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QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Sunday April 5, 2020 Sha`baan 12, 1441 Vol.13 no. 4912 qR 2

Fajr: 4:05 am Dhuhr: 11:37 am Asr: 3:06 pm Maghrib: 5:53 pm Isha: 7:23 pm

Business 8 Sports 11 S&P affirms QIB Xavi donates €1 mn to P artly cloudy High : 33°C rating with stable Barcelona hospital, LOW : 23°C outlook Neymar $1 mn to Brazil

Rapid COVID-19 test soon, says Spike in COVID-19 cases due to health official QNA Doha more lab tests: MoPH official Qatar is looking forward to conduct high-speed tests to diagnose corona- virus (COVID-19) and is ready to use Possibility of the virus remaining a set of rapid testing equipment to PHCC begins combat its spread, Director of Public suspended in air very low: Dr Khal Health Department at the Ministry of Public Health Sheikh Dr Mohammed Tribune News Network home delivery al Thani has said. Doha “The main task of the healthcare sector now is to control the spread of The sharp rise in confirmed of medicines infection among members of society. coronavirus (COVID-19) cases So, we focus on testing samples is due to large number of labora- and applying isolation procedures for tory tests being conducted now, 16 more recover from patients. We conduct approximately a top Ministry of Public Health 2,000 sample tests per day. And we official has said. also look forward to have a short The number of tests con- COVID-19; 250 new testing mechanism, in order to do ducted in the past 24 hours has the largest number of test samples reached over 3,500 as compared Dr Abdullatif al Khal. in a shorter time,” he said during an to just 700-1,000 tests per day cases detected interactive webinar organised by the done before,” said Dr Abdullatif them may be infected in theory,” Tribune News Network travellers. Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) al Khal, Co-chair of the National he said, adding that “everyone Doha The new cases have been to discuss the results of scientific Epidemic Preparation Commit- should be more careful.” placed under complete quar- research on infectious diseases tee, on Saturday. Dr Khal said the possibil- Sixteen more people recov- antine, and they are receiving and their potential implications for He said the rise in cases was ity of the virus remaining sus- ered from the coronavirus all necessary medical care, it COVID-19 pandemic. also due to the high rate of in- pended in the air under normal (COVD-19) on Saturday, taking added. The statement said the QNA He said the medical sector fection among conditions is very the total number of recover- MoPH conducted laboratory Doha receives all required support through arrivals from BATTLE low. ies in the country to 109, tests for 3,538 people in the the proactive approach adopted by European coun- AGAINST “If someone the Ministry of Public Health last 24 hours, bringing the total The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) the government since the efforts tries and the enters a room, (MoPH) has announced. number of COVID-19 tests to has announced the start of home delivery began to contain the virus, through US. Most of the COVID-19 coughs or sneez- The number of confirmed date to 31,951. service of medicines in cooperation with its implementation of strict precau- returnees are es, the virus may COVID-19 cases jumped by The MoPH urged citizens Qatar Post, by communicating on phone tionary measures to ensure social Qataris who are subjected to remain suspended in the air for 250 to reach 1,325. and residents under home numbers through the “WhatsApp” app, which distancing, and to maintain the quarantine, he added. hours as per an experiment con- In a statement, the MoPH quarantine to strictly adhere was allocated to each health centre. absorptive capacity of the medical “We discovered a relatively ducted by an American university said some of the new cases to the specific requirements In a stament, the PHCC said the home sector, which is extremely important. large percentage of infections where the virus, which was artifi- of infection are related to and quarantine procedures. It delivery service aims to limit patients’ visits “Therefore, critical decisions among the returnees ,” he said. cially transmitted, was found in travellers returning from also stressed the importance to health centres and to assure the need of were taken, such as quarantining “All those in quarantine in the air after three hours,” he said. abroad or those who have of staying at home in curbing community members to stay at home to curb all citizens returning from abroad, in hotels must take more precau- been in contact with these the outbreak of COVID-19. the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). addition to suspending schools and tion than they used to as each Continued on page 2  Patients can request for the medicine shops until further notice,” he added. delivery service via WhatsApp numbers for He said one of the focused goals each health centre from Sunday to Thursday is the development of a research road- (from 8 am until 2 pm and from 4 pm to map that will contribute to the global 10 pm). There will be no service during the efforts to combat coronavirus. “This Qatar distributes food parcels in Gaza weekend (Friday and Saturday). The PHCC includes setting a proactive implemen- added that the medicine delivery service tation plan to keep the situation under The Qatari Committee for the Reconstruction of Gaza, in was launched during the first stage for Qatari control, investing more in monitoring, coordination with the Qatar Fund for Development, distrib- citizens only, and it will be made available to implementing precautionary meas- uted food parcels to hundreds of vulnerable families in all soon, for free. ures, continuing to test samples and the Gaza Strip on Saturday. As for medicine charges, they are free applying isolation, ensuring the safety Chairman of the Qatari Committee for the Reconstruc- for Qataris and for the category exempt from of all citizens and residents, increas- tion of Gaza Ambassador Mohammed al Emadi said the paying the fees and for citizens of the Gulf ing awareness and educating people process of distributing food parcels was done through Cooperation Council states. For the non- about the disease,” he added. the General Administration of Zakat Committees of the exempt category and residents, the payment Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs in Gaza, will be by bank card. Cash is not accepted. for the benefit of hundreds of families classified within The PHCC stressed on the continuous the ministry’s data as the poorest and in need of urgent work to facilitate access to all services by assistance. The Qatari Committee provides daily meals the best available means in order to main- MME steps up inspection and basic necessities for those in the quarantine centres tain the continuity of their provision and in Gaza, in addition to recently providing food parcels to develop them in a manner commensurate of food outlets (PG 14 ) hundreds of families of the quarantined. (TNN) with the current situation.

Katara launches initiative to donate 5 tonnes Ministry sets evaluation policy for of vegetables to needy people daily end of second semester exams The Cultural Village Foundation (Ka- QNA to the end of the second semes- mester. tara), in cooperation Doha ter of day schools will be dealt Schools monitor grades in with the Katara with according to the distance the NSIS system. Farmers Forum, the The Ministry of Education learning system as follows: 2. The end of the second Qatar Red Crescent and Higher Education has an- First: Grades from 1-3 semester test (the main test): Society and the nounced the student evalua- 1. The marks assigned to • The test is a weekly as- Youth Activities De- tion policy for the end of the the ongoing evaluation for the signment that will be given to partment at Al Ahli second semester exams of the second half of the second se- the student at the end of each Club, has launched 2019-20 academic year for mester for the period after the week through distance learn- an initiative to dis- the distance learning system, midterm of the second semes- ing system. tribute 5 tonnes of from grades 1 to grade 11 (day school students to resume ter test is calculated as follows: • The number of assign- vegetables to those schools). studies with a distance learn- Schools calculate the same ments will be six, one assign- in need every day. In a circular, the ministry ing system. marks that a student obtained ment per week for each subject. (TNN) page 2 said this policy comes on the The ministry said it was de- in the ongoing assessment in basis of the decision for day cided that the marks allocated the first half of the second se- Continued on page 2  02 Sunday, April 5, 2020

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Amir congratulates Senegal’s president The Amir His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani on Saturday sent a cable of congratulations to President of Senegal Macky Sall on the occasion of his country’s National Day. (QNA) Katara unveils drive to distribute Deputy Amir congratulates Senegal’s president The Deputy Amir His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al Thani 5 tonnes of vegetables every day on Saturday sent a cable of congratulations to President of Senegal Macky Sall on the occasion of his country’s National Day. (QNA) People in need can make their requests for the items by calling 55470558 and 55449862 PM sends greetings president of Senegal Tribune News Network Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin Doha Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al Thani on Saturday sent a cable of congratulations to President of Senegal Macky Sall on the oc- The Cultural Village Founda- casion of his country’s National Day. (QNA) tion (Katara), in cooperation with Katara Qatari Farmers’ Forum, and Qatar Red Cres- cent Society, has launched an initiative to distribute five Evaluation policy for tonnes of vegetables every day to those in need in Qatar. Katara General Manager second semester exams Khalid bin Ibrahim al Sulaiti Continued from page 1  at the end of each week through said the work mechanisms the distance learning system for and distribution of the items  Each assignment carries 5 each subject. would be carried out in coop- marks.  The number of test that will be eration with Qatar Red Cres- Katara General Manager Khalid bin Ibrahim al Sulaiti said the work mechanisms and distribution of the items would be carried out in coopera-  The student must do this as- given to the student is six tests, cent Society (QRCS). tion with Qatari Red Crescent Society. signment by (copy the answer if one per week for each subject. People in need can make it was written, or recording an  The mark allocated to a test is their requests by calling audio clip for reading aloud, or 10 marks. 55470558 and 55449862. reciting).  The student must solve this Sulaiti said, “This cam-  The student sends the weekly weekly test through the distance paign comes within a series homework answers to the teach- learning system using the Micro- of charitable and community er in the school through the dis- soft Teams application. initiatives and campaigns tance learning system using the  The teacher corrects the week- launched by Katara previously Microsoft Teams application. ly test and monitors the degree on many occasions, both in-  The period limit for the stu- obtained by the student accord- side and outside Qatar.” dent to answer the weekly as- ing to the attached form. He stressed that through signment is five days from the  The teacher collects the stu- these charitable initiatives date of the assignment on the dent’s grades in all tests and and campaigns, Katara works distance learning platform in the monitors them in the NSIS sys- to spread the culture of coop- Microsoft Teams system. tem according to the system eration and solidarity among laiti, executive director of “This campaign is not the Hussein al Buhulaiqah, who participated in the cam-  The teacher corrects the week- adopted in the monitoring of various members of society the Volunteer and Local De- first in which we cooperate director of Youth Activities at paign, said Qatari farmers al- ly assignment and monitors the grades. and activate the role of the velopment Sector of QRCS, with Katara. We are happy Al-Ahly Sports Club, said: “We ways support the Qatari com- marks obtained by the student  The time limit for the student various entities of a social, said the Qatari Red Crescent to participate in this initia- thank Katara and Katara Qa- munity. according to the form attached. to solve the weekly tests is within cultural, economic or charita- Society volunteers are par- tive with Katara and Katara tari Farmers’ Forum and the Ali Noah al Mutawa, owner 3 The subjects that will not five days from the date of the test ble nature. ticipating in distributing the Qatari Farmers’ Forum, after Qatari Red Crescent Society of Al-Reem Farm, said: “We be covered by the distance learn- on the distance learning platform He said this current cam- assistance provided by Qatari the trucks sent from the Qa- for these efforts made to sup- support the government’s ef- ing system, as follows: in Microsoft Teams system. paign represents the best farmers through the Katara tari farms arrived in Katara port voluntary charitable work forts to provide for the needy  Grade 1: Information Tech-  After all teachers finish moni- evidence of various efforts to Qatari Farmers’ Forum to en- on Saturday. We felt great en- in the community. We encour- group to limit the spread of the nology, Physical Education. toring grades for all students, enhance social solidarity and sure that they reach all places thusiasm from the volunteers, age our club members to par- coronavirus.”  Grade 2: Information Tech- schools calculate the result and support the state’s efforts for in Qatar. desiring to provide added ticipate in the initiative.” He thanked Katara for all nology, Physical Education, Arts. issue certificates according to the the needy group. Ahmed al Khulaifi, head support to our beloved home- Ali Ahmed al Kaabi, owner the efforts contributing to this  Grade 3: Physical Education, approved system in this regard. Professor Mona al Su- of volunteers at QRCS, said: land.” of the International Farm, campaign. Arts. 3 -- The subjects that have  These subjects are not count- a test (written, oral, practical) ed in the total mark. their full mark is calculated on Second: Grades from the weekly test through the dis- four to eleven: tance learning system. ‘Possibility of virus remaining in air may be weak’ 1- The mark the work of the 4- The subjects that will not class is 5 grades: be covered by the distance learn- Continued from page 1  ing among people must be of For cases that have high is a small percentage that a very big role in spreading the The subject teacher evalu- ing system, as follows: two metres to avoid any kind risk factors, certain treatments symptoms appear after 10 virus in Qatar and this poses a ates the student’s marks ac-  Grades four to nine: Arts, Dr Khal, however, said the of infection with the virus. are usually given, especially days. But certainly in all cas- major risk to the infected per- cording to hisher follow-up to Physical Education experiment used large quan- It’s essential to avoid touch- two types of medications -- hy- es, symptoms appear within son as well as others. the student’s activity in terms  Grades 10 and 11: Physi- tities of spray contaminated ing contaminated surfaces, he droxychlorphen and azithro- two weeks of exposure to in- “The virus may cause se- of (short assessments, assign- cal Education, arts, Life and Re- with the virus, much larger added. mycin. fection,” he noted. vere infection and we have ments, training, classroom par- search Skills than the amount an average In Qatar, he said, there is “But if the case is severe Dr Khal said there are cases where young people are ticipation, project) during the  These subjects are not person can transmit while a protocol whereby cases are and lung inflammation has oc- cases that do not show any in intensive care,” he said. student’s attendance in the sec- counted in the total score. talking or sneezing. divided into categories -- cases curred, we will add two addi- symptoms, but they are still He called on all people to ond semester, and also through Third: Students with “The possibility of the vi- that do not have symptoms, tional medicines -- oseltamivir infectious for others. “That strictly adhere to the quaran- his follow-up to the extent of the disabilities in general edu- rus remaining suspended in cases that have mild symp- and lopinavir ritonavir. If the percentage is not known pre- tine instructions. student’s participation in the cation schools. the air may be weak, but what toms and cases that have se- condition was more severe, cisely because the Chinese Dr Khal pointed out that distance learning system, the They are dealt with accord- is more important is that the vere symptoms. then other types of medicines study focused on those who there are more than 40 vac- teacher monitors the student’s ing to the following: infection can occur by coming He said as for cases that do will be added,” he said. have symptoms.” cines under trial around the score in the NSIS system. A- Students of the first and close to an infected person,” not show any symptoms and “Most of the epidemio- At present, he said, the world. 2- The marks allocated to the second level of support: he said, adding that even if the do not have chronic diseases logical studies conducted in best thing that can be done is “I invite all those who re- end of the second semester test These students apply the person is asymptomatic, he such as heart disease and res- China indicate that majority to detect cases early, isolate covered in Qatar, if we com- is 40 marks. same assessment procedures can still infect others through piratory illnesses, no medica- of the cases show symptoms them quickly and give treat- municate with them, to coop-  The exam for the end of the according to the distance learn- the mist that can be released tion is given and medical staff within five days on an aver- ment if the need arises. erate and to donate plasma to second semester is a weekly test ing system referred to above for while talking or sneezing. are satisfied with observing age, and generally between He said failure to adhere to give it to patients with severe that will be given to the student grades one-eleven. Dr Khal said social distanc- them. two and 10 days, and there home or hotel quarantine has cases,” he said. QF’s Academic Bridge Program signs MoU with University of Aberdeen Wifaq’s social media campaign Tribune News Network ies. Over the last 19 years, we to measure. One of the key set to promote family dialogue Doha have worked to establish an indicators for the quality of QNA tional advertisements and mo- excellent reputation as the ABP education is the degree Doha tion graphics, that have been The Academic Bridge Pro- region’s premier foundation to which universities value designed in an attractive and gram (ABP) of the Qatar programme.” our graduates. It has been The Family Consulting Cent- purposeful manner to reach Foundation for Pre-University “Through the establish- gratifying to see so many US er (Wifaq) of the Qatar Foun- the largest possible audiences. Education and the University ment of MoUs with a wide va- and British universities eager dation for Social Action will Wifaq said it is keen to of Aberdeen have a memoran- riety of universities in Qatar, to create pathways for these launch an information cam- highlight the importance of dum of understanding (MoU), the United Kingdom and the students; pathways that al- paign on Sunday through so- dialogue within the family as which will see the provision of United States, we are able to low them to join the first year cial media platforms under the one of the necessities of con- further study opportunities for help our students attend uni- of undergraduate programs, hashtag #we_love_ourselves temporary social life and one ABP students. versities all over the world. We and sometimes even the sec- in celebration of the Family of the main pillars in achieving The agreement will al- are very pleased to sign this ond year of undergraduate Day in Qatar, which falls on cohesion between members of low ABP graduates to study MoU with the University of programmes. April 15 of each year. the family. It is the most effec- Business Management and Aberdeen, which covers both “The coronavirus pan- The campaign will be held tive way for family members Accounting and Finance at the AFG College with the Uni- demic has created some un- under the topic, ‘Family dia- to exchange views and infor- the University of Aberdeen The agreement will allow ABP graduates to study Business Management versity of Aberdeen in Qatar certainty about what countries logue in light of contemporary mation, acquire knowledge, in Scotland or at the AFG and Accounting and Finance at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. and the home campus in Scot- students will be able to travel challenges and changes’. express their inclinations and College with the University land.” to and study in this fall. This The campaign, which will feelings, evaluate their behav- of Aberdeen in Qatar, as well fields. City focuses on providing our Dr Mark Newmark, as- MoU is especially valuable continue until April 20, in- iours and modify and correct as provide an accelerated Dr Bryan Lewallen, ABP students with as many op- sistant director of Academic in the current situation as it cludes a variety of awareness their misconceptions in keep- path to undergraduate and director, said: “The Academic portunities as possible re- Affairs, ABP, said: “The value expands the local options for materials such as video flash- ing with the values of the fam- Master’s degrees in these Bridge Program in Education lated to their university stud- of education is often difficult ABP graduates.” es, graphic designs, promo- ily and the society. Nation Sunday, April 5, 2020 03 Papa John’s Qatar Indian schools set to kick off new assures customers session with online classes today about food safety Tribune News Network on delivery as an additional Doha reassurance that the order has been prepared and de- Microsoft Teams platform, Pearson Active App & Zoom App help schools conduct virtual classes Papa John’s Qatar is giv- liver within minimal contact. ing top priority to the health Joseph said, “You can be Satyendra Pathak mence from April 5, 2020 for and safety of its customers, rest assured that all our staff Doha classes 1 to 12 and from April 7 team and local communi- are trained on food safety onwards for kindergarten stu- ties, said Papa John’s Qatar awareness and required to Following the Qatar gov- dents. Classes will be convert- General Manager Joseph frequently wash their hands ernment’s decision to close ed into virtual classes through Joseph, reassuring the pub- per prescribed guidelines. schools and universities na- Zoom App, well assisted with lic of the safety of their food Post each handwash, our tionwide due to the coronavi- our integrated e-learning sys- delivery. staff are required to sanitise rus (COVID-19) crisis, most tem and parents’ portal,” MES He said, “We appreciate their hands using compliant Indian schools in Qatar are Indian School said in a circu- that you place your trust in us sanitiser. prepared to begin the new aca- lar entitled ‘New Academic and work hard to ensure that Our staff are also re- demic year (2020-2021) with Year 2020-21’. the very highest standards quired to undergo a body online classes starting from “In the light of the pre- are adhered to every day. We temperature check upon April 5. vailing scenario, MES is fully also understand that we are joining their shift. Staff The Indian schools start prepared for a long run with all living in extraordinary cir- member registering a tem- their new academic year in uninterrupted learning ses- cumstances and so we have perature greater than 37.5 April while most other schools sions including lessons for taken additional measures degrees Celsius will have to begin the new cycle in Septem- co-scholastic activities like to enhance the procedures report to a doctor instead of ber every year. Physical Education, Art, already in place. joining their shift.” “As per the directives of Music and Moral Education “We appeal to all people “We thank you for being the Ministry of Education and along with all their scholastic in Qatar to stay at home and our customer. We will con- Higher Education, all educa- subjects,” said Hameeda Ka- support the government in tinue to monitor the situa- tional institutions in Qatar are dar, principal of MES Indian this situation. Papa John’s tion to ensure that we have closed to prevent the spread School. pizza have taken additional the very best measures in of COVID-19. Considering the Birla Public School has measures across our restau- place to serve you and our present circumstances, we’ll The MES Indian School (MES) is fully prepared for a long run with uninterrupted learning sessions, includ- announced that virtual class- rants to enhance the proce- communities, especially be making the best favourable ing lessons for co-scholastic activities. room will commence for all dure already in place.” those who are working tire- use of this situation where we classes 5 and above from April He added that all food lessly to keep us well. A big cannot be physically present also conduct classes for stu- 5 to begin the new academic will be delivered with Qual- thank you to our staff, rid- in school. However, this pro- dents of classes 9 and above. year. Similarly, Olive Interna- ity Guarantee Seal, a sticker ers, delivery partners and vides us with an opportunity “In view of this emergency tional School and Doha Mod- that will be placed on each all employees who have to continue education through situation, the school has made ern Indian School (DMIS) box as soon as order leaves stepped up when the rest of new methods of remote learn- arrangements for Remote have informed parents about the oven and will be intact us can’t step out,” he said. ing,” DPS-MIS, a prominent Learning Classes which will the beginning of the new aca- Indian school in Qatar, said in be conducted five days a week. demic session with online a statement on Friday. Teaching timings will be from classes. “We are delighted to in- 9:15am to 1:45pm. The sched- According to a senior of- form you that we’ll reopen uled timetable of the classes ficial of theI ndian Embassy the school on April 5, 2020 will be uploaded on the school in Qatar, all Indian schools for classes three and above. website shortly,” the DPS-MIS in Qatar will begin the new Teachers will interact virtu- said. academic year this month ally with students and will also the Microsoft Teams platform. be made accessible for all stu- Teachers and students through online classes. conduct classes,” the school Weekly plans for all subjects dents,” the school said. interact online through the “While most of the Indian said. will be uploaded on the school While e-learning classes Zoom App to accomplish the schools will commence the on- “The school has decided portal of DPS Modern Indian will also be conducted for stu- target of learning online, DPS- line classes from April 5, some to commence e-learning for School. The e-learning process dents of classes 6-8, the school MIS said. of the schools will start from a the students of classes 1-5 will be facilitated through the said that teachers will interact “Regular classes for the different date this month,” the from April 5, 2020 through Pearson Active App, which will virtually with students and new academic year will com- official said. QCS launches online Children look to adults for guidance on awareness campaign how to react to stressful events: HMC model the correct handwashing talking about the virus calmly Teaching positive steps to children and talking to technique for your child. Talk and matter-of-factly. about thyroid cancer them about their worries will help reduce anxiety to them about personal space “Try to avoid exposing chil- and tell your child to avoid peo- dren to media reports about Tribune News Network QNA talk about their feelings, re- ple who are sick (coughing and COVID-19, as this can elevate Doha Doha framing their concerns into the sneezing). Tell your child to let their stress. News programmes appropriate perspective. Teach- you know if they are feeling un- are intended for adults, not chil- Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) has launched a While parents and caregivers ing children positive preventive well, but it isn’t necessary to go dren. Monitor their online ac- ‘Thyroid Vitality’ campaign to raise awareness need to encourage their chil- measures and talking with them overboard with information,” tivity,” said Dr Muraisi. of thyroid cancer as part of the April global dren to practise good health about their fears can help re- said Dr Muraisi. “Spend time doing activi- awareness month for the cancer. behaviour as part of the efforts duce anxiety by giving children “However, if your child ties that promote calm in your Thyroid is the second common cancer to stop the spread of coronavi- a sense of control over their risk voices worry or concern, correct family, like reading together, among females and the fifth common cancer rus (COVID-19), it’s important of infection, she said. any misinformation and provide watching movies, or playing among both genders in Qatar, according to to remember that children look “Parents often worry that them with emotional support. board games. Try to avoid large Qatar National Cancer Registry (QNCR) of the to adults for guidance on how talking to children about scary Let their questions be your guide increases in screen time as this Ministry of Public Health report in 2016. to react to stressful events, said social issues may increase the as to how much information can interfere with children’s Heba Nassar, head of the Health Educa- Dr May Jassim al Muraisi, ex- child’s anxiety. Knowledge is a you provide. Watch for signs of well-being and sleep,” added Dr tion Department at QCS, said the society has ecutive director of Clinical and powerful tool and it gives chil- stress. In younger children, signs Muraisi. launched ‘Thyroid Vitality’ awareness cam- Service Development at Hamad dren some predictability in of stress can range from exces- The Ministry of Public paign via its electronic platforms within the Medical Corporation’s (HMC) knowing what lies ahead, which sive crying or irritation to re- Health (MoPH) has established framework of the preventive measures to limit Child and Adolescent Mental can help dull anxieties. Children turning to behaviours they have a dedicated website (www. the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Health Service (CAMHS). need factual, age-appropriate outgrown, like bedwetting. In moph.gov.qa) to provide the by broadcasting awareness messages and vid- “If parents seem overly wor- information. They require con- older children and teens, stress public with updates on the eos related to the definition of thyroid cancer, ried, children’s anxiety may crete instruction, but it is impor- often manifests as excessive current situation as well as in- signs and warning symptoms, methods of pre- rise, especially in children who tant not to panic or overwhelm worry or sadness, acting out and formation on how to protect vention and early detection. are prone to anxious thoughts. them,” said Dr Muraisi. When unexplained headaches or body themselves and others from Dr Hadi Mohamad Abu Rasheed, head of Adults should be aware that talking to children about COV- pain,” added Dr Muraisi. COVID-19. A hotline (16000), Professional Development and Scientific Re- children will react to, and fol- ID-19, Dr Muraisi recommends She says very young chil- which is available 24-hours a search Department at QCS, said according to ing that one out of every 91 women in Qatar will low, their verbal and nonverbal asking your child what they dren, for example, those under day to answer COVID-19 related Qatar National Cancer Registry (QNCR) of the be diagnosed with thyroid cancer before the age cues. What you say and do about know about the virus and letting the age of three years old, will queries, and an educational so- Ministry of Public Health report in 2016, there of 75. COVID-19, including your pre- that guide the discussion. have a limited ability to un- cial media campaign have also were 86 cases diagnosed with thyroid cancer in Among the Qatari population, 204 cases vention efforts, can either in- “If they don’t seem too con- derstand information about been launched, with the MoPH, Qatar and 34 percent of the cases in Qatar were were diagnosed with thyroid cancer with people crease or decrease your child’s cerned, it probably isn’t neces- COVID-19 but they can still HMC and Primary Health Care males and 66 percent were females. between 30 and 39 years old were the highest anxiety,” said Dr Muraisi. sary to have an in-depth con- experience the effects of stress- Corporation (PHCC) sharing in- He noted that 78 percent of the cases were age group with thyroid cancer incidences, he Dr Muraisi said parents and versation about it. Reinforce the ful events in their environment, fographics and videos through non-Qatari, while 22 percent were Qatari, add- added. caregivers should let children importance of handwashing and underscoring the importance of their social media channels.

