'All Cases of Abroad Origin'

TWITTER SPORTS @newsofbahrain OP-ED 8 ‘Afghan’ is now a globalised identity, whether the Taliban likes it or not INSTAGRAM National team await /nobmedia 8 joint-qualifiers LINKEDIN SUNDAY newsofbahrain MARCH 2020 decision 210 FILS WHATSAPP ISSUE NO. 8410 Bahrain’s men’s national 38444692 football team continue to FACEBOOK wait for a final decision /nobmedia on the proposed postpone- MAIL ment of their remaining [email protected] qualifying matches for the WEBSITE FIFA World Cup 2022 and newsofbahrain.com AFC Asian Cup 2023. P16

Ellie Goulding: Married life is wonderful 14 CELEBS WORLD 10 Nine killed in Mexico shootout with police

AUB POS lending service to boost SMEs TDT | Manama ‘All cases hli United Bank is fur- Ather strengthening its commitment to supporting Small and Medium Enterpris- To all citizens and residents es (SME) in Bahrain through of abroad the launch of an innovative lending product based on POS For further developments on the receivables. Unveiled recently, the full range of this product is Coronavirus (COVID-19) and updates on offered specifically to business owners, proprietors, profes- origin’ the Public Awareness Campaign to Combat sionals, and companies. No local case of Coronavirus Coronavirus, please visit the This product will assist transmission registered Ministry of Health's website thousands Manama of POS merchants, both existing and Suvrat Saigal, t Col Dr Manaf Al Qa- www.moh.gov.bh/COVID19 new, with Deputy Group htani, Infectious Diseases cashflow/ CEO, Retail LConsultant and Microbi- working cap- Banking ologist at the BDF Hospital and ital require- Member of the National Task ments. The offering is available Force for Combating Coronavi- to merchants who have had a rus (COVID-19), noted all active successful track record in their COVID-19 cases are related to existing business for at least arrivals from abroad or contacts Lt Col Dr Manaf 3 years. A credit facility of up of arrivals from abroad. MoH issues new medical test alert call to the average of three months’ Dr Manaf added that there ID-19, noting the two individuals TDT | Manama sales turnover can be availed by have been no local cases (com- have been discharged from iso- The ministry further empha- preventive measures, according the merchant upon their suc- munity) registered within Bah- lation after responding positive- he Ministry of Health sised that citizens and residents to the international standards cessful application. See Page 5 rain, and that all active cases ly to the medical care provided. yesterday urged citizens who have visited Italy, South Ko- recommended by the World that have been registered with- On this note, Dr Manaf em- Tand residents who have rea, Egypt and Lebanon, should Health Organisation, and to 210 fils (includes VAT) in the past 24 hours have been phasised that Bahrain’s highly visited Italy, South Korea, Egypt avoid interacting with others, to follow up the implementation identified at the Kingdom’s en- specialised medical team is in- and Lebanon during the past 14 ensure the health and safety of of all procedures to combat the try points. corporating best practice meas- days to self-isolate immediately, their families and the community. spread of the Coronavirus in Dr Manaf highlighted that ures to all its monitoring and and call 444 or visit www.moh. The ministry affirmed its the Kingdom in a manner that two Bahrainis, a male and a fe- treatment activities, from test- gov.bh/covid19 to schedule a commitment to implement all preserves the health and safety male, have recovered from COV- ing to recovery. medical examination. precautionary measures and of all. SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 02 Saudi Arabia limits entry by land from Bahrain amid Corona threat Only commercial trucks coming from the three Gulf neighbours are being allowed

South Korea had to self-isolate Precautionary for two weeks from the date of • their return. measures are also to be The ministry had earlier said undertaken by Ministry five cases of coronavirus in the of Health workers at 7 Kingdom have been confirmed. the three airports. COVID-19 infections have One of the patients was a man been recorded in Saudi who travelled from Iran via Arabia until now. Kuwait, who passed the illness The ministry had to his wife. earlier• said five cases Another citizen who came of coronavirus in from Iran via Bahrain has also the Kingdom have been infected. He traveled in risk of the spread of COVID-19 is the same vehicle as the first been confirmed. high “must submit a laboratory and second cases of corona- test certificate proving that he virus that were announced in Riyadh or she is free of infection with the Kingdom on Monday and the new coronavirus”. Wednesday respectively. audi Arabia is temporari- “This applies to those who Saudi Arabia on Thursday ly stopping entry into the resided in those countries dur- chided Iran for helping spread SKingdom by land from the ing the (14) days prior to enter- the outbreak around the world United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, ing the Kingdom,” the report by allowing Saudi citizens into and Bahrain, as a precaution said. the country without stamping against the spread of the COV- “The air carrier must ensure their passports during the on- ID-19) coronavirus, the Saudi that the laboratory certificate going COVID-19 outbreak. Press Agency reported early is safe, and that it is recent and As a precautionary measure, yesterday. issued within the twenty-four the Kingdom has suspended The King Fahd Causeway is the only land link the Kingdom has with outside world. Only commercial trucks hours prior to the passenger the annual Umrah pilgrimage coming from the three Gulf Arrivals from the three coun- in Riyadh, King Abdulaziz In- also to be undertaken by Min- boarding,” the report said. and efforts are being under - neighbours would be allowed, tries would be limited to three ternational Airport in Jeddah, istry of Health workers at the Saudi Arabia’s health minis- taken to disinfect the Grand but they have to undergo health airports starting 11:55 pm Sat- and King Fahd International three airports. try also announced on Saturday Mosque in Makkah and the inspection, the report said, urday, March 7, 2020, SPA said. Airport in Dammam, the report The report also said anyone that people returning back into Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, quoting an official source from These airports are King added. who wishes to enter Saudi Ara- the Kingdom having visit - as well as all mosques in the the Ministry of Interior. Khalid International Airport Precautionary measures are bia from any country where the ed Egypt, Lebanon, Italy and Kingdom.

EWA call centre received 331,371 calls in past six months Manama zens and residents, a statement tion. A team was designated to by EWA said. received power meter readings etting a new benchmark in The minister toured different from subscribers via WhatsApp customer care, the Elec- sections sections of the commu- application. Stricity and Water Author- nication section and commend- The service of receiving ity call centre received 331,371 ed the dedication of the staff meter readings through the calls in the past six months. working in the departments. “WhatsApp” application, This was revealed as Electric- He lauded the recent devel- which started since last June ity and Water Affairs Minister opment steps undertaken at and the Electricity and Water Wael Al Mubarak and Electric- the facility, stressing particu- Authority has allocated an in- ity and Water Authority (EWA) larly commending development tegrated team to receive the Chief Executive Officer Shaikh steps, which includes the res- meter readings for subscribers Nawaf bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa toration of electricity in case of through it. paid an inspection visit to the power outage through the call The call centre has received a EWA call centre and took stock centre. total 41,810 power metre read- of the work procedures in this The EWA Chief highlight- ings through the WhatsApp vital sector. ed a new service which was application over the past six This high number of calls re- launched last June to received months which facilitated pro- flected the ability of the facility distance power metre readings cedures and slashed the costs to deal with the queries of citi- through the WhatsApp applica- of estimated readings. Mr Al Mubarak with Shaikh Nawaf during their visit to an EWA call centre.

Undersecretary of the Ministry of Works, Municipality Affairs and Urban Planning Shaikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa has asserted that the Capital Municipality’s winning of the Government Service Centres Award-silver category is the result of the distinguished efforts made by the relevant officials to comply with remarks and criteria of the evaluation committee. This came during a celebration held by the Capital Municipality on the occasion of winning the eGovernment silver award for applying criteria set by the evaluation committee of government service centres. The committee was set up in line with a decision by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, to boost public services. SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 03 Comprehensive Disability Complex in A’ali ‘90pc completed’ Manama

abour and Social Devel- opment Minister, Jameel LHumaidan, yesterday paid an inspection visit to the Com- 1,500 prehensive Disability Complex persons and 160 administrative staff will be in A’ali, along with a number of accommodated in the new officials. building. The minister was informed about the progress of the project, where the construction process is more than ‘90 per cent completed’. of buses specially equipped for The project, which is expected the disabled, extending thanks to be inaugurated later this year, and appreciation to sisterly Ku- covers a total area of 20,105 sq.m wait and the Kuwaiti Fund for and is built on an area of 17,642 Arab Economic Development for sq.m. their support people with special The complex will accommo- needs in Bahrain. date about 1,500 persons and 160 Mr Humaidan indicated that administrative staff members at the integrated complex which the main building. provides comprehensive care for The Comprehensive Disabili- people with special needs under ty Complex boasts ten separate one roof by highly qualified per- buildings specialising in treating, sonnel, reflects the keenness of educating and rehabilitating a the government to provide all certain group of the disabled, like facilities to all the citizens, par- those suffering from Down syn- ticularly those with disabilities. drome, the deaf, the dumb, the The project’s design has taken autistic, and those suffering from into account all the requirements brain damage and mental illness- of people with special needs. es. Other departments include The location of the complex physical therapy, psychothera- Mr Humaidan reviews the project progress. has a number of access points py, work therapy, a specialised on the roads network, bus stops, library, psychological support said that the project is one of development and health facility social achievements. velopment at a cost of BD8.68m, parking spaces especially de- centre and measurement, evalu- the biggest and most specialised that serves a major segment in He added that the mega project covering the cost of construction, signed for the disabled, visitors, ation and diagnosis centre. complexes for the disabled in the the Bahraini society, and adds is being funded by the Kuwaiti tools and equipment, furnishing the administrative, education Commenting, the minister Middle East, noting that it is a to the kingdom’s distinguished Fund for Arab Economic De - and decoration and provision and medical staff.

Terror group member’s jail King Hamad University Hospital term upheld TDT | Manama

he High Appeal Court Thas rejected the appeal launches eServices via ‘Sehati’ of a Bahraini man who was sentenced to 10 years behind bars for supporting ‘Sehati’, available on the Government App Store bahrain.bh/apps for both Android and iOS devices terror activities in Bahrain TDT | Manama after being recruited by a visitors. ernment App Store bahrain. fugitive in Iran. “We always strive to offer our bh/apps for both Android and Investigations uncov- ing Hamad Universi- services through the most mod- iOS devices, is a comprehensive ered that the fugitive was ty Hospital ( KHUH) ern and effective methods in app that contains a number of a member of a terrorist Klaunched a host of eS - order provide better care to all healthcare services from various group, namely Al Wafa and ervices via the ‘Sehati’ health patients.” healthcare institutions in the he assigned the defendant services app, which is provided iGA Chief Executive Moham- Kingdom. to receive funds and dis - by the Information and eGov- med Ali AlQaed said: “Launch- They are organised in a contribute them to terrorists ernment Authority (iGA). ing the hospital’s services via the venient way and are easy to use, in order to carry out at - The hospital’s services in - ‘Sehati’ app is in line with our featuring an attractive design. tacks against security men clude uploads of medical report ongoing partnerships with the ‘Sehati’ is one of the most as well as vital locations in as they become available, med- We always strive The hospital’s health sector. important applications being the Kingdom to destabilise ical appointment reservations, to offer our decision to offer “The hospital’s decision to introduced by the government the country. and medicine delivery. services through these online offer these online services is a with the aim of improving the It’s said that the money KHUH Commander, Ma - the most effective services is a continuation of the digital trans- quality and method of delivery financed illegal demon- jor-General Dr Shaikh Salman methods in continuation formation of government servic- of healthcare services in the strations, riots and many bin Atiyatallah Al Khalifa said: order provide of digital es, which aim to ensure faster Kingdom. other activities that meant “King Hamad University Hospi- and more efficient transactions. In addition to listing hospital to undermine the govern- tal is the first government hospi- better care to all transformation “Patients can securely access services, the app is a unified and ment. tal in the Kingdom to introduce patients. of government the hospital’s services via the comprehensive health servic- The defendant admitted an app and electronic system DR SHAIKH SALMAN services. app which can be downloaded es platform which will greatly to playing this role from that makes communication eas- MR ALQAED on smart phones and devices.” benefit citizens, residents and 2015 until his arrest in ier between the hospital and its ‘Sehati’, available on the Gov- visitors. 2019. ‘2,062 individuals tested by the medical mobile testing units’ Manama the 2,062 samples, 2,055 tested Dr Al Hajeri underlined the minded to take the following he Assistant Undersecre- negative for the COVID-19, with Ministry of Health’s commit- precautions to reduce the risk tary for Public Health, Dr seven testing positive. ment to ensure the safety of all of contracting the Coronavirus TMariam Al Hajeri, high- Dr Al Hajeri emphasised that citizens and residents, and added All individuals tested (Covid-19): Wash your hands lighted that the medical mobile all individuals testing positive that all tested individuals are regularly and thoroughly us- testing units have tested a total of for COVID-19 have been swift- provided strict guidelines to fol- had contacted the ing soap and water. Use alco - 2,062 individuals returning from ly transferred for isolation and low, including self-isolation and hotline no 444 or hol-based sanitisers. Iran during the month of Febru- treatment, and their contacts monitoring for 14 days, for which visited the ministry’s “Clean and disinfect frequently ary, before Iran has announced prior to isolation have also been they will receive paid medical website to schedule used objects and surfaces such as the outbreak of the Coronavirus tested to ensure their health and leave. their medical door handles. Cover your mouth (COVID-19) in its cities. safety. The ministry has urged citi- examinations. when coughing or sneezing, and Dr Al Hajeri further highlight- On this note, Dr Al Hajeri un- zens and residents to take vari- dispose of used wipes properly. ed that all individuals tested had derscored the efforts of the King- ous measures to protect them- DR AL HAJERI Avoid contact with people expe- contacted the hotline no 444, or dom’s health professionals, who selves from coronavirus. riencing a fever or suffering from visited the Ministry’s website to are an important component of The ministry sources had said a cough,” the ministry stated in a schedule their medical exami- Team Bahrain, highlighting the that educational campaigns are coronavirus. media, social media and even mass SMS campaign, which was nations. role they play in containing and in full swing to create aware - The modes used to create SMS campaign, which was re- sent out to Bahrainis and expatri- Dr Al Hajeri added that out of combating COVID-19. ness in the public about the novel awareness include traditional cently done: “Kindly be re - ates across the Kingdom. SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 04

