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FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021 20 DHUL-HIJJAH - 1442 VOLUME 26 NUMBER 8698 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

Amir issues law on Shura Council elections

— QNA & THE PENINSULA The Shura Council comprises 45 years old, and fluent in , members, 30 of whom are directly reading, and writing. The law Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin caps campaign spending at Hamad Al Thani issued Law No. elected in a secret general ballot, QR2m. 6 of 2021 on the issuance of the while the remaining 15 are Candidates must be regis- Shura Council’s Electoral appointed by H H the Amir. tered in the electoral district in System law. The law is effective which he is contesting. starting from its date of issuance Citizens aged 18 and above and whose grandfather They should be of good rep- and is to be published in the was born in Qatar are eligible to vote in districts where utation, good conduct, and official gazette. their tribe or family reside. known for honesty, integrity, H H the Amir also issued a and good manners. decree No. 37 of 2021 defining The candidates must be of Qatari origin and at least 30 Candidates must not have the electoral districts of the years old and fluent in Arabic, reading, and writing. been finally convicted of a Shura Council and their crime against honour or trust respective regions. The law caps campaign spending at QR2m. unless he has been rehabilitated The Decree stipulated that per the law. the electoral districts of the Candidates must be registered in the electoral -The law in Qatar has crim- Shura Council and their inalised foreign funding, espe- respective regions shall be district in which he is contesting. cially in the elections of the defined as indicated in the table Shura Council. It has established attached to this Decree. One deterrent penalties to ensure member shall be elected for the absence of such violations each electoral district from the that affect legislature, as it is constituencies indicated in the punishable by imprisonment for table. The Decree is effective a period not exceeding five from the date of its issuance and years and a fine not exceeding is to be published in the official QR10m or one of these two pen- gazette. alties, for any candidate who As per the new law, requests, accepts or receives approved by H H the Amir, the transferable or secure funds, Shura Council election system directly or indirectly, or obtains support him or finance his elec- the penalty of liability. law is in line with the Qatari an advantage or benefit from toral campaign, as well as con- Meanwhile, the Ministry of Constitution and Qatar National any foreign person or entity, to fiscate the funds and benefits Interior (MoI) has launched Vision 2030, which aims to when they resign or are relieved obtained, to re-run the election awareness campaigns for the enhance the participation of cit- from their posts. In November if this candidate wins the elec- election process. In a post on its izens in the decision-making 2020, H H the Amir announced tions in the district in which he official Twitter, the MoI noted process. Voters registration will that the Shura Council would won. that voters could begin regis- run from August 1 to 5. hold its first-ever elections in With the issuance of the Shura Council's Electoral System The Shura Council elections tration from August 1 by sending The current Shura Council 2021. law, I call on all citizens to register in the voters registration law prohibits any attempt by a a message to 95555 with their comprises 45 members, 30 of Citizens aged 18 and above records starting from August 1, in order to ensure a wide campaigner to divide society, QID number or by using the whom are directly elected in a and whose grandfather was participation worthy to this historic elections. Elections stir up tribal or sectarian strife, citizen affairs section of the secret general ballot, while the born in Qatar are eligible to vote which establishes for a new era of citizens participation or infringe on the sanctity of Metrash2 app, containing their remaining 15 are appointed by in districts where their tribe or in public affairs and contribution to the future of their religion, morals, and authentic national address. Voters can H H the Amir. family reside. country and its prosperity. societal customs. The law also also register by visiting the The terms of service of the The candidates must be of criminalises any form of abuse election centre where they’ll get appointed members end either Qatari origin and at least 30 of competing candidates under help from officials. `P2 Implementation of amended recruitment regulations begins Amir appoints four new Ambassadors QNA — DOHA According to the decision that enters into force, office deduction of the value of government fees incurred by the office, in any of QNA — DOHA The Ministry of Administrative Devel- owners are bound by the instructions issued by the the following cases: The employee’s opment, Labor and Social Affairs Ministry and other concerned authorities involved in refusal to work, the employee’s res- Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (MADLSA) announced the start of recruiting workers from abroad. The employer is also ignation, the employee’s illness with issued yesterday Amiri Decision No. 22 of 2021 implementing the Minister of Admin- a chronic disease, and the right of the appointing H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Nasser istrative Development, Labor and Social obliged to issue a work contract before the worker employer shall be forfeited when the bin Jassim Al Thani as Ambassador Extraordinary Affairs Decision No .21 of 2021, arrives in the country. employer assaults the worker and and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Turkey. amending some provisions of Reso- violates any of the terms of the con- H H the Amir issued Amiri Decision No. lution No. 8 of 2005 regarding regu- tract with the worker. 23 of 2021 appointing H E Salem bin Mubarak lating the conditions and procedures the country from which the labor is The Ministry explained that the The competence of MADLSA rep- bin Shafi Al Shafi as Ambassador to the Arab for licensing the recruitment of workers recruited. Also, provide the worker decision included obligating the resented by the Employment Republic of Egypt. H H the Amir also issued from abroad for the account of others. before he is recruited with a copy of licensee to guarantee an additional Department is to study special Amiri Decision No. 24 of 2021 appointing Ali According to the decision that the signed data and conditions of six-month probationary period, requests for recruiting workers from Yousef Abdulrahman Al Mulla as Ambassador enters into force, office owners are work from the employer. starting immediately after the end of abroad, granting licenses to recruit to the Republic of Cyprus. bound by the instructions issued by The employer is also obliged to the three-month preliminary testing workers from abroad for others, and H H the Amir issued Amiri Decision No. the Ministry and other concerned issue a work contract for the worker period, bringing the total probation settling disputes that arise between 25 of 2021 appointing Khalid Mohammed authorities involved in recruiting before he arrives in the country period to 9 months, including 15 recruitment agencies and employers Zabin Al Zabin Al Dosari, as Ambassador workers from abroad, most according to the same conditions that percent of the total due amount, for in accordance with the Labor Law Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the important of which is abiding by the the worker accepted to work on and each month the employee spent in and the decisions implementing it, State of Libya. The decisions are effective amendments received on labor leg- provide private housing and meals the service of the employer during and referring them to the judiciary if from the date of its issuance and is to be pub- islation, regulations, and policies in for the recruited workers. the additional probation period, with they cannot be settled amicably. lished in the official gazette. MoI urges e-transactions Phase 3 of reopening plan to continue in August: MoPH