Msheireb Properties observes World Autism Awareness Day

On the occasion of the World Autism Awareness Day, Msheireb Properties shared their global message in supporting the rights of people with autism and raising awareness of the cause among community members. The streets and buildings at Msheireb Downtown Doha were lit in blue, an expression of support to the campaign, on Thursday. These activities are major part of the CSR programme of Msheireb Properties. (TNN) 04 Sunday, April 5, 2020 Middle East / Gulf / Africa UN pushes for humanitarian truce on anniversary of battle for Tripoli

DPA ernment of National Accord It is estimated that around Fighting has raged in Lib- in a press statement without Tripoli (GNA) supported by the UN. 893,000 people are in need of ya in recent weeks between further details. The fighting has resulted humanitarian assistance. Haftar’s forces and GNA loy- So far, there has been no The United Nations renewed in at least 356 civilian deaths The mission urged Lib- alists, despite calls from the claim for the attack. a call for Libya’s warring sides and injured 329 others, ac- ya’s warring parties and their UN and several countries for Libya has been in turmoil to agree on a humanitarian cording to the UN Support foreign backers to heed an a truce to focus efforts on bat- since the 2011 overthrow of truce to combat the new coro- Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). earlier call by UN chief Anto- tling the virus. dictator Moamer Gaddafi and navirus on Saturday, the first “The humanitarian situa- nio Guterres for an immediate Earlier Saturday, two peo- has become a battleground for anniversary of the start of a tion has deteriorated to levels halt to the fighting. ple were injured after a shell rival proxy forces, which has battle to capture the capital never previously witnessed in “The COVID-19 pandemic, hit a hospital in Tripoli, an of- drawn in foreign powers. Tripoli. Libya,” the mission said in a which is spreading in Libya, ficial said. The oil-rich country is On April 4 last year, Gen- statement. as it is around the world, A file photo shows a local militiaman from a group opposed to Libyan A mortar shell struck a currently divided between eral Khalifa Haftar, the com- Around 149,000 people in recognizes neither national strongman Khalifa Haftar next to vehicles the group said they seized gate of the Tripoli University two administrations: the UN- mander of the self-styled and around Tripoli have been boundaries nor frontlines and from Haftar’s forces. (AFP) Hospital, injuring a woman recognized government in Libyan National Army (LNA), forced to flee their homes clearly represents the greatest and a security guard, Amin Tripoli and the other based in ordered his forces to seize since the beginning of the of- near-term threat to the wel- yan people,” UNSMIL said. ya have reported 16 virus in- al-Hashimi, a media official at the eastern city of Tobruk and Tripoli from the rival Gov- fensive, UNSMIL added. fare and well-being of the Lib- Health authorities in Lib- fections including one death. the GNA Health Ministry said allied with Haftar.

News in brief Yemen rebels say they have freed 1,600 Iran says virus contagion prisoners due to virus Sana’a Yemen’s rebels said on Saturday they have freed 1,600 prisoners to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus in the impoverished country. slows for fourth day Yemen has not officially recorded any cases of the virus that causes the potentially fatal Covid-19 respiratory disease. AFP Rebel-linked chief prosecutor Nabil al-Azani, said the 1,600 Tehran prisoners have been set free over the past two days as part of precautions against Covid-19 in areas under the control of the Iran’s new cases of corona- Iran-backed Houthi rebels, which include the capital Sana’a. virus have dropped for the The reported move comes days after the rival Yemeni fourth consecutive day, offi- government announced its release of hundreds of inmates for cial figures released Saturday the same reason. It is feared that the virus can spread easily showed, as a two-week holiday in prisons due to cramped conditions. in the Islamic republic came to Yemen, one of the Arab world’s poorest countries, has an end. been gripped by a devastating conflict since late 2014, set- Iran registered 2,560 new ting the Houthis against the government supported by Saudi infections of COVID-19 in Arabia. (DPA) the previous 24 hours, health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour told a televised Coronavirus infects medics at Egypt news conference. cancer centre It is the fourth consecutive drop in new cases since Teh- Ca iro Egypt’s main cancer institute has confirmed 15 cases ran declared 3,111 on March of the novel coronavirus among its medical staff, the facility’s 31. chief said on Saturday, sparking fears of exposure among Jahanpour said there were vulnerable patients. an additional 158 fatalities “Three doctors and 12 nurses were infected by the virus,” from the virus, bringing the Hatem Abulkassem, the director of Cairo’s National Cancer country’s official death toll to Institute, told a private Egyptian TV channel, adding that the 15 3,452. had been isolated. Iran is one of the countries The facility will be sterilised over three days and patients hardest hit by the pandemic, A file photo shows a member of the Iranian Red Crescent testing people for coronavirus Covid-19 symptoms along Tehran to Alborz highway.( AFP) who were in contact with the medics will be tested, along with with 55,743 officially declared all staff members, Abulkassem said. cases, though there has been After resisting lockdown or could be extended. closed, AFP reporters said. positive for the virus in late “It is tough to trace where the first infection emerged as speculation abroad that the quarantine measures, Iran im- Saturday should have Authorities have continued February and has returned to the majority of the (institute’s) medical personnel work in sev- real number could be higher. posed an intercity travel ban marked a return to regular ac- to urge Iranians to stay home public life, told state television eral other places,” Abulkassem added. Jahanpour said that while late last month until April 8. tivity in Iran after a two-week as much as possible, though Saturday that “the increase in He said patient visits had been suspended in recent 4,103 patients were in critical Officials haveindicated holiday for the Persian New state television reported Sat- traffic in Tehran is worrying”. weeks. condition, recoveries had in- that the ban, along with other Year. urday an increase in travel President Hassan Rouhani Last month, several Egyptian hospitals were closed for creased over recent days and a measures to combat the spread But in the capital Tehran, compared to previous days. on Thursday warned that the sterilisation after cases were detected there. (AFP) total of 19,736 people had left of the virus such as the closure the situation was far from Iraj Harirchi, a deputy country might still battle the hospital. of schools and religious sites, normal, with many shops still health minister who tested pandemic for another year.