Corona ordeal a chance Council holds crucial meeting to to implement ‘work from remote’ scheme ‘implement royal directives’ TDT | Manama aqoob Al Awadhi, the In every ordeal lies Representatives of various ministries and national task force attended the meeting CEO of “NGN” global in- Yformation systems said opportunity, there is Manama that the current plight of Coro- no doubt that we must The work team held its first navirus represent a favourable invest in opportunities meeting to develop a plan to opportunity to accelerate the while tackling ollowing the issuance of translate HM the King’s direc- implementation of the “work coronavirus. His Majesty King Hamad The Jaffari tives into the ground, in co-or- at home” policy in Bahrain, Fbin Isa Al Khalifa’s direc- Endowments dination with the Interior Min- especially while taking pre- MR AL AWADHI tives to the Jaffari Endowments Directorate will co- istry, Foreign Affairs Ministry, ventive measures by limiting within weeks,” Mr Al Awadhi Directorate to follow up the ordinate with relevant Health Ministry and the Na- public gatherings, and it is un- added. expenses of Bahraini citizens authorities and cover tional Task Force for Combating clear whether these measures He pointed out that with the who are still abroad because of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), in would have been tightened in spread of the Coronavirus in the Coronavirus (COVID-19), in the expenses of the addition to all relevant parties. the future by disrupting the different regions in the world, co-ordination with the relevant citizens during their The team’s tasks include de- work of some government and giant corporates such as Goog- authorities, and until their return stay abroad until their termining the names of the rel- private agencies compared to le and Twitter are asking some home, the Jaffari Endowments return. evant citizens, in co-ordination what happened in schools and of their employees around the Council yesterday held an emer- MR AL SALEH with the competent authorities, universities. world to work at home. gency meeting, under the chair- allocating a hotline (phone and “Last September in Bahrain, A recent survey showed that manship of Yusuf Saleh Al Saleh. WhatsApp) to follow up on the we witnessed a serious trend a third of companies’ manag- Mr Al Saleh extended, on be- paying tribute to His Royal turn, noting that the expenses remarks of the citizens, co-or- towards implementing work at ers in GCC started planning to half of the council’s members, Highness Prince Salman bin will be added to the Directo - dinating with all the relevant home policy. The Civil Service direct half of their employees deepest thanks and gratitude to Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown rate’s budget, based on HM King sides, including travel agencies, Bureau held in October 2019 to work at home, indicating HM the King for his kind ges- Prince, Deputy Supreme Com- Hamad’s instructions. and discussing the mechanisms an introductory workshop for that, according to that survey, ture that adds to the multiple mander and First Deputy Prime The Jaffari Endowments to compensate the citizens, as managers and heads of hu - Bahrain recorded the highest royal achievements for the sake Minister, for the tremendous Council said that the other rel- well as the period on which man and financial resources rate of remote work plans in 38 of his loyal people during his efforts he is making, as well as evant authorities will follow compensations will be made. in government agencies on the per cent of companies. prosperous era. his follow-up on all precaution- up on the return of the citizens The panel will have to sub- implementation of the trial As the CEO of “NGN”, Mr Al He also praised the precious ary and preventive measures according to the pre-set plan. mit its recommendations to the period of government work at Awadhi stressed the impor- royal trust bestowed upon them, adopted to combat COVID-19 The Jaffari Endowments competent authorities, appoint home policy. tance of providing the neces- pledging to carry on the national and prevent its spread. Council formed a work team, an independent financial au- “A trial period that started sary technical environment mission to the fullest in order to He pointed out that the Jaffari led by its Chairman, to follow ditor, submit an audited final last November and lasted for for work at home and said meet HM the King’s aspirations. Endowments Directorate will up on the implementation of account of the project, regulate two months, and included that Bahrain may become a Mr Al Saleh stressed that the co-ordinate with the relevant the royal directives, and take media communication, respond about 200 employees within 83 forerunner in creating a single sound royal directives reflect authorities and cover the ex- the necessary procedures, in co- to all inquiries and contact all job titles,” Mr Al Awadhi said. platform that serves all gov- HM the King’s care for all cit- penses of the citizens during ordination with the competent parties to implement the royal He called for moving for- ernment agencies whose em- izens in Bahrain and abroad, their stay abroad until their re- authorities. directives to the fullest. ward with this trend in Bah- ployees can work at home, and rain, as it would contribute to the private sector can benefit reducing government expendi- from this platform or build a tures, increasing productivity similar one. and speed of service provision, “In every ordeal lies oppor- ‘Awal Dairy’ concludes its participation successfully at Gulfood Exhibition in addition to increasing job tunity, there is no doubt that TDT | Manama satisfaction, employee affili- we must invest in opportu - ation, excellence and innova- nities while tackling corona- wal Dairy Company, the tion in government work. virus, including speeding up first Bahraini company “British officials are current- plans and creating new ones Aspecialised in the field of ly studying a series of strin- that help us to develop our dairy products has successfully gent measures, including that business and society, such as concluded its participation in workers may be required to the effective application of the Bahraini Pavilion at Gulfood stay at home for up to three home-based business policy in 2020 Exhibition, which was months as the UK anticipates the public and private sectors,” held recently in the Dubai World the spread the Coronavirus Mr Al Awadhi concluded. Trade Centre. Through the Bahrain National Pavilion at the exhibition, Awal Dairy succeeded in showcasing KSRelief’s humanitarian work its products for the visitors of the exhibition in addition to the com- success showcased at meeting pany’s interaction with inter- Riyadh national companies in the food discussed humanitarian and industry and its acquaintance relief affairs as well as bilateral with the latest technologies and r Abdullah Al Rabeeah, relations. international trends in the food supervisor general of He briefed the Norwegian industry. Dthe King Salman Hu- official on the efforts that Sau- This participation comes with- manitarian Aid and Relief Cen- di Arabia, represented by KS- in the framework of Awal’s en- tre (KSRelief ), discussed glob- Relief, was carrying out in 47 deavour to open regional and The company officials at the Bahraini Pavilion at Gulfood 2020 Exhibition. al humanitarian issues with a countries around the world global markets for its high-quali- number of officials in Riyadh, especially in Yemen. ty products as part of the effective in 1963 and specialised in the success this year as it had the products, marking the seventh the Saudi Press Agency report- Mr Al Rabeeah met the sec- participation of Awal Bahrain in production and distribution of participation of 5,000 exhibi- participation of the Bahrain na- ed on Friday. retary-general of the Interna- promoting Bahraini exports and dairy products in addition to nat- tors and received more than 100 tional pavilion in the exhibition. During his meeting with the tional Civil Defence Organisa- contributing effectively to the ural juices and ice cream using thousand visitors from 200 coun- The Bahraini Pavilion was or- director of the cooperation tion, Col Belkacem Elketroussi. Bahrain national economy, de- the best raw materials and in- tries around the world which ganised by Worksmart for Events department at the Norwegian They discussed ways to en- pending on the company’s long gredients. includes 120 national pavilions Management in partnership Ministry of Foreign Affairs, hance cooperation in the field history which was established Gulfood 2020 achieved a great filled with many specialised with Alwane Society. Zari Stomark, Mr Al Rabeeah of humanitarian work.

A prominent parliamentary committee yesterday held a meeting with Industry, Trade and Tourism Minister Zayed Al Zayani. They discussed matters related to economic development in the Kingdom. 05 SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 business

AUB POS lending service Interest-free loans, Agricultural bank to promote SME growth TDT | Manama

hli United Bank said it is to revitalize agricultural sector: BAB Afurther strengthening its commitment to supporting TDT | Manama Small and Medium Enterpris- es (SME) in Bahrain through stablishing a Bahraini the launch of a lending prod- agricultural bank to One of the proposals in this field is also is the establishment of uct based on POS receivables. Ehelp farmers with in - a Bahraini agricultural bank, similar to the Egyptian Agricultural Unveiled recently, the full terest-free concessional loans Bank, or the Saudi Agricultural Bank, which later became range of this product is offered for agricultural projects and known as the Agricultural Development Fund, provided that the specifically to business own- livestock production will boost mission of this bank is to finance various areas of agricultural ers, proprietors, professionals, national capacities in the field and companies. of food industries and the activity in Bahrain to help develop the Agricultural sector AUB said it now provides ac- proportion of local produc - and raise its production efficiency, by providing interest- cess to credit to existing POS tion, a top Bahraini banker has free concessional loans to farmers to secure the necessary merchants against their POS said. equipment, pumps, agricultural machinery, and equipment for card/wallet sales. Explaining, Dr Waheed Al The product, AUB said, will raising cows, poultry, sheep, beekeeping equipment, fish, etc. Deputy Group CEO – Retail Banking, Qassim, CEO of Bahrain Asso- assist thousands of POS mer- DR WAHEED AL QASSIM, CEO OF BAHRAIN ASSOCIATION OF BANKS Suvrat Saigal ciation of Banks ( BAB), said, chants, both existing and new, “Self-sufficiency in food prod- with cashflow/working capital “We recognise that the ucts has become a crucial issue requirements. The offering is market is currently under- in peoples ’lives, not only be- and export movement of food cultural machinery, and equip- innovation and applying mod- available to merchants who served, and in response, we cause of threats, turmoil, and commodities will be negative- ment for raising cows, poul - ern technology in developing have had a successful track re- have devised this first-of-its- wars but also for reasons that ly affected in the region and try, sheep, beekeeping equip- agricultural production”, Dr.Al cord in their existing business kind product to help facilitate may not be taken into account, around the world,” he stressed. ment, fish, etc,” added Dr Al Qassim added. for at least 3 years. A credit the easy availability of credit such as the emerging corona- The new bank, Dr Al Qassim Qassim. Bahraini banks, Dr Al Qassim facility of up to the average of 3 that will help boost market virus.” said, will operate similar to the He further indicated that said, always play their respon- months’ sales turnover can be growth,” said Deputy Group He was speaking about a dis- Egyptian Agricultural Bank, or several Bahraini banks recent- sible role within the framework availed by the merchant upon CEO – Retail Banking, Suvrat cussion with banks regarding the Saudi Agricultural Bank, ly initiated an agreement with of national plans related to sus- their successful application. Saigal. providing concessional financ- which later became known as “Tamkeen” regarding providing tainability and prosperity, ac- ing, along with the idea of estab - the Agricultural Development financial and credit facilities for cording to the royal directive lishing a Bahraini agricultural Fund. renewable energy projects. of His Majesty King Hamad bin bank. “The mission of this bank is “We seek to formulate a sim- Isa Al Khalifa. “This is beside “We saw many countries place to finance various areas of ag- ilar agreement to develop na- the interest and care of the ag- Mubadala confirms restrictions on the movement of ricultural activity in Bahrain to tional capacities in the field of ricultural development shown Lucky hits town travellers, as other countries help develop the Agricultural food industries and raise the by Her Royal Highness Princess initiated to prevent the export sector and raise its production proportion of local production, Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khal- talks over stock sale of health care products, and as efficiency, by providing inter- and to maintain the experts in ifa, Wife of the King, the Presi- Are you feeling lucky with an exciting long as control of this virus has est-free concessional loans to these sectors to be an important dent of the Consultative Council not been successful until now, it farmers to secure the neces - part in the success of these pro- of the National Initiative for new prepaid product? is not surprising that the import sary equipment, pumps, agri- jects, and activating the role of Agricultural Development.” TDT | Manama

niquely designed to serve Uthe needs of the South Asian expat community living BAC signs deal with McDonald’s Bahrain in Bahrain, Lucky is launched to deliver great value for the Mobile Prepaid market. With Lucky, there are many chances to win. All-new “Lucky” members will receive Thea Scratch acquisition & Winof a majority voucher, stake and in Borealis will help OMV, which also operateseveryone an upstreamis a winner! concession Prizes offshore Abu Dhabi. include a wonderful selection ofDubai gift vouchers, motorbikes projects in Abu Dhabi’s west- and lots more. ern region of Ruwais, including Lucky, poweredubadala confirmedby Bahrain the development of the world’s Telecommunicationsit is in discussions Compa to- largest mixed-feed cracker and ny, is a Prepaidsell a productpotential packed $4.68 a fifth polypropylene unit. The Mwith fantastic features. For Being close to billion (Dh17.18bn) stake in plannedthe expansionSouth Asian will see BDAustria’s8 per month, Borealis inclusive to the Eu of- Borouge produce polyolefin VATropean, Lucky energy members company will OMV ben-. productscommunity, such as polyethylene we efit“Mubadala from unlimited can confirm Lucky the to and understandpolypropylene theiras well as Luckynature calls,of the 200discussions minutes with for non-polyolefinpreferences products and such calls to other local operators, OMV. These discussions are as benzeneare anddelighted butadiene. The 10consistentGB of Data with and our attractive strategy dis of- compoundsto bring are used this in pack- countsactively on managing international and diversi calls to- aging, plastics and acrylics in- India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, fantastic product fying our portfolio,” a spokes- dustries.to the market. Sriman Lanka for Mubadala’s and Nepal. petroleum The acquisition of a major- andAdditionally, petrochemicals “Lucky” division mem- ity stakeWe lookin Borealis forward will help berssaid inhave a statement. access to unlimited OMVto, which welcoming also operates our an TikTokMubadala to enjoy intends hours to sell of fun,a 39 upstreamLucky concession members offshore to making as many videos as they per cent stake to OMV reduc- Abu Dhabi,our to family produce high- like. ing its stake in petrochemicals er-value products. JEEVAN SASI player“This Borealis is different to 25 from per cent, any Meanwhile, Mubadala’s pe- BAC Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah signed the deal alongside Fakhro Restaurants Company Director, Abdulla Adel Fakhro. Fakhro other Prepaid product in the LUCKY MARKETING AND COMMUNICA- Restaurants Company is the owner and operator of McDonald’s outlets in Bahrain the Austrian upstream player troleum andTION SPECIALIST petrochemicals market,said in a statementproviding late you Friday. with division — which has invested everythingMubadala you currently need in mobile owns dayin assets from such11 AM as to Spain’s 9 PM except Cep- TDT | Manama Director, Abdulla Adel Fakhro. available at different price renowned for.” service,”25 per cent said of Lucky OMV andMarketing 64 per Sunday,sa, Canada’s to serve Nova its Chemicalsmembers. Fakhro Restaurants Company points to choose from. Having a Fakhro said: “With its bou- andcent Communication of Borealis, which Specialist is in a asAdditionally, well as Russia’s on GazpromSaturday ahrain International Air- is the owner and operator of broad selection of recognisable tique design and distinctly Bah- Jeevan50:50 joint Sasi. venture with Adnoc 7thNeft March, — is looking the Luckyto expand sales its Bport’s (BIA) operator and McDonald’s outlets in Bahrain. international brands is vital for a raini character, I am confident through“Being Borouge,close to thethe Southcoun- teambase inwill the be gas available segment at of Lulu the managing body, Bahrain Air- McDonald’s Bahrain Gener- venue that attracts visitors from that the new Passenger Termi- Asiantry’s largest community, petrochemicals we under- Supermarketshydrocarbons value in Hidd, chain. Riffa port Company (BAC) announced al Manager, Ahmad Jaser and all over the world as it provides nal Building will create a favour- standcompany. their preferences and are andMubadala Al Dana lastMall year from reached 4 PM signing a five-year concession members of the BAC commercial a feeling of familiarity, which able and lasting impression.” delighted“The potential to bring transactionthis fantas- toan 10 agreement PM to introduce with theUS firmnew agreement with McDonald’s to team were present. supports our goal to provide a Alongside leading interna- ticwould product expand to thethe market.value chain We offer.NextDecade Corporation to operate out of BIA’s new Passen- Commenting, Al Binfalah comfortable, convenient, and tional F&B brands, the new ter- lookof OMV forward in the to petrochemicalwelcoming our investRecharge $50m vouchers in the areUS comavail- ger Terminal Building. said: “All of the food and bev- enjoyable airport experience. minal will house several local Luckysector andmembers would to allow our family,” OMV to ablepany’s at theupcoming Lucky shop Rio Grandeor from BAC Chief Executive Officer, erage (F&B) outlets at the new We look forward to working favourites, ensuring all custom- hefully added. consolidate the results,” authorisedliquefied natural resellers gas throughfacility. - Mohamed Yousif Al Binfa - terminal have been carefully with Fakhro Restaurants Com- ers, even transit passengers can OMVThe said new on LuckyFriday. Shop, lo - outIt Bahrain. also completed For more a details,deal to lah signed the deal alongside selected to ensure passengers pany and showcasing the wel- experience a taste of Bahraini catedBorealis, in Batelco through Commercial Borouge, visitsell 37 the per Lucky cent ofwebsite Cepsa lucky.to US- Fakhro Restaurants Company have a wide variety of options coming nature that Bahrain is hospitality. Centreis undertaking Manama, two is openlarge-scale every com.bhbased Carlyle or call Group. 123. SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 06 Lebanon says will restructure debt amid financial crisis