THE PENINSULA — DOHA The Ministry of Public Health announces preventive measures. to prevent cash theft Recently, new cases have The Ministry of Public Health the continuation of Phase 3 of the been trending towards 200 SIDI MOHAMED company’s headquarters or the (MoPH) yesterday announced gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions daily, but hospitalization THE PENINSULA specified location to utilize the that Phase three of the gradual remains low. money, without stopping on lifting of COVID-19 restrictions imposed due to the pandemic. Over two million people in The Ministry of Interior has the way to finish any other would continue in August. Qatar have received at least one urged people to take more tasks.” In a post on Twitter, MoPH dose of the vaccine so far as precautionary measures while The educative event was stated: “The Ministry continues The third phase, which started on July 9, was Qatar continues with its withdrawing funds from organised in collaboration with to monitor key performance scheduled to be replaced from today by the impressive vaccination banks. the Public Relations indicators to ensure a balance fourth and final phase. MoPH had warned that programme. The Criminal Investigation Department of the Ministry of between the continuity of pro- The Ministry has urged cit- Department (CID) of General Interior. viding protection to the popu- the dates could be changed as per the changes izens and residents eligible to Directorate of Criminal Inves- “It is preferable to use elec- lation on the one hand and in indicators of the pandemic and compliance receive the COVID-19 vaccine tigation of the Ministry of tronic alternatives such as bank restoring social and economic to register and receive the Interior said in an awareness transfers or money exchanges. life to normal, on the other with preventive measures. vaccine as soon as possible. webinar titled ‘Various Crimes If it is essential to withdraw hand.” This would help protect and Ways of Prevention’ that cash itself, we recommend not Following the initial plans themselves, members of their “for the safety of the amount to leave these amounts in the to gradually lift COVID-19 process. The third phase, which MoPH had warned that the families, and members of withdrawn from the bank, vehicle while it is parked some- restrictions, the MoPH and started on July 9, was scheduled dates could be changed as per society from the dangers of this after fund withdrawal, we urge where unattended,” said the other concerned authorities had to be replaced from today by the changes in indicators of the disease and contribute to the to head directly to the CID. `P2 announced a four-phase the fourth and final phase. pandemic and compliance with speedy return to normal life. 02 HOME FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021

Amir issues law OFFICIAL NEWS on Shura Council Amir greets elections President of Peru PRAYER DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim TIMINGS FROM PAGE 1 Qatar has been bin Hamad Al Thani, and Dep- PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING Earlier this month, divided into 30 uty Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin authorities announced electoral districts, Hamad Al Thani sent cables of congratulations to President of FAJR establishing a Super- 03.34 am visory Committee and with one the Republic of Peru H E Pedro SUNRISE 05.00 am multiple other exec- candidate elected Castillo on the occasion of his DHUHR 11.40 am utive committees for each district. country’s Independence Day. ASR 03.07 pm dedicated to dealing Prime Minister and Minister of with the Shura Council Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Kha- MAGHRIB 06.22 pm elections. lifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani also ISHA 07.52 pm Qatar has been divided into 30 electoral sent a cable of congratulations districts, with one candidate elected for each to Prime Minister of the Repub- district. The electoral districts are, Fereej Al lic of Peru H E Violeta Bermudez Khulaifat, Fereej Al Hatmi, Fereej Al Salata, Al on the occasion of her country’s Mirqab, , Msheireb, Al Jasra, Al Independence Day. -QNA Bidda, Barahat Al Jufairy, Doha Al Jadeeda, Al Khater meets Ambassador of Belgium , Al Rumailah, Fereej , South Al Wakra, North Al Wakra, As Sayliyah, Over 36,000 Assistant Foreign Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Old Rayyan, , Al Daayen, Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater met with Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Qatar & Thakhira, Al Mashrab, Al Ghariya, Al Ruwais, passengers, WEATHER H E Dr. Bart de Grove, on the occasion of the end of his tenure. Al Khater thanked the Aba Dhalouf, Al Jumail, alghuwariya, Nasraniya TODAY Ambassador for his efforts in supporting and strengthening bilateral relations, wishing & Lekhraib, Dukhan, Al Kharsa’ah, Ummahat vehicle movement him success in his new missions. Sawi & Al Uwaynah and Rawdat Rashid. at Abu Samra border during Eid

Lebanese THE PENINSULA — DOHA 34oC 45oC PM-designate meets The General Authority of Minimum Maximum Customs (GAC) recorded Qatar’s Ambassador 26,132 passenger movements Very hot daytime with slight dust between Qatar and Saudi and scattered clouds at times. Arabia through the Abu Samra border during Eid Al Adha. Prime Minister-designate of the Lebanese W ALRUWAIS : 33o → 39o In an infographic posted Republic H E Najib Mikati met with Ambassador W ALKHOR : 33o → 45o on its Twitter handle, the GAC of Qatar to the Republic of H E stated that during the period W DUKHAN : 34o → 42o Mohammed Hassan Jaber Al Jaber, on the of Eid from July 18 to 25, WAKRAH 32o 45o W : → occasion of the end of his tenure. During 14,004 people entered the W MESAIEED : 32o → 45o the meeting, bilateral cooperation relations country while 12,128 exited between the two countries were reviewed. W ABUSAMRA : 32o→ 41o through the Abu Samra The Prime Minister-designate expressed his crossing. Also, during the thanks to the Ambassador for the efforts he same period, the GAC HIGH TIDE made to strengthen bilateral relations, wishing recorded a total of 10,117 10:57 – 20:22 him success in his future assignments. vehicles passed through the LOW TIDE 04:11 – 15:08 border, with 5,418 entering while 4,699 exiting. MoCI launches Manufacturers MoI urges Qatar takes part in meeting between and Producers Directory Service Afghanistan, international partners e-transactions THE PENINSULA — DOHA open the markets to traders and investors to introduce new products and expand their QNA — KABUL to prevent The Ministry of Commerce and Industry production areas. has announced the launch of the Manu- In this context, the Ministry called The State of Qatar participated cash theft facturers and Producers Directory Service on all producers and manufacturers in in the 23rd meeting of the via the Ministry’s website. This step comes Qatar to benefit from this free service Joint Coordination and Moni- FROM PAGE 1 as part of the Ministry’s efforts to support by registering key information about toring Board between the and market national products in local their factories, including company government of the Islamic During the webinar, the markets. The initiative also aims to enhance name and description, the sector to Republic of Afghanistan and speaker from the CID pre- consumers’ awareness of the importance which it belongs, and its contact infor- its international partners. sented a paper on various of national products and motivate them to mation. Moreover, they are to attach The meeting took place via functions and services of the prioritize purchasing these products. Addi- the factory/product logo through the video conference, in the department, general tionally, it seeks to support entrepreneurs Manufacturers and Producers Directory presence of President of the awareness tips on security and investors and provide them with the page available via the following link: Islamic Republic of Afghan- sense, securing the vehicles, opportunity to easily reach consumers and https://bit.ly/3zALX9o istan H E Dr. Mohammed precautionary measures to be Ashraf Ghani and a number of taken while withdrawing ranking officials. funds from banks and ATMs, Qatar was represented in securing the houses, com- Ministry to launch infrastructure the meeting by Acting Charges panies and residential D’Affaires in the State of complexes. to promote local innovators Qatar’s Embassy in Afghan- It also discussed the law of istan Abdullah Nasser Al photography and filming the Shahwani. government buildings and SIDI MOHAMED Revolution. It would also provide a The meeting dealt with the locations, military, diplomatic THE PENINSULA highly experienced engineering cadre commitments of the Geneva and sensitive organizations, within the framework of the Scientific conference, dealing with the etc. The Ministry of Culture and Sports has Club’s plans and projects, geared towards current challenges, main- Around 200 people from announced it would soon open a new addressing the “COVID-19” pandemic and taining the gains of the past Acting Charge d’Affaires at Qatar’s Embassy in Afghanistan, HR, finance, safety, security, sophisticated section called “Oasis of its developments, the Ministry said. 20 years, the status of Abdullah Nasser Al Shahwani, takes part in a meeting the public and private com- Manufacturers and Innovators” at the The strategy of the Oasis is based women’s rights and the panies, schools, and the heads Qatar Scientific Club. on promoting a culture of innovative enhancement of institutions between Afghanistan and its international partners and representatives of expat The Oasis of Manufacturers and entrepreneurship and provides an in Afghanistan. through videoconferencing. communities attended the Innovators is a smart factory that helps effective work environment that event. creative and innovative youth generate encourages innovators and entrepre- Officials have stressed that ideas and implement projects. It is con- neurs to continue developing their when withdrawing a huge sidered an advanced technological project models until the production MIA invites Qatari artists to apply amount from the bank, people platform in the region, created and stage. It also contributes to training and should be vigilant about those developed by the Qatar Scientific Club exchange of experiences between for educational trip to Turkey around them and try to (QSC), with the support of the Ministry interested specialists and provides remember the physical fea- of Culture and Sports (MoCS). spaces organised according to tech- THE PENINSULA — DOHA To apply, artists should tures of these people. During the implementation of the nical specialisations. submit five examples of their They also cautioned that section, several things were considered, The Qatar Scientific Club seeks to The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) has impersonation of a security including equipped