Saudi Arabia Turkey tightens controls in public places over virus threat French embassy condemns locks down AFP formed over the last 24 hours usual noisy and crowded state. ‘test in Africa’ vaccine residential Istanbul was the most of all so far: Vendors complained their 19,664. business was hit badly. comments by doctors areas as virus Turkey stepped up controls From Saturday, all those “This has a had a big impact, Saturday on crowded public going out to shops or markets there is no one at the market, at DPA Research (INSERM)and Jean- tally climbs spaces including markets and must wear a face mask, Erdogan this time of the day, we have Johannesburg Paul Mira, head of intensive ferries in Istanbul a day after said, calling on the population nothing to do here,” said Abbas care at Cochin Hospital in Par- DPA President Recep Tayyip Er- to maintain a distance of “three Kose, who sells vine leaves. The French embassy in South is, discussed whether Africa Riyadh dogan imposed the use of face paces” from each other when At the ferries in Istanbul, Africa on Saturday expressed could be a good test location. masks to curb the coronavirus outside. At an Istanbul bazaar passengers were seen wearing dismay at comments made by At one point, they suggest- Saudi Arabia on Saturday outbreak. in the Besiktas neighbourhood face masks. The city’s mayor French doctors during a televi- ed Africa was a possible loca- isolated several residential Turkey’s death toll from open every Saturday, police and The empty square of the iconic Ekrem Imamoglu has been call- sion interview in which they tion, as people did not have areas in a port city as the coronavirus topped 500, local municipal employees han- Hagia Sophia in Istanbul after ing for total confinement but discussed testing a coronavi- masks, treatments or resusci- country struggles to contain Health Minister Fahrettin Koca dled the use of masks and hand Turkish officials urged citizens authorities have so far stopped rus vaccine in Africa. tation. the new coronavirus out- announced on Saturday, while disinfectants, while checking to stay home and respect social short of that. “We are deeply shocked The discussion caused an break. the number of cases reached the temperature of incoming distancing rules. (AFP) As part of the measures tak- by these comments, that of uproar with many, including The state news agency nearly 24,000. customers at the entrance. en nationwide, authorities sus- course, do not reflect the posi- Ivory Coast and international SPA, citing an Interior Minis- Most of Turkey’s cases have Veli Yildirim, 50, who sells A 60-year-old customer in pended international flights, tion of the French authorities,” footballer Didier Drogba, tak- try official, said that entering been registered in the country’s vegetables including tomatoes, the bazaar, Asuman Karaman issued a confinement order for the embassy said in a state- ing to social media to express and exiting seven districts in economic capital Istanbul. said the measures came “too wearing a mask, agreed: “If everyone aged under 20 and ment. disgust at the “racist” views the Red Sea province of Jed- The official figures released late.” these measures had been tak- over 65 and shut schools. During the programme, and that “Africa isn’t a testing dah was banned as of Satur- by Koca showed 76 more peo- “We are the latest compared en one or two months earlier, Erdogan on Friday also said which aired on the French lab.” day until further notice. ple had died of coronavirus in to the rest of the world. Even maybe the virus would not have vehicles would no longer be channel LCI on Wednesday, Mira has since apologized A total curfew also went Turkey over the last 24 hours, this is not enough, there should been so widespread.” able to leave or enter 31 towns Camille Locht, head of re- while INSERM said the com- into effect in those dis- pushing the total to 501. be a complete lockdown” in Is- The bazaar looked quite and cities, including Istanbul, search at the National Insti- ments had been misunder- tricts starting 3 pm (1200 The number of tests per- tanbul, he told AFP. calm -- in stark contrast to its for 15 days. tute of Health and Medical stood. GMT), according to the un- named official who called the steps “additional health pre- cautions.” Last week, Saudi authori- ties shut down Jeddah, a ma- South Africa rolls out mobile testing in virus lockdown jor commercial hub, as part of their anti-virus efforts. AFP screening and they are even China helps Algeria battle coronavirus Earlier this week, Saudi Johannesburg open to testing if they have Arabia imposed a curfew on symptoms,” Dlomo said. Algiers As adversity strikes in the form of the coronavirus Islam’s two holiest cities, South African public health- Already in a 21-day lock- pandemic, Algeria has found a helping hand in China, an old Mecca and Medina, in its on- care workers dispersed into down, South Africa is now friend and the top exporter to Africa’s largest country. going bid to curb the spread the buzzing streets of Johan- embarking on the widespread An Air Algerie plane arrived in the capital Algiers from Bei- of the virus. nesburg’s Yeoville neighbour- testing and quarantine cam- jing on March 27 carrying a 13-member Chinese medical team It has also halted interna- hood on Friday as Africa’s paign involving some 10,000 and equipment, including respirators, worth around $450,000. tional and domestic flights, as worst virus-hit country rolled field workers who are being The supplies were donated by the state-owned China State well as local transport. out mass door-to-door testing sent out into homes in villages, Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) on behalf of The Saudi Health Ministry for COVID-19. towns and cities to screen for Beijing to help Algeria battle its COVID-19 outbreak. on Saturday announced four Armed with screening symptoms. With 1,171 officially declared cases, including 105 more deaths from Covid-19, questionnaires and testing The testing plan to break deaths, Algeria is worse hit than its North African neighbours the respiratory disease caused kits, medics and volunteers set the chain of infection appears Tunisia and Morocco, and its health sector is in dire need of by the virus, bringing the up their testing station on the to be modelled on the South improvement. (AFP) country’s death toll to 29. front porch of a block of flats in Korean strategy which saw the The ministry also record- the gritty business neighbour- Asian country bring the out- kilometre. performed, 6,000 of them at ed 140 new virus cases, SPA hood. break under control. “The health of our people public health centres. reported, citing a spokesman. Nurse Xola Dlomo told In Yeoville -- a crime- is our first consideration,” said But for Health Minister The latest cases raise to AFP they were asking one prone area in Johannesburg’s Kegorapetse Ndingandinga, Zweli Mkhize that number is 2,179 the total infections in resident to mobilise fellow flat hardscrabble central business overseeing the Yeoville team. too low for a country of 57 mil- the oil-rich monarchy, the A Gauteng Health Department official collects samples from a man dwellers to come for screening district -- eight small groups Before the rollout of mass lion people where several mil- highest tally in an Arab during a door-to-door COVID-19 coronavirus testing drive in Yeoville, and tests. have been dispatched across screening and testing, more lions have underlying condi- country. Johannesburg on Friday. (AFP) “They’ve been coming for an area covering one square than 47,500 tests had been tions such as HIV and TB. Asia / World Sunday, April 5, 2020 05

News Two dead in gas explosion outside Moscow in brief Agencies a section in the middle of the several floors had collapsed. Moscow brick building collapsed in the Russia calls for end to global sanctions during Covid-19 crisis “Only a roof has remained.” Bangladesh town north of Moscow. The Investigative Commit- extends transport Two people have died after a Terekhova said in televised Moscow Russia has called for the lifting of General Antonio Guterres to work to lift “dis- tee said the gas explosion took restrictions as virus multi-storey residential build- remarks that 10 flats have been sanctions on all nations in view of the coronavi- criminatory measures” in this emergency place on the third floor of the ing collapsed in a gas explosion partially destroyed and offi- rus pandemic. situation. building. infections rise near the Russian capital mos- cials were trying to establish The Russian Foreign Ministry said in a At the end of March, Russia, China, Syria, Investigators said they Dhaka Authorities in cow on Saturday., authorities how many people lived there. statement on Saturday that many nations are Iran, North Korea, Venezuela, Nicaragua and were looking into the cause, Bangladesh have extended said. The rest of the building ap- continuing to adhere to sanctions “although Cuba had already sent a letter to Guterres with a gas leak and damaged a nationwide transport The blast took place in the peared intact. this brings people in the most vulnerable coun- calling for an immediate and complete lifting of gas equipment believed to be shut-down for a week as the town of Orekhovo-Zuyevo dur- National television broad- tries to the brink.” sanctions imposed on them by various nations. among top leads. Moscow re- number of novel coronavirus ing stay-at-home orders from cast footage of mangled heaps Moscow urged United Nations Secretary (DPA) gion governor Andrei Voroby- cases rose to 70, officials authorities trying to slow the of concrete as locals -- some ov and emergencies minister said on Saturday. spread of the coronavirus. wearing masks -- gathered at the Orekhovo-Zuyevo city dis- Witness Alexei Muranov, clear, it looked like a car blast, Yevgeny Zinichev immediately The restriction on all A spokeswoman for the the scene. trict, said six people have been who lives near the damaged there was a little bit of smoke,” went to the scene. modes of transport carrying emergencies ministry, Zhanna Residents of the damaged pulled from under the debris. building, said he stood near the Muranov said in televised re- Gas explosions are com- passengers will be in effect Terekhova, had earlier said building have been moved to Three people, apparently window when he was pushed marks. mon in Russia and often affect until April 11, said Abu one person was killed and an- a school nearby, officials said. from among those six, were in back by a shock wave. “And then people ran residential buildings built in Naser, spokesman for the other four were injured when Gennady Panin, head of intensive care, he added. “At first things were not there,” he said, adding that the Soviet era. Road Transport and Bridges Ministry. Vehicles transporting goods and other emergency Security forces services will remain out of the purview of this stop- arrest Islamic page, he said. The extension of travel State leader for China holds three minutes of restrictions came in line Afghanistan with the government’s deci- sion to shut non-essential DPA public and private offices Kabul until April 11 in a bid to slow the spread of the The leader of the Islamic silence for Covid-19 victims novel coronavirus that has State (IS) militant group in DPA dispersal operations at an infected 70 people in Bang- Afghanistan, known as Is- Beijing anti-government protest on ladesh. (DPA) lamic State - Khurasan, was Tuesday has tested positive for arrested by security forces, China held three minutes of Covid-19. Tokyo reports over a statement by the Afghan silence for people who have Police said the 46-year-old 100 new COVID-19 Intelligence Agency (NDS) died in the coronavirus out- officer wore a mask and did cases in a day for said on Saturday. break during the country’s not make any arrests during Abdullah Orokzai, who traditional Qingming festival, the protest. first time is also known as Aslam Fa- or Tomb Sweeping Day on Sat- Meanwhile a 93-year-old Tokyo The number of daily rooqi, was arrested with 19 urday. man who tested positive is be- new coronavirus cases has other IS members, among President Xi Jinping was lieved to be Hong Kong’s first exceeded 100 in Tokyo for them two high-ranking joined by other leading officials case of hospital transmission the first time, withJ apa- commanders, the state- at the Zhongnanhai compound of the virus, which has infected nese media reporting on ment said. The arrest comes in central Beijing, the seat of 863 in the city. Saturday at least 118 new as the extremist group has China’s political power, to ob- Microbiologist Yuen Kwok- infections. claimed responsibility of an serve the commemoration. Yeung told a press conference This brings the number attack on a Sikh community The political leaders wore that the elderly patient, who of confirmed cases in the temple in Kabul eleven days white flowers pinned to their had a stroke on March 10, Japanese capital to over ago that left 25 people dead. chests and paid a silent tribute was treated near a 33-year-old 890. Islamic State claimed in front of a national flag flying man, who initially tested nega- As the novel coronavirus many deadly attacks in Af- at half-mast, the Xinhua state tive before later testing posi- spreads, the pressure is ghanistan, mainly among news agency reported. tive for Covid-19. building on Prime Minister the Shiite Hazara communi- National flags across Chi- The ward at Pok Oi Public Shinzo Abe to declare emer- ty since the group emerged na and at Chinese embassies Hospital has been temporar- gency measures against the in Afghanistan in 2015. and consulates abroad were ily shut down and all relevant epidemic. Farooqi had been active also lowered to half-mast, and staff are being tested for the As of Friday, 704 in several roles within the public entertainment activities virus. coronavirus patients were group, both in Pakistan and halted. So far, China has count- receiving treatment in Tokyo in Afghanistan, the state- The only noise heard dur- ed over 80,000 coronavirus hospitals. (DPA) ment read, adding that he ing the three-minute mourn- cases. The death toll reached took over as leader after ing was the sound of cars, 3,326 on Saturday, according Indonesia covers the death of Abu Saeed Ba- ships and trains blaring their to official figures. Over 76,000 up to protect jawori. horns in the background. People bow in front of Tiananmen Gate in Beijing during a three minute national memorial to commemo- patients have so far recovered. orangutans from According to media re- The event was intended rate people who died in the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak, on Saturday. (AFP) Officials said more than ports, Bajawori was killed to honour “martyrs and dead 3,000 medical personnel had virus threat in 2018. compatriots killed in the fight However, with restric- ince, the epicentre of the Cov- virtually. become infected with the novel Jakarta Poaching and Farooqi was said to against the new coronavirus tions in place to prevent the id-19 outbreak in China, all The Hong Kong govern- coronavirus, of whom 14 have habitat loss have decimated have confessed to links with epidemic,” the State Council new coronavirus from spread- public commemoration events ment encouraged people to died. Indonesia’s orangutan popu- intelligence agencies in the said on Friday. ing, this year many provinces were prohibited. Cemeteries create digital tributes to de- Cases worldwide have lation, but now coronavirus regions, the NDS added, Tomb Sweeping Day is an asked residents not to make organized collective rites for ceased relatives on a special topped 1 million, and deaths has emerged as another but did not clarify where annual Chinese holiday during the pilgrimage to the graves the dead. website instead of visiting have exceeded 50,000, accord- potential deadly threat to and when the IS leader was which families gather to hon- but instead to honour the dead Platforms have also been graves. ing to a tally by Johns Hop- the critically endangered arrested. our their ancestors and clean from home. set up on the internet in Also in Hong Kong, a po- kins University in the United species. their tombs. In Wuhan in Hubei prov- which offerings can be given lice officer who carried out States. While there have been no confirmed cases of transmission from humans to the fuzzy-haired apes, they share 97 percent of our DNA. And staff at a Pakistan to challenge acquittal in 2002 killing of US journalist rehabilitation centre in jungle-covered Borneo are DPA Street Journal reporter Dan- which Qureshi said were stani man accused of killing were re-arrested after one kidnapped and killed in the not taking any chances. Islamabad iel Pearl. “natural.” and kidnapping the US jour- day under a law that allows southern Pakistani city of Ka- The Borneo Orangutan “It has been decided to file “It is now up to the court nalist. Pakistani authorities to keep rachi in February 2002. Survival Foundation has The Pakistani foreign minis- an appeal against the decision either to dismiss or [uphold] Three of his co-defend- people in detention for up He was among numerous closed its doors to visitors ter said on Saturday that the in the Supreme Court,” For- the appeal,” he said. ants who were handed life to three months without any Western journalists who were and told staff to step up government will file an ap- eign Minister Shah Mehmood Sindh High Court on prison terms in 2002 were charge. in Pakistan to cover the after- precautions to avoid pass- peal against a court decision Qureshi said in a statement. Thursday overturned the also acquitted. Pearl, a New Delhi-based math of the fall of the Taliban ing on infection, including by acquitting the man accused The US had expressed death sentence on Ahmed The four men were sup- South Asia correspondent for regime in neighbouring Af- wearing masks and protec- of the 2002 murder of Wall concerns over the decision, Omar Sheikh, a British Paki- posed to walk free but they the Wall Street Journal, was ghanistan in 2001. tive gloves. (AFP)

Newborn twins named Man shot dead after threatening coronavirus officials in Philippines The suspect was shot dead said. Corona and Covid in A total 3,094 by a police officer who was try- “So if you don’t want to fol- ing to pacify him. low, then I will finish you to India amid lockdown cases recorded The incident is the first re- protect the lives of the inno- ported case of police shooting cent who don’t want to die.” DPA ily members could not reach with 144 deaths a civilian for refusing to follow Amnesty International la- New Delhi Raipur due to the lockdown. DPA restrictions to curb the spread mented the fact that autocratic “With vehicular move- Manila of the novel coronavirus. leaders around the world like A couple in India’s central ment stopped, we both made President Rodrigo Duterte Duterte have been using the state of Chhattisgarh has it to the hospital somehow late A 63-year-old man was shot warned on Wednesday he Covid-19 pandemic “to further named their newborn twins at night after a lot of suffer- dead in the Philippines after would order the police and the stifle criticism and dissent.” Corona and Covid amid the ing. Since the deliveries hap- threatening village officials military to shoot anyone who “This is an unprecedented country’s nationwide lock- pened after such difficulties, and police with a scythe at a created trouble. health crisis - but President down brought on by the pan- we wanted the names to be coronavirus checkpoint, police The Philippines’ main is- Duterte is focusing on attack- demic. memorable and unique,” she said on Saturday. land of Luzon has been under ing freedoms of speech and The twins, a boy and a girl, said, hinting that the hospital The man is believed to have a month-long lockdown since assembly,” said Butch Olano, a were born at a government staff had suggested the names. been drunk when he threat- March 16, prohibiting people director for Amnesty Interna- hospital in the state capital “Besides these names ened village officials and police from leaving their homes ex- Police personnel hold up placards reminding people to stay at home amid tional in the Philippines. Raipur on March 27, two days are beautiful in their own, manning the checkpoint in the cept for essential trips to the concerns of the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Manila. (AFP) “He is downplaying the na- after the lockdown came into with Corona being Latin for town of Nasipit in the southern grocery or the pharmacy, or if tion’s plea for better services force disrupting daily lives. crown,” added Vinay Verma, province of Agusan del Norte they are front-line workers. patients have recovered. when the priority should be to The couple, in a telephone the father. on Thursday, a police report Many provinces outside of The incident is the first Duterte defended his fulfil the government’s obliga- interview with dpa on Satur- “Also, we want the fear as- said. Luzon have also imposed their reported case of police warning against troublemak- tion to provide health care and day, said the names would sociated with these names to “The suspect was cautioned own restrictions in a bid to pre- shooting a civilian for ers in a late-night televised vital relief to all persons with- remind them of the hardships end and the public to focus on by a village health worker ... for vent the virus from spreading. refusing to follow restric- address on Friday, saying that out discrimination,” he added. they encountered before the sanitation and hygiene.” not wearing a face mask,” the The Department of Health tions to curb the spread of the public needed to realize The government has begun successful delivery of the ba- The couple said there report said. reported 76 new confirmed the gravity of the situation be- to distribute cash assistance to bies at the hospital. was pressure, however, from “But the suspect got angry, cases of infection in the Phil- the novel coronavirus. cause anyone can get sick of poor families and workers af- Preeti Verma, the 27-year- family elders and they could uttering provoking words and ippines, bringing to 3,094 the the disease. fected by the lockdown under old mother of the twins, said change their decision later eventually attacked the per- total tally in the country. were also recorded, pushing “Without these restric- a 200-billion-peso (4-billion- they had no help as their fam- and rename their children. sonnel using a scythe.” Eight additional deaths the death toll to 144, while 57 tions, this will not end,” he dollar) amelioration package. 06 Sunday, April 5, 2020

Established September 3, 2006 hamad bin suhaim al thani chairman Opinion adel ali bin ali managing director dr hassan mohammed al ansari editor-in-chief

To Wear A Mask Or Not To Wear A Mask Is No Longer A Question Trump Quietly Signs

With COVID-19 cases on the rise across the US, CDC now recommends that citizens wear non-medical grade TAIPEI Act Into Law face masks to help prevent the spread of the virus