Eurobonds to foreign lenders. He called on officials to re - The country is Anti-government demonstra- structure the debt and introduce • tors who have remained on the an economic rescue plan that due on March 9 to streets since October have lob- would protect modest depos- repay a $1.2-billion bied against repayment, fearing itors. a depletion of reserves could fur- Eurobond, while IMF assistance another $700 million ther limit access to their savings. “We shouldn’t have to pay the Diab met last month with a matures in April, and price of government shortcom- delegation from the Internation- a further $600 million ings,” said Nour, a 16-year-old al Monetary Fund to discuss how matures in June demonstrator, during a rally to tackle the country’s spiralling outside the central bank’s head- economic crisis. Lebanon’s debt quarters in Beirut. The premier asked the Wash- • Rallies were held across the ington-based emergency lender burden is now equivalent country yesterday to decry dete- for advice, but has yet to ask for to nearly 170 per riorating living conditions. funds. cent of its GDP Lebanon’s sovereign debt rat- Barakat at Bank Audi said IMF ing slid into junk territory long assistance was necessary. Despite a series of ago, but investor confidence has “Lebanon needs first and fore- • fallen further since the mass most an imminent debt restruc- crises, the country has protests erupted. turing plan within the context of never before defaulted Credit rating agencies have a comprehensive plan for debt warned of further downgrades management,” he told AFP. AFP | Beirut in the event of a default, but The best move would be “to economists have stressed the have such a plan under the um- need to protect Lebanon’s for- brella of the IMF”, since that ebanon said yesterday it Lebanon’s President Michel Aoun (C) headed talks with top officials on Saturday ahead of a cabinet meeting eign currency reserves. would enable international fi- would default on its Eu- Jad Chaaban, an economics nancial assistance to materialise, Lrobond debt for the first Debt restructuring professor at the American Uni- he said. time and seek out restructuring versity of Beirut, blamed the po- The Lebanese pound, which agreements amid a spiralling fi- Local banks, which own a litical class for Lebanon’s predic- has officially been pegged to the nancial crisis that has hit foreign The Lebanese state will seek to restructure its chunk of the Eurobonds ma - ament, accusing it of decades of dollar since 1997, has plummet- currency reserves. debts, in a manner consistent with the national turing on March 9, had argued corruption. ed on the parallel market, amid The country, hit by a severe interest, by entering into fair negotiations... against a default, saying it would The crisis “is the creation of soaring inflation and unemploy- liquidity crunch and months with all creditors pile added pressure on a cash- a failed and criminal political ment. of anti-government protests, PRIME MINISTER HASSAN DIAB strapped banking sector and class that has lied and robbed The World Bank has warned was due on March 9 to repay compromise Lebanon’s ties with for more than 30 years,” he said of an impending recession that a $1.2-billion Eurobond, while foreign creditors. on Facebook. may see poverty rates rise dras- another $700 million matures in According to Marwan Barakat, tically. April, and a further $600 million head of research at Bank Audi, Lebanon’s foreign backers, matures in June. ner consistent with the national before defaulted, but in re - Lebanese banks owned $12.7 bil- including France, have said they But Prime Minister Hassan interest, by entering into fair cent months it has grappled lion of the country’s outstand- are willing to offer financial as- Diab said that foreign currency negotiations...with all creditors,” with its worst economic turing $30 billion Eurobonds as of sistance if the country takes se- reserves have fallen to “a worry- he said in a live address. moil since the 1975-1990 civil the end of January. rious steps towards addressing ing and dangerous level which Lebanon’s debt burden, long war. The central bank held $5.7 bil- $12.7bn the ailing economy. pushes the Lebanese govern- among the largest in the world, Foreign currency inflows have lion and the remainder was of the country’s outstanding An $11 billion (10 billion euro) ment to suspend payment of the is now equivalent to nearly 170 slowed, Lebanon’s pound has owned by foreign creditors, he $30 billion Eurobonds as of aid package pledged at a con- March 9 Eurobond maturity be- per cent of its gross domestic plunged in value and banks have said. the end of January was owned ference dubbed CEDRE in Paris cause of a need for these funds.” product (GDP). imposed tough restrictions on According to local media by Lebanese banks in April 2018 has not been un- “The Lebanese state will seek Despite a series of cri - dollar withdrawals and trans- reports, Lebanese banks have locked by donors due to a lack to restructure its debts, in a man- ses, the country has never fers. recently sold a chunk of their of reform.

SBI says a 49pc stake in Yes Bank will cost $331 million Sovereign wealth fund appetite for investing in start-ups wanes Reuters | London Vision Fund is more difficult to assess as most venture capital overeign wealth fund invest- or private equity fund manag- Sment in venture capital deals ers do not disclose their limited slipped to its lowest level in six partners. years in 2019, with the drop-off Even when that is known, deepening in the months after how much each investor com- Policemen stand guard as people wait outside a Yes Bank branch to WeWork’s planned share sale mits is generally not. withdraw their money in Ahmedabad failed, data showed on Friday. Singapore-based sover- Sovereign wealth-backed eign funds Temasek, GIC and Reuters |. Mumbai investment team will discuss venture capital rounds fell to Mubadala are among funds that with them, work out what are $7.2 billion in 2019, a sharp slide have built up in-house teams tate Bank of India said it the possibilities which meet from a record $31.6 billion the in recent years to make invest- Swill need to invest 24.5 bil- with regulatory guidelines,” previous year, according to re- ments directly. lion rupees ($331 million) if it he said. search from ICEX and the Span- The former two participated were to buy a 49 per cent stake However, he said SBI was not ish-based IE Center for the Gov- in the $14 billion financing of in Yes Bank as part of a rescue in talks with any of Yes Bank’s ernance of Change. Chinese online payment plat- deal of the troubled lender. current shareholders about the The move could indicate form Ant Financial Services SBI Chairman Rajnish Ku- investment. sovereign funds were taking a Group in 2018, one of the big- mar told reporters yesterday SBI will try to approve the re- pause from the start-up sector gest-ever single fundraisings the bank’s capital infusion into construction of Yes Bank much in the wake of office-sharing globally by a private company. rescuing Yes Bank would have before the 30-day RBI imposed firm WeWork’ aborted listing In the coming years, in - a “very marginal” impact on moratorium ends, Kumar said. and Uber’s underwhelming IPO, terest in direct venture capi- SBI’s capital adequacy ratio. Yes Bank has struggled to the center’s director of sover- tal dealmaking is expected to On Thursday, the Reserve raise capital it needs to stay eign wealth research Javier Ca- grow. Bank of India (RBI) took con- above regulatory requirements pape said. “The smaller, pinpoint type trol of Yes Bank, imposed lim- as it battles high levels of bad Both companies were backed direct VC investments are very its on withdrawals to protect loans. It has been trying to by SoftBank’s Vision Fund, and Sovereign wealth-backed venture capital rounds fell to $7.2 billion in 2019, a much in flavor,” said Tihir investors and said it would raise more than $1 billion in fueled with cash from Sau - sharp slide from a record $31.6 billion the previous year Sarkar, London-based partner work on a revival plan. fresh capital since late last di Arabia’s Public Investment at Cleary Gottlieb, which counts “The survival of the bank is year, and in February delayed Fund and Abu Dhabi’s Mubada- However, deal value has more cent months.” several prominent sovereign a must,” Kumar told reporters its December-quarter results. la Investment. than halved to $2.4 billion in “Maybe they are taking de- funds as clients. at a news conference, adding Shares in Yes Bank closed Sovereign funds have been the six months since WeWork cisions, going on hold for a One uncertainty in the im- that several investors had ap- 56pc lower on Friday. moving into venture capital in pulled the plug on its IPO in while, applying more scrutiny mediate future is how much proached SBI to form a consor- SBI will not be allowed to recent years to tap strong re- September 2019 compared to of the selection of venture cap- damage the coronavirus will do tium to pick up the 49pc stake. reduce its stake to below 26pc turns from technological inno- the previous eight months, said ital managers or reconsidering to venture capital. He declined to name any of the for at least three years. All in- vation, broaden their assets and, Capape. other investment areas.” China, the second-largest investors. struments issued by Yes Bank in some cases, diversify their This lack of interest could be The research encompasses destination for deals backed by “For Yes Bank also, people which qualify as Additional local economies. In 2018, sov- seen across the investment sec- deals sovereign funds partici- sovereign money, has reported have reached out. These are Tier 1 capital will be written ereign funds participated in 9% tor, he said. “We’ve not observed pated in directly. the largest number of cases and all initial discussions and then down permanently, according of global venture capital deals many sovereign wealth funds The amount of sovereign fund locked down some parts of its we will discuss with them, our to the RBI’s plan. by dollar volume. joining direct investment in re- investment via funds such as the economy. SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 07 Whither Boeing? Tough times persist a year after crash The MAX Ethiopian draft report blames remains Boeing for 737 MAX crash grounded worldwide and, after a leadership shakeup, former employees and analysts say the Chicago-based company must reform to stop Reuters | Washington

such disasters draft interim report from Ethiopian crash investigators Acirculated to US government agencies concludes the from happening March 2019 crash of a Boeing Co 737 MAX was caused by the plane’s design, two people briefed on the matter said Friday. again, but has Unlike most interim reports, this one includes a probable cause determination, conclusions and recommendations, yet to articulate which are typically not made until a final report is issued. how to do so The US National Transportation Safety Board has been An unpainted Boeing 737 MAX aircraft is seen parked in an aerial photo at Renton Municipal Airport near the Boeing given a chance to lodge concerns or propose changes, the Renton facility in Renton, Washington people said, declining to be identified because the report is AFP | New York not yet public. NTSB spokesman Eric Weiss confirmed the agency had ne year after the crash chairman of the board of direc- of their technical expertise, said Boeing saw its share price rise received the draft interim report, but declined to comment of an Ethiopian Airlines tors. Richard Aboulafia, an expert at from $64.68 in 2005 to $138.72 on whether the agency would suggest any changes. Boeing O737 MAX that killed 157 David Calhoun, the new boss, Teal Group. in 2015. The firm paid out $78 on Friday declined to comment to Reuters about the report. people and triggered the worst has set out to appease the de- “There are a lot of people who billion to shareholders over the According to Bloomberg News, which first reported the crisis in Boeing’s history, the mands of both the company’s don’t know the industry but who last 15 years, compared to the 11 contents of the interim draft, the conclusions say little or aviation giant is at a crossroads. investors and its engineers. just are there because they have billion euros ($12.3 billion) paid nothing about the performance of Ethiopian Airlines or its The MAX remains grounded He went to Seattle in January political power,” such as former out by Airbus, Bank of America flight crew and that has raised concern with some partici- worldwide and, after a leader- a week after taking office to see US ambassador to the United calculated last year. pants in the investigation. ship shakeup, former employ- the engineering teams and other Nations, Nikki Haley. After the crashes in Ethiopia The Ethiopian interim report contrasts with a final report ees and analysts say the Chi - employees, telling the engineers Of the 13 current board mem- and another in October 2018 in into the Lion Air crash released last October by Indonesia cago-based company must re- to go back to the drawing board bers, only one is an engineer by Indonesia that killed 189 peo- which faulted Boeing’s design of cockpit software on the 737 form to stop such disasters from for Boeing’s next aircraft the training. ple, Boeing said in a statement MAX but also cited errors by the airline’s workers and crew. happening again, but has yet to NMA, New Midsize Airplane. “It’s not easy to change the it carried out an “independent Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 crashed in an open field six articulate how to do so. To appease the markets, he fundamentals and values of an review” of its procedures and minutes after take-off from Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian “They have to decide what compensated shareholders with organization,” said Michel Mer- created a body to look into “cas- capital, killing 157 passengers and crew. The Boeing 737 kind of company they want to a $1.2 billion fourth-quarter luzeau of Air Insight Research. es of undue pressure and safety MAX has been grounded worldwide for nearly a year after be,” Stan Sorscher, a retired en- dividend despite the company’s concerns raised by employees.” the two fatal crashes. gineer and union leader, said. making a loss in 2019. Inquiries The company “initiated reor- Under rules overseen by the United Nations’ Montre - The choice, Sorscher said, is Calhoun has been on Boeing’s Cost reduction became an ganization of the engineering al-based aviation agency, ICAO, Ethiopia should publish a between being a company where board of directors since 2009, important issue within Boeing function to sharpen its focus on final report by the first anniversary of the crash on March 10 cutting costs is key, an approach and those who know the com- after its 1996 takeover of rival customer and operational prior- but now looks set to release an interim report with elements favored by Wall Street but criti- pany wonder whether he is the McDonnell Douglas, experts ities, resulting in an even greater that would normally be included in the final report. cized after the MAX debacle, or man to change it. told AFP. emphasis on safety,” it said in a Ethiopian Airlines did not respond to a request for com- one in which Seattle-engineers “Everyone at the board of di- “The 787 programme was statement. ment. Ethiopia’s Transport Ministry could not immediately and their strict procedures take rectors comes from that finan- dreadful. It was our first model Boeing faces further scrutiny: be reached for comment. precedence over profits. cial tradition of cost cutting. I in the new culture,” an engineer the Department of Justice wants A preliminary accident report by the Ethiopian Civil Avi- don’t expect David Calhoun to said on condition of anonymity. to know if it encouraged employ- ation Authority released in April last year said faulty sensor Fundamentals and values change,” Sorscher said. “Our supervisors kept asking, ees to hide problems encoun- readings and multiple automatic commands to push down In December, Boeing fired CEO Addressing the board’s culture ‘Why are we doing this? Is there tered during the development the nose of a Boeing plane contributed to the fatal crash and Dennis Muilenburg and General is key, Scott Hamilton of Leeham something we can’t do to save of the MAX. left the crew struggling to regain control. Counsel Michael Luttig, whose said, because “the culture of pri- costs?’” Internal communications re- The US House Transportation Committee on Friday re- responses to the MAX grounding oritizing shareholder value and Jim McNerney, a former Gen- leased in January implied such leased preliminary investigative findings into the two crashes beginning on March 13, 2019 cost-cutting starts at the board eral Electric executive who was conduct. which faulted the Federal Aviation Administration’s approval were seen as inept. of directors.” appointed CEO in 2005, fortified “I still haven’t been forgiven of the plane and Boeing’s design failures, saying the 737 MAX The manufacturer has also And the body’s members this culture during his 10-year by God for the covering up I did flights were “doomed”. separated the roles of CEO and aren’t necessarily there because reign. last year,” an employee wrote. Amsterdam’s boats go electric ahead of 2025 diesel ban Reuters | Amsterdam ships rolled in from the East In- he century-old Amsterdam dies in the 1600s. Tcanal boat Gerarda Johanna Of Amsterdam’s 12,000 rec- looks like a classic with wood reational boats, mostly smaller panelling, but beneath its floor- privately-owned vessels, only boards lies a high-tech underbel- 5pc are emissions-free, by city ly: rows of lithium ion batteries, estimates. 66 in all, with an electric drive Converting them to electric train powering its propeller. would cost 4,000-40,000 eu- The boat is part of a push by ros depending on size, though Amsterdam’s new Green Party many will likely be sold or mayor to ban diesel engines from replaced. the centre’s ancient canals by One of the electric canal boat is seen moored at the pier “The city is actively involved 2025, helping the city’s efforts Oscar Fritschy of E-Schip shows off the batteries of the Gerarda Johanna canal with rolling out the installation to combat climate change. each in use up to 14 hours per they can do in 10-20 years,” said boat of chargers, which is a rather The transition among com- day, with 320 of them convey- Kees Koolen, founder of Super Converting ships like the 1922 they come up for maintenance, complex project” Keuning said. mercial vessels is well underway, ing nearly 4 million passengers B, the company that supplied Gerarda Johanna takes equal adding around 50,000 euros to The city is working with con- with 75 per cent of the 550 on through the city’s waters an - the batteries used in the Gerarda parts engineering and artistry. a 150,000 euro repair bill. So far tractors to have 100 boat charg- the city’s water qualifying as nually. Johanna. It would cost a million euros 13 out of 29 are done. ing stations installed by the end emissions free, according to city The Gerarda Johanna has its He said cheaper solar energy ($1.1 million) to build a new Kooij monitors its fleet, in- of 2021, as well as a floating spokesman Wouter Keuning. own berth and charging station. and new forms of storage would electric canal boat, but owner cluding battery levels, from a charging station launched by Canal boats were a natural fit “People always overestimate bring about emission-neutral Rederij Kooij, one of the city’s modern control booth inside an startup Skoon Energy this week, to go first. They are Amsterdam’s what they can do in one year, transportation faster than most largest operators, is converting old stone building near Amster- expected to help with grid bal- most popular tourist attraction, but they underestimate what are expecting. its existing fleet one by one as dam’s Dam, where spice-laden ancing. WHENEVER THE PEOPLE ARE WELL-INFORMED, THEY CAN QUOTE OF THE BE TRUSTED WITH THEIR DAY OWN GOVERNMENT. THOMAS JEFFERSON SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020