it with all the nec- transform innovations that can be imple- opened applications for Ektashif 2 – an portfolio, CV, passport copy, man is a crime punishable by essary tools that innovators need and mented in practicality by developing annual initiative that will this year see eight and a copy of their COVID-19 law. The CID explained that providing an enabling and encouraging them to become manufacturable and Qatari artists join MIA staff on a seven-day “people have to ask the person environment for innovation. On its compete in the local and international trip to Istanbul, Turkey. The trip is hosted vaccination certificate. who claims to be from the official website yesterday, the Ministry markets. Therefore, the Club has estab- in collaboration with ‘Doha Capital of police while he is not in his of Culture and Sports said: “The Qatar lished several partnerships with many Culture in the Islamic World for 2021” and uniform, to present his identity Scientific Club is in the process of local and international agencies in this the Ministry of Culture and Sports (MoCS). required to produce four to five artworks card that proves his rela- opening a new and sophisticated section aspect. It also provides the advantage of Salem Abdulla Al Aswad, Deputy inspired by their visit, showcased in an tionship with the police.” called “Oasis of Manufacturers and Inno- obtaining a patent for each innovation Director of Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), exhibition at the Ministry of Culture and If he refuses to show his vators,” primarily for innovators.” that contributes to its goals—obtaining and Director of Learning and Outreach, Sports in December 2021. In addition, card, people can neglect The new infrastructure will also be a patent requires inventors to meet spe- Qatar Museums, said: “As part of this annual participating artists are set to take part whatever request from the a platform to implement innovative cific requirements that may be difficult educational initiative, MIA provides an in a public discussion panel, during which alleged officer and immedi- projects through compatible to attain, especially if it is their first expe- opportunity for established Qatari artists they will speak about the experiences ately report to the equipment of the Fourth Technological rience in this field. to engage with like-minded creatives and gained during their trip. authorities. learn about the unique and distinctive arts The inaugural Ektashif trip in 2019 and culture of different countries. The cul- saw six artists travel to India. Applica- Officials have turally immersive trip serves as inspiration tions are open to Qatari nationals who stressed that when for the participating artists who will go on are 18 years of age and older and prac- to create artworks that contribute to Qatar’s ticing artists. withdrawing a huge thriving cultural landscape.” To apply, artists should submit five amount from the The trip will include visits to historical examples of their portfolio, CV, passport sites of interest, including Aya Sofia, the copy, and a copy of their COVID-19 vac- bank, people should Blue Mosque, Rustem Pasha Mosque, Yavuz cination certificate. Applicants should also be vigilant about Selim Mosque, Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, describe themselves as artists in 100 those around them Yeni Valide Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. words and explain how securing a place Each day of the trip will include a workshop on the trip to Turkey would impact their and try to remember to see traditional arts practiced in Turkey practice as an artist. Applications should the physical features such as Iznik ceramics, paper marbling be sent to [email protected] (Ebru), Islamic illumination, and drawing before Thursday, 2 September 2021. of these people. on glass. For more information, please visit A mechanics workshop being held for students at the Qatar Scientific Club. Following the trip, participants will be https://mia.org.qa/en/learning/ektashif-2. FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021 HOME 03 Al Khater meets Ambassador of Indonesia Qatar attends International Economic Summit ‘Russia-Islamic world’ QNA — MOSCOW Islamic countries. Federation, adding that they have been During his speech on behalf of the reflected in St. Petersburg International The State of Qatar participated in the State of Qatar, H E Sheikh Ahmed bin Economic Forum held in June 2021. 12th edition of the International Nasser Al Thani Economic Summit “Russia — Islamic affirmed that the world,” which was held in the capital Summit is an of Tatarstan, Kazan, under the important eco- patronage of H E President of the nomic event that Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian brings together Federation Rustam Minnikhanov. representatives of In the Summit, Qatar was repre- institutions and sented by the Ambassador of the businesspersons State of Qatar to the Russian Feder- from Russia and ation H E Sheikh Ahmed bin Nasser Arab and Islamic Al Thani. countries to During the Summit, rounds on strengthen cooper- Islamic banking were held, and dia- ation by identifying Assistant Foreign Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E logues — amongst the participation investment and Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater, met with Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia of the young diplomats from the trade opportunities to the State of Qatar H E Ridwan Hassan. During the meeting, bilateral cooperation countries of the Organization of between these relations were reviewed. Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the countries. Russian Halal Expo Exhibition for Sheikh Ahmed halal products in the Russian Fed- noted the extensive eration, in addition to other activ- relations of coop- Ambassador of Qatar to the Russian Federation H E Sheikh ities that aim to introduce opportu- eration between Ahmed bin Nasser Al Thani takes part in the 12th edition of nities for trade and economic coop- Qatar and the eration between Russian regions and friendly Russian the International Economic Summit ‘Russia-Islamic world’. Dates festival concludes Medical aid sent to Iran today at

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

The 6th Local Dates Festival will conclude today at Souq Waqif. The Ministry of Municipality and Envi- ronment (MME), in a statement, stated, “We would like to invite you to visit the 6th Local Rutab Festival, which will be held at Souq Waqif from 4pm until 10pm. The festival will con- clude today (July 30).” The festival, which opened on July 15, has recorded over 100 tonnes of dates sold so far. Romania FM, Qatar’s envoy discuss ties Over 80 farms are participating in this year’s event, organised by the MME, in collaboration with Souq Waqif Administration. The Ministry Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania H E Bogdan Aurescu met with Ambassador said that the dates production for this year A Qatar Airways plane carrying shipment loaded with about nine of Qatar to Romania H E Abdullah bin Nasser Al Humaidi, on the occasion of the would reach 27,000 tonnes, achieving a 76 tonnes of medical aid sent by Qatar Fund for Development arrived in end of his tenure. During the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania percent rate of self-sufficiency. It said that expressed his thanks to the Ambassador for the efforts he made to develop Qatar’s palm tree reserve is estimated at Iran, yesterday, to address challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic, relations between the two countries. 650,000 to 700,000 spanning 2.2 hectares. in coordination with Qatar Embassy in Tehran. MoPH: COVID-19 recoveries MoI announces polling stations for Shura Council elections increase to 223,494 QNA — DOHA 13: Zainab School for Girls in Al Waab. QNA — DOHA In recent weeks the the duration of each phase will depend The Ministry of Interior said yesterday 14: Al Wakra School for Girls in North combined impact of on the pandemic indicators which that it has allocated the polling stations Al Wakra. The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) depend to a great extent on the degree for the Shura Council elections set to take 15: Souda bint Zamaa School for Girls reported today 114 new confirmed COVID-19 restrictions of compliance of the community place in October. in South Al Wakra. cases of COVID-19 among community and increasing members with the current measures, The ministry said in a statement that 16: Al Taawoun Primary School for and 44 among travelers. restrictions and guidance by the it determined the polling stations in line Girls in Al Maared. The MoPH recorded 118 recoveries vaccination rates, and the government. with the provisions of the law on Shura 17: Ali bin Abdullah Model School for from the virus during the past 24 hours, overwhelming support It is important during the current Council elections and the decree on Boys in Al Rayyan Al Jadeed. bringing the total number of cases of the community, has period that all members of society, determining the polling stations and their 18: Al Shifa bint Abdulrahman Al recovered in Qatar to 223,494. including those who have received the location. The polling stations are as Ansareya Primary School for Girls in The MoPH issued a statement on resulted in a consistent vaccination, continue to wear masks follows: Mohammed. COVID-19 developments in Qatar, reduction in the number of as recommended and continue to 1: Jawaan Bin Jassim Model School 19: Semaisma Primary School for which said the following: adhere to social distancing, the MoPH