%,” getting Europe to pay more for its defence. Stoltenberg told a press conference to mark the The Nato report said that last year 11 of the alli- launch of Nato’s annual report. ance’s 30 members met the two percent target, up “We expect that trend to continue this year, from nine in the report for 2019. but it is absolutely vital that we maintain the mo- But that fi gure has been helped by the dramatic mentum because security challenges have not contraction in economies due to the coronavirus gone away.” pandemic. Overall military spending by the 30 members “In 2020 some allies that were already quite high A pilot takes flight on a flying taxi prototype during testing in Moscow yesterday. Russian developer of passenger drones Hoversurf of the US-backed alliance reached $1.028 trillion have now come above the 2% because of reduction company is testing its Hover drone taxi, a flying vehicle that can fly 30 minutes on one charge at an altitude of 150 metres transporting (860 billion euros) last year, the report said. in the estimates for the GDP,” Stoltenberg said. passengers and cargo up to 300kg for a distance of up to 100km at speed of 200km per hour. The company aims to have these drones The US still made up for the vast bulk of Nato’s “But what is stable and what we see every year operating by 2025. (AFP) expenditure, accounting for 71% of combined is a steady increase in defence spending across the defence spending among allies. alliance.”

Methane explosion Experts scour AstraZeneca kills 7 coal miners safety data as Europe reels Reuters Quetta Vaccine halted after reported blood clots  More than a dozen EU countries even miners were killed in a blast at a coal mine in the suspend use pending probe Benefits outweigh risks, asserts EU regulator Ssouthwestern Pakistani province of Balochistan on Mon- day night, the second such deadly Reuters committee of experts was reviewing risks of the vaccine are higher for cer- en since the rollout began almost three ran told reporters the risk-reward ratio incident in the region in a week. Amsterdam the cases and was expected to issue tain patient groups such as young months ago, with Pfi zer-BioNTech for the AstraZeneca vaccine remained A build-up of methane gas in a statement by the end of the day, a women,” Lauterbach, an epidemiolo- making up the majority, according to positive. the mine in the Torghar gas fi eld spokesman said. gist whose party is part of the Berlin offi cial data. A third wave of infection in Europe, in the district of Harnai caused lobal health experts came under The EU’s largest members — Ger- coalition, told Deutschlandfunk radio As one as the cheapest to be devel- driven by more infectious viral variants, an explosion as the workers were increasing pressure yesterday many, France and Italy — suspended in an interview. oped, the AstraZeneca shot is set to threatens to worsen a pandemic that has inside, Deputy Commissioner So- Gto clear up questions over the use of AstraZeneca’s vaccine on Mon- Other epidemiologists note that be the mainstay of vaccination pro- claimed 575,000 lives in the European hail Anwar Hashmi told Reuters. safety of AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 shot, day pending the outcome of investiga- similar cases have not been found in grammes in much of the developing Union and further delay recovery from “Rescue teams recovered the as Sweden and Latvia joined countries tions into unusual cases of a rare cer- unusual numbers in Britain, which be- world. a pandemic economic slump. bodies of all seven coal miners this suspending their use in a further blow ebral thrombosis in people who had gan using AstraZeneca earlier and has Governments say they acted on the Coronavirus infections are rising ex- morning, who were burnt to death to Europe’s vaccination rollout. received it. given more than 10 million doses. AstraZeneca shot out of an abundance ponentially in Germany, an expert at as a huge fi re broke out in the mine The European Medicines Agency The addition of Sweden and Latvia “A very likely explanation of at least of caution — of 1.6 million people in the Robert Koch Institute for infectious after the blast,” Chief Inspector of (EMA) said it was investigating reports yesterday brought to 13 the number of some of the clotting disorders seen are Germany given the vaccine, seven fell ill diseases said, putting at risk plans to lift Mines Shafqat Fayyaz told Reu- of 30 cases of unusual blood disorders EU countries to act since reports fi rst a result of Covid-19 rather than the with a very rare cerebral vein thrombo- its lockdown. France is considering a ters. out of 5 million recipients of the As- emerged of thromboembolisms af- vaccine,” said Stephen Evans, profes- sis of whom three died. possible third national lockdown. Fayyaz said the workers who traZeneca vaccine. In total, 45 million fecting people after they got the Astra- sor of pharmacoepidemiology at the In a detailed analysis of its fi ndings Vaccination campaigns had got off lost their lives were working at a Covid shots have