SULAIMAN HAKEMY and justice system. By most ac- counts, these systems are consid- ‘Afghan’ is now hat is life?” asks the ered by many people living under 1970s Persian-lan- them to be more effective – or at “Wguage song of the least, more efficient – than those a globalised same name by the Afghan singer offered by the central govern - Ahmad Zahir. It was a question ment in Kabul. That fact is one asked by many Afghans through- of the great failings of America’s out that decade. Afghanistan un- state-building project in Afghan- identity, whether derwent a series of coups – both istan. However, it is a fact none- bloodless and bloody – that took theless. it on a winding path from mon- Many factors play a role in the Taliban likes archy to republic to Soviet-con- the Taliban’s resilience, includ- trolled puppet state. It culminated ing incompetence on the part of in 1979 with a full-scale invasion the Afghan government, flawed – or failed liberation, depending American military strategy and it or not on one’s politics – by the Soviet enormous financial and tactical Union. support for the group from Pa - Zahir’s answer to the question kistan and Iran. Most important, Afghanistan is a reflected the forlorn mood within however, is the perception among the country. Life, the song con - many Afghans, particularly in ru- very different country from cludes, is the process of “dying ral areas, that the Taliban offers a under a wall of your own hopes”. more traditionally “Afghan” way the one its leaders – and their The singer, who remains a uni- of life. fying figure in Afghanistan, was There is only a kernel of truth enemies – were born into killed on his 33rd birthday, in the in this assumption. What it means same year as the Soviet invasion. to be “Afghan” has changed over More than three decades later, his the course of decades of conflict. lyrics continue to resonate. When the British sought to In the past three weeks, Af - invade Afghanistan in the 19th ghans both inside and outside century, and when the Soviets the country have faced a series of invaded in the 20th century, and questions about what they want when the US again invaded in the their future to be like. Much has 21st century, all three powers in- happened, and failed to happen. vested considerably in educating relevant talking points. They I was 19 when I presented On February 18, the results of the their forces on the anthropology seemed to clarify Afghanistan’s my American passport to country’s presidential elections of the Afghan people. Their first cloudy politics and its complicat- were released after five months of point of departure was – rather ed web of tribal conflict. apply for an Afghan one uncertainty, only for the outcome patronisingly – the notion that But if, today, it seems overly at the embassy in London, to result in even more uncertain- there is no such thing as the Af- academic – even orientalist – to in 2009. I remember the ty. On February 29, the US, Af- ghan people. describe Afghanistan in such an- look of surprise on the ghanistan’s most recent liberator, Afghanistan developed its sense thropological terms, that is be - consular officer’s face. Most signed a deal with the Taliban that of place by being a land on the cause it is. Afghans were desperate included a reduction in violence, margins, comprised of Central Much has been made about how for an American passport. only for new waves of violence to Asia’s leftovers – Persians outside the US’s war in Afghanistan has follow almost immediately after. of the Persian empire, Pashtuns become a generational conflict. He asked me if I had any It is widely expected that, if left unconquered by British South The youngest American soldiers plans to travel back to the the conflict in Afghanistan ever Asia and Turkic peoples living serving in Afghanistan, it is often homeland. ends, the Taliban will come out beyond the boundaries of the said, were born after the 9/11 at- with some share in the country’s region’s khanates or chiefdoms. tacks that spurred their country’s governance. The group of mili- Moreover, the country is divid- invasion in the first place. tants, which has a brutal histo - ed along religious lines, between But Afghans, it must be said, ry of oppression, already has de Sunni and Shia Muslims. Never have been at war – with Russians, per cent of Afghans in Afghani- facto control over large parts of mind that there are also Jews, Americans and themselves – for stan today are under the age of 55; Afghanistan, where it imposes its Hindus and Sikhs. 40 years. For them, it is a mul - barely 10 per cent reached adult- own taxes, security infrastructure In a simpler world, these were ti-generational conflict. Ninety hood before mass violence began.

Iran is attempting to hide its nuclear activities

CON COUGHLIN sponse to Washington’s punitive sanctions regime. his week, the Internation- This means that Tehran now al Atomic Energy Agency, possesses five times the amount Tthe UN’s atomic watchdog, of enriched uranium that it is al- UN atomic claimed that Iran is deliberately lowed under the terms of the 2015 seeking to conceal its activities deal. watchdog at three suspected nuclear sites. Meanwhile, a separate report These allegations have once more has revealed that IAEA inspectors has warned drawn to one of the fundamental identified three possible unde- shortcomings of the 2015 nucle- clared locations where nuclear that Tehran ar deal: that it has failed to force material may have been stored in Tehran to make a comprehensive secret. Among the sites listed is a is concealing declaration about every aspect of facility in the Turquzabad district three nuclear its nuclear activities. of Tehran, which western intelli- As part of the IAEA’s quarter- gence officials claim is being used sites and has ly update, the organisation has as an “atomic archive” for infor- produced two reports on Iran’s mation on Iran’s former nuclear tripled its nuclear activities, raising fresh weapons programme. concerns about its undisclosed According to a CIA assessment stockpiles nuclear activities. published towards the end of the One report, the first compiled Bush Jr administration, Iran was of enriched since the signing of the nuclear working on developing nuclear deal, provides an alarming update weapons until 2003 when the re- uranium on the current level of Iran’s stock- gime, fearing that the US-led coa- piles of enriched uranium, which lition would attack Iran following Iran has consistently denied aspects of the programme, such to confirm the view that Iran has it concludes have tripled during the overthrow of Iraqi dictator having a nuclear weapons pro - as missile delivery systems and resumed work both on building up the past three months, after Teh- Saddam Hussein, halted the programme but western intelligence processing nuclear materials like its stockpiles of enriched uranium ran announced it was to resume gramme and placed the relevant officials believe the regime has uranium to weapons grade. – a key component in the con - its enrichment programme in re- technology into cold storage. continued working on various The latest IAEA reports appear struction of nuclear warheads – as

SULAIMAN HAKEMY and justice system. By most ac- Google, Facebook and a host of In December 2015, during the counts, these systems are consid- Indian and Turkish television peak of the migration crisis in Wanted: A ‘Afghan’ is now hat is life?” asks the ered by many people living under dramas. International phone Europe, I was on a reporting as- 1970s Persian-lan- them to be more effective – or at cards – used to keep up with rel - signment in the so-called “jun- stimulus for the “Wguage song of the least, more efficient – than those atives’ lives overseas – are among gle” – a refugee camp in Calais, TOP a globalised same name by the Afghan singer offered by the central govern - the most popular products in cor- France. Walking through the Ahmad Zahir. It was a question ment in Kabul. That fact is one ner shops. camp in sub-zero temperatures economy asked by many Afghans through- of the great failings of America’s Afghans within and outside of under a hail of rain, I came across TWEETS4 out that decade. Afghanistan un- state-building project in Afghan- Afghanistan were, for many years, an Afghan boy of about 12 who identity, whether derwent a series of coups – both istan. However, it is a fact none- almost two separate populations. was sitting alone on a wooden bloodless and bloody – that took theless. But in an increasingly globalised bench, shivering. I don’t know it on a winding path from mon- Many factors play a role in community, shared experiences what saddened me more – the fro- the Taliban likes archy to republic to Soviet-con- the Taliban’s resilience, includ- are merging into broader, some- zen tear on his cheek or the sting- 01 trolled puppet state. It culminated ing incompetence on the part of times unexpected conversations. ing idea that this was a version of in 1979 with a full-scale invasion the Afghan government, flawed My father was 14 years old when my father, 30 years later. But I sat – or failed liberation, depending American military strategy and he left Afghanistan – and the city down next to him, showed him my CAPT. MAHMOOD AL MAHMOOD it or not on one’s politics – by the Soviet enormous financial and tactical of Kabul – for the first time. Like Afghan passport and said hello. Union. support for the group from Pa - millions of other Afghans, he grew He was Pashtun. My family is s there such a thing as a Coronavirus Zahir’s answer to the question kistan and Iran. Most important, up somewhere else – in his case, Persian. He was Sunni, and my recession? Well, historically, disease Afghanistan is a reflected the forlorn mood within however, is the perception among Pakistan and then the United family is Shia. None of that came rump acknowledged and epidemics have impacted the the country. Life, the song con - many Afghans, particularly in ru- States. Eventually, his idea of Af- up. We talked about food, dancing Tthis plan when he Ieconomy because, although we think of very different country from cludes, is the process of “dying ral areas, that the Taliban offers a ghanistan became less of a lived and Ahmad Zahir. said at CDC that he wants the economy in terms of numbers and under a wall of your own hopes”. more traditionally “Afghan” way experience and more of a distilled In his naivety, he asked me if it to quarantine 3,500 pas- statistics, it is we humans who move the the one its leaders – and their The singer, who remains a uni- of life. memory. He passed it onto his was possible for him to get a boat sengers on a cruise ship economy at every level. fying figure in Afghanistan, was There is only a kernel of truth children, including me. Like other to Canada from Calais. He also offshore “because I don’t The 2003 SARS outbreak, which infected enemies – were born into killed on his 33rd birthday, in the in this assumption. What it means second-generation members of asked to use my phone, so that he need to have the num- about 8,000 people and killed around 774, same year as the Soviet invasion. to be “Afghan” has changed over the diaspora, I grew up with an could go on Facebook and tell his bers double because of cost the global economy an estimated of More than three decades later, his the course of decades of conflict. understanding of Afghanistan that brother in Kabul that France was the people on that ship.” US$50 billion. lyrics continue to resonate. When the British sought to was a combination of my father’s cold and miserable. He had made The numbers are dou- The 2015 MERS outbreak in South Ko- In the past three weeks, Af - invade Afghanistan in the 19th stories and my own projected fan- the journey to France alone, but in bling anyway. rea, meanwhile, infected around 200 ghans both inside and outside century, and when the Soviets tasies. me, for that evening, he had found @davidfrum people and killed about 38, but led to an the country have faced a series of invaded in the 20th century, and I was 19 when I presented my a brother. estimated costs of US$8.5 billion. Already questions about what they want when the US again invaded in the American passport to apply for Whatever happens in Afghan- the coronavirus epidemic has had a great- their future to be like. Much has 21st century, all three powers in- an Afghan one at the embassy in istan in the coming months or 02 er economic effect than either of these happened, and failed to happen. vested considerably in educating relevant talking points. They I was 19 when I presented This experience has had an im- London, in 2009. I remember the years, the government and the predecessors. On February 18, the results of the their forces on the anthropology seemed to clarify Afghanistan’s my American passport to measurable impact on the coun- look of surprise on the consular Taliban alike will have to reckon Little wonder then, that global stock country’s presidential elections of the Afghan people. Their first cloudy politics and its complicat- try’s demographics and psychol- officer’s face. Most Afghans were with the reality that the country markets are tumbling and manufacturing were released after five months of point of departure was – rather ed web of tribal conflict. apply for an Afghan one ogy. It has traumatised a majority desperate for an American pass- has changed. The old ways are supply chains, many of which originate in uncertainty, only for the outcome patronisingly – the notion that But if, today, it seems overly at the embassy in London, of the population and cast nearly port. He asked me if I had any not long for this world, and many China, are facing shortage of spares and to result in even more uncertain- there is no such thing as the Af- academic – even orientalist – to in 2009. I remember the a quarter of Afghans into a life plans to travel back to the home- Afghans expect something differ- vital parts. ty. On February 29, the US, Af- ghan people. describe Afghanistan in such an- look of surprise on the abroad. land. At the time, I did not. I just ent out of life. They say that the 2020 global market ghanistan’s most recent liberator, Afghanistan developed its sense thropological terms, that is be - consular officer’s face. Most In the midst of all of this fog, felt a pull to the place where my Ahmad Zahir was right about poke to Governor @ for 5G handsets will be hit by the COVID-19 signed a deal with the Taliban that of place by being a land on the cause it is. Afghans were desperate ethno-nationalism, religion and father was born. At the time, the one thing: there is an element SGavinNewsom early pandemic because so many telecom com- included a reduction in violence, margins, comprised of Central Much has been made about how for an American passport. ideology begin to matter less. eight-year-old Islamic Republic of of life that involves building a this morning about the panies depend on Chinese-made parts. only for new waves of violence to Asia’s leftovers – Persians outside the US’s war in Afghanistan has Deeper, more basic instincts come Afghanistan had not yet circulated wall made of one’s hopes. For Af- cruise ship quarantined The good news is that, contrary to pop- follow almost immediately after. of the Persian empire, Pashtuns become a generational conflict. He asked me if I had any to the fore – survival, the pursuit its own passports; the one the of- ghans, it will have to incorporate off the California Coast. ular rumours which talk darkly about It is widely expected that, if left unconquered by British South The youngest American soldiers plans to travel back to the of happiness and a desperate crav- ficer issued me still bore the name everything the nation is, and what CoronaVirus test kits carelessness and a State-sponsored dis- the conflict in Afghanistan ever Asia and Turkic peoples living serving in Afghanistan, it is often homeland. ing for community. of the Republic of Afghanistan my all sections of the community as- have been delivered, test- information campaign, China has done ends, the Taliban will come out beyond the boundaries of the said, were born after the 9/11 at- Globalisation has had its own father was born into. pire for it to be. ing is taking place now. a great job in controlling with some share in the country’s region’s khanates or chiefdoms. tacks that spurred their country’s impact on the country, too. While His question, however, nat - As the country’s politics strug- @realDonaldTrump COVID-19, and in doing so governance. The group of mili- Moreover, the country is divid- invasion in the first place. electricity and internet connec- urally made me insecure about gle to match its new realities, the has bought the rest of the tants, which has a brutal histo - ed along religious lines, between But Afghans, it must be said, tions remain inaccessible in whether that passport really be- wall will have to be built brick Thailand, world time to prepare and ry of oppression, already has de Sunni and Shia Muslims. Never have been at war – with Russians, per cent of Afghans in Afghani- much of Afghanistan’s villages longed in my hands. Even when by brick. Australia and contain the virus in geo- facto control over large parts of mind that there are also Jews, Americans and themselves – for stan today are under the age of 55; and mountains, in its urban cen- I visited Kabul two years later, The one thing Afghans must 03 Italy have graphically isolated areas, Afghanistan, where it imposes its Hindus and Sikhs. 40 years. For them, it is a mul - barely 10 per cent reached adult- tres it is becoming increasingly I felt awkward handing it to the keep in mind, however, is that we rushed economic so far avoiding a pandemic. own taxes, security infrastructure In a simpler world, these were ti-generational conflict. Ninety hood before mass violence began. difficult to imagine life without immigration officers there. do not have to die under it. stimulus The bad news is that we are all staring at a glob - packages into al economic meltdown. action. Which Alongside news of health brings me to the measures by responsible question: Shall governments, we are now ovt says it “immedi- hearing of stimulus pack- Gately” found out it we be hearing of ages to offset Coronavirus had drafted two lengthy such a stimulus economic losses. notices against the chan- for Bahrain Thailand, Australia and Iran is attempting to hide its nuclear activities nels and “immediately” businesses as Italy have rushed econom- Iran is attempting to hide its nuclear activities restored them. Sounds ic stimulus packages into like some immediate in- well? action. Which brings me tervention by someone. to the question: Shall we be CON COUGHLIN @suhasinih hearing of such a stimulus sponse to Washington’s punitive well using secret storage facilities Iran was working on Prior to the signing of the 2015 for Bahrain businesses as sanctions regime. for material used in the nuclear developing nuclear deal, tensions between Iran and well? his week, the Internation- This means that Tehran now programme. weapons until 2003 when the West over its nuclear activi- 04 Because there is no al Atomic Energy Agency, possesses five times the amount Iran has so far failed to respond the regime, fearing that ties were primarily caused by the doubt that we are reeling the UN’s atomic watchdog, of enriched uranium that it is al- to numerous requests by the IAEA regime’s persistent attempts to under a really bad econom- T the US-led coalition would UN atomic claimed that Iran is deliberately lowed under the terms of the 2015 for clarification on its latest find- mislead IAEA inspectors during ic crisis. Not only small seeking to conceal its activities deal. ings, including soil samples taken attack Iran following the officially-sanctioned visits. businesses which are often touted as the watchdog at three suspected nuclear sites. Meanwhile, a separate report from Turquzabad, which IAEA offi- overthrow of Iraqi dictator In one instance the Iranians backbone of the national economy but These allegations have once more has revealed that IAEA inspectors cials say contain traces of uranium Saddam Hussein, halted the razed to the ground a secret nu- also big businesses are complaining of has warned drawn to one of the fundamental identified three possible unde- that Tehran has failed to explain. programme and placed the clear facility at Lavizan Shiyan slowdown. that Tehran shortcomings of the 2015 nucle- clared locations where nuclear Iran’s failure to co-operate with relevant technology into after it had been identified by US 08 samples of Indians The problem was being bravely tackled ar deal: that it has failed to force material may have been stored in the IAEA is entirely in keeping with satellites. The regime even went as 1have been received by businesspeople before the epidemic Tehran to make a comprehensive secret. Among the sites listed is a its approach to the nuclear issue. cold storage. far as removing all the topsoil from from Iran today morn- but with people preferring to play it safe is concealing declaration about every aspect of facility in the Turquzabad district For it has been a perennial feature around the site to cover its tracks. ing. These samples are and stay home, everybody is suffering. three nuclear its nuclear activities. of Tehran, which western intelli- of the nation’s nuclear programme, The latest IAEA claims raise being tested at the lab- Restaurants, schools, salons, gyms, banks, As part of the IAEA’s quarter- gence officials claim is being used dating back to the early 1990s, some awkward questions for the oratory in AIIMS. These car showrooms – all are staring at losses. sites and has ly update, the organisation has as an “atomic archive” for infor- when it first began working on the three European powers – Britain, are samples of Indians I appeal to the BCCI to take up the mat- produced two reports on Iran’s mation on Iran’s former nuclear scheme, that Tehran has consist- Germany and France – that con- stranded in Iran . If ter with our wise leadership and act as the tripled its nuclear activities, raising fresh weapons programme. ently refused to comply with its in- And yet, since Iran first began tinue to support the 2015 nuclear negative they will be eyes and ears of our leaders on the ground concerns about its undisclosed According to a CIA assessment ternational obligations to disclose work on developing the capabil- deal. brought back to india if and seek an economic package to tide us stockpiles nuclear activities. published towards the end of the details about its nuclear activities. ities to build nuclear weapons, it The Europeans have consist- positive they will stay over till better times. One report, the first compiled Bush Jr administration, Iran was As a long-standing signatory to has consistently sought to keep key ently argued that the best way there. #COVID19 Just like we have won praise globally of enriched since the signing of the nuclear working on developing nuclear the Treaty on the Non-Prolifera- facilities secret from the outside to prevent Iran from developing @CNNnews18 for tackling the health repercussions of deal, provides an alarming update weapons until 2003 when the re- tion of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), world. nuclear weapons is to stick with the virus, let us lead from the front for the uranium on the current level of Iran’s stock- gime, fearing that the US-led coa- which the country first signed in For instance, the existence of the the nuclear deal. But the evidence economic side-effects too. piles of enriched uranium, which lition would attack Iran following Iran has consistently denied aspects of the programme, such to confirm the view that Iran has to confirm the view that Iran has 1968 when it was still ruled by massive underground uranium en- provided by the IAEA this week Disclaimer: (Views expressed (Captain Mahmood Al Mahmood is the it concludes have tripled during the overthrow of Iraqi dictator having a nuclear weapons pro - as missile delivery systems and resumed work both on building up the Shah, Iran has an obligation richment facility at Natanz was only suggests that, on the contrary, the by columnists are personal and Editor-in-Chief of The Daily Tribune and the past three months, after Teh- Saddam Hussein, halted the programme but western intelligence processing nuclear materials like its stockpiles of enriched uranium to provide details of any new nu- revealed after opposition groups Iranians no longer have any gen- need not necessarily reflect our the President of the Arab-African Unity ran announced it was to resume gramme and placed the relevant officials believe the regime has uranium to weapons grade. – a key component in the con - clear-related facilities under de- succeeded in identifying the site uine interest in complying with editorial stances) Organisation for Relief, Human Rights and its enrichment programme in re- technology into cold storage. continued working on various The latest IAEA reports appear struction of nuclear warheads – as velopment. and sounding the alarm in 2002. their side of the agreement. Counterterrorism)