for Boys in . Boys in Al Dhaayen. The Ministry reported 114 new con- new daily infections in the said. 2: Al Quds Model School for Boys in 20: Al Khor Primary School for Girls firmed cases of COVID-19 among com- country. With COVID-19 still a threat to our Umm Ghawlina. in Al Khor. munity and 44 among travellers. health here in Qatar, it is important 3: Kamal Naji Model School for Boys 21: Al Kaaban School for Girls in Al Meanwhile, 118 people have for everyone to play their role in con- in . Kaaban city. recovered from the virus during the impact of COVID-19 restrictions and trolling the virus by following precau- 4: Somaya Primary School for Girls 22: A tent close to Ein Senan Petrol past 24 hours, bringing the total increasing vaccination rates, and the tionary measures such as adherence in As Salatah. Station in Fuairet. number of cases recovered in Qatar to overwhelming support of the com- to physical distancing, avoiding close 5: Heteen Model School for boys in 23: Al Shamal School for Girls in 223,494. munity, has resulted in a consistent contact with others, crowded places Al Aziziyah. Ruwais. Besides, 3,752,281 COVID-19 reduction in the number of new daily and confined closed spaces where 6: Hamza bin Abdul Motaleb School 24: Al Shamal School for Boys in Al vaccine doses have been administered infections in the country. other people congregate, wearing a for Boys in Bin Mahmoud. Shamal. since the start of the program, while However, it is still important to be face mask, washing hands regularly. 7: Hassan bin Thabet Secondary 25: Al Shamal Primary School for 21,425 COVID-19 vaccine doses have cautious as the second wave is not yet People should take the COVID-19 school for boys in Al Matar. Girls in Al Shamal. been administered in the past 24 over and there are still two highly con- vaccine at the earliest opportunity 8: Omar bin Al Khatab Primary 26: Al Ghuaireya School for Girls in hours. The MoPH said 83.3 percent tagious and highly virulent strains of when their turn comes. School for Boys in Muhairja. Al Ghuaireya. of the eligible population has now the virus that are actively circulating Anyone suffering from COVID-19 9: Zubaida Secondary School for Girls 27: Al Shihaniya School for Girls in received at least one dose of the in the community, the Ministry said. symptoms should contact 16000 hel- in . Shihaniya. vaccine, and 98.6 percent of over 60s The third phase of the gradual pline immediately. This is important 10: Hamed bin Hanbal Secondary 28: Dukhan School and Kindergarten (the most vulnerable population lifting of precautionary restrictions as the earlier the disease is detected School for Boys in . for Girls in Dukhan. group) have been vaccinated with at began on July 9, and is part of a four- the easier it will be to receive the right 11: Maymouna Primary School for 29: Sakina bint Al Hussein School for least one dose, while 93.6 percent stage plan to be implemented over the treatment and recover from it. Girls in Al Matar. Girls in Rawdet Qadeem. have received both doses. coming months. Visit the MoPH website for regular 12: Primary School for 30: Rashid School and Kindergarten In recent weeks the combined The date of implementation and updates and new information. Girls in Al Markhiya. for Girls in Rawdet Rashid. DFI launches Ajyal Film Club to drive youth dialogue on vital issues through film

THE PENINSULA — DOHA 11, and October 9 on wide- they virtually meet up to discuss support to create a vibrant ranging topics that influence everything from plot and cine- platform for them to understand The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has youth and promote positive matography to broader issues the world better through the launched the Ajyal Film Club, an action. The upcoming session in such as cinema history and film- medium of film. We are proud to initiative by the young jurors of July will focus on social injustice making techniques. To book a watch our Ajyal Jurors take this Ajyal Film Festival, to spotlight and child labour. place for the upcoming session, unique initiative forward, voice pressing global concerns and Films that address the sub- email: ajyaljury@dohafilmin- their valuable ideas and opinions, rally youth dialogue around them jects will be screened for Ajyal stitute.com. and assume active roles within through the medium of film. Film Club members, who will Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, their communities, and become The Ajyal Film Festival, DFI’s discuss the movie and the under- Chief Executive Officer of the proactive contributors to a more annual signature event, is a lying theme in-depth. The Ajyal Doha Film Institute, said: “The peaceful, tolerant, inclusive, and unique initiative that inspires cre- Film Club is part of the year- Ajyal Film Club underlines the secure world.” ative interaction and cultural round youth development work- organic evolution of our young The Ajyal Jurors form the exchange among youth. Over the shops organised by the Institute Ajyal Jurors from being partici- heart of Ajyal Film Festival and past eight years, Ajyal has built a to promote film education and pants of the Ajyal Film Festival to is a one-of-its-kind film jury Jurors at Ajyal Film Festival. nurturing space where youth are appreciation. taking a stronger and active role with members aged 8 to 25, empowered to reach beyond dif- Youth interested in cinema in discussing key subjects that watching and critiquing films teamwork, critical thinking and The first Ajyal Film Club ferences to find their creative and keen to learn about global affect humanity through cinema.” and taking part in in-depth dis- leadership. Last year, the event session held in May centred on voice. concerns can participate in the “The success of the Ajyal Jury cussions and voting for the welcomed over 400 jurors of 45 ‘Our Earth.’ It discussed environ- Two sessions of the Ajyal Ajyal Film Club, free of charge. programme inspired us to winners of the film festival. The nationalities to be part of an mental concerns through three Film Club have been held to date Ajyal Jurors will lead the com- explore new avenues to create experience of being an Ajyal invaluable learning and cultural films: The Lorax, directed by around environmental degra- mittee for each session. Com- year-round engagement for our Juror is unparalleled: an experience to explore the trans- Chris Renaud; Chasing Coral by dation and the crisis in Palestine. pelling films from popular young film enthusiasts. So, when inspiring and creative hands-on formative world of cinema Jeff Orlowski; and Nausicaä of the Upcoming sessions will be held streaming platforms are selected the youth showed initiative for a experience that instills an appre- through curated film screenings, Valley of the Wind by Hayao on July 10, August 14, September for the participants to watch, and film club, we extended our ciation of film, and the values of workshops, and discussions. Miyazaki, all streaming on Netflix. 04 GULF / MIDDLE EAST FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021 Iran negotiating process can't go on indefinitely: Blinken

REUTERS & AP — KUWAIT "The United States is negotiating with Kuwait and other countries whether they can host US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said yesterday the Afghans who supported the American war negotiating process with Iran effort and could face Taliban revenge attacks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal could not go on indefinitely, and if they stay in Afghanistan," America’s top that the ball is in Tehran’s court. diplomat said in Kuwait yesterday. Indirect talks between Tehran and Washington to revive the nuclear pact, from “We have clearly demon- Amir, the subject of relocating which then-president Donald strated our good faith and Afghan interpreters. Trump withdrew the United desire to return to mutual com- Many Afghans who worked States in 2018, adjourned on pliance with the nuclear with Nato forces fear reprisals June 20, two days after Ebrahim agreement...The ball remains in from Islamist Taliban as US Raisi was elected president of Iran’s court and we will see if troops depart. the Islamic Republic. Raisi takes they’re prepared to make the The United States uses office on Aug. 5. decisions necessary to come several military bases in Kuwait, Parties involved in the back into compliance.” with which it has strong rela- negotiations, which also include Supreme leader Ayatollah tions after leading a coalition China, Russia, France, Britain, Ali Khamenei, who has the last that ended Iraq’s 1990-91 occu- Kuwaiti Prime Minister H H Sheikh Sabah Al Khalid Al Sabah with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Germany and the European say on Iran’s state matters, pation of the Gulf state. at Seif Palace in Kuwait City, Kuwait, yesterday. Union, have yet to say when declared on Wednesday that "The United States is nego- they might resume. Tehran would not accept Wash- tiating with Kuwait and other “We are committed to ington’s “stubborn” demands in countries whether they can host Afghanistan, the Biden admin- years,” Blinken said at a joint fueling fears of a violent future. diplomacy, but this process nuclear talks and again flatly Afghans who supported the istration has come under heavy press conference with his Civilian casualties surged in the cannot go on indefinitely,” said rejected adding any other issues American war effort and could pressure to quickly evacuate Kuwaiti counterpart. “We’re first half of the year, according Blinken, addressing a news con- to the deal. face Taliban revenge attacks if Afghan interpreters, drivers