WORE a face mask outside for the first transmission of the coronavirus. time on Tuesday morning. It wasn’t a The reversal may seem puzzling. At some China has reacted strongly to the US action stating that the law is against I new one; I purchased it last summer to level, we all probably understood that having the one-China policy and has warned the US of counter measures clean out a critter infestation. a barrier between our germy hands and our In the last few weeks, as the corona- vulnerable faces was a good idea during an virus spread rapidly across the United outbreak, no matter what the official recom- Eleanor Albert States, I thought frequently about wear- mendation was. But it’s another example of Tribune News Service ing it outside. But I never did, and not how the understanding of this new disease, just because it was dusty and pinched at and how to fight it, is still evolving. MID the US response to COVID-19, my face. Back when there were just a handful of US President Donald Trump signed Truthfully, I was embarrassed. For start- confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the US, it the TAIPEI Act (Taiwan Allies ers, it feels weird to wear a mask in public in seemed appropriate to urge people to leave International Protection and En- this country, unless you’re in a hospital or a the masks for health care workers who really hancement Initiative Act) of 2019 doctor’s waiting room. It’s kind of stigma- needed them. But we now have more evidence intoA law last week. The bill passed unani- tising, actually - an exercise in drawing un- suggesting that people can spread COVID-19 mously in the House of Representatives wanted attention. Then there was the shame before they know they are infected and need in March after the Senate version was doled out by federal officials and public health to isolate themselves. Also, since there’s no unanimously approved last October. The experts, who said people who hoarded medi- shortage of do-it-yourself face mask tutorials new legislation aims to strengthen and ex- cal grade face masks such as my N95 during a online, regular people can cover their faces pand the scope of the Washington-Taipei national shortage put health care providers at without depriving a doctor or nurse of much- relationship, as well as the island’s ties to risk for infection. need infection protection. other countries and international organi- “Seriously people - STOP BUYING Still, of all the things that government sations. Meanwhile, Taiwan has received MASKS! They are NOT effective in prevent- has asked us to do - not shake hands, stay at praise for its management of the corona- ing (the) general public from catching #Cor- home, keep 6 feet away from other people - virus outbreak, despite being shut out of onavirus,” Surgeon General Jerome Adams wearing face protection outside is perhaps the the World Health Organization and the tweet-yelled at Americans on February 29, most culturally alien to Americans. We just International Civil Aviation Organization. saying that healthy people did not need to don’t do that unless we are robbing a bank or In recent years, Beijing has been actively The Global Times, a tabloid paper extent of the outbreak. Moreover, Beijing is wear face masks. the temperature has dropped below zero. courting and winning over some of Taipei’s of the CCP, published an opinion warn- seeking to take advantage of this moment What nudged me to finally swallow my But there are signs that all these steps, remaining diplomatic partners. And while ing that the TAIPEI Act could “alienate” to come to the aid of others by providing shame and take up the mask was the news as uncomfortable as they may be, are work- the number of Taipei’s official diplomatic Washington: “The double-dealing on the expertise and essential personal protective that the Centers for Disease Control and ing to slow the spread of COVID-19 infections allies may be winnowing, any moves by part of the White House has caused fierce equipment (PPE) to fill shortages for medi- Prevention, at the urging of public health in Washington state and California. If cover- Washington to bolster Taipei’s international criticism from vast Chinese people online, cal personnel around the world. Some have experts, is now considering recommend- ing up my face in public will help to flatten standing have historically stoked the flames with [sic] could further poison coopera- dubbed this China’s “mask diplomacy.” As ing that all Americans don some sort of the COVID-19 curve even further, then I’ll be of Beijing’s greatest source of international tion and understanding between the two China stands to gain from assisting coun- face protection - though not medical grade wearing my mask on the next trip to the gro- sensitivity. The Act calls for the US govern- giant countries.” tries with rapidly escalating cases, Taiwan is face masks - while outside to slow the cery store as well. ment to consider “increasing its economic, The response on the other side of the also engaging in its own PPE aid campaign, security, and diplomatic engagement with Taiwan strait in Taipei was, by compari- donating more than 10 million masks to its nations that have demonstrably strength- son, effusive. Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign diplomatic allies, European countries, and ened, enhanced, or upgraded relations with Affairs expressed the government’s thanks the United States. Taiwan” — and, by the same token, consider for the legislation in a tweet, accompanied Fluctuation in the US-China relation- “altering” relations with countries that “take by a picture of US and ROC flags with the ship has come to be a new normal under serious or significant actions to undermine message “real friends real progress.” It the leadership of Trump and Xi. Although the security or prosperity of Taiwan.” added that the Act “also paves the way for differences over economics and the trade Resolving the Taiwan question — or expanded bilateral exchanges while pre- war dominated headlines, the Trump ad- reunification in Beijing’s eyes — remains serving the country’s international space in ministration has articulated a stronger US China’s top priority. Accordingly, China’s the face of authoritarian China’s campaign commitment to Taiwan than many of his Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) was of coercion.” predecessors. From Trump’s phone call quick to respond to the passage of the new The US bill’s signing into law also comes with Taiwan’s Tsai Ing-wen while presi- US law. MFA spokesperson Geng Shuang as the flurry to manage the international re- dent-elect of the United States, to the series condemned the legislation as a violation sponse to the coronavirus reveals how cri- of US arms sales to the island and the en- of the one-China principle and the three ses present new opportunities for diplomat- actment of the TAIPEI Act, Washington has joint communiqués that delineated the ic spats and cleavages to surface. Tit-for-tat appeared more willing to speak out against normalisation of US-China relations. “We conspiracies have emerged assigning blame Beijing’s aggressive and coercive policies strongly urge the US to correct its mistake, for the origin of the virus between Wash- orchestrated to isolate Taipei and increase refrain from implementing this act and ob- ington and Beijing. China is recalibrating the island’s dependence on ties with the structing other countries’ pursuit of rela- its messaging about its own domestic COV- mainland. Only time can tell what effect the tions with China. Otherwise, it will be met ID-19 efforts, painting its harsh lockdown new legislation will have on the broader US- with resolute countermeasures from the measures as effective, while ignoring the China relationship, but it certainly adds to (Tribune News Service) Chinese side,” Geng said. state apparatus’ delay in acknowledging the the latest slump. COVID-19: A Trigger For Global Collaboration The pandemic demands coordinated action amongst world leaders in terms of health, economic, and humanitarian policy

Leslie A Pal short term, but what about the global ing the risk to African countries in par- bours, protect, defend and disengage. Doha economy? ticular. In addition to “doing whatever There will be social media campaigns The G20 met (virtually, of course) it takes” to keep the global economy by state and non-state actors to spread RAVEL bans, closed borders, lock- on March 26. Despite some tensions, afloat, G20 leaders committed to sup- blame and disinformation. According downs and blame-games by some of the leaders pledged additional sup- porting coordinated international ac- to the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, Tthe world’s political leaders — is this port for the World Health Organiza- tion for poor and developing countries. a leading think tank on extremism, it’s the end of global cooperation? National- tion (WHO) to fight the pandemic. They Cooperation was also evident in the already happening. ism was already on the rise almost eve- also promised $5 trillion to prop up the call for coordination among interna- But the pressures for global policy rywhere. Will COVID-19 make countries global economy. tional organisations like the IMF, World coordination will be stark. Health coor- more inward-oriented, less cooperative What many don’t realise is that the Bank, OECD and WHO. dination, as long as the pandemic roils and insular? G20 became a leader’s forum in re- None of this means that multilateral around the globe. Economic coordina- In the short run, yes. It looks right sponse to the 2008 financial crisis (prior cooperation will happen in itself. Coun- tion, as the global economy plunges into now like borders are closing every- to that it was only a meeting of finance tries and regions that were previously recession. Political and humanitarian where, even inside countries. But within ministers from the world’s 20 leading sceptical of globalisation will continue coordination, as health and economic a year we are likely to need more rather economies). This provided the greatest to welcome its demise. International or- turmoil spill over and create regional than less global policy coordination. shock to the global economy since the ganisations may stumble, and G20 lead- disruptions, spark conflict, migration The pandemic itself is creating and am- Great Depression and also seemed to be ers (especially the United States) may and human misery. plifying global problems that will now the death knell of globalisation and in- increasingly become preoccupied with As the G20 communique noted, demand accelerated action. terdependency. their domestic problems. COVID-19 is “a powerful reminder of The most obvious need for multi- Some countries wanted to respond We saw some of these potential pit- our interconnectedness and vulnera- lateral policy coordination is in health to this crisis by unplugging from the falls during last week’s meetings of Euro- bilities.” The virus “knows no borders.” itself. The pandemic is showing us how global economy. This was nevertheless pean Union member states. In debating Our efforts to deal with the aftermath important it is to share health infor- accompanied by the wider realisation whether to use the European Stability shouldn’t either. mation as quickly and transparently as that a global economic crisis requires Mechanism to help struggling countries, possible. Research efforts are underway a suitably global response. Over the be cooperation with a different focus. as well as the introduction of “corona [Leslie A Pal is the founding around the world to find a vaccine, and next decade, the G20 became a forum Obviously, health and pandemics will bonds,” the Nordic countries, Nether- dean of the College of Public researchers need to coordinate and con- for discussing not just economic but be front-and-centre, as extra help for lands, and Germany were resistant. Policy at Hamad Bin Khalifa nect as well. global policy challenges, including so- the WHO demonstrates. However, the Closer to home, Qatar has been un- University (HBKU)] The other obvious interdependency cial, technological and environmental effect of the virus on developing coun- der blockade since 2017. Ironically, the is the global economy, and particularly issues. However, as the global economy tries and their economies will be much blockading states are led by Saudi Ara- (This article is submitted the fate of developing economies. The recovered and problems seemed to re- greater than the disruption of 2008. bia which currently holds the G20 presi- on behalf of the author by United States, United Kingdom and cede, the forum was taken less seriously Already below international standards, dency and chaired the meeting in March the HBKU Communications Germany are first examples of rich de- by some world leaders. their healthcare systems risk being calling for global cooperation. Directorate. The views expressed veloped countries that have launched Not now. COVID-19 will provide the overwhelmed. There will be the temptation to re- are the author’s own and do massive stimulus packages. That may same spur for multilateral cooperation This issue was raised at the recent ject cooperation, play on old wounds not necessarily reflect the save their domestic economies in the as the 2008 financial crisis. But it will G20 talks, with the communique not- (and find new ones), beggar neigh- University’s official stance)

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. Europe / United States Sunday, April 5, 2020 07 NY state virus toll spikes by record 630 deaths in single day AFP tions could peak in the state in Americans urged to wear masks as New York anywhere from four to 14 days, US singer Pink infected with coronavirus, donates 1 million for tests an ever-moving target that will virus toll mounts worldwide SAN FRANCISCO: US singer comprehensively. “It is an NEW YORK state’s coronavirus test the already taxed health THE United States on Friday advised all Americans to wear masks Pink, 40, has become infected absolute travesty and failure toll rose at a devastating pace to system’s capacity to handle a in public to protect against COVID-19, fearing the illness that has with the coronavirus, the of our government to not make 3,565 deaths on Saturday, the significant influx of sick pa- infected more than one million people worldwide may be spread- mother of two announced on testing more widely accessi- governor said, up from 2,935 tients. ing by normal breathing. Friday evening on Instagram. ble,” says the star. the previous day, the largest 24- “Part of me would like to President Donald Trump said the US government recommen- Two weeks ago, she and her She said she would donate hour jump recorded there. be at the apex and just let’s do dation for all 330 million Americans to wear non-medical masks in 3-year-old son Jameson showed 1 million dollars in equal parts The state has now recorded it. But there’s part of me that places such as grocery stores would last “for a period of time.” signs of Covid-19, she wrote. to a Philadelphia clinic that 113,704 positive cases -- 63,306 says it’s good that we’re not at “It’s going to be really a voluntary thing,” Trump told reporters. The singer sharply criti- her mother worked at for 18 in New York City, where 2,624 the apex because we’re not yet “You don’t have to do it and I’m choosing not to do it, but some cised Washington for failing years and to a Los Angeles city have died -- just 6,000 short of ready,” the governor said. people may want to do it and that’s okay.” (AFP) to provide tests quickly and health insurance fund. (DPA) hard-hit Italy’s total number of He added that the federal cases. government will now staff and treatment of those infected The state is continuing its thanking the Chinese govern- said the donations from Jack the state pushes up against the In his daily briefing Gover- equip the overflow hospital at with coronavirus. The facility hunt for urgently needed ven- ment for donating 1,000 of Ma and Joseph Tsai, of Aliba- apex of the outbreak, which is nor Andrew Cuomo said infec- Manhattan’s Javits Center for can take in 2,500 patients. tilators, Cuomo said, before the life-saving devices. Cuomo ba were “really good news,” as likely to hit in about seven days.

News Hungary demands political in brief parties, foreign firms, banks Cruise ship with Spain numbers stabilise two coronavirus pay for COVID-19 impacts dead aboard docks in Miami AFP ($160 million) respectively, BUDAPEST said Gulyas, without providing MIAMI: The virus-hit Coral as coronavirus deaths further details. Princess cruise ship, with HUNGARY said on Satur- Municipalities must trans- two dead and at least a day that multinational firms, fer part of their vehicle tax dozen infected passengers banks, political parties and revenue to the fund while po- on board, docked on Sat- local councils must pay up to litical parties must pay in half urday in Miami after being head towards 12,000 combat the economic fallout of of their annual public funding turned away from several the novel coronavirus. (contributing around 3.2 mil- Latin American ports in a A package of special taxes lion euros in total to the fund). month-long odyssey. Despite slowing and obligatory contributions The measures are a blow “All of us at Princess to an emergency fund are part for cash-strapped opposition Cruises are deeply sad- infection rate, of an economic “action plan” political parties who have been dened to report that two to fight the impacts of the vi- hit with heavy fines by state guests passed away on Spanish premier rus, said Gergely Gulyas, a auditors in recent years. Coral Princess,” the cruise extends lockdown minister in Prime Minister Municipalities, including company said in a state- Viktor Orban’s cabinet. a raft of districts won nation- ment sent to AFP. “Our until April 26 The government is reallo- wide by opposition parties in hearts go out to their cating 3.7 billion euros ($4 bil- a surprise blow for Orban last family, friends and all who DPA lion) of the state budget to the year, have also since seen their are impacted by this loss.” MADRID fund, but is also “obliging mul- state funding allocations and The company provided no tinationals, political parties, scope of powers squeezed in details on the dead pas- THERE was cause for hope banks and municipalities to recent months. sengers. in Spain’s coronavirus crisis share the burden,” Gulyas told Since the nationalist pre- Princess Cruises said on Saturday, three weeks af- a press briefing in Budapest. mier came to power a decade earlier this week that a ter the introduction of a strict Special taxes will be lev- ago he has sometimes levied dozen confirmed coronavi- lockdown, with the daily rise in ied on multinational firms so-called “special taxes” on rus sufferers were on board cases declining further to less and banks that will pay into a sectors dominated by foreign the Coral Princess. (AFP) than 6 per cent. rescue fund of approximately firms like retail, energy, and Around 7,000 new cases 100 million euros ($110 mil- banking, as part of fiscal stabi- Greece extends of infection were confirmed, lion) and 150 million euros lisation drives. COVID-19 lockdown bringing the total caseload to by three weeks over 124,700, the Health Min- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez delivers a speech during a visit to a firm making respirators in istry said, making Spain the Mostoles near Madrid on Friday. (AFP) to April 27 world’s worst affected country ATHENS: Greece on Satur- other than the United States. rently stands at around 11,700. home. This is to stay in place Sweden rejects accusations day announced a three-week Over 34,000 patients have The regions of Madrid Around 7,000 new cases of until April 9 and Sanchez said extension to its coronavirus recovered from Covid-19, the and Catalonia are particularly infection were confirmed, he hoped it could be with- of lack of coronavirus action lockdown to April 27 as it potentially deadly disease struggling with the virus. bringing the total caseload drawn soon after. reported nine more deaths. caused by the novel coronavi- Despite the infection rate to over 124,700, the Health “The three weeks of iso- AFP tection, Sweden has in recent “Difficult weeks lie rus, since the start of the out- slowing, Spain’s current emer- Ministry said, making Spain lation behind us are bearing STOCKHOLM weeks been accused by some, ahead... If we relax our ef- break, a daily rise of almost gency measures are to be ex- the world’s worst affected fruit,” Sanchez told a news both internationally and do- forts, the virus will destroy 4,000. tended by another two weeks, country other than the conference. SWEDEN has got broad media mestically, of risking the lives us,” Nikos Hardalias, deputy The number of new deaths until April 26, following a vid- United States “All Spaniards are helping attention for its soft approach of its citizens by not taking minister for civil protection, has also declined, although eo conference between Prime to make this happen,” added to the new coronavirus out- more stringent measures to told a daily briefing. Saturday was the eighth con- Minister Pedro Sanchez and the premier, who described the break, but it strongly rejects curb the spread of COVID-19. The health ministry’s secutive day to see fatalities go scientific advisors to the gov- The lockdown was tight- pandemic as “the great crisis the idea that life is carrying on “No, it’s not business as special spokesman for the up by more than 800. The cor- ernment. ened on Tuesday, when a new of our lives.” The new timeline uninterrupted as the country usual in Sweden,” Health Min- virus, Sotiris Tsiodras, an- onavirus death toll in Spain, It is the second extension rule came into force requir- has to be approved by parlia- passes 6,000 confirmed cases. ister Lena Hallengren told in- nounced 60 new confirmed one of the worst-hit countries to the measures, which have ing all employees not working ment, with a vote expected on A cradle-to-grave welfare ternational media outlets this cases, bringing the national in the global pandemic, cur- been in place since mid-March. in essential sectors to stay at Thursday. state with strong social pro- week. total to 1,673, and nine deaths in the last 24 hours. Sixty-eight people have now officially died of the virus in Greece, with an Italy’s daily Covid-19 death average age of 74 years, Germany repatriates 200,000 people, 40,000 still waiting Tsiodras said. count falls under 700 The Greek government DPA be flown back. rying 72 Germans who had also landed at Frankfurt Air- is seriously concerned that BERLIN “This has not always been been stuck for weeks on the port on Saturday, police said. DPA percent from Friday. The daily the public will ignore travel easy, and in some places it Zaandam cruise ship, which According to the German ROM rate of increase has hovered restrictions and flock to the GERMANY has brought has been a bit bumpy, as one had not been able to dock in embassy in Wellington, more around this level throughout countryside and islands back around 200,000 peo- might expect in these difficult several Latin American ports than 12,000 Germans had Italy is reporting 681 new this week. ahead of Orthodox Easter, ple stranded abroad in the times,” Maas said. “But every- because of cases of Covid-19. registered for repatriation - Covid-19 fatalities, the first For the first time since the which falls April 19. (AFP) three weeks since the govern- one involved can be proud of Some passengers were the highest number globally. time the daily increase has start of the epidemic there has ment launched a repatriation this achievement. My thanks switched to a sister ship and Further evacuation flights are fallen under 700 in more than been a fall in the number of Fury at ‘Pokemon’ campaign, Foreign Minister go to the staff at the embas- the two liners were eventually planned from New Zealand in a week. people under intensive care, jibe on French TV Heiko Mass told DPA on Sat- sies and the Foreign Office allowed to disembark in Flor- the coming days. The country’s death toll, down by 74 to 3,994. “This during China’s urday. as well as to the tour opera- ida, where seven Germans Around 40,000 German the world’s highest, now is very important news be- The coronavirus crisis tors and our partners around remain. travellers in total are still stands at 15,362. cause it allows our hospitals ‘virus ceremony’ meant many of the tourists the world.” A flight landed in A first plane carrying Ger- abroad waiting to be brought The total number of infec- to breathe,” Civil Protection PARIS: A French rolling had to wait days or weeks to Frankfurt on Saturday car- mans stranded in New Zealand home. tions, including recoveries and Agency chief Angelo Borrelli news channel was forced to deaths, reached 124,632, up 4 has said presenting the figures. apologise on Saturday after one of its reporters was heard to whisper “they are burying the Pokemons” dur- ing coverage of China’s day of mourning for coronavirus Child aged five among 708 new UK’s virus victims victims. BFMTV and its journalist AFP the National Health Service Johnson, who is in self-iso- plateau but we’ll be at quite Emmanuel Lechypre were LONDON (NHS) said. lation after developing mild high levels of infection for lambasted as racist and “Patients were aged be- symptoms of the disease, or- weeks and weeks rather than “shockingly insensitive” BRITAIN on Saturday report- tween five years and 104 years dered a three-week lockdown seeing quite a rapid decline on social media after the ed a record 708 daily deaths old. 40 of the 637 patients of the country on March 23 to as the type seen in China,” he business reporter made the from COVID-19, including (aged between 48 and 93 try to cut infections. said. comment over live footage a five-year-old child, who is years old) had no known un- But there has been concern But he said that was de- of the three-minute silence thought to be the country’s derlying health condition,” it that warmer weather forecast pendent on people staying observed across China. youngest victim. said in a statement. for this weekend could tempt at home. If that happened, it Some 3,300 people The health ministry said The NHS said it would not people from their homes to could lead to less stringent have died in the pandemic 4,313 people who tested posi- be giving further information green spaces and public parks. measures in place “at least by in China, which first ap- tive for the virus in hospital about the five-year-old patient Health Secretary Matt the end of May”, he added. peared there in December, had died as of 1600 GMT Fri- at the request of the family. Hancock has warned against The announcement of an- according to official figures. day while there were 41,903 A 13-year-old boy from any relaxation in social dis- other record rise in deaths Lechypre later apolo- confirmed cases as of 0800 London, Ismail Mohamed tancing, saying: “If we do, came after 13 residents at a gised, saying that he did not GMT Saturday, up 3,735. Abdulwahab, died last week, people will die.” care home in Glasgow died in know his microphone was The toll has been steadily days after testing positive for - ‘Things will plateau’ -Im- one week in a suspected out- turned on. increasing by more than 500 COVID-19. His family said he perial College London epide- break of coronavirus. “I allowed myself to say deaths a day this week and the had no underlying illnesses. miologist Neil Ferguson, who The Burlington Court Care something totally inap- country is bracing for an ex- Senior minister Michael A woman runs past graffiti in the empty streets of Manchester on is advising the government, Home said those who died propriate, thinking that the pected peak in the next week Gove told a daily briefing that Saturday. (AFP) told BBC radio on Saturday a had underlying medical con- microphones were off. I am to 10 days. the teenager’s mother and peak was expected around the ditions and two staff members very sorry.” (AFP) A total of 637 of the lat- siblings were now showing The overall death toll now professionals, he added. Easter weekend. were being treated for COV- est deaths were in England, symptoms. included seven healthcare Prime Minister Boris “We still think things will ID-19. OPEC, allies to meet to ‘stabilise oil market’ page 10