Hon. Chairman Najeb Yacob Alhamer | Editor-in-Chief Mahmood AI Mahmood | Chairman & Managing Director P Unnikrishnan | Advertisement: Update Media W.L.L | Tel: 38444692, Email: [email protected] | Newsroom: Tel: 38444680, Email: [email protected] Subscription & circulation: Tel: 36458394 | Email:[email protected] | Website: www.newsofbahrain.com | Printed and published by Al Ayam Publishing 10 SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 world Nine killed in Mexico shootout with police Guadalajara | Mexico it. He was already dead when I identified herself as Gabriela ine people were killed in arrived," she said. told AFP, adding that officers a bloody confrontation Around 300 assault rifle shells went up on the rooftops. NFriday in western Mexi- were scattered at the scene. In a nearby kindergar - co between a criminal gang and Neighbors described moments ten, teachers followed safe - agents investigating a suspected of panic during the shooting and ty protocols to protect the kidnapping, officials said. the search operation. children. The dead included two of - "They banged on the door, the "They grabbed the children ficers and six people believed windows were broken. We wer- and then laid them down on the to have been held captive in a en't given a chance to go and ground, they had them all pro- house in Tlaquepaque, Jalisco open the door," a neighbor who tected," Josefina, 40, said. state, the state prosecutor's office said. Another man died on the street. Jalisco has been hard-hit by violence linked to organized crime, particularly the powerful Jalisco New Generation drug cartel. In the latest incident, the kid- nappers opened fire on the officers and shot their captives when they were cornered, state prosecutor Gerardo Octavio So- Police patrol after nine people were killed in the La Huertas neighborhood of lis Gomez said. Tlaquepaque, Mexico who was killed in the street was After the gang shot at them, her 43-year-old brother who had the agents returned fire and re- of the army supported by two for the attackers. gone to visit his daughter. quested backup. helicopters were deployed to A woman who asked to re- "They shot him in the heart, Jalisco state has been been hard-hit by violence linked to organized crime in Dozens of police and elements begin a house to house search main anonymous said the man but he had nothing to do with recent years

Aussie toilet paper tussle sparks call for calm Sacked DR Congo general died by ‘hanging’: president Supermarket chains in he was killed or committed • suicide. Australia have started rationing Tshisekedi ordered a probe sales of toilet paper and assured into the death, and the pre - customers there is no shortage liminary findings were made public yesterday after a cabinet AFP | Sydney meeting. “According to the evidence ... it turns out to be a hanging,” fight over toilet paper in an Australian a statement quoted the presi- Asupermarket yesterday prompted po- dent as saying. lice to call for calm after the latest violence Tshisekedi said he wanted sparked by coronavirus-induced panic buy- Kahimbi was close to former the probe to be wrapped up ing in the country. president Joseph Kabila quickly to “bring relief to the A video widely shared online shows bereaved family”. three women pulling each other’s hair and Kinshasa In recent days, Kahimbi screaming as they struggle over a large pack A video widely shared online shows three women pulling each other’s hair and screaming as they struggle was barred from foreign trav- of the highly sought-after commodity in the over a large pack. R Congo’s sacked former el, stripped of his functions aisle of a grocery store in Sydney. The incident comes after police tasered Supermarket chains have started ration- Ddeputy chief of military in- and questioned by the national “I just want one pack!” one of the wom- a man involved in a scrap over toilet rolls ing sales of toilet paper and assured cus- telligence, who was under Eu- security council, sources said en screams as two others guard a trolley in the NSW town of Tamworth. tomers there is no shortage. ropean Union sanctions, died earlier. Kahimbi was under EU stacked high with rolls. Police were also called to a shop in Syd- Australia has confirmed more than 70 by hanging, President Felix sanctions for rights violations Two staff members intervened to break ney when a knife was drawn in a tussle over cases of the new coronavirus that has in- Tshisekedi said yesterday. during the Kabila regime. up the scuffle and police were called but no the scarce product. fected more than 100,000 people world- Delphin Kahimbi, 50, a close Tshisekedi, a former oppo- one was arrested. “Pls STOP! Calm common sense would wide. associate of former president sition leader, rules the Dem- “It’s not the Thunderdome, it’s not Mad tell us if some individuals were not buying One of the latest cases was a doctor in the Joseph Kabila, had died of a ocratic Republic of Congo in Max. We don’t need to do that,” Acting excessive numbers of toilet rolls... there southeastern state of Victoria who recently heart attack on February 28 at a coalition with Kabila’s sup- Inspector Andrew New from New South would be no problem,” NSW Health Minis- returned from the United States. He treated home in Kinshasa, his wife and porters who have a majority in Wales police told reporters, referring to the ter Brad Hazzard tweeted Saturday with a about 70 patients despite having symptoms media reports said. parliament and in other state post-apocalyptic action films. photo of bare shop shelves. of the virus. But rumours abounded that institutions. 18th century Chinese gourd sells for $4.6 million at auction

to a Chinese buyer by telephone. peditionary force in 1860 but The gourd was Auctioneer Olivier Clair, who Clair said its path to Europe was • found the object while execut- unclear. possibly looted, along ing a will in a Parisian apart - “We do not know how the ob- with many other object ment, said that with fees, the ject arrived in France, we only sale amounted to more than 4.9 KNOW WHAT know its history for three gen- Bourges | France million euros. erations. “There have been a number, “It belonged to an old family but it remains very rare,” he said. of the paper industry which had Chinese porcelain gourd “The gourd was intended for In June 2018 a Chinese links with the political sphere Awhich once belonged to the Chinese pilgrims. Little by little, porcelain vase created of the 19th century, no doubt 18th century Chinese Emper- it has become a decorative sym- for Qianlong reached 16.2 relatives of Mac Mahon and Na- or Qianlong sold for 4.1 million bol like a coronation sword. It is poleon III.” euros ($4.6 million) at auction an object that interests the Chi- million euros at Sothe- Imperial items from the Qian- on Saturday. nese because it is their heritage.” by’s in Paris and a gourd long reign (1735-1796) are par- The cobalt blue and white The gourd was possibly looted, of the same era fetched ticularly sought after. A pink gourd, which represents an im- along with many other objects, 5.1 million euros at a sale family porcelain bowl sold for perial dragon with five claws in This 18th century Chinese porcelain gourd sold for 4.1 million euros at auction on during the sack of the Summer near Tours $30.4 million in April 2018 at search of the sacred pearl, went Saturday Palace by a Franco-English ex- Sotheby’s in Hong Kong. SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 09 Sea of meth as Myanmar army smashes three drug labs