and actively engaged in that process to a United Nations report. ference in Kuwait. Gulf Arab states have asked they stay in Afghanistan," Amer- other workers who helped US and notably in relocation Afghan allies have com- “At some point the gains to be included in the negotia- ica’s top diplomat said. forces during the two-decade planning for those brave plained of a bureaucratic achieved by the JCPOA (Joint tions, and for any deal to Blinken did not announce war and now find themselves Afghans and their families.” nightmare as they try to obtain Comprehensive Plan of Action) address what they call Iran’s any deal or disclose critical at risk of retribution by the The evacuation planning, the special immigrant visas cannot be fully recovered by a ballistic missile programme and details about the process, such Taliban. which could affect tens of thou- offered to foreign nationals return to the JCPOA if Iran con- destabilising behaviour in the as who would be eligible for “The United States is com- sands of Afghans, comes as the deemed to be in need of pro- tinues the activities that it’s region. Blinken also said he had relocation or where they would mitted to helping those who Taliban gain more ground tection because of their coop- undertaken with regard to its discussed during his visit to be housed. As American troops helped us during our time in throughout Afghanistan, seizing eration with the US nuclear program,” he said. Kuwait, where he met with the complete their withdrawal from Afghanistan over the last 20 swaths of the countryside and government. Wildfire rages for 2nd day in Lebanon, spreads to Rockets hit Baghdad AP — QOBAYAT, LEBANON Green Zone, no casualties Lebanese firefighters struggled for the second day yesterday to REUTERS — BAGHDAD contain wildfires in the coun- try’s north that have spread At least two rockets hit Baghdad’s fortified Green Zone early yesterday across the border into Syria, but caused no casualties, Iraqi security sources said. civil defense officials in both One senior Iraqi security official said the rockets were launched countries said. from a mainly Shi’ite neighbourhood in eastern Baghdad and The fires killed at least one initial investigations indicate the rockets were targeting the US person, a 15-year-old boy, who embassy, but fell short. was helping firefighting efforts One rocket landed in a parking lot inside the Green Zone and in Lebanon. a second one hit a nearby empty area, said the sources. Yester- Lebanon’s civil defence said day's attack comes two days after US President Joe Biden and it deployed 25 firetrucks, sup- Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi sealed an agreement on ported by four air force heli- Monday formally ending the US combat mission in Iraq by the copters and military units, to end of 2021. put out the blaze. Prime Minister Kadhimi has been facing increasing pressure But the fires continued to from Iran-aligned parties and paramilitary groups who oppose rage, spreading east, and have the US military role in the country. already affected large swaths US diplomats and troops in Iraq and Syria were targeted in of forest in the mountainous three rocket and drone attacks earlier this month, including one north. in which at least 14 rockets hit an Iraqi air base hosting U.S. forces. Residents posted videos and Two US service members were wounded. images of scorched forests, While there were no immediate claims of responsibility for blackened trees and fires on the attacks - part of a wave targeting U.S. troops or areas where mountaintops, as the blaze they are based in Iraq and Syria - analysts believed they were closes in on the village of part of a campaign by Iranian-backed militias. Qobayat. Civil defence members spraying water after wildfires burned large swathes of Lebanon’s pine forests The Green Zone hosts foreign embassies and government There was no official in Qobayat, Lebanon, yesterday. buildings and is regularly the target of rockets fired by groups estimate yet of the area that US and Iraqi officials say are backed by Iran. affected. Lebanon’s Red Cross The fires killed at least one person, a 15-year- Lebanon’s government has said late on Wednesday it had old boy, who was helping firefighting efforts in called for urgent assistance Parliament ready to lift immunity evacuated 17 people and from neighboring Cyprus, treated more than 30, Lebanon. There was no official estimate yet of which recently fought three for Beirut blast probe: Speaker including eight who have been the area affected. Lebanon’s Red Cross said it days to put out one of its worst BEIRUT hospitalised. had evacuated 17 people and treated more than brush fires in decades. REUTERS — “There are lots of damages. Lebanon suffered devas- Lots of losses,” said Omar 30, including eight who have been hospitalised. tating wildfires in October 2019 Lebanon’s influential parliament speaker Nabih Berri said yesterday Massoud, the mayor of Andaqt that lasted for more than two the legislature was ready to lift the immunity of its members in village. He estimated that days and spread from the order allow for questioning over last year’s port blast in the capital about 2 million square meters mountains in the Chouf area Beirut. The massive explosion last August killed over 200 people, - about 500 acres - of pine and Qobayat trail is described as Qusair area, according to the to just outside the capital of injured thousands and destroyed large parts of the city. Nearly a oak forests have been having some of the most beau- state news agency Sana. Beirut. year later, however, no top officials have been questioned over destroyed. tiful forests in Lebanon, with Syrian military helicopters Lack of equipment and the disaster, angering many Lebanese. “As you see, the weather oak, pine and cedar trees. have also been taking part in preparedness combined with “The priority of parliament was and will continue to be complete and the wind... even with the Lebanon’s state-owned the operation since Wednesday. high temperatures and gusty cooperation with the judiciary,” Berri said in a statement after a helicopters of the Lebanese National News Agency said late Syrian Civil Defence Chief winds caused the fire to rage meeting with the Future Movement, parliament’s main Sunni bloc. army, they are not able to Wednesday the fire spread over General Saied Al Awad said and destroy much of the Veteran Sunni politician Saad al-Hariri, who heads the party, had control the fire,” he told the the distance of seven kilom- gusty winds and high temper- forest. called for lawmakers’ immunity to be lifted earlier this week by sus- Associated Press. eters and was two kilometers atures, as well as rugged terrain, The government’s handling pending all constitutional and legal regulations that allow for it.Berri The fire began on wide, claiming tens of thou- were complicating the opera- of the fires was among the did not say when immunity would be lifted or how. Wednesday in the northern sands of pine trees so far. tions. Efforts are ongoing to factors that fueled nationwide A probe into the port blast led by judge Tarek Bitar has been Akkar province, and has since In Syria, Syrian firefighters contain the fires away from res- protests later that month, which hindered over the past month as requests sent parliament and the spread across into border areas were also struggling to contain idential areas, he said, were originally called over eco- government to lift immunity and enable questioning of several of Syria’s Homs province. The the fires in villages in the Al according to Sana. nomic policy. top officials were either declined or stalled. Saudi Arabia reports 12 more COVID-19 deaths AGENCIES — RIYADH/MUSCAT

Saudi Arabia announced 12 deaths from COVID-19 and 1,289 new infections yesterday. Of the new cases, 260 were recorded in Makkah, 253 in Riyadh, 220 in the Eastern Province, 100 in Jazan, 76 in Asir, 73 in Hail, 63 in Madinah, 42 in Tabuk, 41 in Najran, 30 in the Northern Borders region, 23 in Al-Baha, and 11 in Al Jouf. The total number of recoveries in the Kingdom increased to 503,827 after 1,299 more patients recovered from the virus. A total of 8,212 people have succumbed to the virus in the Kingdom so far. Over 26 million doses of a coronavirus vaccine have been administered in the Kingdom to date. The Omani Ministry of Health confirmed yesterday 322 new cases of coronavirus during the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of positive cases to 295,857. The Ministry said that 12 new COVID-19-related deaths were reported, bringing the total number of deaths to 3,814. The Ministry added that 563 new cases have recovered, bringing the total number to 278,195 recov- eries, while the number of hospitalized people in Iranians walk through Tehran Bazaar yesterday as coronavirus cases spike in the capital Tehran. intensive care reached 260 cases. FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 05 Tanzanian president vows to reverse predecessor's policies