Sunday, April 5, 2020

21,052.53 8,458.32 27,590.95 1,620.81 −360.91 pts +263.30 pts −674.36 pts Gold +0.42% German car sales plummet as Dow QE sensex virus restrictions bite page 9 Price percentage Price percentage 14.49 Brent 34.11 +13.93 % WTI 28.34 +11.93% Silver -1.09% IMF has $1 trillion S&P affirms QIB rating war chest to fight with stable outlook COVID-19 crisis QIB has set a benchmark for Islamic banks in the region by embracing new banking technologies Emerging, developing economies most vulnerable in coronavirus Tribune News Network banking industry. The Bank Doha achieved positive financial crisis, warns IMF managing director results during the fiscal year International credit rat- of 2019, with a strong perfor- Agencies She said the IMF is work- ing agency Standard & Poor’s mance across all our divisions, Washington ing with the World Bank and (S&P) on Saturday announced registering strong earnings other international financial that it has affirmed Qatar Is- and returns for the sharehold- The current coronavirus institutions to alleviate the lamic Bank’s (QIB) issuer ers. crisis is far graver than the economic fallout from the credit rating at ‘A-/A-2’ with a “As mentioned in the S&P global financial crisis a dec- outbreak. stable outlook. report, we have robust asset ade ago, but the International Georgieva said the IMF is S&P, one of the top inter- quality indicators with the ra- Monetary Fund (IMF) has a encouraging central banks in national rating agencies in the tio of non-performing financ- $1 trillion war chest ready to developed countries to sup- world, said, “Our ratings on ing assets to total financing as- fight it, said the head of IMF port emerging markets and QIB reflect our view of its ro- sets at 1.3 percent, one of the on Friday. developing countries. bust corporate banking fran- lowest in the industry. We also “This is way worse than chise, strong capitalisation, continue to follow a conserva- the global financial crisis and adequate liquidity and favour- tive impairment policy main- it is a crisis that requires us Rapid action able position as Qatar’s larg- taining a 100 percent coverage all to come together,” IMF “Our main preoccupation in est Islamic bank. We expect ratio for non-performing fi- Managing Director Kristalina this crisis is to rapidly step up QIB to continue its foray into nancing assets as of December Georgieva told more than 400 financing for countries, government and government- 2019,” he said. journalists at a virtual press especially emerging markets, related entity (GRE) business It said, “As the world expe- conference. “Emerging mar- developing countries that are while protecting its robust riences unprecedented chal- ket and developing economies faced with very significant and private-sector franchise.” lenges due to COVID-19, our are particularly vulnerable – The S&P report also high- first priority is the safety of and this is a point that I want growing needs.” lighted that QIB’s funding our customers and employees to emphasise,” she said, not- profile is dominated by core while ensuring business con- ing that more than 90 coun- customer deposits. “We expect tinuity. tries have so far approached “Our main preoccupation these deposits to remain fairly We have taken major the IMF for emergency fund- in this crisis is to rapidly step stable as they are underpinned strides to support Qatar’s ef- ing. up financing for countries, by strong long-term relation- (File photo) QIB head office forts to curb the spread of the “Their health systems are especially emerging markets, ships. The bank has also been virus, by raising awareness on already fragile, and now they developing countries that are actively tapping into the sukuk three notches higher than the banking technologies, and its ness segments. preventative measures within have been hit terribly hard faced with very significant and market over the past few Stand-Alone Credit Profile customer-centric approach to QIB also increased their the community and encour- economically. The IMF is giv- growing needs,” Georgieva years,” the report said. (SACP) to incorporate our both its product offering and customer satisfaction scores, aging our customers to bank ing those countries high prior- said. The report also reiterated view of a high likelihood of ex- the overall banking experi- further invested in their peo- from home using our compre- ity,” said Georgieva. “We have never seen ever that QIB’s long term rating is traordinary government sup- ence. ple and improved internal hensive digital channels. We “We have a $1 trillion war such a growing demand for in line with the bank’s high port if needed, given its client Registering increasing processes and efficiency across have also been proactive and chest to deal with this surge,” emergency financing,” Geor- systematic importance in Qa- and shareholder base. growth rates for the seventh the entire group. fully supportive of the meas- she said. gieva said. tar and the agency’s assess- QIB has demonstrated consecutive year, QIB deliv- QIB Group CEO Bassel Ga- ures implemented by the Gov- “Never in the history of She urged countries that ment of the Qatari govern- steady financial growth over ered a record performance mal said, “We are pleased with ernment and the Qatar Central the IMF have we witnessed tap that financing to use it to ment as highly supportive of the past years and has been in 2019, continued to make the affirmation of the rating by Bank to help the sectors and the world economy come to pay doctors, nurses and other the domestic banking sector. setting a benchmark for Is- strong progress on its digital S&P. The rating is a testament corporations impacted by the a standstill,” Kristalina Geor- health-care workers as well as The report noted that the lamic Banks in the region with transformation programme to our strength and commit- negative effects of the current gieva, managing director of for other health-care needs. long-term rating on QIB is its embrace of cutting-edge and grew across all its busi- ment to the local economy and crisis,” Gamal said. the IMF, said at a news con- ference. See also page 10  Mexican president calls for end to oil price war

Agencies exports battered in recent weeks ity? Where is the universal into “junk” territory after Fitch outbreak and a Saudi-Russia New York after the fallout from the new brotherhood? Where are the Ratings cut the rating of its price war. coronavirus eroded demand so-called heads of state?” bonds by another notch to BB “We’ll work this out and Mexican President Andres and major oil producers could Mexican Energy Minister with a negative outlook. we’ll get our energy business Manuel Lopez Obrador on not agree on how to respond. Rocio Nahle had told Reuters Earlier on Friday, Unit- back,” he told reporters while Saturday called on Russia and “How can Russia and on Friday that oil prices would ed States President Donald surrounded by cabinet mem- Saudi Arabia to reach a deal Saudi Arabia not come to an not stay this low, and that the Trump met with oil com- bers, oil-state lawmakers and soon and end their oil price agreement in order to stop oil oil price crash did not merit a pany executives at the White executives from big drillers war to avoid deepening the oil price declines that are further change in strategy. House to discuss a historic such as Exxon Mobil, Chev- price crisis. deepening the crisis?” Lopez Even so, Mexican national oil-price slump that threatens ron Corp, and Continental Re- Mexico and others have Obrador asked. “Where is the oil company Petroleos Mexi- their businesses and that was sources prior to the beginning seen the prices for their crude responsibility toward human- canos, or Pemex, slid deeper brought on by the coronavirus of private talks. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva

Trump assures of more small business funds if money runs out

payroll and some other ex- limited in how they can struc- The launch of the small business bailout penses such as rent and utili- ture help for customers whose fund has been rocky since it opened on ties. loans are owned by investors. It’s a key part of the ad- Mortgage-bond holders Friday morning ministration’s plan to keep are still requiring monthly Agencies Friday morning. the US economy from diving payments even if borrow- Washington Tens of thousands of busi- into a depression, and is de- ers do not pay. Banks have nesses have swamped lend- signed to keep people off of been willing to foot the bill US President Donald Trump ers, community bankers have unemployment. Millions of for a few months, but will said on Saturday he would complained of an inability to applications are expected on ultimately need cooperation ask Congress for more money access the Small Business Ad- Friday. from investors. to make loans to small busi- ministration (SBA)’s system But lenders have com- Some customers are find- nesses struggling with the and the Treasury Department plained in recent days that ing they are expected to write economic fallout from the was still issuing updated the Treasury and SBA have a big cheque as soon as the coronavirus outbreak if the guidance and form templates not provided clear guidance grace period ends, rather original $349 billion allo- on Friday afternoon. about their liabilities and re- than having missed payments cated in a fiscal stimulus bill As of Friday evening, sponsibilities, or functioning tacked onto the end of the runs out. lenders originated more than technology to process bor- loan. “I will immediately ask 17,000 loans valued at about rowers. Nearly 10 million Ameri- Congress for more money $5.4 billion under the pro- In addition, the fineprint cans have already filed jobless to support small businesses gram, Jovita Carranza, the US President Donald Trump addresses the daily Covid-19 briefing at the White House in Washington. of some bank terms can claims. Some economists ex- under the @ppploan if the administrator of the Small also prevent individuals from pect the unemployment rate allocated money runs out,” Business Administration, volume, and said it was not The programme is intend- more than 40 percent of US getting the assistance they eventually to spike as high Trump wrote in a post on said in a tweet. yet making loans. “While we ed to give lenders the abil- gross domestic product, and desperately need at the mo- as 12 percent in the coming Twitter. Citibank’s website on Fri- are working as quickly as we ity to make fast, low-interest- employs some 60 million ment. months and second-quarter The launch of the small day morning featured a mes- can, we are not yet able to ac- rate loans to businesses with people. The US Treasury will For instance, lenders of- US economic output to fall business bailout fund has sage asking customers for cept applications for the Pay- fewer than 500 employees back loans of up to $10m to fering 90-day forbearance as much as 40 percent from a been rocky since it opened on patience because of high call check Protection Program.” - a segment that contributes cover about eight weeks of on mortgage payments are year earlier. Economy & Business Sunday, April 5, 2020 09 QNB WEEKLY ECONOMIC REPORT German car sales plummet as virus restrictions bite Sales tumble 38 percent year-on-year to just over 215,100