cheap, caffeine-cut meth tablets Made-in-Myanmar Ice goes Army operations -- as well as heroin and the more for around $150,000 a kilo by the • addictive crystal meth, known time it hits Australia’s streets. around the Kutkai as “Ice”. Drugs are trafficked south area of Myanmar’s “Our soldiers are on the through Thailand, north into Shan State found the ground in areas of the forest the China and west towards Bang- factories producing police cannot reach,” Major Gen- ladesh -- a cascade of stimulants eral Tun Tun Nyi, a spokesman that has overwhelmed regional millions of “yaba” pills for the commander-in-chief’s policing efforts and seeded a office, told reporters on Friday crisis of addiction, corruption Myanmar is under in a rare press tour to a murky and money laundering. pressure• to stem zone of drug production and A crackdown in the same area the deluge of drugs rebel wars. last year was met with heavy Myanmar is under pressure to artillery fire by the rebel groups from its freewheeling stem the deluge of drugs from believed to be running the border regions. its freewheeling border regions. labs. Shan State is part of the Gold- “This area is very dangerous,” The haul was en Triangle -- a rugged wedge an anti-drugs police officer in worth• nearly $100 of land cutting into Myanmar, Kawangkha told AFP, requesting Laos, China and Thailand that anonymity. million in Myanmar is virtually untroubled by au- “The local people are inno- thorities despite its prolific pro- cent, but there are some busi- Kawanghka | Myanmar duction. nessmen and ethnic armed “This is the biggest seizure groups using the area to produce acks of heroin and meth- of the year... the whole world drugs.” amphetamine are laid out Myanmar’s army took reporters on a rare press tour to a murky zone of drug production and rebel wars is fighting drugs,” Tun Tun Nyi The United Nations Office on Sin endless rows in a remote added. Drugs and Crime says that with- Myanmar border zone during a The haul was worth nearly out tough action against dirty rare raid in the heart of South- ducing regions put three major continue to be churned out of trade. $100 million in Myanmar, the money coupled with better drug east Asia’s infamous ‘Golden laboratories out of business this the lawless forest areas by rebel Army operations around the army said. But the price of yaba rehabilitation programmes, the Triangle’. week and hauled in 43 million groups and shadowy organised Kutkai area of Myanmar’s Shan -- Southeast Asia’s favourite high power of organised crime will The seizure in one of the meth tablets. crime networks making billions State found the factories pro- -- triples as it crosses borders become unmanageable for some world’s biggest narcotics-pro- Record amounts of drugs of dollars each year from the ducing millions of “yaba” pills -- into Thailand and Malaysia. Southeast Asian states. Blockbuster Rome show marks 500 years since Raphael’s death AFP | Rome a decision by the gallery’s Ger- green and red Portrait of Pope death and depicting the great taly is marking 500 years man director Eike Schmidt to Julius II; and the Portrait of Bal- philosophers in Athens -- in- Isince the death of Renais - override their ruling and add dassare Castiglione, a pyramidal cluding a cheeky cameo of him- sance master Raphael with a the painting to the Rome show. composition in elegant earth self -- they remain some of the blockbuster exhibition whose In a letter published in the tones. Vatican’s most popular rooms. preparations were marred by daily La Repubblica, the com- Raphael left behind a “herit- a row over a treasured portrait mittee noted that the portrait Red rose age of invaluable beauty”, Pope some feared was too fragile to was on a list of 24 “immovable” Raphael was sent off with high Francis said in January. move. works the Uffizi had drawn up honours at a grand funeral at the “As the artist’s genius knows The show at Rome’s imposing in December. Vatican, and his remains rest in how to harmoniously com - Scuderie del Quirinale presiden- “Leo X’s painting was very the Rome Pantheon. A red rose pose the materials, colours and tial palace includes 200 works important when he was in graces his grave year-round. sounds to be a part of a single by the prolific painter, designer Rome,” Schmidt told reporters In addition to the Rome exhib- work of art, so diplomacy calls and architect, a child prodigy on Wednesday. it, the anniversary is also being on the state to build a world who died aged only 37 in 1520. “He was the Pope of peace. marked with shows in Urbino, of justice and peace, which is Experts are deeply divided (This is) an identity work that the walled city in central Italy the most beautiful picture we over a portrait of Pope Leo X had to be in the city of the popes where the master was born, and can admire,” the Argentine-born with two cardinals belonging to -- in Rome.” Milan. pontiff said. the Uffizi Gallery of Florence, The quarrel followed three His famous tapestries woven The retrospective, proclaimed the Renaissance capital which years of gruelling work aimed at in Bruges and depicting events by the Uffizi director as the larg- lent a quarter of the works going putting together a retrospective from the lives of saints Peter est and most important ever on display in Rome from Thurs- befitting a master who was part and Paul have been hung in the dedicated to Raphael, is already day through June 2. of a trinity of Renaissance greats Sistine Chapel, their intended breaking records. Painted in burgundy reds and along with Michelangelo and home from the start. Devotees from around the blood orange between 1518 and Leonardo da Vinci. Despite his premature death, world have pre-ordered 70,000 1519, the stunning work caused The show will feature works Raphael produced a vast amount tickets, despite Italy bearing the a sensation at the time for its from a hit parade of world-class of seminal work, much of it at brunt of the new coronavirus Despite his premature death at 37, Raphael produced a vast amount of seminal revolutionary group portraiture museums: the Louvre in Paris, the Vatican, whose museums scare in Europe. work, much of it at the Vatican, whose museums include several rooms filled concept. The Uffizi’s scientific the National Gallery in London, include several rooms filled with It is fitting, “at a time like this, with his frescoes committee decided that the 154 the Prado in Madrid and Wash- his frescoes. because Raphael died of an in- by 119 centimetre (61 by 47 inch) ington’s National Gallery. They are mesmerising but un- fection,” said Schmidt, citing the painting was too fragile to make Some of its most famous paint- finished, just hinting at his true most widely-held theory about the trip to Rome. ings include the Madonna of genius. the painter’s sudden end. All four members of the com- the Rose, painted in Raphael’s Completed by Raphael’s stu- A more romantic versions say mittee resigned last week over trademark pastel colours; the dents that he died of overwork and striking after the stress of a tumultuous love The show his affair. The Italian government is at Rome’s now mulling a series of new crowd control measures to stem imposing the spread of the COV- ID-19 disease, which Scuderie del has killed 107 people Quirinale in Italy in two presidential weeks. palace includes 200 works by the prolific painter, designer and architect, a child prodigy who died aged The show includes 200 works by the prolific Raphael’s remains rest in the Rome Pantheon. A red rose graces his grave year- only 37 in 1520 painter, designer and round architect SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 12 Kabul victims describe scenes of carnage AFP | Kabul the injured were pleading for safely evacuated. help”, he said. The attack has cast doubt on abul was reeling yester- The IS had claimed an attack whether the Taliban can stop day after Islamic State on the same ceremony last year, groups such as IS from over- Kjihadists killed 32 peo- which killed 11, and have in the running Afghanistan after for- ple and wounded dozens more, past targeted Hazaras who are eign troops withdraw from the with injured survivors describ- predominantly Shiite Muslim. country in exchange for security ing scenes of terror as gunmen Survivors expressed anger guarantees and a pledge by the opened fire in the deadliest at- against the government for fail- insurgents to hold talks with the tack to hit Afghanistan since a ing to improve security, with Kabul government. US-Taliban deal. injured teenager Basira saying: The Taliban have also ramped The attack at a crowded gath- “The political elites fled with up attacks in the country, includ- ering in the capital has raised their convoys and poor and in- ing one on Friday night in the questions about Afghanistan’s nocent people were martyred contested western province of abysmal security situation and and wounded”. Herat, where they killed seven uncertain future following the Several top political officials villagers including two children, February 29 agreement to pull were at the ceremony, including government officials said. foreign forces from the country Afghanistan’s chief executive “They opened fire on civilians within 14 months. Abdullah Abdullah. All were killing seven and wounding 10,” Lying in a hospital bed in a Jailani Farhad, spokesman for run-down Kabul neighbour- the provincial governor, said. hood, 15-year-old Basira said Lal Mohammad Omarzai, she had attended Friday’s annual chief of Robat Sangi district, commemoration ceremony for We were in the middle where the shootings took place, Abdul Ali Mazari -- a politician of the ceremony when said the insurgents were angry from the Hazara ethnic group The attack in Kabul which killed 32 people and wounded dozens came a week after the US signed a deal with the Taliban the gunfire erupted. over the villagers’ refusal to pay -- for the first time, accompanied them money. by her father and younger sister. describing chaotic scenes, with leg, she lost consciousness and the ceremony, when the attack- It was non-stop firing Although the Taliban are due “We were in the middle of terrified people running for cov- was brought to a nearby hospital, ers began raining down gunfire. for more than an to start talks with Kabul on the ceremony when the gunfire er from the gunmen who ap - along with 28 other wounded. “I saw... a dead child lying on hour Tuesday, a long-running dispute erupted,” she said in a frail voice. peared to be shooting at them Zamin Ali, who suffered a the ground”, the 60-year-old 15-YEAR-OLD BASIRA over a prisoner swap has cast “It was non-stop firing for from a height. bullet wound, said hundreds of said. doubt on whether negotiations more than an hour,” she said, As shrapnel tore into her right people had assembled to watch “Everyone was fleeing... while will in fact begin as scheduled.

Ex-Brazil football star Trump names Meadows as fourth chief of staff Ronaldinho, brother President Trump and his ad- The chief of staff ministration is only beginning,” • he said in a statement posted to arrested in Paraguay is a key position in the his website. White House, acting In October, in the midst of as the president’s the impeachment proceedings right-hand person and against Trump, Mulvaney was criticized for his admission dur- the coordinator of ing a press conference that the administrative action president had tied military aid for Ukraine to Kiev opening a Washington probe into the Democrats. “We do that all the time with S President Donald Trump foreign policy,” Mulvaney told Uannounced Friday he had reporters. “Get over it. There is chosen staunch ally Mark going to be political influence in Meadows to be his new chief of foreign policy.” staff -- the fourth person to hold He walked back that admis- the position since he took office. sion only hours later. Meadows, a Republican con- The chief of staff is a key posi- gressman from North Carolina, North Carolina representative Mark Meadows (pictured November 2019) has tion in the White House, acting will replace the ultra-conserv- been appointed US President Donald Trump’s new Chief of Staff as the president’s right-hand ative Mick Mulvaney, who had person and the coordinator of been serving as acting chief of tweeted, making the announce- become the United States Spe- administrative action. staff since Trump fired John ment. cial Envoy for Northern Ire - Trump’s first chief of staff was Kelly in December 2018. “I want to thank Acting Chief land.” Reince Priebus, the former lead- “I have known and worked Mick Mulvaney for having In December, Meadows, 61, er of the Republican party, who Retired Brazilian football player Ronaldinho (C) arrives at the Justice Palace in Asuncion on March 6, 2020 to testify about his irregular entry to the with Mark, and the relation - served the Administration so announced he would retire from left the position before he had country ship is a very good one,” Trump well,” Trump added. “He will Congress. But “my work with even passed the 200-day mark. Asuncion

ormer Brazilian football star Ronaldinho and his brother Fwere arrested Friday in Asuncion, Paraguay’s public min- 9 in 10 of all people hold bias against women istry said, after entering the country on fake passports. “The Attorney General’s office issued a warrant for their United Nations | United States clues to the invisible barri - arrest, charged the player Ronaldinho with using a public docu- ers women face in achieving ment with false content and requested preventative detention,” early 90 percent of the equality” despite “decades of the ministry tweeted. Nworld’s population -- of progress,” the UN Development Ronaldinho and his brother Roberto de Assis Moreira had every gender -- holds some Programme said in a statement finished a court appearance and left the Palace of Justice Friday prejudice against women, ac- accompanying the report. night at 8:15 pm (2315 GMT). cording to a UN study published “The work that has been so However, less than two hours later, they got into a closed van Wednesday, ahead of Interna- effective in ensuring an end to at the National Police headquarters. tional Women’s Day. gaps in health or education must The brothers’ lawyer, Adolfo Marin, said he did not under- The United Nations Devel- now evolve to address some- stand why they had been arrested. opment Programme studied 75 thing far more challenging: a “We don’t know under what authority they were arrested,” countries representing 80 per- deeply ingrained bias -- among Marin told reporters. cent of the world’s population both men and women -- against The brothers had been questioned for more than seven hours and found that nine in 10 people genuine equality,” UNDP Ad- on Thursday by the public prosecutor in Asuncion. -- including women -- hold such ministrator Achim Steiner Prosecutor Federico Delfino said he had decided not to beliefs. said. pursue charges against the pair, as they “contributed relevant The prejudiced views include: The agency called on gov - Nearly 90 percent of the world’s population hold a sexist belief, such as that information to the investigation” and were acting in “good faith” that men are better politicians men make better politicians than women, according to a UN repor ernments and institutions to in receiving the falsified Paraguayan documents. and business leaders than wom- change discriminatory beliefs Ronaldinho had been invited to the Paraguayan capital by a en; that going to university is and practices through educa- foundation for needy children, and to promote his new book. more important for men than similar prejudices -- followed percent. tion. The former two-time world player of the year and his brother women; and that men should by Qatar and Nigeria, both at France, Britain and the Unit- Beyond inequalities in edu- were detained on Wednesday at their hotel. get preferential treatment in 99.73 percent. ed States each came in with sim- cation, health and the economy, Their fake documents were detected upon arrival at the competitive job markets. Countries with the lowest ilar scores, 56 percent, 54.6 per- the statement also called out Asuncion international airport, according to Delfino. The percentage of those hold- population of those with sexist cent and 57.31 percent of people one of the report’s most chilling According to the inspector leading the investigation, Ronald- ing at least one sexist bias was beliefs were Andorra, at 27.01 respectively holding at least one findings: 28 percent of people inho was given a fake passport by Brazilian businessman Wil- largest in Pakistan -- where percent, Sweden with 30.01 per- sexist belief. believe it is okay for a man to mondes Sousa Lira, who has been arrested. 99.81 percent of people held cent and the Netherlands, 39.75 The numbers show “new beat his wife. 13 SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020