BLOOMBERG — DODOMA court over terrorism and eco- declined from 2015. Nicknamed nomic sabotage charges. That the “Bulldozer,” for bluntly Tanzania’s new President Samia came after he and other party speaking his mind and his Hassan won accolades from officials were arrested the week uncompromising stance on cor- Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest before, just hours before they ruption, Magufuli’s reign saw man, and fellow billionaire were to hold a meeting on con- Tanzania slip 10 notches in the Mohammed Dewji for her stitutional reform — demanding World Bank’s Ease of Doing business-friendly noises. But a reduction in presidential Business rankings to 141 out of her government’s crackdown powers and amendments to the 190 countries last year. on opposition leaders this week electoral process. The arrests cast Hassan has swiftly moved is raising some concern. a shadow over what was turning to fast-track several large Since she took office on into a post-Magufuli, good-news projects that had been stalled. March 19, Hassan — Africa’s story for Tanzania. They include the liquefied only female head of gov- The “arrest will obviously natural gas terminal planned by ernment— has signaled a new give ESG-conscious investors Equinor ASA, Royal Dutch Shell business-friendly era, pledging some cause for concern,” said Plc, Exxon Mobil Corp. and to reverse her predecessor’s Connor Vasey, an analyst at other partners and a $3 billion policies that antagonised Eurasia Group. “That said, joint venture with China’s investors and hit foreign invest- Hassan has publicly discarded Sichuan Hongda Co. for an iron ments. Hassan, 61, promised to the constitutional debate in ore and coal mine. In June, she dismantle barriers put up by favour of focusing on economic said her government has former President John Magufuli reforms. The lack of policy dis- resumed talks on a planned and resurrect a $30bn natural traction could be taken as a pos- $10bn port project backed by gas project, prompting Dangote itive by some in the investment/ China, suspended by Magufuli and Dewji to say Tanzania business community.” in a disagreement over terms. seems to be opening for Like Dangote and Dewji, “We are reviewing around business again. investors began to give Tan- Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan receives her Johnson & Johnson vaccine against the 88 laws that were identified as On Monday, however, Tan- zania another look after the coronavirus disease at State House in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Wednesday. not being business friendly,” zanian authorities dragged death on March 17 of Magufuli, Minister for Industry and Trade Freeman Mbowe, the leader of who tore up agreements his companies, demanded usurious denied the existence of Covid-19 investment as a percentage of Kitila Mkumbo said in an the main opposition party, to predecessors signed with taxes from businesses and in his country. Foreign direct gross domestic product steadily interview. Tunisian labour union pushes for political roadmap IN BRIEF Israeli occupation forces kill 20-year-old TUNIS REUTERS — Palestinian during clashes in Tunisia’s powerful labour union said yesterday it was preparing RAMALLAH: Israeli troops killed a Palestinian man in clashes that a roadmap for steering the erupted yesterday during the funeral of a 12-year-old Palestinian country out of political crisis boy shot dead by soldiers a day earlier, the Palestinian health ministry that it would present to Pres- said. Witnesses said hundreds of protested against Israeli ident Kais Saied, who has been forces during the burial near the town of Hebron in the occupied accused by critics of a coup for West Bank. The Israeli military said troops “responded with riot taking over governing powers. dispersal means, 22 caliber bullets and live fire into the air”. Saied still has not The Palestinian health ministry said Shawkat Awad, 20, was announced the appointment of hit by the Israeli gunfire and died in hospital. They said another a new prime minister or how 12 protesters were wounded. Palestinian officials said the 12-year- he intends to handle the emer- old, Mohammad Al Alami, was fatally shot in the chest by Israeli gency period that he announced forces on Wednesday as he was riding in his car with his father. on Sunday when he cited a According to the Israeli military, a soldier shot at the vehicle’s national emergency to dismiss wheels after concluding it had been involved in suspicious activity the premier and suspend earlier in the day. The military said the incident was being reviewed parliament. by senior officers. -Reuters His move has left Tunisia’s decade-long experiment with UN arms embargo on CAR extended democracy at a crossroads, with little public indication of Saied’s Parliament Speaker Rached Ghannouchi, head of the moderate Islamist Ennahda, arrives at the for year, China abstains long-term plans - or whether party’s headquarters in Tunis, Tunisia, yesterday. he has yet formulated any. NEW YORK: The United Nations Security Council yesterday However, the streets of have accused Saied of a coup, The UGTT has tapped eco- “quartet” that helped negotiate extended a Central African Republic (CAR) arms embargo and Tunisian cities appeared calm the UGTT labour union has so nomic, political and constitu- an end to an earlier democratic targeted sanctions regime for another year, however China abstained on Thursday after major parties far avoided direct criticism of tional law experts to find a way crisis. in the vote because it believes the measures should be removed. The decided earlier in the week to his actions but has urged him through the crisis that they can Saeid’s actions generated an 15-member Security Council imposed the arms embargo on CAR in avoid any major protests or to stick to the constitution. present to the president, union immediate outpouring of December 2013 when mainly Muslim Selaka rebels ousted then pres- confrontations for now, and Saied has rejected charges officials said. Saied held talks support late on Sunday in major ident Francois Bozize, prompting reprisals from mostly Christian after Saied imposed stricter of a coup, saying his actions with the union on Tuesday in cities, where people had grown militias. A targeted sanctions regime was agreed in 2014, when UN COVID-19 measures. were justified by an emergency one of his first major meetings. increasingly angry at the gov- peacekeepers were also deployed to the country. Though the biggest parties provision in the constitution The UGTT won a Nobel ernment’s perceived inept han- The gold and diamond-rich country of 4.7 million people has in parliament, including the and that parliament will be Peace Prize in 2013 for its work dling of the economy and since been mired in violence. “There appears to be a growing dis- moderate Islamist Ennahda, frozen only for a 30-day period. as part of a civil society COVID-19 crisis. connect between the Security Council sanctions and the evolving situation on the ground,” China’s deputy UN Ambassador Dai Bing told the council after the vote. -Reuters Nigerian police Zimbabwe plans to dispatch troops to chief indicted in Libyan indoor soccer player dies in malaria outbreak in team US over fraud help Mozambique fight insurgency BLOOMBERG — HARARE Defense Minister Oppah projects that the country is CAIRO: A malaria outbreak among Libya’s national indoor soccer REUTERS — ABUJA Muchinguri Kashiri said banking on to transform its team has claimed the life of one player while several others have Zimbabwe plans to dispatch yesterday. economy and caused almost been sickened following the team’s participation in the African A Nigerian police chief has 304 soldiers to join the Botswana and South Africa 800,000 people to flee their Minifootball Cup in Nigeria, Libya’s sports ministry and its mini- denied involvement in what a Southern African Development are among SADC members that homes. football federation said. According to a statement by the ministry. US indictment describes as an Community Standby Force in have sent forces to fight, as has Landlocked Zimbabwe is Ayman Al Naqrish, 24, died in a hospital in Tunisia, where he was elaborate scheme to defraud Mozambique that’s helping to Rwanda, which is not part of reliant on the neighboring transferred after his condition deteriorated. a Qatari businessperson of fight a terrorist insurgency the bloc. state’s ports for its imports and A medical official who accompanied the team to the tour- more than $1m, masterminded that’s left more than 3,000 Mozambique up until this exports and has a long history nament in Nigeria earlier this month said that 15 other players by a celebrity fraudster known people dead and halted Africa’s month resisted allowing foreign of involvement in Mozam- were infected, including five who remain in serious condition. as “Hushpuppi”. biggest private investment yet. armies to help battle a near bique. The guerrilla army The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not Abba Kyari, a high-ranking Once the necessary docu- four-year-old insurgency in the affiliated to its ruling party authorized to talk to the media. officer who has received mul- mentation has been signed they northern Cabo Delgado used the country as a base Libyan media have blamed the transitional government and tiple honours, was one of six will join a SADC force made up province. That’s even as the from which to launch attacks the national futsal — as the sport is known in the Middle East - people indicted over the of troops contributed by other extremist rebels seized key on then White-ruled Rhodesia federation for allegedly failing to abide by health protocols and alleged scheme, according to states in the 16-member bloc, towns putting at risk gas in a 1970s liberation war. other medical precautions during the trip. -AP a statement from the US Attor- ney’s Office, Central District of California. Kyari, who is in Nigeria and faces a US arrest Eritrean refugees in Ethiopian capital warrant, denied any wrong- doing in a statement on his protest insecurity at Tigray camps Facebook page yesterday. Nigeria has long struggled REUTERS — ADDIS ABABA authorities to secure safe passage out of to control the problem of the