AFP Frankfurt am Main

New registrations of cars on German roads plunged in March to the lowest in almost three decades, official data Global economy to showed on Friday, as restric- tions to slow the spread of the coronavirus inflicted a heavy blow. rebound in Q3, Q4 Sales tumbled 38 per- cent year-on-year to just over 215,100 according to data from the KBA vehicle licensing 2020 if virus mitigated authority. “Necessary health policy Tribune news network “only game in town” in terms of of time and health facilities col- measures, like the massive doha credible mitigation strategies. lapse. limits on public life, closure The main objective of mitiga- Moreover, preliminary of car dealerships and limited There is no future without a tion measures is to lengthen the studies support that early and ability to work in the licens- certain degree of uncertainty. time through which the virus aggressive social distancing ing offices” had braked the In fact, all meaningful activi- spreads, flattening the curve of measures during the Spanish car trade, the VDA carmakers’ ties that are undertaken con- infections before hospitals get influenza outbreak in 1918 were federation said. tinuously or within a particu- overloaded by a sudden surge key to reduce both mortality Domestic demand fell 30 lar time frame carry risks, i.e., of severe cases. The aim is to and the adverse economic con- percent, while foreign orders measured uncertainties. save lives, increase recovery sequences of the pandemic. The were down 37 percent. In a modern society, most rates and avoid unintended recent experience of early adop- In a quarterly comparison, events tend to fall within the consequences associated with ters during the initial phase of sales in January-March were No car is seen at the employees’ parking area at the headquarters of German car maker Volkswagen in confines of our regular expecta- an overwhelmed health system. Covid-19 spread (Hong Kong, down 20 percent year-on-year. Wolfsburg recently. (AFP) tions. However, certain occur- While necessary for mitiga- Taiwan, Korea and Singapore) “April is likely to be even rences are complete outliers, tion, social distancing comes are consistent with the above more catastrophic,” analysts “Forecasts for the coming many’s massive auto sector including a ban on gatherings standing in the very extreme of with economic costs. This piece findings. from consultancy EY predicted. months call for similar or even could be at risk, according to of more than two people and the probability curve and un- dives into three key points asso- Third, in countries with In European virus epi- worse falls until the crisis is recent estimate from Univer- the closure of many businesses folding consequences of mas- ciated with the strong relation- significant outbreaks, an or- centre Italy, where lockdown over,” they added. sity of St. Gallen expert Ferdi- such as restaurants. sive impact to society. ship between mitigation meas- derly transition to economic restrictions are even harsher In Germany, “even if the nand Dudenhoeffer. Meanwhile the Robert It is a convention now to ures and the global economy, and social normalcy requires a than in Germany, transport acute crisis were overcome in To weather the impact of Koch Institute (RKI) respon- call such events “black swans.” which are expected to domi- cautious stance with the use of ministry figures releasedsummer, the economic and the coronavirus restrictions, sible for disease control said Deriving their name from the nate the worldwide macro-eco- new tools and approaches to Thursday showed sales col- social consequences -- mas- major manufacturers like Friday the measures were be- legendary birds of Western nomic agenda over the coming prevent a “second wave” or fur- lapsing by more than 85 per- sive increase in unemploy- Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz ginning to slow the spread of Australia, black swan events quarters. ther spread of the disease. After cent year-on-year in March. ment, plunges in income, parent Daimler and BMW have the virus. are not only rare but also ex- transmission slows down and At just over 28,300 cars bankruptcies -- will continue closed factories and placed “We are seeing that the tremely difficult to predict and, health infrastructure is scaled registered, Italian sales were to squeeze demand strongly,” tens of thousands of workers spread of the virus is getting not least, hard to quantify. It is a convention now to up to safely handle the out- “at a level comparable with the EY predicted. on government-funded shorter slower... it’s working,” said The spread of the pneu- call such events “black break, a gradual “re-opening” early 1960s, when mass car Ratings agency Moody’s hours schemes. RKI president Lothar Wieler, monia-like virus Covid-19 is a swans.” Deriving their of the economy can take place. ownership in our country was expects the global auto market Chancellor Angela Merkel stressing that restrictions on classic black swan event. Af- name from the legendary But this requires adequate test- just getting started,” experts to contract 14 percent in 2020. said this week that restric- public life “need to be main- ter a massive outbreak in the birds of Western Australia, ing capacity for early identifi- at car industry research centre Up to 100,000 of the tions on public life would be tained” and it was too early to city of Wuhan in China in late black swan events are not cation and isolation of existing Promotor commented. roughly 800,000 jobs in Ger- extended to at least April 19, claim victory. 2019 and early 2020, the virus cases. spread throughout Asia before only rare but also extreme- Data is of utmost impor- producing other outbreaks ly difficult to predict and, tance to pinpoint areas of the globally, including in Western not least, hard to quantify. spread and the rate of exposure Europe and the US. and immunity of the population. While the possibility of a First, social distancing on This, along with infrastructure Virus impact could cut Irish global pandemic was widely a global scale produces power- for case containment and suf- known and even openly dis- ful cascading sudden economic ficient medical supplies, would cussed by experts, the probabil- stops that bring both supply be important for a smooth tran- ity of its occurrence at any par- and demand to a virtual halt. sition from horizontal social GDP by 8.3%: Central bank ticular point in time was rather As such, even the service sec- distancing (entire populations) low or hard to predict. Moreo- tor, which is normally more to vertical social distancing AFP ment is forecast to rise to 25 Ireland has suffered 98 tics Office figures indicated ver, the overall impact of a pan- resilient and less cyclical than (only the most vulnerable and Dublin per cent of the workforce in deaths from coronavirus and that 513,000 residents were demic was knowingly high but manufacturing, is particularly the infected patients). Such a the second quarter of 2020 if had 3,849 confirmed cases, unemployed, receiving either difficult to measure properly. affected. In this sense, large ser- transition would precede a full- Economic effects from the those receiving new COVID-19 according to department of jobseeker or coronavirus pay- Thus, it is not evident to vice-based economies such as scale normalization. coronavirus crisis could cause financial supports are counted health figures updated Thurs- ments from the government in find immediate, effective and the US, UK and other advanced All in all, the Covid-19 pan- Irish GDP to lose more than among the out-of-work. day evening. March. unanimous reponse on a global economies are particularly vul- demic will have a deep but rath- eight percent and prompt a Mark Cassidy, the bank’s Dublin has ordered non- In February -- when only level. As ever more countries nerable. The global economy is er temporary effect on the global sharp rise in unemployment, director of economics and sta- essential businesses to close one case of coronavirus was had to move from containment expected to head this year to the economy. Comprehensive fiscal the republic’s central bank tistics, said that because of the and enacted a travel lock- confirmed inI reland -- the to mitigation strategies glob- sharpest and deepest slowdown and monetary support in all warned Friday. current pandemic it was “not down until April 12 to stem the number of jobseekers’ pay- ally, given the existence of com- since the post-World War II de- major markets should provide Studying the “initial im- possible to produce a conven- spread of infections. ments stood at just 182,000. munity or local outbreaks of the mobilization in the late 1940s. “economic security” during the pacts” of nationwide lockdown tional forecast on the outlook “We’ve had to put our Ireland’s government has virus in Asia, Europe and the Second, over the medium slump and set the conditions for measures introduced by of- for the Irish economy. economy to sleep -- our econ- introduced COVID-19 illness, US, stronger actions had to be term, there is no trade-off be- a healthy recovery. In fact, we ficials in Dublin, and assum- “However, the near-term omy’s in hibernation,” Prime unemployment and wage sub- taken in those countries. tween Covid-19 mitigation and expect an economic rebound in ing they last three months, outlook for the economy is Minister Leo Varadkar said sidy schemes. At the time of writing, mass the economy. Make no mistake, Q3 and Q4 2020. However, this the Central Bank of Ireland very unfavourable and, be- Thursday. Business and childcare testing and different degrees there is hardly any chance of requires early and aggressive said in a statement that “GDP yond that, the path ahead for “I don’t think it’s a secret supports have also been set up of social distancing measures “normal” economic activity if actions for Covid-19 contain- could decline by 8.3 per cent economy depends on the path to anyone that the economic and 2 billion euros ($2.2 bil- such as quarantines and lock a large share of the population ment and mitigation globally in in 2020”. of the virus, both domestically picture is very bad.” lion) has been pledged to sup- downs have proven to be the gets infected in a short period an orchestrated manner. Meanwhile, unemploy- and globally,” he said. Ireland’s Central Statis- port the healthcare system. China releases $56 billion to banks in virus response sumed near-regular opera- time it adjusted the rate was The PBOC said it will be reducing the tions as the country eased in 2008. restrictions aimed at curb- ING chief economist for interest rate on banks’ excess deposits from ing the coronavirus spread, Greater China Iris Pang said: April 7, from 0.72% to 0.35% smaller firms have been lag- “The cut suggests that dam- ging behind. ages from the coronavirus AFP bank. The aim is to “effective- outbreak globally could linger Beijing The moves are the latest ly increase stable funding at least until May.” in a series of fund injections sources” and help reduce the But she added the effec- China’s central bank said on to help the world’s second- interest rates that enterprises tiveness of the RRR cuts re- Friday it would cut the reserve largest economy through the are subject to, said a PBOC mains questionable as the re- requirements for smaller fallout from the COVID-19 spokesman Friday. serve ratio for smaller banks banks to release around 400 crisis. The measure is also ex- is already low, and that banks billion yuan ($56.3 billion) in The reserve requirement pected to benefit around have been reluctant to lend liquidity, a move to counter ratio (RRR) for small and 4,000 smaller banks, which to troubled SMEs in the pan- the coronavirus impact on en- medium-sized banks will be make up the vast majority of demic. terprises. cut by 100 basis points over institutions in the banking On Tuesday, China had The People’s Bank of Chi- two tranches, on April 15 system. said it would increase the fi- na (PBOC) said in a statement and May 15 respectively, said The PBOC said on Friday nancing quotas of small- and it will also slash the interest it the PBOC. This reduces the it will also be reducing the medium-sized banks by one pays on financial institutions’ amount of cash the banks A woman and a girl wearing face masks amid the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak ride on an electric interest rate on banks’ excess trillion yuan, with authorities excess reserves for the first must hold and is aimed at bike on a street in Beijing recently. (AFP) deposits from April 7, from intending to guide smaller time in 12 years, to encourage boosting support for small, 0.72 percent to 0.35 percent. banks to lend all the funds them to use the cash rather medium and micro enterpris- The cuts target rural fi- commercial banks that oper- While China’s larger en- It pays interest on banks’ they receive at preferential than store it with the central es, the PBOC added. nancial institutions and city ate only at the provincial level. terprises have mostly re- excess reserves, and the last rates. 10 Sunday, April 5, 2020 Economy & Business WHO, IMF say OPEC, allies to meet to saving lives ‘prerequisite’ ‘stabilise oil market’ to save jobs Putin said Moscow was prepared to discuss ‘a reduction in the volume of about 10 mn bbl/day’

AFP hoods.” Geneva The pair said that in too many countries -- notably The WHO and IMF chiefs poorer ones -- the health insisted on Friday that sav- systems were “unprepared ing lives was a “prerequi- for an onslaught” of COV- site” to saving livelihoods in ID-19 patients and urged the coronavirus pandemic states to prioritise spending -- a crisis they called “one of on healthcare. humanity’s darkest hours”. “The course of the glob- World Health Organiza- al health crisis and the fate tion director-general Tedros of the global economy are Adhanom Ghebreyesus and inseparably intertwined. International Monetary Fighting the pandemic is a Fund managing director necessity for the economy Kristalina Georgieva said to rebound,” they wrote. getting the COVID-19 virus “Our joint appeal is that under control first was nec- in one of humanity’s dark- essary to revive economic est hours, leaders must step activity -- though they ad- up right now for people liv- mitted it was difficult to ing in emerging markets.” strike the right balance. They said economic ac- The world economy has tivity was “plummeting” as been pummelled by the vi- infections and pandemic rus and the associated lock- control measures affected downs, with more than half the population of the planet The world economy has under some kind of stay- been pummelled by the at-home order to stem the virus and the associated spread of the pandemic. COVID-19 has killed lockdowns, with more more than 50,000 people, than half the population while more than a million of the planet under have tested positive for some kind of stay-at- the virus. “As the world re- home order to stem the sponds to COVID-19, coun- spread of the pandemic try after country is faced with the need to contain the spread of the virus at workers, companies and sup- (File photo) An Iraqi labourer works at an oil refinery in the southern town Nasiriyah. (AFP) the cost of bringing its soci- ply chains, while financial ety and economy to a stand- conditions were tightening. AFP -- which has weighed heavily lion Barrels, and maybe sub- monthly OPEC report. still,” Tedros and Georgieva The article said that a London on economies and demand Price war stantially more”. The US is the world’s big- wrote in a joint article in record 85 countries were -- and a price war between “Could be as high as 15 gest producer with 13 mbd the British newspaper The seeking IMF emergency fi- OPEC and its allies are due OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia ● Oil prices have tumbled Million Barrels,” he added in but its shale oil has a high Daily Telegraph. nancing, and the Washing- to discuss oil production and Russia, the key player in since the beginning of the year a subsequent post. production cost and is no “At face value there is ton-based institution was cuts next week following US OPEC+. due to the fallout from the Oil prices -- which hit 18- longer profitable at current a trade-off to make: either doubling its emergency re- President Donald Trump’s The two countries failed Covid-19 -- which has weighed year lows earlier this week prices. save lives or save liveli- sponse capacity from $50 claim that leading producers to agree further output cuts heavily on economies and -- rallied sharply following The figures cited for the hoods. This is a false dilem- billion up to $100 billion -- Russia and Saudi Arabia will at a meeting at the Vienna- demand -- and a price war Trump’s statements, mark- possible output reduction ma -- getting the virus un- effectively making twice as slash output to boost tum- based Organization of the between OPEC kingpin Saudi ing a record rise in a day’s would represent “a massive der control is, if anything, a much money available as in bling prices. Petroleum Exporting Coun- Arabia and Russia, the key trading on Thursday. 10 percent cut to global out- prerequisite to saving liveli- previous emergencies. The meeting was origi- tries (OPEC) last month, player in OPEC+ On Friday, Brent stood put,” calculated LCG analyst nally expected to be held via leading Riyadh to open the at $34.11, up 14 percent, and Jasper Lawler. video conference on Mon- oil taps to flood the market. ● Oil prices -- which hit WTI at $28.34, up 12 per- “The question is how day, but now looks likely OPEC+ member Azerbai- 18-year lows earlier this week cent. much has demand dropped to be pushed back to “take jan’s Energy Ministry said -- rallied sharply following However, a deal “at this because the coronavirus place later in the week,” said in a press release that next Trump’s statements, marking stage seems more like specu- lockdown?” he said, referring a source close to OPEC, who week’s meeting would aim lation than something likely to strict containment meas- asked not to be named. to discuss the adoption of a a record rise in a day’s to happen quickly,” warned ures put in place around the On Thursday, kingpin “new declaration of coopera- trading on Thursday Carlo Alberto De Casa of Ac- world to stem the coronavi- exporter Saudi Arabia called tion”. tivTrades. rus pandemic. for an urgent meeting of Russian President tin said. Rystad Energy analyst “Ten million barrels is OPEC and other countries to Vladimir Putin said Friday According to a Russian Per Magnus Nysveen, who probably still not enough,” “stabilise the oil market” fol- that Moscow was prepared source cited by the TASS described next week’s meet- he added. lowing a phone call between to discuss “a reduction in the news agency Friday, US of- ing as a “poker game”, also Josh Mahony of IG Trump and Saudi Crown volume of about 10 million ficials have been invited to warned that “the sticking warned that with the chanc- Prince Mohammed bin Sal- barrels a day, a little less, take part in the meeting. point is how much each pro- es for a deal “fairly low”, the man. maybe a little more.” Trump surprised inves- ducer is willing to cut”. market was “setting itself up Oil prices have tumbled “I believe that it is nec- tors on Thursday by tweet- In February, Russia put for painful disappointment, A physician attends a COVID-19 patient at The HMC Westeinde since the beginning of the essary to combine efforts in ing: “I expect & hope” Riyadh out some 10.7 mbd, while which could see the gains Hospital in The Hague on Saturday. (AFP) year due the fallout from order to balance the market and Moscow will be cutting Saudi Arabia produced 9.8 of the past 48 hours quickly the coronavirus pandemic and reduce production,” Pu- back “approximately 10 Mil- mbd, according to the last erased.” Giant small biz programme poses herculean challenge for US banks

to say that the bank did have Experts on small business finance have lauded the an electronic link, “so as of 9:03 am we have a mechanism programm’s intentions, but expressed skepticism to turn in the applications to the SBA.” AFP on everything from bank mon- $349 billion Paycheck Pro- At Legacy Toys, Ruoho has New York ey laundering rules to how fast tection Program, which pro- been encouraged at the con- loans could be issued from vides forgivable loans to small sumer hunger for toys as he After laying off almost all lenders not previously part of businesses that retain their quickly pivots to e-commerce, of his workforce across seven the SBA programs. On top of workers or rehire laid-off em- a domain the company has stores, Legacy Toys owner that were nitty-gritty details ployees by June 30. suddenly embraced as a rev- Brad Ruoho sees a path to about forms and documenta- The funds can be used to enue stream after previously rehiring them only if the new tion. finance eight weeks of payroll viewing it as more of a long- $350 billion US small business The SBA on Twitter point- or rent and are designed to al- term prospect. lending program performs as ed to huge interest in the pro- low small businesses such as Each day, Ruoho and a promised. gram -- with more than $2 restaurants, stores and hair few other employees prepare Passage of the giant US re- billion in loans around 1900 salons to maintain their em- packages at the company’s lief package that includes the GMT -- but it wasn’t clear how ployees while remaining shut- Mall of America store for UPS program “enabled us to feel quickly those funds would tered for public health. delivery. more confident about bring- flow to companies that face Small businesses, which The mall itself is “kind of ing on extra help,” said Ruoho, immediate cashflow problems. represent a segment of the creepy,” he said. whose Milwaukee-based chain Jim Friedlander, president economy with less access to People wearing masks and gloves wait to enter Home Depot in Freeport, New York on Friday. (AFP) “The waterfalls are all has already re-hired 10 of 75 of New York-based Arrange- private capital than larger drained.” Ruoho added. employees to support a grow- ments Abroad which organiz- companies, have received bi- bandwidth given the scale of began taking information from Crain said there was broad “There’s nobody here.” ing e-commerce push. es vacation packages, fears the partisan support under the need. clients, while Wells Fargo said interest in the program, with At Arrangements Abroad, Ramping up the massive funds may not arrive in time to program, which is just one el- At a press briefing Thurs- it was “working as quickly as some 600 inquiries in the staff are working with clients program will be a herculean avoid laying off some of his 32 ement of the $2 trillion relief day night, US Treasury Secre- possible to be ready.” Minneapolis-St. Paul area and to postpone or cancel trips. task for the Small Business employees. bill signed into law last week tary Steven Mnuchin said the An unknown is how much a similar number in the rural Unlike Legacy Toys, which Administration (SBA) and for “The government to its by Trump. government had doubled the the SBA will streamline the parts of the state. already has an SBA loan, the the nation’s banks during a credit is trying to do some- Experts on small busi- interest rates on the loans to normally onerous due dili- On Thursday, Crain still tourism company is seeking period of skyrocketing unem- thing fast and big and you do ness finance have lauded the one percent following com- gence process that can take was not sure Bremer had a fi- its first loan under an agency ployment. want to be careful to avoid program’s intentions, but plaints from small banks and weeks, a banking source said. nal lending form from the SBA program. Signs were mixed by Friday fraud,” Friedlander said. “But expressed skepticism that insisted the program would be “The details are happen- for the paycheck protection Employees are also work- afternoon, with the biggest US it is helpful to have clear infor- Washington would be able to “up and running tomorrow.” ing in real time,” said Jeanne program. By Friday morn- ing to set up the 2022 schedule banks at various stages of roll- mation so you don’t have the execute as quickly as needed. But just what that means Crain, chief executive of Brem- ing, the bank was more cer- for a hopefully sunnier time. ing out their programs and the expectation that the money is They question whether remains unclear. er Bank, a St. Paul, Minnesota tain it had the final form, but “This is an opportunity to status of many lenders chang- going to come right away.” the SBA, which will guarantee JPMorgan Chase, which lender. “They are writing this a spokeswoman said that they get the best hotels and the best ing by the minute. A linchpin of the newly the loans, and the private US had earlier said it did not ex- as the clock ticks and we’re had no means to submit it. boats for the best rates,” Fried- There are also questions enacted US relief bill is a banking industry have enough pect to launch on Friday, also right there behind them.” A bit later, she wrote back lander said. England captain Heather Knight joins NHS to bat against coronavirus

Sunday, April 5, 2020 Xavi donates €1mn to Barcelona hospital; Neymar $1mn for Brazil