اااااا (THAPPAD (PG-15) (HINDI/DRAMA/THRILLER اا (COME TO DADDY (18+) (THRILLER) DOLITTLE (PG)(ADVENTURE/COMEDY/FAMILY SEEF (II):10.30 AM + 12.30 + 2.30 + 4.30 + 6.30 + 8.30 + 10.30 PM CITY CENTRE:10.45 AM + 3.30 + 8.15 PM OASIS JUFFAIR 2.30 + 8.15 PM ELIJAH WOOD, STEPHEN MCHATTIE, GARFIELD WILSON ROBERT DOWNEY JR., ANTONIO BANDERAS, MICHAEL SHEEN TAAPSEE PANNU, TANVI AZMI, SUSHIL DAHIYA THE ASSENT (15+) (HORROR) (MALANG (PG-15)(HINDI/ACTION/ROMANTIC/THRILLER اا (SEEF (II):12.00 + 2.00 + 4.00 + 6.00 + 8.00 + 10.00 + 12.00 MN BRAHMS: THE BOY II (15+)(HORROR/THRILLER ROBERT KAZINSKY, PETER JASON, FLORENCE FAIVRE CITY CENTRE: 11.00 AM + 3.15 + 7.30 + 11.45 PM SEEF (I):11.30 AM + 5.30 + 11.30 PM KATIE HOLMES, RALPH INESON, OWAIN YEOMAN ADITYA ROY KAPOOR, ANIL KAPOOR, DISHA PATANI ا ( THE INVISIBLE MAN (15+)(THRILLER/HORROR OASIS JUFFAIR 11.45 AM + 5.30 + 11.15 PM TRANCE (PG-15)(MALAYALAM) OASIS JUFFAIR (VIP): 6.15 + 9.00 + 11.45 PM CITY CENTRE:10.30 AM + 1.00 + 3.45 + 6.30 + 9.15 + 12.00 MN + (1.00 AM OASIS JUFFAIR: 10.30 AM + 1.45 + 5.00 + 8.15 + 11.30 PM THURS/FRI.) SEEF (I):2.15 + 8.15 PM CITY CENTRE (VIP II) : 12.30 + 3.15 + 6.00 + 8.45 + 11.30 PM FAHADH FAASIL, NASRIYA NAZIM, GAUTHAM MENON, SOUBIN SHAHIR, VINAYA- SEEF (I):12.30 + 3.15 + 6.00 + 8.45 + 11.30 PM KAN, DILEESH POTHEN WADI AL SAIL: 12.45 + 3.30 + 6.15 + 9.00 + 11.45 PM DRAUPATHI (PG-13)(TAMIL) ELISABETH MOSS, ALDIS HODGE, STORM REID SEEF (I): 11.00 AM + 2.00 + 5.00 + 8.00 + 11.00 PM KARUNAS, NISHANTH, RICHARD RISHI AYYAPPANUM KOSHIYUM (PG-15)(MALAYALAM) OASIS JUFFAIR: 1.15 + 7.30 PM PRITHVIRAJ, BIJU MENON, RENJITH, SABUMON FORENSIC ( PG-15) (MALAYALAM) OASIS JUFFAIR: 11.00 AM + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 PM SEEF (I):11.15 AM + 1.45 + 4.15 + 6.45 + 9.15 + 11.45 PM SEEF (II): (12.30 MN THURS/FRI.) BAD BOYS FOR LIFE (PG-15)(ACTION) WADI AL SAIL:11.00 AM + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 PM OASIS JUFFAIR: 1.00 + 6.00 + 11.00 PM AL HAMRA: 12.00 + 3.00 + 6.00 + 9.00 + (12.00 MN THURS/FRI.) CITY CENTRE: 12.45 + 3.30 + 6.15 + 9.00 + 11.45 PM + ( 12.30 MN THURS/FRI.) TOVINO THOMAS, REBA MONICA JOHN, SRIKANT MURALI, MAMTA MOHANDAS, ONWARD (PG) (ANIMATION/ADVENTURE) CITY CENTRE (VIP I) : 12.00 + 2.45 + 5.30 + 8.15 + 11.00 PM PRATHAP POTHEN OASIS JUFFAIR (KIDS CINEMA):12.00 + 2.15 + 4.30 + 6.45 + 9.00 + 11.15 pm SEEF (II): 10.30 AM + 1.00 + 3.45 + 6.30 + 9.15 + 12.00 MN OASIS JUFFAIR (VIP):11.30 AM + 1.45 + 4.00 PM WADI AL SAIL: 1.15 + 6.15 + 11.15 PM CITY CENTRE:(ATMOS): 12.15 + 2.30 + 4.45 + 7.00 + 9.15 + 11.30 PM WILL SMITH, MARTIN LAWRENCE, VANESSA HUDGENS CITY CENTRE:(3D): 10.45 AM + 1.00 + 3.15 + 5.30 + 7.45 + 10.00 PM CITY CENTRE (IMAX 2D): 11.15 AM + 1.30 + 3.45 + 6.00 + 8.15 + 10.30 PM SONIC THE HEDGEHOG (PG) (ADVENTURE) SEEF (II):10.30 AM + 12.45 + 3.00 + 5.15 + 7.30 + 9.45 + 12.00 MN OASIS JUFFAIR :10.45 AM + 3.45 + 8.45 PM BIRD OF PREY (15+)(ACTION/ADVENTURE/CRIME) SEEF (II): (3D)11.45 AM + 2.00 + 4.15 + 6.30 + 8.45 + 11.00 PM CITY CENTRE: 12.00 + 2.15 + 4.30 + 6.45 + 9.00 + 11.15 PM CITY CENTRE : 10.45 AM + 1.15 + 3.45 + 6.15 + 8.45 + 11.15 PM WADI AL SAIL: 11.45 AM + 2.00 + 4.15 + 6.30 + 8.45 + 11.00 PM SEEF (II): 12.00 + 2.15 + 4.30 + 6.45 + 9.00 + 11.15 PM MARGOT ROBBIE, MARY ELIZABETH WINSTEAD, EWAN MCGREGOR CHRIS PRATT, JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS, OCTAVIA SPENCER WADI AL SAIL: 11.00 AM + 4.00 + 9.00 PM AL FELOUS (THE MONEY) (PG-15)(ARABIC/COMEDY/CRIME) BAAGHI 3 (PG-15) (HINDI/ACTION/CRIME) JIM CARREY, BEN SCHWARTZ, JAMES MARSDEN CITY CENTRE: 10.45 AM + 1.15 + 3.45 + 6.15 + 8.45 + 11.15 PM اااا (From Thursday 05th 7pm onward THE CALL OF THE WILD (PG)(ADVENTURE/FAMILY OASIS JUFFAIR: 11.00 AM + 2.00 + 5.00 + 8.00 + 11.00 PM TAMER HOSNY, ZEINA, KHALID EL-SAWI CITY CENTRE: 12.30 + 2.45 + 5.00 + 7.15 + 9.30 + 11.45 PM CITY CENTRE: 11.30 AM + 2.30 + 5.30 + 8.30 + 11.30 PM SEEF (II):12.15 + 2.30 + 4.45 + 7.00 + 9.15 + 11.30 PM ااا (SEEF (I): 12.00 + 3.00 + 6.00 + 9.00 + 12.00 MN PARASITE (15+)(KOREAN/COMEDY/DRAMA/THRILLER WADI AL SAIL: 11.30 AM + 2.30 + 5.30 + 8.30 + 11.30 PM HARRISON FORD, DAN STEVENS, OMAR SY Winner of 4 Oscar Award CITY CENTRE: 12.30 + 6.00 + 11.30 PM TIGER SHROFF, SHRADDHA KAPOOR, RITEISH DESHMUKH 1917 (PG-15)(WAR/ACTION/DRAMA) 1917 SONG KANG HO, LEE SUN KYUN , MARIA SIMON THE WAY BACK (PG-15)(DRAMA) Winner of 3 Oscar Awards CITY CENTRE:11.15 AM + 1.45 + 4.15 + 6.45 + 9.15 + 11.45 PM OASIS JUFFAIR:11.30 AM + 4.15 + 9.00 PM THIEF OF BAGHDAD (PG-13)(ARABIC/ACTION) SEEF (II): 12.30 + 5.45 + 11.00 PM CITY CENTRE: (DISTRACTION FREE SCREEN):11.30 AM + 2.00 + 4.30 + 7.00 + CITY CENTRE: 1.00 + 5.15 + 9.30 PM PON MANICKAVEL (15+)(TAMIL) 9.30 + 12.00 MN GEORGE MACKAY, DEAN-CHARLES CHAPMAN, MARK STRONG SEEF (II):11.00 AM + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 PM MOHAMMED EMAM, YASMINE RAEIS, AMINA KHALIL From Friday 06th OASIS JUFFAIR: 10.45 AM + 1.15 + 3.45 + 6.15 + 8.45 + 11.15 PM ااااا (WADI AL SAIL: 12.00 + 4.45 + 9.30 PM JUMANJI THE NEXT LEVEL (PG-15) LITTLE WOMEN (PG)(DRAMA/ROMANTIC SEEF (I):3.00 + 8.30 + 11.00 PM BEN AFFLECK, AL MADRIGAL, MICHAELA WATKINS CITY CENTRE: 12.00 + 2.45 + 5.30 + 8.15 + 11.00 PM Winner of 1 Oscar Award SEEF (II):3.00 + 8.15 PM PRABHU DEVA, NIVETHA PETHURAJ, J. MAHENDRAN, SURESH MENON ESCAPE FROM PRETORIA (PG-15) CITY CENTRE: 3.15 + 8.45 PM DWAYNE JOHNSON, JACK BLACK, KEVIN HART OASIS JUFFAIR: 2.00 + 6.45 + 11.30 PM SAOIRSE RONAN, EMMA WATSON, FLORENCE PUGH GYPSY (PG)(TAMIL) From Friday 06th اااا (FANTASY ISLAND (15+)(THRILLER/HORROR ااااااا اااااا (CITY CENTRE: 10.30 AM + 12.45 + 3.00 + 5.15 + 7.30 + 9.45 + 12.00 MN THE GENTLEMEN (15+)(CRIME/ACTION SEEF (II):12.30 + 2.45 + 5.00 + 7.15 + 9.30 + 11.45 PM CITY CENTRE: 11.00 AM + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 PM OASIS JUFFAIR: 10.30 AM + 4.30 + 10.45 PM WADI AL SAIL: 2.30 + 7.15 + 12.00 MN CITY CENTRE: 1.00 + 5.45 + 10.30 PM SEEF (I):12.00 + 5.30 PM MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY, CHARLIE HUNNAM, HENRY GOLDING DANIEL RADCLIFFE, DANIEL WEBBER, IAN HART LUCY HALE, MAGGIE Q, PORTIA DOUBLEDAY JEEVA, NATASHA SINGH MOVIE REVIEW The Banker: wheeling and dealing toward equality he Banker is one of the the same time, of breaking the banker, and think like a banker. name has since been removed rare movies centred on colour line, making it possible That’s when the plot thickened. from the film.) “The Banker,” if Ta bank that isn’t about for black citizens to move into This past December, “The you look at it through one lens, is robbing it. That doesn’t mean formerly all-white neighbour- Banker” was set to be the first a Civil Rights drama, and a high- the film is short on scams or hoods. Knowing that the real-es- theatrical feature released by ly original one, since it focuses deceptions. tate business is the right arm of Apple TV Plus, and it’s easy to on men who have the audacity to Based on historic events that the banking business, the two see why a company as pow - dream big — not just about polit- took place in the 1950s and ’60s, sought to manoeuvre their way erful as Apple would want to ical freedom and racial equality, “The Banker” tells the true story into the latter. present a movie like this one but about making money — at a of Bernard Garrett (Anthony Yet due to the colour of their as its “Look out, Netflix, here time of squelched opportunity. Mackie) and Joe Morris (Samuel skin, they could barely get we come!” awards-bait launch It’s a dead-serious story, but it L. Jackson), a wily pair of Afri- through the door. So they re - statement. (The release date got has a sneaky caper side, since can-American entrepreneurs cruited a white man, a home-re- bumpedafter Garrett’s son, Ber- Garrett and Morris, in order who made themselves part of pair worker named Matt Stein- nard Garrett Jr., who was one to make themselves two of the the real-estate game in Los An- er (Nicholas Hoult), to act as a of the movie’s producers, was first African-American bankers, geles, with the goal of getting front for them. They trained him accused of sexual abuse by his have no choice but to act as con rich (which they did) and, at to walk like a banker, talk like a Anthony Mackie and Samuel L. Jackson in ‘The Banker’ half-sister, Cynthia Garrett. His artists.

SUDOKU CROSSWORD Across 1- Not of the cloth; 5- Oozes; 10- Kofi ___ Annan; 14- Cube creator Rubik; 15- Inuit Yesterday’s solution Yesterday’s solution dwelling; 16- At that point; 17- Habituated; 19- Mature male European red deer; 20- Condition; 21- Catchword; 23- Young man; 25- Grocery lane; 26- “No Ordinary Love” singer; 29- Corp. VIP, briefly; 31- Fragrant oil; 35- Afore; 36- Superior to; 37- Whip up; 38- North Star; 40- Use Glade?; 41- Stellar; 42- Checked out; 43- Sugary suffix; 44- Get to know; 45- Apartment; 46- Network of nerves; 47- Godly love; 49- New Haven collegian; 51- Bigot; 54- Related on the mother’s side; 58- Glitch; 59- Purposeful; 63- Carry; 64- Conger catcher; 65- British nobleman; 66- Not new; 67- One in a black suit; 68- Bond classic; Down 1- Meadows; 2- Foot part; 3- South American Indian; 4- Pair; 5- Canine command; 6- Self-esteem; 7- Spreading tree; 8- Kind of license or justice; 9- Fountain treats; 10- Olympians; 11- Baht spender; 12- Small gull; 13- Initial stake in a hand of poker; 18- Multitude; 22- Stared fiercely; 24- Satan; 25- ___ Lingus; 26- Flower-part; 27- “______by any other name…”; 28- 4th letter of the Greek alphabet; 30- Crosses (out); 32- Lake in the Sierra Nevada; 33- Bikini blast; 34- Actress Taylor; 36- Citrus fruit; How to play 37- El Greco’s birthplace; 39- Put in order; 40- Memo letters; 42- Hydrocarbon Place a number in the empty boxes in such suffix; 45- Maintenance; 46- Like a raccoon’s tail; 48- Summits; 50- Sportscaster a way that each row across, each column Berman; 51- Queue after Q; 52- Son of Seth; 53- Go out with; 55- From a distance; down and each 9-box square contains all 56- Go sour; 57- London greeting; 60- In the manner of; 61- Actor Beatty; 62- Rage; of the numbers from one to nine. 14 SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020

Ellie Goulding

Liam Hemsworth’s Ellie Goulding: parents join him on Camila Cabello: Married life is his lunch date with wonderful Gabriella Brooks Being in love is Los Angeles Los Angeles exhausting inger Ellie Goulding says ctor Liam Hemsworth and her married life is “won- his girlfriend Gabriella London Sderful”, adding that her ABrooks were seen hav- husband Caspar Jopling will ing an intimate lunch with his inger Camila Cabello finds be- always be in the “honeymoon parents on Friday. ing in love with beau Shawn phase”. In the pic- SMendes is “exhausting”. The “Love me like you do” hit- tures obtained Cabello found love with Mendes maker got married to art dealer by E! News, last year (2019) after rekindling a Jopling in August last year. Liam and Ga- friendship that led to romance, In an interview to BANG briella went to and which has inspired her latest Showbiz, she opened up a Roadhouse Liam album, “Romance”, reports ace- about her married life, re- Cafe located Hemsworth showbiz.com. ports femalefirst.co.uk. on Byron Bay. Speaking at the Global Awards “It’s wonderful,” she said Liam who 2020 here on March 5, where she when asked about her mar- sported a casual look was took home the Best Female award and ried life. seen in a white T-shirt performed for the star-studded crowd, The 33-year-old singer, and sunglasses while the “Havana” hitmaker said in a chat who previously dated Dou- Gabriella matched in with Britain’s Capital FM that being in gie Poynter until 2016, also a white tee with a pair a relationship “takes it out of you”. revealed that her upcom- of blue denim shorts. Asked if she was planning more mu- ing album was finished “a The couple who sical collaborations with her beau, she long time ago”. It features went public with said, “I want more, we want more but her “observations of “life their relationship honestly we’re being in our twenties,” and relationships”. in January this hinting speculation that their schedules She said: “I wrote year seems to be were too busy to book studio time. it a long time ago, so steadily moving She added: “No, not even like that. Just it’s been a long time forward as their like being in love is exhausting, it takes it coming. I’ve had it lunch date turned out of you… We can’t even go to the studio, for a bit so it’s still my into a family affair when we can’t, yeah. We’re trying to calm down.” usual observations of Liam’s parents Craig and The couple’s last collaboration was the hit the way that I see life Leonie Hemsworth joined Gabriella “Senorita”. and relationships.” the two. Brooks

Justin Bieber turns Christina Aguilera adds musical ‘GoT’ star Jack tour guide on touch to ‘Mulan’ remake Demi Gleeson joins ‘Friends’ set Los Angeles Lovato releases Los Angeles BBC comedy inger Christina Aguilera has recorded two songs for the new track ‘I Love Me’ inger Justin Bieber is live-action Disney remake of “Mulan”, includ- Los Angeles ‘Out of Her quite a prankster. He re- S ing an update of her classic “Reflection” Scently went undercover from the original animated feature. inger Demi Lovato has dropped her Mind’ as a tour guide on the set of The global award-winning superstar new single “I Love Me”. Los Angeles the popular sitcom “Friends” singer/songwriter is set to sing a new S The 27-year-old singer has also in California. original song, “Loyal brave true” and “Re- released the song’s official video where she is ctor Jack Gleeson, Some of the flection” updated version from Disney’s seen making a reference to everything that Abest known for play- fans of “Friends” “Mulan”. Both songs will be featured in has happened to her in the last few ing sadist King Joffrey in didn’t sus- the film. years, including her hospitalisation fantasy drama “Game of pect him as “Loyal brave true” was writ- in 2018 after a drug overdose. Thrones”, is set to make he wore a pair ten by Jamie Hartman, Harry The video, which premiered on his TV comeback with BBC of glasses and Gregson-Williams, Rosi Golan MTV Live, features three versions Two comedy “Out of Her comical facial hair. and Billy Crabtree, and pro- of Lovato all pulling her in different Mind”. At one point, he Justin Bieber duced by Jamie Hartman. directions until she finally realises The role will mark Glee- called himself a Aguilera said: “The film that loving herself is the only thing son’s first in six years, re- “Joey guy” and reenacted one ‘Mulan’ and the song ‘Re- that will bring her happiness. ported Digital Spy. of the Matt Le Blanc charac- flection’ coincided with Lovato has also drawn inspiration Written by and starring ter’s catchphrases, “How you getting me my first re - from her Disney Channel roots, her Sara Pascoe, the six-part se- doin’?” cord deal. It’s amazing to family and her relationships. ries “explores heartbreak, “I gotta be honest, I’m come back to such an in- The singer later talked about the family and how to survive Justin Bieber and I’m just credible movie that’s full new track while talking to Zane them”. messing with you guys. This of power and meaning, and Lowe on his New Music Daily. The cast also includes Juli- is all a set up,” he says to one that meaning holds the test of “This track is all about loving your- et Stevenson, couple before posing for a time: staying true to yourself, self. You know?. It’s an anthem. It talks Fiona But- selfie with the shocked fans, being who you are, and teach- about how hard we are on ourselves ton, Cari- reports people.com. ing how to be fearless. My new and the negative self-talk (and) ad Lloyd, song, ‘Loyal brave true,’ repre- how easily we can listen to that. Adrian sents the fine balance between But when is loving yourself gonna Edmond- vulnerability and strength.” be enough?” Lovato said. son, Navin CHANGE OF NAME Chowdhry, Sean Gilder, Jack Gleeson I, SADIA BIRJIS W/O. Tom Stu - Naiman Shukoor, holding Christian Bale to play villain in ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ art, Scroobius Pip, Jumayn Indian Passport No Hunter, Sheila Reid, Cash K8716641 dated 23/04/2013 Los Angeles She also confirmed that Holland and Lorraine Ash- issued at Bahrain , having when viewers reunite with bourne. permanent residence at ctress Tessa Thomp- her character for the first time “We’ve turned my brain 1135, 9th main, B.T.M son has confirmed post-Endgame, she will be into a theme-park, and 1st Stage, B.T.M. Layout, that “Batman Begins” King Valkyrie. everyone’s invited! The Bangalore - 560029. A star Christian Bale will play “She’s king,” she clarified cast are incredible and I Presently residing at Villa villain in “Thor: Love and of her royal title. “If she can’t can’t wait for people to see No. 16 , Gate No. 2007, Road Thunder”. find her queen, she’ll just be what we’ve made,” Pascoe No. 85 , Block No: 537, “Christian Bale is going to king and queen at the same said. Bani Jamrah, Bahrain play our villain, which is going time.” After his stint on ‘GoT’, will henceforth be known to be fantastic,” Thompson told The fourth installment in Gleeson had said that he as (Given Name ) SADIA, etonline.com. the “Thor” franchise was would quit acting to pursue (Surname) BIRJIS, objection “I’ve read the script. I can’t announced at last summer’s an academic career path, if any may be forwarded to tell you much. Lots of exciting Comic-Con, with Taika Waititi but he later got “off that Embassy of India, P.O.Box text messages exchanged be- Tessa Thompson and Christian Bale announcing Natalie Portman idea”. 26106, Bldg No. 1090, Road tween Natalie (Portman) and ka is writing (and) directing. people coming into the mix,” will be reprising her role as “Out Of Her Mind” will No. 2819, Block 428, Al Seef, I. We’re going to have fun. Tai- Some familiar faces. Some new she said. Jane Foster. premiere on BBC Two later Kingdom of Bahrain. this year. 15 SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020