been delivered across Zeneca shot. London School of Hygiene and Tropi- Germany’s vaccine oversight body, the to a slow start due to scarce supply, but depth of about 1,500 feet when the region. The WHO and EMA had earlier cal Medicine. Paul Ehrlich Institute, said six of the the European Commission said yester- the explosion occurred, adding The EU regulator will release its joined AstraZeneca in saying there is no “There are published papers that cases were in women of young or mid- day it expects to receive more than 200 that mine has been closed and a fi ndings tomorrow but its head, Emer proven link, but some experts said the make clear that these problems defi - dle age — a number statistically signifi - million doses of vaccine from Pfi zer and probe has been ordered into the Cooke, said she saw no reason to episodes of blood clots, bleeding and nitely occur in Covid-19 and there is no cantly higher than normally expected. BioNTech in the second quarter, putting incident. change its recommendation of Astra- low platelet counts in younger people doubt that all the vaccines in use pre- Nicola Magrini, the director general the EU on course to meet its targets. On March 12, eight miners were Zeneca — one of four vaccines that it seemed to indicate a causal connection vent that disease. Hence the risk and of Italy’s medicines authority AIFA, told The EU aims to vaccinate at least trapped around 1,000 feet below has approved for use. to the AstraZeneca shot. benefi t balance for the AstraZeneca daily la Repubblica the AstraZeneca 255 million people, or 70% of its adult ground in a mine in the district “The benefi ts continue to outweigh “The benefi ts of vaccination signifi - vaccine remains clearly in favour of its shot was safe and its benefi t to risk ratio population, by the end of the summer. of Marwar, near the border with the risks, but this is a serious concern cantly outweigh the risks, especially benefi ts.” was “widely positive”. There have been The bloc has administered 11 shots so Afghanistan, when a buildup of and it does need serious and detailed for the elderly,” said Karl Lauterbach, In the EU’s largest states, including eight deaths and four cases of serious far for every 100 residents, while Israel methane gas exploded. Six work- scientifi c evaluation,” Cooke told a health spokesman for Germany’s So- Germany, France, Italy, the Nether- side-eff ects in Italy following vaccina- — a world leader in vaccination — has ers were killed and two other res- news conference. cial Democratic Party. lands and Spain, AstraZeneca has ac- tions, he added. given 108 doses, according to Our World cued. A World Health Organisation (WHO) “But it could be the case that the counted for about 13-15% of shots giv- In France, Health Minister Olivier Ve- in Data.

Moderna starts Instagram boosts child protection coronavirus US House to vote on citizenship tools, including age prediction vaccine trials path for ‘Dreamers’ tomorrow for children Reuters far-reaching immigration re- dren was a “humanitarian cri- US manufacturer Moderna said yesterday Washington form plan. sis” aggravated by the “broken it has started Covid-19 vaccine trials for Biden’s sweeping proposal, system” of restrictive immigra- children aged from 6 months to under 12 introduced last month, would tion left behind by former Presi- years old, with plans to enrol about 6,750 he House of Repre- provide a path to US citizen- dent Donald Trump. participants. sentatives is due to vote ship for an estimated 11 million But Republicans say the infl ux “We are pleased to begin this Phase 2/3 study Ttomorrow on two im- immigrants in the country il- is the result of Biden’s reversal of of mRNA-1273 in healthy children in the US migration bills that would legally. But it faces long odds. some hardline Trump policies, and Canada,” said CEO Stephane Bancel in a provide a path to citizenship The Senate’s No. 2 Democrat, with House Republican leader statement. for millions living illegally in Dick Durbin, said Monday that Kevin McCarthy labelling it the “This paediatric study will help us assess the the United States, just as the it doesn’t have the necessary “Biden border crisis” during a Facebook-owned Instagram yesterday unveiled technology aimed at potential safety and immunogenicity of our country faces the biggest surge support in either the House or trip to the border on Monday. preventing underage children from creating accounts and blocking adults Covid-19 vaccine candidate in this important of migrants at its southwestern Senate. “These two bills are The fi rst immigration bill from contacting young users they don’t know. younger age population.” border in 20 years. not the fi x, but they are (a) fi x the House will take up off ers an It was the latest move responding to concerns about inappropriate con- US health authorities say that fewer children The bills to help farmwork- to part of the problem,” Hoyer eventual path to citizenship to tact between adults and children on the platform, which like most services have been sick with