AFP country stands at 11,744, second only Madrid to Italy. The number of new Spanish cases Former Barcelona and Spain star also slowed at 7,026, taking the total Nuria and I, we support the Xavi Hernandez and his wife have do- to 124,736. Hospital Clinic of Barcelona’s nated €1million ($1.08 million) to the fight against the coronavirus. city’s Hospital Clinic to help the fight Neymar donates $1mn against the coronavirus pandemic. Meanwhile, Neymar has donated Thanks to the donations they are “Xavi Hernandez and Nuria Cu- $1 million to fight the impact of the receiving, the hospital has nillera have made a donation of one new coronavirus in his native Brazil, million euros to the clinic to face up according to TV network SBT. acquired equipment for patients to COVID-19. Thanks a lot for your The Paris Saint-Germain star, and healthcare professionals help and support... All together, we the world’s third-highest-paid foot- will get there,” the hospital tweeted Neymar donated part of baller, donated part of the money to Xavi Hernandez on Saturday. the money to the United the United Nations Children’s Fund “Nuria and I, we support the Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the rest to a charitable possible candidate in Brazil’s Hospital Clinic of Barcelona’s fight (UNICEF), and the rest fund launched by his friend Luciano 2022 presidential election, against the coronavirus. Thanks to to a charitable fund Huck, a Brazilian TV presenter, the launched his fund to help poor the donations they are receiving, the launched by his friend report said. Rio de Janeiro neighbor- hospital has acquired equipment for Luciano Huck. The striker’s press office declined hoods particularly vulner- patients and healthcare profession- to comment, saying: “We never talk able to coronavirus. als,” Xavi said in a video posted on about donations or amounts.” The donations come as his Twitter account. Neymar, 28, followed the exam- high-paid footballers face The former World Cup winner sacked Ernesto Valverde. Spain, which is under a near- ple of PSG teammate Kylian Mbappe, pressure to forego some of and two-time European champion Lionel Messi, Pep Guardiola, Ra- total lockdown, on Saturday re- who last month made what was de- their salaries amid the cri- with Spain is currently in charge fael Nadal and Pau Gasol are among corded a second successive daily scribed as a major donation -- amount sis, which has ground the of Al-Sadd in Qatar and turned several Spanish sports stars to have fall in coronavirus-related deaths undisclosed -- to a French charity sporting world to a halt and down an approach from Barce- donated or led fundraising campaigns with 809 fatalities. helping fight the impact of COVID-19. left some clubs struggling to lona in January after the club to help combat the deadly virus. The total number of deaths in the Huck, who has been touted as a pay their staff. Serbian football Premier League players have ‘backs Swim star Peaty adjusts to life player arrested with no pool, says solidarity for violating lockdown rules against wall’ over coronavirus: Rose fund for swimmers ‘huge’ AFP now is to go forward and DPA London make a donation.” AFP when we can get back. Belgrade Sheffield United boss London “(I’m doing) gym in the Newcastle defender Danny Chris Wilder has backed house then a lot of running, a Serbian football interna- Rose says footballers feel their players and managers to “do Cyclists and rowers can stay lot of cycling, but mainly just tional Aleksandar Prijovic “backs are against the wall” the right thing” by taking a in top shape in their personal staying on top of the core.” was arrested for violating over talks about wage cuts, pay cut. gyms even during the corona- Earlier, the Olympic 100 lockdown rules in connection with Premier League clubs “A lot of footballers, past virus shutdown but Olympic metres breaststroke champion with the novel coronavirus due to speak with players’ rep- and present, have got a huge swimming champion Adam called the International Swim- pandemic, a top police offi- resentatives on Saturday. conscience about what we do Peaty has to make do with no ming League’s emergency cial confirmed on Saturday. Top-flight stars, cur- and doing the right thing,” pool. fund of £15 million ($18.3 The Saudi side Al Ittihad rently out of action due to he told the BBC. Britain’s Peaty, an eight- million) for swimmers in the striker was a part of a group the coronavirus, have come Wilder said any decisions time world champion, would wake of the coronavirus pan- which broke the rule ban- under fire after a number made should be taken in a have been preparing for the demic “huge for the sport”. ning groups larger than five, of clubs furloughed non- united way. Olympic Games in Tokyo had The ISL has introduced Belgrade police director playing staff but left players’ He added: “It is impor- COVID-19 not forced a post- the ‘solidarity programme’ to Vladimir Rebic told the state wages untouched. tant we get it right and don’t ponement. help swimmers continue to broadcaster RTS. The Premier League said go individual. It is a little bit It has forced the 25-year- train for major events such as There were 17-18 people on Friday that clubs would disappointing now when you old to change his workout the Olympics which have been in the group, sitting in a Bel- consult players over a combi- Danny Rose, who is on loan at Newcastle from Tottenham. see clubs making individual schedule and postponed to grade restaurant. The restau- nation of pay cuts and defer- statements and going their diet. 2021. rant should also have been rals amounting to 30 percent “I can only speak for “We sort of feel our backs own way.” “Swimming The fund, closed, as only deliveries are of their annual salary. myself but I would have no are against the wall,” Rose Burnley said they would is one of those which will run allowed, he said. They also agreed to pro- problems whatsoever con- said. “Conversations were be- face a shortfall of up to £50 mil- things where from Septem- “Both the guests and the vide a £125 million ($153 tributing some of my wages ing had before people outside lion if the Premier League sea- you can’t re- ber 2020 un- restaurant operators are re- million) fund for the English to people who are fighting of football were commenting. son could not be completed due ally train un- til July 2021, sponsible,” Rebic said, add- Football League and Nation- this on the front line and to “I’ve been on the phone to the COVID-19 pandemic. less you’re in will be worth ing that all inside, including al League and pledged £20 people who have been af- to Jordan Henderson and “It’s a completely unprec- the water and around £1,200 Prijovic, 29, were brought in million in charitable support fected by what’s happening he’s working so hard to come edented situation that we unfortunately a month to the to face prosecutors. for the National Health Ser- at the minute.” up with something. and other Premier League we’re not going more than 300 The incident happened vice and other groups. On Friday, a hospital in “It was just not needed clubs face and which we to be in the wa- swimmers who on Friday before the 5pm - Newcastle, where Rose is London identifiedR ose as the for people who are not in- could not have foreseen in ter for probably are part of the 5am curfew began. on loan, and his parent club, individual behind a £19,000 volved in football to tell foot- any way only just a few weeks another three Britain’s Adam Peaty won ISL -- where Initial reports said that Tottenham, are among clubs donation to hospital funds. ballers what they should do ago,” said Burnley chairman weeks, mini- 100m breaststroke gold at they compete the Swiss-born Prijovic, with to have furloughed some Liverpool skipper Jordan with their money. I found Mike Garlick. mum,” Peaty the 2016 Rio Olympics. for franchised 13 caps for Serbia, had been non-playing staff. Henderson led talks between that so bizarre.” “It’s now not just about told BBC Radio. teams. arrested for violating the Bournemouth manager Ed- Premier League club cap- Wolves captain Conor Burnley or any other individu- “It’s really hard for a non- Last year was the inaugu- curfew. die Howe and Brighton coun- tains over what action they Coady said it was time for al club any more, it’s about the swimmer to understand the ral series. Serbian authorities terpart Graham Potter have could take, a move that be- players to help out. whole football ecosystem from connection you have with the Peaty, world record hold- strongly enforce the curfew both taken voluntary wage cuts. gun before Health Secretary “What’s come out now is the Premier League down- water. They say a day out (of) er in both the 50 and 100m and other rules in a bid from “We’re all keen to make Matt Hancock on Thursday the 30 percent cut,” he said. wards and all the other busi- the water is two days to get breaststroke, said the fund stopping the epidemic from something happen,” Rose joined those singling out “We get judged every single nesses and communities that back so it just depends on how provided some assurance at spreading explosively. told the BBC. footballers. day of our lives. The time feed from that ecosystem.” long the lockdown lasts and an unpredictable time. Ons Jabeur ‘confused’ about rest of tennis season after Wimbledon cancellation

unisian tennis star and normally grass is good ber one Caroline Wozniacki on Arab woman to reach the The Tunisian’s success has Ons Jabeur has told BBC for my game,” Jabeur told the way in a match which ended world’s top 50. brought her huge support from TSport Africa that the can- BBC Sport Africa. Wozniacki’s career. She said her friends and back home and beyond, where Honestly, I’m cellation of Wimbledon has left “Honestly, I’m disappoint- Jabeur added that the con- family in Tunisia and across she is inspiring others to take her “confused” about the re- ed they took this decision. straints of social distancing the world are in her thoughts. up the sport. disappointed they took mainder of the season. And I’m pretty confused about mean that maintaining her fit- “I’m speaking to my “For everyone who’s follow- this decision. And I’m The 25-year-old, a rising what it’s going to do for the ness is a challenge. parents almost every day,” ing me in Africa, or Tunisia or pretty confused about star up to the outbreak of the season now, since Wimbledon “I’m in New York right now she said. in the Arab world - it’s a shame what it’s going to do coronavirus pandemic, has will not count. - I’m kind of stuck here,” she “They’re safe - they’re that this season has stopped for for the season now, reached a career-high rank- “How is it going to be pos- said. staying home, following what now - after my performance at ing of 39, and said she was sible to just play in one Grand “We are allowed to go run- should be done. My brother the Australian Open. since Wimbledon will “feeling pretty sad” after the Slam or two now? I don’t know ning. So I go running. and sister are in Paris and “I have no idea when we’ll not count. All England Club announced how it’s going to work. “I’m mostly doing a lot of Germany so they’re also pretty be back. But honestly, I’m re- the cancellation of this year’s “Hopefully, the other exercises at home. But since much locked down since it’s ally glad the fans are following championships. Grand Slams will not be can- it’s a little bit small, I try not very strict in Europe. me. I want to thank them a lot She reflected on the latest celled. Let’s hope for the best.” to. I’m just doing my best. I “I hope everybody’s safe. for being there for me, sending developments from New York, The popular Tunisian cannot play tennis right now I don’t think anybody’s going me messages. where she is currently staying. enjoyed a strong start to the unfortunately. Let’s see how out just to walk or anything “I’m really thankful to be “I’m actually feeling pret- 2020 season, reaching her this will go.” - only for necessary things. part of Africa and hopefully I ty sad about cancelling Wim- first GrandS lam quarter-final Jabeur’s rise up the rank- And for me, it’s just for run- can do more to inspire a lot of bledon - I mean this is one of in Australia. ings has thrilled tennis fans ning or groceries - that’s what young generations and send a Australian Open quarter-finalist Ons Jabeur of Tunisia is in New York. my favourite tournaments, She beat former world num- in Africa. She is also the first I usually do.” good message.” (BBC.com) 12 Sunday, April 5, 2020 Sports Australia coach Langer backs Bryant leads 2020 Hall cricket behind closed doors AFP ($76 million) aid package London in response to the spread of COVID-19 which has seen the of Fame honourees Australia coach Justin start of the English season de- Langer believes resuming layed until May 28 and placed cricket behind closed doors question marks over the future when it is safe to do so will of lucrative incoming tours by have “great value” for the the West Indies, Pakistan and public, deprived of action by Australia. the coronavirus shutdown. But with the ECB placing Like almost the entire some administrative staff on sporting schedule around the the British government’s re- world, cricket has been halt- duced pay job retention fur- ed by the pandemic, with no lough scheme, questions were return date set in stone. Justin Langer raised over whether the likes One of the options being of Test captain Joe Root and mooted is to have the sport England fielding two teams all-rounder Ben Stokes, who resume after restrictions on the same day at separate earns close to a £1 million a have been lifted, but in empty venues if the coronavirus led year from the ECB as a star stadiums. to a compressed home inter- performer in red and white “When you started off national season. ball cricket, should accept a playing cricket, when you salary reduction as well. were under age, there’s no England cricket stars “Following a meeting to- crowds there,” he told BBC donate £500,000 day of all of the England men’s Radio. In London, England’s centrally contracted cricket- “You played it because centrally contracted cricket- ers, the players have agreed you loved playing the game, ers have agreed to make an to make an initial donation of you loved playing with your “initial donation” of £500,000 £0.5million to the ECB and to mates and you loved playing ($612,000) in response to the selected good causes,” said a the game. financial crisis engulfing the statement issued by the PCA “For the love of the game, game as a result of the corona- on behalf of England’s Player and for still being able to en- virus outbreak. Partnership group. tertain people through TV Friday’s statement issued “The precise details of the sets or radio, then there’s val- by the Professional Cricket- charitable donation will be ue in (playing behind closed ers’ Association, the players’ decided over the next week by doors). union, came just days after the the players.” “Yes it’s different, but England and Wales Cricket The statement added the we’ll never, ever, ever take Board said chief executive contribution was the “equiva- for granted how lucky we are Tom Harrison had volun- lent of all of the England cen- ever again.” teered to take a 25 percent pay trally contracted players tak- World Cup-winning cap- cut. ing a 20 percent reduction in tain Eoin Morgan said this Tuesday saw Harrison their monthly retainers for the week that he was open to unveil the ECB’s £61 million next three months”.

In this file photo taken on April 11, 2016, Kobe Bryant (No. 24) of the Los Angeles Lakers tries to drive around Dion Waiters of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second quarter of a NBA game at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Five-time NBA champion Kobe Bryant headed a star-studded list of honourees named to basketball’s 2020 Hall of Fame on Saturday. (AFP) Qatar Online Racing Championship AFP time NBA Finals MVP Tim historic of all time and the “Today we thank the first round at 2 pm today Los Angeles Duncan, 15-time NBA All- talent and social influence Class of 2020 for all they Star Kevin Garnett, two-time of these nine honourees is have done for the game of Five-time NBA champion NBA champion coach Rudy beyond measure,” said John basketball and we look for- Kobe Bryant headed a star- Tomjanovich and four-time Doleva, Chief Executive of ward to celebrating them at studded list of honourees Olympic medallist Tamika the Hall of Fame. enshrinement in August.” named to basketball’s 2020 Catchings. “In 2020, the basketball The basketball world Hall of Fame on Saturday. Other inductees include community has suffered the was left stunned by Bryant’s The Los Angeles Lakers three-time NCAA National unimaginable loss of iconic death earlier this year, with icon, who died in a helicop- Championship coach Kim figures Commissioner David the crash also claiming the ter crash in January, was Mulkey, college basketball Stern and Kobe Bryant, as life of his daughter Gianna named alongside nine hon- coach Barbara Stevens and well as the game itself due to and seven others. ourees who will be enshrined longtime FIBA executive COVID-19. The NBA season has also at the Naismith Memorial Patrick Baumann, who died “We have also banded been left in disarray by the Basketball Hall of Fame on of a heart attack in 2018 at together like never before coronavirus pandemic, with August 29. the age of 41. in appreciation of the game the campaign halted indefi- Joining Bryant in the “The Class of 2020 is un- and those who have made it nitely last month and the sport’s pantheon are three- doubtedly one of the most the uniting force it is today. league currently on hiatus.