11DAYS TO BAHRAIN sports GRAND PRIX 2020

Millman the hero as Australia fight off Brazil Liverpool bounce back, Arsenal close gap on top four

Liverpool edge past• Bournemouth thanks to Sadio Mane and James Milner

Australia’s John Millman celebrates his win qualifying the country for the Alexandre Davis Cup finals Lacazette• breaks West AFP | Adelaide, Australia during the match, the body Ham’s resistance for was a little sore and the emo- fortunate Arsenal ohn Millman lifted Aus- tion levels were perhaps down a little at times, but my bench Jtralia to a gritty 3-1 victory AFP | London over Brazil with a tenacious dragged me up when I was win over Thiago Monteiro yes- really down.” terday to qualify his country Team skipper Hewitt said it iverpool moved to within for the Davis Cup finals later would be a weekend for Mill- nine points of claiming this year. man to remember. Lthe Premier League title Millman proved to be his “What a performance. by coming from behind to beat team’s hero with a second That’s what Davis Cup tennis Bournemouth 2-1 as Arsenal fighting win is all about, the boosted their charge towards in the singles boys left it all the Champions League places wearing down out there in the with a 1-0 win over West Ham. Monteiro 6-7 doubles, came Jurgen Klopp’s men had (6/8), 7-6 (7/3), Thiago was serving up a little short suffered three defeats in four 7-6 (7-3) in amazing, he wasn’t and Johnny had games in all competitions, in- three hours five giving me many to come out and cluding their first in the Premier minutes at Ade- looks, but you are back up what he League for 45 matches at Wat- laide’s Memori- playing for the did on Friday,” ford last weekend. Sadio Mane of Liverpool gets away from Ryan Fraser of AFC Bournemouth al Drive. Hewitt said. Callum Wilson’s controver- The victory Green and Gold “That’s going sial early opener threatened could have a big impact on the but it was Arsenal who made captain Billy Sharp’s winner to followed up his and you can’t die to go down as another major upset. But all of Reds’ title celebrations in the the breakthrough 12 minutes beat bottom-of-the-table Nor- other come- wondering one of the great Liverpool’s setbacks of late have weeks to come with the possibil- from time. wich 1-0. from-behind JOHN MILLMAN weekends in his come away from Anfield and ity of games being played behind Mesut Ozil was originally Roy Hodgson celebrated his win over Thia- career.” they set an English top-flight closed doors. flagged offside as he latched onto new contract as Crystal Palace go Seyboth Wild in three sets Monteiro proved a tough record for 22 consecutive home But the abandonment of the Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s boss with a 1-0 win over Watford in Friday’s singles. obstacle with his big serves league wins as two quickfire normal pre-match ritual of deflected shot and headed down as the Eagles moved into the top Lleyton Hewitt’s Australians and powerful groundstrokes, goals from Mohamed Salah and handshakes was the only dis- for Lacazette to sweep home. half of the table. will now join 11 other qualifi- taking the opening set in a tie- Sadio Mane turned the game ruption to the Premier League But the goal was finally given Newcastle also secured the ers and the 2019 semi-finalists breaker but edged out in two around. calendar this weekend. after a delay of several minutes win that should guarantee -- Canada, Britain, Russia and more tiebreaks by Millman in The runaway league lead - Despite the coronavirus risk to move Arsenal to within five their survival courtesy of Allan Spain -- along with wildcards a gruelling encounter. ers still needed a miraculous there was no halt to players cel- points of the top four. Saint-Maximin’s strike to beat France and Serbia for the Da- Marcelo Demoliner and goal-line clearance from James ebrating wildly with each other Wolves missed the chance to 10-man Southampton 1-0. vis Cup finals in Spain in No- Felipe Meligeni Alves earlier Milner to deny Ryan Fraser and Arsenal players piled on top move into the top four as a dis- Moussa Djenepo gave the vember. kept Brazil alive in the tie with an equaliser, but defeat leaves of Alexandre Lacazette after a appointing 0-0 draw at home Saints a mountain to climb when “Thiago was serving amaz- a gripping three-set win in the Bournemouth still marooned in long VAR review of the French- to Brighton left them still two he was shown a straight red card ing, he wasn’t giving me many doubles. the bottom three. man’s winner at the Emirates. points adrift of Chelsea in fifth. for a lunge of Isaac Hayden on looks, but you are playing for Demoliner and Alves fought “We are not geniuses, but we West Ham were made to rue a A vital point for the Seagulls 28 minutes. the Green and Gold and you back to beat John Peers and can really fight and that’s all we series of missed chances as they edges them two points clear of Alex McCarthy kept South- can’t die wondering,” Millman James Duckworth 5-7, 7-5, 7-6 have to do until the end of the remain just outside the relega- the relegation zone. ampton in the game as he saved said. (8/6) in almost three hours to season and see what we get from tion zone on goal difference. Sheffield United moved above Matt Ritchie’s penalty, but “I always believed in myself pull Brazil back to trail 2-1. it,” said Klopp. Jarrod Bowen hit the wood- Manchester United and Totten- Saint-Maximin stabbed home work and Bernd Leno made a ham into sixth to further their the winner 11 minutes from time Arsenal close on Chelsea string of saves from Michail dreams of Champions League to take the Magpies eight points The spread of coronavirus Antonio and Sebastien Haller, football next season thanks to clear of the drop zone. Injured Halep and Kerber pull out of Indian Wells Reuters | Los Angeles Leipzig draw blank at Wolfsburg ormer world number ones AFP | Berlin more in a five-minute period FSimona Halep and Angeli- midway through the second que Kerber have pulled out of B Leipzig dropped more half, both a direct product of next week’s BNP Paribas Open Rpoints in the Bundesliga ti- Bayer’s commitment to coun- in Indian Wells after failing to tle race after labouring to a 0-0 ter-pressing and counter-at- recover from injuries. draw at Wolfsburg yesterday. tacking under coach Peter The tournament is the sea- Leipzig missed the goal threat Bosz. son’s first Premier Mandato- of Timo Werner, who started the Schalke and Hoffenheim ry event and Romanian Ha- game on the bench after over- fought out a 1-1 draw at the Velt- lep, the reigning Wimbledon coming a muscular problem ins Arena. American midfielder champion, has not shaken off during the week. Weston McKennie scored just a foot problem. Despite being subbed on in his second goal from 67 Bun- “I’m incredibly disappoint- Simona Halep looks on during a the 60th minute, Werner ?- who desliga appearances when his match (file photo) ed to have to withdraw from has 21 goals for RB in the Bunde- left-footed drive put his side 1-0 the 2020 BNP Paribas Open,” at Indian Wells in 2015. sliga this season -? failed to make up in the 20th minute. Halep, the world number two, Three-times Grand Slam an impact in a dour encounter Hoffenheim levelled in the said in a statement on the tour- champion Kerber has not re- with few chances for either side, 69th minute through Christoph nament’s Twitter handle. covered from a leg injury and marking just the third time this Wolfsburg’s German midfielder Renato Steffen (R) and Leipzig’s Uruguayan Baumgartner. “Unfortunately, the foot the 32-year-old is also set to season that Leipzig have failed defender Marcelo Saracchi (L) vie for the ball Elsewhere, relegation-threat- injury that I picked up be - miss this month’s Miami Open. to get on the scoresheet. kusen dominated Eintracht a cross from Moussa Diaby. Ka- ened Werder Bremen held on fore Dubai is still causing me “My patience is being tested Second-placed Leipzig Frankfurt 4-0 to jump up to rim Bellarabi scored the home for a 2-2 draw away at Hertha trouble and I will be unable these days as I’m still recover- could finish the weekend fourth in the table. side’s second just 10 minutes Berlin. Bremen flew out of the to recover in time to travel to ing from a left leg injury,” the five points behind Bayern if German football’s golden boy later when chipping in from blocks to chalk up a 2-0 lead Indian Wells.” German, last year’s runner-up the leaders beat Augsburg Kai Havertz opened the scoring close range. after just six minutes with goals Halep, who won the Dubai at Indian Wells, wrote on In- today. in the fourth minute with his Leverkusen’s teenage Brazil- through Josh Sargent and Davy title last month, was champion stagram. At the BayArena, Bayer Lever- sixth of the season, tapping in ian forward Paulinho added two Klaassen. SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2020 16

Marcel Adur injured, National team await out of bout against joint-qualifiers decision Malcolm Gordon Bahrain’s national football team are currently scheduled to play qualifying matches for the FIFA World Cup 2022 and AFC Asian Cup 2023 TDT | Manama

ahrain’s men’s national football team continue to Bwait for a final decision on the proposed postponement of their remaining qualifying matches for the FIFA World Cup 2022 and AFC Asian Cup 2023. FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have announced they will be sharing a formal proposal to postpone the upcoming games, along with a revised fixtures schedule after consulting with member fed- erations. This is being done for the well-being and health of all TDT | Manama quarter-final in which Marcel individuals involved in the was involved, if Malcolm Gor- joint-qualifiers. Bahrain’s national football team pose prior to a match (file photo) arcel Adur is out of his don will get a new opponent A Bahrain Football Associ- 4. They then close out this stage In this stage of the joint-qual- pitch in separate locations to- Mupcoming BRAVE CF Fly- with only 3 weeks notice or ation (BFA) spokesman said, of qualifying against Hong Kong ifiers, there are eight groups in morrow in their respective weight Tournament quarter-fi- if the bout between Adur and however, that as of yesterday at home on June 9. all, with five nations in each groups, but the games have been nal bout against Malcolm “X” Gordon will simply be post- evening, they have yet to receive Meanwhile, reports suggest group. Teams play home and postponed. Gordon in Balneário Cambo- poned. any formal correspondence re- that the updated fixture list will away matches. At the end, the Manama are currently second riú, Brazil. Adur suffered an in- BRAVE CF 35, in Balneário garding the issue. see Bahrain face their Cambo- eight group winners and the in Group A after two matches jury during his training camp Camboriú, still counts with He added that he understands dian counterparts on October four best runners-up advance with four points, tied with Syr- and won’t be able to compete the other half of BRAVE CF Fly- there will be a meeting in India 8, and then their Iranian op - to the third round of World Cup ian club Al Jaish while Al Ahed on March 28th. weight Tournament Group A: on Tuesday where a final deci- ponents on November 12. They qualifying, and also book their of Lebanon are third with three The information was con- the quarter-final between Jose sion will be made on the pro- will then go against Hong Kong berths in the Asian Cup. points and Hilal Al Quds of Pal- firmed by official BRAVE CF “Shorty” Torres and Matheus posed postponement, not only on November 17. These dates The next best 24 teams will estine in fourth on zero points sources and Adur’s camp. The Nicolau. for the joint-World Cup and have yet to be confirmed. compete in a separate compe- from two games. nature of the injury, though, The event, marking the fifth Asian Cup qualifiers but also for Iraq are currently atop the tition for the remaining 12 slots Riffa are third in Group C was not disclosed by any parts. visit of BRAVE Combat Feder- matches in the AFC Champions Group C standings with 11 in the Asian Cup. with three points from two The athlete and his team also ation to Brazil, will take place League and AFC Cup. points. They have a two-point In the AFC Cup, there are matches. Al Qadsia of Kuwait did not mention how long the on March 28 and will be head- Bahrain have three games lead over Bahrain. Iran are third two Bahraini clubs awaiting and Dhofar of Oman are first Brazilian prospect will be side- lined by the Lightweight title remaining in Group C of the with six points and have a game their new match dates. Mana- and second with three points lined. fight between the champion joint-qualifiers—first against in hand, while Hong Kong were ma and Riffa are both compet- apiece, whereas Al Jazeera of BRAVE CF is yet to confirm Cleiton “Predator” Silva and Cambodia on March 26 then fourth on five points and Cam- ing in the tournament. They Jordan complete the table with what’s going to be the future the challenger Guram Kutate- against Iran in Tehran on June bodia fifth with one. were scheduled to take to the zero points. of the Flyweight Tournament ladze.

Conte rallies Inter for closed-doors ITF tournaments postponed due to Coronavirus concerns title clash with Juve TDT | Manama the first Bahrain ITF Seniors scheduled to be held from The world tour is one of the held in the Gulf. It is a part of Tennis Championship have both March 23 to 28 at the BTC hard most important and largest the ITF Seniors Circuit, which Reuters | Rome wo of Bahrain’s biggest been put off. courts in Juffair, followed just tennis events in the Kingdom usually consists of around 450 Ttennis tournaments this The decision was made by a few days later by the sen - and the Gulf region. It features tournaments taking place in 70 nter Milan coach Antonio year, originally scheduled to the Bahrain Tennis Club (BTC) iors’ competition from April 1 many highly ranked profes - nations. Competition is held IConte called on his play- be played over the next month, Board of Directors and has to 6. sional players from around the in 11 age categories, starting ers to adapt as best they can have been postponed due to been made official by the In - No new dates have so far been world. from 35-and-above through to to unusual circumstances Coronavirus concerns. ternational Tennis Federation set for either tournament. Meanwhile, the seniors event 85-and-up in men’s and wom- ahead of their clash with The 2020 Bahrain ITF World (ITF). BTC hosts leading ITF com- was set to be the first-ever ITF en’s singles, doubles and mixed Serie A title rivals Juventus Tennis Tour M15 Manama and The world tour event was petitions on a yearly basis. tournament at that level to be doubles. at an empty Allianz Stadium today. The meeting between two of the clubs fighting for the league trophy was originally scheduled for last Labuschagne ton in vain as South Africa sweep series Sunday, but was postponed due to the coronavirus Reuters | Cape Town in this format having won 11 of outbreak. their last 12 ODI meetings dating An Italian government ustralian Marnus Labus- back to 2016. decree then ordered all Achagne’s first one-day inter- “We have not been at our best, sporting events to be played national century proved to be in we have been good in patch - behind closed doors until vain as South Africa breezed to es and then let our foot off the April 3 in a bid to contain a six-wicket victory in Potchef- gas,” Australia captain Aaron 108 the spread of the disease, stroom on Saturday and a clean Finch said at the post-match runs were scored by which has killed about 200 sweep of the three-match series. presentation. Marnus Labuschagne people in Italy. After being sent into bat, “Credit to South Africa, they Serie A confirmed that Australia posted a below-par put us under pressure with bat six suspended games from 254 for seven in their 50 overs, and ball. We only took 12 wick- week 26 would be played with South African-born Labus- ets in the series, but all round this weekend, including chagne hitting a run-a-ball 108 we have not been at our b team after the home side rested Juve’s meeting with Inter to bolster an otherwise medio- est.” the spearhead of their attack, on Sunday evening. cre effort from the visitors. Australia struggled to get go- Lungi Ngidi. It will be the first league The home side always looked ing in their innings, managing Labuschagne set about re - game for Conte’s side since in control of their chase, JJ just 39 in the first 10 overs for building the innings, though, a 2-1 defeat by Lazio on Feb. Smuts playing the anchor role the loss of David Warner (4), as he put on 81 for the fourth 16 because their home clash with a career-best 84 and ably and were three down for the wicket with D’Arcy Short (36) with Sampdoria was also supported by other new faces addition of another 16 runs as and 53 for the fifth with Mitchell postponed. Kyle Verreynne (50) and Hein- South Africa picked up the key Marsh (32). “Changing plans and not rich Klaasen (68 not out) as they wickets of Steve Smith (20) and He reached his maiden ODI playing matches hasn’t been romped to victory with 27 balls Finch (22). century off exactly 100 balls, easy, but we must do well to remaining. Finch was a debut wicket for much to his delight and that of adapt quickly,” Conte told South Africa continued their South African seamer Daryn Du- a sizeable group of family and Inter TV. recent dominance of Australia pavillon (1-21), who was in the Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne plays a shot friends in the stands.