camps for others. financial scams, often perpe- Hundreds of Eritrean refugees protested Geneva-based UNHCR spokesman trated by email and involving in the Ethiopian capital yesterday, calling Boris Cheshirkov said the agency’s the complex webs of deceit. on the United Nations refugee agency to top official in Ethiopia met with the dem- Hushpuppi, whose real relocate friends and family who they say onstrators for more than two hours on name is Ramon Abbas and are trapped in two refugee camps by Thursday to listen to their concerns. who built up a large social fighting in the Tigray region. Some demonstrators on Thursday held media following in Nigeria Clashes between armed groups have a banner reading “Protect the rights of with posts detailing his lavish escalated in and around the camps - Mai Eritrean refugees”. lifestyle, was extradited from Aini and Adi Harush - and two refugees Medihn Mehari wept as she recalled Dubai to the United States in have been killed this month, the UNHCR the death of her infant son shortly after July 2020 to face criminal said this week. The agency said it lost he was born, just after war broke out last charges. He has been in US access to the camps on July 14. year in Tigray. She said she fled to safety custody in Los Angeles ever The United States said on Tuesday it in Addis Ababa in January from Hitsats, since, and the Attorney’s Office was deeply concerned about the fate of another refugee camp in Tigray, but did Eritrean refugees protest in-front of the United Nations High Commissioner for announced this week that he Eritrean refugees in Tigray. not know where her husband was. Refugees (UNHCR) offices to condemn the attacks on the refugees in Hitsats and had pleaded guilty to charges “We need UNHCR to move (the ref- “We want those who are there to Shimelba camps during the fight between Ethiopia’s National Defence Force and relating to schemes that cumu- ugees) from the camp because the area leave the camp,” she said. “I don’t want Tigray People Liberation Front (TPLF) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, yesterday. latively caused more than $24m is a war zone,” said Hermon Hailu, 22, the same thing to happen to them,” she in losses to their victims. an Eritrean refugee participating in the said. Conflict broke out between the after government soldiers withdrew. The regions have pledged to send forces to The newly unsealed federal protest in the capital Addis Ababa. Ethiopian central government and the camps, which have existed for years and support the military against the Tigrayan grand jury indictment details a He said he was worried about his Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) house Eritreans who have fled repression fighters. TPLF forces have meanwhile scheme whereby Hushpuppi mother in Mai Aini camp whom he had in November with the government in their home country, were caught up pressed south into neighbouring Amhara and his accomplices allegedly not been able to reach by phone for weeks. seizing control of the regional capital in violence that now threatens to region, with which Tigray has a long- faked the financing of a Qatari The UNHCR said on Tuesday it had relo- Mekelle three weeks later. escalate. running border dispute, and have vowed school by playing the roles of cated about 100 refugees from the two But the TPLF kept fighting and retook In the wake of the TPLF’s successful to continue on until the government bank officials. sites and was in discussions with Tigrayan Mekelle along with most of Tigray in June counter-offensive, Ethiopia’s other nine accepts a negotiated ceasefire. 06 ASIA FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021 Kerala orders lockdown as infections rise IN BRIEF Cambodia to REUTERS — NEW DELHI Kerala, with an active case Kerala, with an active case load of around even as infections fall in pre- load of around 154,000, 154,000, accounts for 37.1% of India’s total vious epicentres. impose COVID-19 India’s southern state of Kerala accounts for 37.1% of India’s total India yesterday reported yesterday announced a two-day active cases. Its case positivity active cases. Its case positivity rate indicating 43,509 new coronavirus cases lockdowns lockdown as federal authorities rate indicating the pace of the pace of spread in infections is now the in the previous 24 hours, taking planned to send experts to fight spread in infections is now the the overall tally to 31.53 million, PHNOM PENH: Cambodia is the spread of infections in the country’s highest. country’s highest. though experts believe the actual set to launch a lockdown in country’s leading COVID-19 “Special intensified stringent figure could be much higher. eight provinces bordering hotspot. restrictions are being imple- It is second only to the Thailand from midnight India’s daily cases have mented in the areas where the reported an increasing trend in authorities on strategies to United States in the number of yesterday, in a bid to prevent fallen after a devastating second test positivity rate is high,” the daily new infections, gov- contain the outbreak. cumulative infections. The the spread of the Delta variant wave that overwhelmed the state’s department of disaster ernment data released earlier India’s central government western state of Maharashtra, of the coronavirus in the healthcare system, and vacci- management said in a statement this week showed. Yesterday, has left decisions on lockdowns India’s industrial hub, was the Southeast Asian country. nation efforts are gaining steam. announcing a “complete the federal government said it and reopenings to local state second-most affected in the Prime Minister Hun Sen But experts have warned the lockdown” from Sunday. was sending half a dozen experts authorities, leading to an uneven country, accounting for over signed an order late on authorities against swiftly reo- During the last four weeks, to monitor Kerala’s worst-hit response that experts say has 20% of the overall cases, official Wednesday for the lockdown, pening cities. seven of Kerala’s 14 districts areas and work with state allowed new hotspots to develop data showed. which bans people from leaving their homes, gathering in groups and conducting business, except for those Floods make thousands involved in operating airlines. “The temporary homeless in Bangladesh lockdown... aims to prevent community-based trans- Rohingya camps mission of the new COVID Delta variant,” Hun Sen said AP — DHAKA Refugees said more than 12,000 in the order posted on refugees were affected by the Facebook. Days of heavy rainfall have heavy rain and an estimated Border checkpoints with pounded Rohingya refugee 2,500 shelters were damaged Thailand will also be closed camps in southern Bangladesh, or destroyed. More than 5,000 except to allow for the destroying dwellings and refugees have been temporarily transport of goods and in sending thousands of people to relocated to other family emergencies, Hun Sen said, live with extended families or members’ shelters or com- adding the lockdown was due in communal shelters. munal facilities, the agency said to run until August 12. -Reuters In the 24 hours until in a statement. Wednesday afternoon, more Hannah Macdonald, a Indonesia’s virus than 30 centimetres of rain fell spokesperson for the UNHCR, on the camps in Cox’s Bazar dis- said in an email that emergency toll higher than trict hosting more than response teams have been 800,000 Rohingya, the UN deployed to help affected fam- national tally refugee agency said. That’s ilies. Refugees said they were nearly half the average July struggling to eat and drink JAKARTA: Indonesia’s regional rainfall in one day, and more properly. COVID-19 deaths vastly heavy downpours are expected “Due to the continuous outnumber its national tally, an in the next few days and the rainfall for the last four days, independent organisation monsoon season stretches over today my house is full of water,” which collects data on the A boy plays in a flooded street after heavy rains triggered flooding at Kutapalong refugee camp, in the next three months. said Khatija Begum, who has Southeast Asian country’s coro- Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. “The situation is further five children. navirus outbreak said in a compounded by the COVID-19 “We are not even able to statement yesterday. pandemic. There is currently a eat.” Begum said she fears her annual difficulty in the camps. of thousands of homes, and was 1 million Rohingya refugees live, Indonesia is Asia’s strict national lockdown in children will drown and die in More than 700,000 Rohingya termed ethnic cleansing by is one of the most disaster-prone COVID-19 epicentre and has response to rising cases across their sleep. The refugee agency have fled to refugee camps in global rights groups and the parts of Bangladesh. over the last week reported the country,” the agency said. said the bad weather, landslides Bangladesh since August 2017, United Nations. While Bang- It is a delta nation criss- over 1,500 deaths a day, It said six people died in the and floods have further exacer- when the military in Buddhist- ladesh and Myanmar have crossed by many rivers that reg- including a record 2,069 deaths camps earlier this week - five bated the suffering and human- majority Myanmar began a sought to arrange repatriations, ularly receives intense rainfall on Tuesday. That tally does not people in a landslide caused by itarian needs of the Rohingya harsh crackdown on the Muslim the Rohingya are too fearful to due to its monsoon climate and include all regional deaths, the rains and a child swept refugees in Bangladesh. ethnic