Ex-F1 ringmaster Miandad wants spot-fixers to be hanged Ecclestone to be Tribune News Network corrupt players representing ly. According to him, forgive- father again at DOHA Pakistan again after making a ness should be the last thing on age of 89 public apology. However, Mi- the PCB officials’ minds while Pakistan’s cricket great andad didn’t support the idea dealing with such players. Javed Miandad has zero sym- of bringing the players back, “These things go against the AFP pathies for culprits who are or and instead, demanded PCB to teachings of our religion (Islam) London get involved in spot-fixing and inflict tough sanctions on such and should be treated accord- match-fixing scandals while perpetrators. ingly... PCB is not doing the Colourful former Formula representing their nation. “Spot-fixers should beright thing by forgiving them. One boss Bernie Ecclestone is to Speaking on his YouTube hanged because it is similar to People who bring these play- become a father at the age of 89 channel, Miandad demanded killing someone and so the pun- ers back should be ashamed of with his wife Fabiana Flosi, who strict punishment for players ishment should also be on the themselves.” is half his age, expecting a son in bringing shame to the country, same lines. An example should Miandad felt that players July, he told The Daily Mail on such as hanging them for such be set so that no player even who were involved in selling Friday. crimes as those actions were thinks about doing something their country’s pride must be The Qatar Motor and Motorcycling Federation (QMMF) will organise the first of the nine-race online Ecclestone, who revolution- similar to killing someone. like this.” He explained that cor- made to realise that those activ- series on Sunday on its YouTube channel - QMMF TV. The live streaming will start at 2 pm and fans ised Formula One as chief ex- Miandad’s opinion came rupt practices like match-fixing ities weren’t humanitarian. He may follow action by joining the channel. Forty-five drivers, divided into three group, are participating ecutive from 1978 to 2017, has after senior players Moham- go against the teachings of Is- even went to the extent of say- in the online racing challenge, an initiative of the QMMF, as the coronavirus pandemic has brought three adult daughters from two mad Hafeez and Shahid Af- lam and players found violating ing that players practicing such the whole world nearly in lockdown situation. previous marriages. ridi weighed in on the topic of religion must not be taken light- things didn’t deserve to live. “There’s nothing that unu- sual is there?” he told the news- paper from the couple’s home in Brazil. AFP could aid with schedule con- passed 270,000, over 100,000 “I haven’t had a job for a lit- Paris gestion and would also see it of them in New York state. tle while so I have had plenty What now revent to odd years -- as was The Masters, which was of time to practise! I don’t see The Masters and PGA Cham- the case before the biennial due to start on April 9 at Au- there’s any difference between pionship have been postponed match was postponed by 12 gusta, could reportedly be held being 89 and 29.” indefinitely with the US Open months in 2001 after the 9/11 in the week of November 9, Ecclestone said his greatest and British Open expected to for golf attacks on the United States. and the PGA Championship -- delight was for his 44-year-old follow suit, while the corona- The Presidents Cup could then postponed from May -- could marketing executive wife. virus pandemic has prompted shift to even years as a knock- be slotted in at Harding Park “Yes, she (his wife) is thrilled. three of the five women’s ma- season on effect. in San Francisco in August. We’re not sure what all the fuss is jors to be rescheduled with A decision on the fate of about! I’m very happy and hap- tour action suspended until Major revamp? the British Open is expected py really for my wife, she’s been late May at the earliest. The postponement of the within days, although it is looking forward to this happen- AFP Sport looks at what in 2020? Masters on March 13 set in highly unlikely the competi- ing for quite a few years so I’m happens next for golf in 2020. motion a domino effect that tion could be held later than happy she’ll have someone after takes-all $9 million pay- television rights. rington told the Daily Mail. has forced organisers to put September due to the weather. I’m gone.” he said. Woods v Mickelson show- per-view event dubbed “The next month’s US PGA Cham- A delay until next year would Ecclestone, who said his down up next? Match” staged in Las Vegas Ryder Cup reshuffle on “Wouldn’t that be a nice pionship on hold, as well as also impact plans to hold the daughters were delighted with With the leading men’s two years ago. the cards? way for the sport to start find new dates for at least 150th edition at St Andrews. the news of the family addition, and women’s tours across the The event would be Europe captain Padraig back?” three women’s majors -- the The women’s ANA Inspi- hoped age had improved his US and Europe on hold for the played on a course without Harrington believes the Ryder Harrington also said he Evian Championship, ANA ration at Rancho Mirage, Cali- parenting skills. next two months, a rematch of spectators, only a small crew Cup, planned for September would prefer to pick 12 players Inspiration and US Women’s fornia was due to have taken “We don’t know, probably the November 2018 one-on- to televise it, and each of the 25-27 at Whistling Straits in and do away with qualifying Open. place this weekend but was better than before, probably a one showdown between Tiger four sports stars would follow Wisconsin, should go ahead rather than delay the event. American reports earlier postponed until September, bit more relaxed!” Woods and Phil Mickelson social distancing guidelines, as planned even if it is the first However Paul Casey, a this week said the men’s 120th while the Evian Champion- The former F1 ringmaster could be the next event on the with Golf.com saying the competition to be played after member of the winning Eu- US Open, slated for June 18-21 ship in France has been moved said he was mindful of the dan- golf calendar. course would be an unspeci- the shutdown. rope team in France in 2018, at Winged Foot in Mamaron- from its original July 23-26 gers posed by the coronavirus Reports indicate NFL fied Florida venue. “In many ways it would be has called for the tournament eck, New York, was also likely slot to August 6-9. pandemic. greats Tom Brady and Pe- The encounter would perfect if the Ryder Cup was to be put back 12 months, to be put back until later in the The USGA moved the “You hope it’s not going yton Manning could feature help raise money for coro- the first tournament back. while Paris hero Tommy Fleet- summer. women’s US open from June to happen but these things do alongside Woods and Mick- navirus relief efforts, but it Just 12 guys from Europe and wood conceded it would be The course was closed last to December, leaving only the happen so you just have to cope, elson in a two-on-two se- still requires approval from 12 guys from America, with no “fairer in qualificationterms” week, since when the num- PGA (June 25-28) and British what else can you do?” he told quel. Mickelson defeated his the US PGA Tour, which prize money at stake and com- were the event played in 2021. ber of confirmed COVID-19 Open (August 20-23) in their the Mail Online. longtime rival in a winner- controls players’ media and peting just for the glory,” Har- Postponing the Ryder Cup cases in the United States has original time slots for now. Sunday, April 5, 2020 13 Reports by Ailyn Agonia For events and press releases email [email protected] or Ailyn Agonia Kabayan Corner Ailyn Agonia call (974) 4000 2222 Ailyn Agonia Filipino groups make the most of technology and social media to connect The decision of the group’s top leadership to maximise the use of technology and social media amid the current health and safety situation in the country is aligned with their commitment to the objectives and programmes of their Using her passion organisation and their members. The move for cooking to bring is a show of strong support to the efforts a positive impact of Qatar government to slow down the spread xpatriate Nene Joan Toribio believes of coronavirus by Ethe positive things you urging people to avoid do for other people can often reverberate back to social gatherings by create positivity in your staying at home A video grab of Megaworld Team Qatar’s video conference own life. This principle motivated her to make use hen meeting face- March 17. They are now work- of her passion and talent to-face is not an op- ing for the March issue with for cooking to bring cheers tion, many Filipino the scheduled release of April to people especially in groups and organisa- 15. This is being released in these times of crisis. Wtions as well as companies in the form of soft copy and sent A passionate cook Qatar have resorted to using through the individual e-mails and a proud mother of technology to carry on with of members and pertinent of- four, Nene is known in their respective tasks at hand. fices. News gathering is also the community for whip- Among them is the Philip- carried out remotely through ping up authentic Filipino pine Institute of Civil Engineers different media applications.” dishes, snacks and street (PICE) Qatar Chapter, one of Meanwhile, Megaworld food which she showcases the most active Filipino profes- International Territory Head/ mainly during local food sional groups in the country. Vice President for Sales of festivals and bazaars. Re- PICE-Qatar President En- MEA1 Bhem Aspe said while cently though, as activi- gineer Sheila Medel said the the use of technology has been ties have slowed down in want to give back to the decision of their group’s top at the core of their operations Qatar in a bid to curb the community in a way I know leadership to maximise the being a premier Philippine spread of the coronavirus best- through my cooking! use of technology and social company with presence across (COVID-19), she decided With the current heath and media given the current health the globe, their experience to reach out and offer free safety situation, I know that and safety situation in the with such means of commu- meals to healthcare work- good, free meals can bring country is aligned with their nications came in very handy ers, drivers, other front- joy and happiness to people commitment to the objectives in how she efficiently manages liners and those in need. somehow,” Nene said. and programmes of their or- her team in Qatar with the pre- According to Nene, her ob- Since the launch of her ganisation and their members. vailing situation. jective is simple. She said initiative, Nene has been Similarly, she said the move is She said, “The use of video she simply wants to bring preparing meals good for a show of strong support to the this pandemic will have mini- “We make use of Viber ap- 8:00am to 12:00pm through conferences is a norm in the smile on the faces of peo- 150 to 200 people. She efforts of Qatar government to mum impact on our daily lives plication as a form of effective Zoom app,” Medel said. global operations of Mega- ple through a genuine ges- said, she has been receiving slow down the spread of coro- and to the existence and objec- communication with our Board She added, “Our review world. In my case, since I ture of sharing good food. many requests daily which navirus (COVID-19) by urging tives of PICE Qatar. With this, of Directors as well as our mem- programme for the Board Ex- handle the operations of our “Through my Facebook she tries to accommodate. people to avoid social gather- all our events that are contrary bers. This is carried-out with amination for civil engineers company across the GCC, page J6’s Takoyaki at Ihaw- “I have a limited budget ings by staying at home. to the implementation of self- due consideration to control is without let up every Friday such platform is our only way Ihaw, I try to reach out to but I try to make do with “The current situation is quarantine, social distancing and regulation of information from 8:00am to 5:00pm. This to communicate either to hold our brave Filipino frontlin- what I have to continue this first and foremost an extraor- and mass gatherings including dissemination, wherein we tried is facilitated through zoom meetings, provide updates ers, those who are currently project of mine. Actually, a dinary one that most of the or- face to face meetings, trainings, to prevent also the circulation application wherein the in- and presentations. It has also out of job, those who have small amount can actually go ganisations including PICE Qa- seminars and sports activities of fake news. Facebook appli- structor and the students par- been our means to connect not been receiving their a long way and can feed about tar are not prepared to handle. are effectively suspended un- cation is used as an additional ticipated to the event through with our clients. In managing salaries on time and practi- a hundred people. All I ask is However, as a mature organi- til further notice,” Medel told platform to inform members video conferencing. There my team in Qatar, we have cally those who needs some for these people to also be sation, our Board of Directors Qatar Tribune. of current events and plan and is also a plan to conduct our also resorted to video confer- cheering up at this time. I a source of positive vibes in have ensured that we will con- According to the PICE Qa- other announcements that are trainings true webinar using ences for updates, meetings offer them free meals ei- their own little ways to others tinue with our programmes and tar President, in order to con- of members’ interest. While the same Zoom applications. and other transactions to en- ther for lunch or dinner, and pray for the situation to services to the members with nect with officers and mem- Zoom application is being The works for the monthly sure the safety of each and whatever is available. I just get better,” said Nene. full support and in line with the bers of their organisation, adapted in the conduct of our publication of our PICE Qa- everyone and in compliance to Qatar government’s quest to they are making use of Viber monthly Board meetings. Last tar Newsletter which is also government policies aimed at effectively fight Covid-19. We and Zoom applications as well April 3, we successfully com- continuing with the Febru- the protection of the nationals ensure as much as possible that as Facebook. pleted our Board Meeting from ary 2020 issue released last and residents.”

A video grab of PICE Qatar board meeting via video conference 14 Sunday, April 5, 2020 The Last Word MME officials intensify inspection of food establishments

Tribune News Network Doha

The Ministry of Municipal- ity and Environment (MME) has intensified itsinspection and awareness campaigns at food establishments across the country with the partici- pation of volunteers under the slogan ‘Your Safety Is My Safety’. In Doha Municipality, volunteers participated with the health inspectors during an inspection and awareness The violations were related to preparation of food in unhygienic conditions. The authorities issued closure notices for 47 food establishments. tour of one of the major food complexes, where it was em- In Al-Wakra Munici- nicipality, health inspectors followed while accompanying complexes in Al-Khor and Al- were detected. The violations nicipality inspected 458 food phasised that all precaution- pality, the Health Control carried out inspection and health supervision inspec- Thakhira Municipality. were related to preparation establishments in March dur- ary measures were taken and Department carried out an awareness campaigns at food tors. Meanwhile, the health of food in unhygienic condi- ing which 19 violations were the required health require- inspection and awareness- establishments with the par- Similarly, health inspec- department of the Doha Mu- tions. The authorities issued detected. ments such as health certifi- raising tour of the food estab- ticipation of a number of vol- tors, along with volunteers, nicipality inspected 3,125 closure notices for 47 food The authorities issued cates for workers, wearing of lishments with the participa- unteers, who were trained on carried out an inspection food establishments in vari- establishments. four administrative closure masks, gloves and others tion of some volunteers. food safety, how to inspect and awareness campaign at ous areas of the city in March Similarly, health inspec- decisions for three restau- were provided. In Al-Shahaniya Mu- and the health procedures one of the major consumer during which 147 violations tors of Al-Shahaniya Mu- rants and a sweet shop.

HMC advises respiratory QRCS volunteers pitch in with patients to remain more cautious about COVID-19 efforts to control coronavirus QNA had minor complications and Doha have fully recovered from these complications. But, res- QRCS has 15,700 volunteers from all walks of life, thanks to the response to the recently launched campaign The Hamad Medical Cor- piratory patients must take poration (HMC) has advised more precautions, and they Tribune News Network people with respiratory dis- must, as everyone should, Doha eases to take more precau- realise that infection with tions to protect themselves this virus is dangerous and Qatar Red Crescent Society from coronavirus (COV- should be taken seriously,” (QRCS) volunteers are making ID-19) infection. Dr Hisham said. efforts crucial to supporting the Chief of HMC’s Pulmo- He pointed out that there health authorities in solidarity nary Division Dr Hisham are some simple precau- with the government and the Abdul Sattar Ahmed said tions that anyone can ap- people of Qatar to control the that patients suffering from ply to prevent infection with coronavirus (COVID-19). chronic respiratory diseases COVID-19, such as avoiding QRCS boasts a great pool such as cystic fibrosis, chron- touching the mouth, nose of 15,700 volunteers from all ic obstructive pulmonary dis- and eyes with unclean hands, walks of life, thanks to the wide ease and asthma should take avoiding contact with people public response to the recently more precautions and pre- launched ‘Volunteer for Qatar’ ventive measures to reduce campaign. the chances of COVID-19 Infection with the virus The promising young wom- infection. He pointed out may lead to serious en and men contribute to sev- that infection with this virus complications in this eral services, including the pro- in this group of patients, no group of patients vision of psychological support, matter how mild, may lead to health education and logistics serious complications. who show signs of illness, to the inmates of 28 quarantine He explained that pa- staying at a distance of six locations across the country. In tients with respiratory prob- feet from others, washing cooperation with Ministry of lems are considered to be at hands thoroughly after com- Municipality and Environment high risk for complications if ing into contact with surfaces (MME), the volunteers take The volunteers with medical experience are utilised in training and educating the public about the nature and prevention of the coronavirus. they get infected with COV- that may be contaminated part in street disinfection and ID-19. He noted that while and avoiding crowded areas health inspection. (RFL) and psychological sup- everyone should be careful especially if they are poorly They also provide aware- port services. and cautious, patients with ventilated. ness raising and distribute A video message was ad- chronic respiratory diseases Dr Hisham stressed the medical supplies in coopera- dressed by Ali bin Hassan al should take more precau- need for social distancing tion with the Ministry of Inte- Hammadi, secretary-general of tions and preventive meas- and non-contact with others rior (MoI) Community Police. QRCS, to the volunteers. ures, calling on these patients as preventive measures to re- To ensure the safety and re- He said, “We are proud to follow personal hygiene duce the spread of COVID-19. liability of volunteers, QRCS’s of you and what you are do- and avoid social contact. The Ministry of Public Training and Development ing. Your response to the Vol- Patients with chronic Health (MoPH) launched a Center held training courses on unteer for Qatar campaign respiratory diseases are not page on its website (www. how to use infection preventive was beyond expectations. It more likely to be infected moph.gov.qa) to provide the tools and boost the morale of proves how great and patriot- with coronavirus, but they public with the latest devel- quarantined persons. ic you are. Tough times show are at risk of complications opments on COVID-19 and The volunteers with medi- true colours. We and everyone from this infection, Dr Hish- how to protect themselves cal experience are utilised in how to use face masks, avoid- chological support. disinfection and health inspec- in Qatar are deeply indebted am said. He pointed out that and others from infection training and educating the ing touching the mouth and “Once the initiative sug- tion, 15 offering awareness to you. You are our source patients with respiratory with the virus. Besides, it has public in relation to the nature nose, using tissue when sneez- gested by the Volunteers raising and distributing medi- of power and safety. It is you problems show more severe allocated a hotline (16000) and prevention of the coronavi- ing or coughing, and keeping Section was adopted and an- cal supplies, and 20 recruiting who shape the future with symptoms of COVID-19 in- which operates around the rus disease. social distancing. nounced, it attracted unprece- and guiding the new volun- your hard work.” fection than others, and that clock and responds to public To date, health education In a statement, Ahmed Ali dented numbers of applicants, teers,” he added. He invited those who would elderly patients with res- inquiries about the virus. lectures were held by volun- al Khulaifi, head of Volunteers both nationals and residents. Another purpose of the like to volunteer with QRCS piratory disease are at risk of The MoPH, HMC and the teers and health educators for Section at QRCS, said the Vol- It is the sense of responsibility initiative is to ensure stronger saying, “You are most welcome death if they get infected with Primary Health Care Cor- the staff of 20 government or- unteer for Qatar campaign was that drives everyone to stand connection between the service in this noble work. Let’s join the virus. poration also launched an ganisations and private-sector inspired by a desire to sup- together in the face of calam- seekers and their families in hands to serve our country. All “There is no cause for educational and awareness companies. port the government’s efforts ity,” he said. their own home countries. the population need your help. panic as many patients, in- campaign that includes pub- Delivered in several lan- against the risks of novel coro- “Now, we have 110 volun- Mobile recharge cards are I believe you are up to it as usu- cluding respiratory patients, lishing information and vid- guages, the lectures covered navirus by encouraging Qatari teers offering supportive ser- distributed so that they can al. Good luck! We expect more have been exposed to mild eos on social media platforms many key topics such as wash- and non-Qatari youths to help vices 24/7 at quarantine loca- contact their families, as part nd more to protect our country cases of infection and have for the public. ing hands well and frequently, those who need care and psy- tions, 105 supervising street of the restoring family links against coronavirus.” CMU-Q, Hamad Bin Jassim Center honour ‘programming champions’ Tribune News Network tal animations and games on gramme manager at Qatar Doha the themes of climate change, National Research Fund and a health, cyber security, or traf- judge at the competition said: A combination of outstanding fic safety. “Fostering computing science programming skills and crea- Michael Trick, dean of skills through initiatives and tivity earned two Al Khor In- CMU-Q, said: “The Alice Mid- programs such as Alice is, we ternational School teams first dle East programme was cre- believe, essential to Qatar’s place in February’s Alice Mid- ated to help students in Qatar continuing development. I dle East Programing competi- develop the basic skills they was impressed with the crea- tion. The annual competition will need to work and live in tivity these young students was organised by the Hamad a connected, digital world. are already showing and their Bin Jassim Center for K-12 Each year, I continue to be abilities to produce such high Computer Science Education impressed by the impact the quality work under pressure. at Carnegie Mellon University programme is having and the We had a tough time select- in Qatar (CMU-Q), a partner sheer talent shown by these ing the winners, as the results university of the Qatar Foun- students.” Two teams from Al Khor Int’l School shared first prize at Alice Middle East Programming Competition for middle and secondary students. demonstrate.” dation (QF). Alice Educational Soft- With the support of the This year’s edition brought ware was originally devel- oped a curriculum in Ara- Member of Board Directors Programming Competition Computer Science Education Ministry of Education and together more than 100 stu- oped at Carnegie Mellon’s bic and English for Qatar. of the Jassim & Hamad Bin and encourage all young peo- Hamad bin Jassim Centre. Higher Education, Alice Mid- dents from eight private and main campus in the US. Al- The Alice Middle East pro- Jassim Charitable Founda- ple in Qatar to explore the Through the Alice Middle East dle East is now part of the public schools across Qatar. ice was adapted for Qatar gramme was designed with tion, said: “Computing skills world of programming and and Mindcraft initiatives of curriculum of all Qatar gov- Students are all studying by CMU-Q researchers at support from a National Pri- are essential for children computing.” CMU-Q, the centre promotes ernment schools that teach programming with a CMU- the request of Her Highness orities Research Programme who are going to spend their CMU-Q joined forces with and supports computational information communication - curriculum that uses the Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, grant from Qatar National careers in the knowledge the Jassim & Hamad Bin Jas- learning among school chil- technology. Close to 5,000 Alice Middle East software. Chairperson of the Qatar Research Fund. economy. We strongly sup- sim Charitable Foundation dren across Qatar. students have so far gained Students have created digi- Foundation, who also devel- Saeed al Hajri, CEO and port the Alice Middle East in 2018 to establish the K-12 Ali Alaboudy, ICT pro- from the programme.