Covid-19 compared to ers and younger immigrants said Tuesday. “But we need to “Dreamers,” those immigrants sets an age minimum of 13. adults, but they can be infected and can known as “Dreamers” are an pass comprehensive immigra- living in the United States ille- Instagram will begin using artificial intelligence to determine a user’s age spread the virus. eff ort to take targeted steps tion reform and we’re going to gally after entering as children. at signup in an eff ort to find underage users. Most infected children have mild symptoms forward while congressional do so in the coming months.” It would also help recipients of “While many people are honest about their age, we know that young peo- or no symptoms at all. Democrats deliberate Presi- Republicans argue the lat- temporary migration protec- ple can lie about their date of birth. We want to do more to stop this from School off icials across the US are under pres- dent Joe Biden’s comprehen- est bills would only encourage tions that allow immigrants happening, but verifying people’s age online is complex and something sure to fully reopen as soon as possible, but sive immigration plan. more illegal border crossings. from several disaster- or con- many in our industry are grappling with,” a blog post said. many say they need portable classrooms or But it will be an uphill battle Hundreds of youths under 18 fl ict-hit countries to live tempo- “To address this challenge, we’re developing new artificial intelligence and shorter school days to meet social distancing for either a limited or exten- have been crossing the border rarily in the United States. machine learning technology to help us keep teens safer and apply new rules. sive immigration programme with Mexico every day recently The measure, sponsored by age-appropriate features.” Moderna said 17.8 million adults in the to clear Congress as divisions in what Homeland Security Representative Lucille Roybal- Additionally, the California giant said it would introduce a new feature that United States have received its vaccine, as both between and within the Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas Allard, could help make over 4.4 prevents adults from sending messages to people under 18 who don’t fol- the country seeks to step up its inoculation two parties over the subject said was the largest infl ux of mi- million people eligible for per- low them, to prevent unwanted contact. programme against the coronavirus pan- continue to vex Washington. grants in two decades. manent US residence, according “This feature relies on our work to predict peoples’ ages using machine demic that has killed over 535,000 people in Republicans have focused on The bills are “implicitly to the Migration Policy Insti- learning technology, and the age people give us when they sign up,” America. attacking the Democratic Bi- promising the next generation, tute. It passed the House once Instagram said. The Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & John- den administration for the all they have to do is get here and already, in 2019, with 237 votes; Instagram is also looking at ways to make it more diff icult for adults who son vaccines have all been authorised for new spike in arrivals at the US- their turn will come,” Repre- seven of those were Republicans. have been exhibiting “potentially suspicious behaviour” to interact with emergency use, and the companies are set to Mexico border. sentative Tom McClintock said The second bill, sponsored teens, including restricting these adults from seeing suggested teen ac- deliver more than enough to cover the entire House Democratic Leader Tuesday during a meeting of the by Representative Zoe Lofgren, counts. US adult population by mid-year. Steny Hoyer told reporters the House Rules Committee, which would put about a million un- The image-focused network indicated it will alert teens to potentially The United States is currently vaccinating House would take up the two sets the terms for fl oor debate documented farmworkers on a suspect behaviour by adults, including the sending of large numbers of around 2.2 million people per day, while immigration bills today; a pro- on bills. path to citizenship, a Democrat- private messages. almost 65% of Americans 65 and older have cedural vote was expected later House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, ic aide said. It has a Republican “We’ll use this tool to alert the recipients... and give them an option to end had at least their first shot. Tuesday. He pledged the House a Democrat, said on Sunday the co-sponsor, Representative Dan the conversation, or block, report, or restrict the adult,” Instagram said. would eventually pass a more incoming surge of migrant chil- Newhouse. Gulf Times 12 Wednesday, March 17, 2021 QATAR Amir visits Milipol Qatar 2021

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani visited yesterday the 13th edition of international exhibition for homeland security and civil defence (Milipol Qatar 2021) at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.

GU-Q to hold webinar HBKU webinar focuses on women’s on modern-day piracy changing roles amid Covid-19 he College of Humani- ties and Social Sciences T(CHSS) at Hamad Bin in Horn of Africa Khalifa University (HBKU) held the second webinar in its Qatari Women’s Aff airs Series, focus- eorgetown University most impacted by illegal fish- ing on ‘Women’s Changing Role in Qatar (GU-Q), a Qa- ing, piracy and counter-piracy, Amid Covid-19’ recently. Gtar Foundation partner, and expose the complex world An all-female panel of prom- is organising a public research of piracy that includes layers of inent Qatari professionals and webinar tomorrow at 5pm fea- beneficiaries well beyond the business leaders tackled the turing Dr Awet T Weldem- pirates themselves. consequences of the pandemic ichael, a professor of history “This webinar will provide on women’s health, social, do- at Queen’s University, Canada, intellectual insights into the mestic, and fi nancial security. for a discussion of his book, Pi- existing and emerging research The panel featured Dr Sharifa racy in Somalia: Violence and relative to the region, and build Noaman al-Emadi, executive Development in the Horn of Af- on a previous IOWG event on director, Doha International rica. piracy to provide a deeper un- Family Institute; Eman al-Bas- The live webinar discus- derstanding of a complex phe- ti, founder, Qatari Women As- sion, convened by Dr Phoebe nomenon that has contempo- sociation for Economic Aware- Musandu of GU-Q and mod- rary relevance, and which is too ness and Investment; Radoa erated by Dr Afyare Elmi from often reduced to its criminal al-Ansari, pharmacist; and Qatar University, is the latest elements,” said Dr Musandu. Fatma al-Sayed, founder of ‘My research event organised by Dr Weldemichael earned a Nest’. scholars of the Indian Ocean PhD from the University of Moderated by Lolwa al- Working Group (IOWG) at California, Los Angeles, and his Marri, a graduate of the MA in GU-Q. The research group research focus is on contempo- Women, Society and Develop- seeks to bring together multi- rary Northeast and East Africa ment programme at CHSS, the disciplinary scholars from and Island Southeast Asia; im- frank discussions turned to Qatar and around the world to of the issues that gave rise to it perialism; colonialism; de- important recommendations The panellists. explore the people and places has continued. colonisation; revolutions and and practices that can reduce of the Indian Ocean World, a In his talk, Dr Weldem- nationalist movements; peace, the damage caused by the pan- Given women’s role within the demands created by Covid-19. fairs series aims to tackle con- zone of complex human inter- ichael will draw on his exten- conflict and security research. demic on society, and women family in Arab societies, and as We thank our speakers for their temporary issues that Qatari action throughout world his- sive fieldwork to address these Registration for his IOWG talk in particular. The audience of our research shows, safeguard- willingness to share the con- women face amid the social and tory. misunderstandings, and give is available at https://www. graduate students and opinion- ing their mental and physical tributions they are making to economic development in Qa- Modern piracy off the coast context to an illegal maritime qatar.georgetown.edu/piracy- makers also had an opportunity well-being is necessary for the Qatari society, and how they are tar. As graduates of the MA in of Somalia in the Gulf of Aden practice he describes as de- in-somalia to interact with the panellists entire family to do well.” forging positive, transformative Women, Society, and Develop- and surrounding waters has monised in the media and often Since 2014, IOWG has con- and ask questions. Dr Amal al-Malki, found- change in diff erent environ- ment programme, this series is made headlines as a hotspot of oversimplified in many schol- vened researchers from across Dr al-Emadi said, “The pan- ing dean of CHSS, said: “This ments where women have lead- an opportunity for us to discuss shipping attacks. While inter- arly and policy works. He will the world to build collaborative demic has undoubtedly added event has shown how women ership roles; within the family, related topics with experts of national efforts have reduced share research that captures expertise across the boundaries to women’s responsibilities, are changing the conversa- the workplace and in business their fi elds, and address issues the frequency of piracy over the the experiences of the local of traditional area studies to more so for working women tion to focus on empowering and industry.” from diff erent angles,” added past decade, misunderstanding communities who have been remap the Indian Ocean World. and those heading a household. one another to take on the new “The Qatari Women’s Af- al-Marri. UK bans fl ights from Qatar and Oman

From Page 1 Q: Can anyone with UK antine upon arrival to the UK. Singapore-Doha-London) will be banned after Thursday in Qatar was the British variant, policy will be for international residence rights (such as stu- Q: Can a foreign national No, all direct passenger fl ights night. known as B.1.1.7, which was fi rst travel. British citizens/residents can dents on a ‘BRP’ visa) travel travel to the UK from, or via will end from Doha to the UK, The offi cial quote from the UK discovered in the South-East of The situation remains dy- enter Britain if they are able to from Qatar to the UK after Doha after the 18th March? and therefore the fi nal Doha- government is: “From 4am on 19 England and has since spread namic, and decisions are made reach the country indirectly Thursday? Example: An Indian pass- London leg of the journey will be March, direct fl ights from Qatar around the world. with little notice. (such as Doha-Paris-London, On direct fl ights — no. port holder with residency in cancelled. to England are prohibited” Q: Will I be entitled to a re- There was no indication prior because the direct Qatar-UK The UK government has said Doha Q: What if I am fully vaccinat- Q: When will this fl ight and fund now that my fl ight from to the UK’s announcement that fl ights are banned) but must still it will ban all direct passenger All direct passenger fl ights ed (both doses), am I still banned travel ban end? Qatar to UK is not operating? they would be taking such action quarantine in a mandatory ho- fl ights from Qatar to UK from will end from Doha to London. from travelling from a red list The UK government has Yes, Qatar Airways will off er against Qatar, Oman, and the tel quarantine facility (at a cost Friday at 4am ‘until further no- Only British citizens/resi- country to the UK? confirmed the ban on entry refunds or rebooking to all pas- other countries to have made the of £1,750 per passenger) if they tice’ dents who fl y via other airports Yes, unfortunately the UK and ban on flights from red list sengers aff ected by the UK’s de- so-called ‘red list’. have been in Qatar over the last Students with the residence to reach UK (such as Doha-Par- does not make any exemptions countries to the UK, is “until cision. Q: Will the UK eventually al- ten days. visas (such as BRP) issued by the is-London) will be permitted to for people who are fully vacci- further notice”. Britain remains We expect Oman Air to follow low vaccinated travellers to enter Q: Can a Qatari visit the UK UK would have to fl y from Qatar enter UK with mandatory hotel nated. in a national lockdown, which with a similar policy. without restriction? after 18th March? via elsewhere to the UK. quarantine at a cost of £1,750 per Q: If I am already in UK, will I is only scheduled to be fully Q: Will the UK be open for We expect this will eventu- No, direct fl ights will end, and For example, a student could person. be able to return to Doha? lifted from late-June, at the summer travel? ally be the case – but ministers only British citizens/those with choose to fl y from Qatar to a Eu- Anyone who is not a Brit- We are not sure about this just earliest. At the moment, we are not in England have not made any residency rights who manage ropean City and then onwards ish citizen or resident will not yet, and there should be more Q: Why has the UK taken such sure. promises of the future travel to fl y via other airports to reach to the UK, but they would be be able to enter UK if they have clarity over the coming days over action against Qatar and Oman? In the UK, the government policy due to the lack of data re- UK (such as Doha-Paris-Lon- subject to Covid-19 rules of the been in Qatar over the last ten whether or not fl ights will con- The UK government say it is has suggested that all corona- garding vaccines, transmission, don) will be permitted to enter, transit point country, plus they days. tinue to operate from the UK to to protect the country from ‘new virus restrictions will end in effi cacy and more. and then quarantine at a cost of would still have to pay £1,750 for Q: Can I still transit through Doha. What we know for sure is variants’ of Covid-19 — but the late-June — but they have not It continues to be a waiting £1,750 per person a ten-day mandatory hotel quar- Doha to fl y to UK? (Example: that fl ights from Doha to the UK only variant recently discovered yet outlined what the border game.