group following an attack return home. location on the Bay of Bengal, however, meaning the true toll away by floodwaters. Cyclones, heavy monsoon by insurgents. The International Organi- where the warm waters can could be much higher, Citing initial reports, the UN rains, floods, landslides and The crackdown included zation for Migration says Cox’s generate destructive tropical according to the Lapor High Commissioner for other natural hazards are an rapes, killings and the torching Bazar district, where more than cyclones. COVID-19 data monitoring group. “This gives a false sense of South Korea security... because the data Thailand warns virus surge pushing hospitals to the brink hides thousands of real deaths,” Lapor COVID-19 co-founder REUTERS — BANGKOK experts call for The country’s COVID-19 task were waiting for hospital beds Bangkok into temporary field Irma Hidayana said in a force reported yesterday 17,669 and over 6,000 called a hot line hospital for COVID-19 patients more curbs statement. Senior health min- Hospitals in Thailand’s capital coronavirus cases and 165 over the past week requesting as the spike in cases strains the istry official Siti Nadia Tarmizi Bangkok and surrounding deaths, both record highs, while treatment, health authorities said. city’s health system. REUTERS — SEOUL told BBC Indonesia on province are running out of beds it said 21 of the fatalities died at There are more than 37,000 The jump in infections has Wednesday that some regions due to a jump in COVID-19 home. hospital beds in Bangkok, increased pressure on the gov- South Korean health experts have not reported all COVID-19 patients, a health official said “We don’t know where to put according to the Bangkok Met- ernment to boost the sluggish called yesterday for tougher deaths to that system. -Reuters yesterday, as the country the sick people anymore, the ER ropolitan Administration. pace of vaccinations, with only social distancing rules including reported a record number of (emergency room) units in many Earlier in the pandemic, all 5.6% of Thailand’s more than 66 a midnight curfew as the Earthquake infections for the fourth time this hospitals have to be temporarily COVID-19 patients were million people fully vaccinated. number of severe COVID-19 week. closed because they no longer admitted to hospitals, but Thailand won plaudits for cases has doubled in three shakes northern Thailand has in the last few have bed spaces,” Somsak Somsak said authorities last containing the coronavirus for weeks, driven largely by young, months been struggling with its Akksilp, head of the Department month brought in home isolation most of last year, but authorities unvaccinated people. Myanmar worst outbreak since the start of of Medical Services, told a news for more than 30,000 people in have struggled to halt the wave South Korea is battling its the pandemic, driven by the conference. Bangkok and surrounding prov- of cases starting in April that has worst wave of infections linked CHIANG MAI: A strong, highly contagious Delta variant, In Bangkok and nearby prov- inces. The government has also taken total infections to 561,030, to the more contagious Delta shallow earthquake shook first detected in India. inces, more than 1,200 people been converting public places in with 4,562 fatalities. variant helped by what some northern Myanmar yesterday experts see as public compla- and was felt as far away as cency and a slow vaccination northern Thailand. Military to help enforce drive. The US Geological Survey Yesterday, authorities said the magnitude 5.5 quake Sydney lockdown reported 1,674 new cases, down occurred north of Mandalay slightly from nearly 2,000 the about 46km northeast of as virus cases rise day before. Shwebo. It was centered 10km “Young people are no longer below the Earth’s surface, the REUTERS — SYDNEY afraid of gathering,” Jung USGS said. Ki-suck, professor of pulmonary Shallow earthquakes tend Australia’s military will help enforce a medicine at Hallym University to cause more damage to lockdown in Sydney after the city of 6 Sacred Heart Hospital, said. structures on the surface. The million posted a record daily rise in He said groups were skirted USGS said the shaking of the COVID-19 cases yesterday and state author- distancing rules despite a ban ground was “very strong” and ities said the outbreak was likely to get in the capital on gatherings of some injuries were possible, worse. more than two people after 6pm but there was a low likelihood The lockdown of Australia’s biggest city and many bars were operating of damage. -AP has increased pressure on Prime Minister through the night illegally. Scott Morrison, who is now trailing in Authorities should impose Myanmar jail opinion polls, and heightened concern that a four-hour curfew in the Australia’s A$2 trillion ($1.5 trillion) capital from midnight, he said. vaccinates economy could slide into recession. South Korea largely kept Despite an extended lockdown in the virus at bay for the first year hundreds Sydney since an outbreak of the highly of the pandemic and its total infectious Delta variant, 239 new locally tallies of 195,099 cases and YANGON: Myanmar’s main People with protective face masks walk through the quiet city centre during a lockdown acquired coronavirus cases were recorded 2,085 deaths are much lower prison vaccinated more than to curb the spread of a coronavirus disease outbreak in Sydney, Australia. in the city over a 24-hour period, the biggest than those of many other 600 inmates against COVID-19 daily rise since the pandemic began. countries. on the first day of a drive to “We can only assume that things are With even tighter restrictions set to “With respect to the December quarter, But its vaccination cam- inoculate inmates, state media likely to get worse before they get better begin on Friday, New South Wales Police that does depend to a large extent how suc- paign has been slow with only reported yesterday, as military given the quantity of people infectious in said it had asked for 300 military personnel cessful New South Wales, our largest state about 36% of its 52 million authorities struggle to control a the community,” said Gladys Berejiklian, to help enforce lockdown orders. economy, is in getting on top of this virus,” people having had one vaccine wave of infections across the the premier of New South Wales state, of The personnel will deploy on Friday, Frydenberg told the Australian Broadcasting dose and just 14% fully country. which Sydney is the capital. Defence Minister Peter Dutton said, and Corp. vaccinated. Infections have surged since Berejiklian said one new death took the will begin assisting police with ensuring Berejiklian has said restrictions need to While vaccinations of the June, with 4,980 cases and 365 toll from the latest outbreak to 13 and the compliance with restrictions next week. remain as too few people in Sydney are vac- elderly have kept mortality deaths reported on Wednesday, national total was now 921. Berejiklian extended the Sydney cinated amid tight supplies of the Pfizer/ rates low, at 1.07% as of according to health ministry With little sign that of restrictions lockdown by another month on Wednesday. BioNTech vaccine, with which Australia had Wednesday, the number of data cited in media. Medics and reducing infections, Berejiklian said new New South Wales accounts for over a hoped to inoculate everyone under 60 years severe cases jumped to 285 funeral services put the toll curbs would be imposed on the south- third of Australia’s economy. Federal old. from 144 three weeks ago when much higher. western and western areas of Sydney where Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said he expected All adults in Sydney have been urged to the latest surge of infections Citing prison officials, the the majority of COVID-19 cases are being the national economy to shrink in the Sep- seek an AstraZeneca vaccine. Some, citing gathered pace. Nearly a quarter Global New Light of Myanmar found. tember quarter but the ability to avoid a rare blood clots, are reluctant and would of serious cases are now in the newspaper, said 610 inmates Residents there will be forced to wear technical recession would depend on prefer to wait several months when Aus- 20-49 age group — 66 people were vaccinated on Wednesday masks outdoors and to stay within five km whether New South Wales can avoid a tralia is expected to receive additional Pfizer compared with just 11 in that and more would be inoculated (three miles) of their homes. longer lockdown. supplies. age cohort two months ago. in coming days. -Reuters FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021 ASIA / EUROPE 07 Malaysia PM under pressure to quit after royal rebuke AP — KUALA LUMPUR The king said he didn’t approve the proposed no-confidence against member, insisted in a statement on the king’s support. He was Muhyiddin. that the government still has standing on the back of the Malaysia’s king yesterday annulment of emergency laws and that the law Former Prime Minister majority support. king’s support. Today that leg rebuked Prime Minister Muhy- minister’s statement was “inaccurate and has Mahathir Mohamad and The opposition has previ- was pulled away,” said Bridget iddin Yassin’s government for members of the United Malays ously accused Muhyiddin of Welsh of Malaysia’s University misleading Parliament over the confused” members of the legislature. He said National Organisation, the trying to avoid votes in Par- of Nottingham and an expert in status of coronavirus emer- the government’s hasty move was an affront biggest party in the ruling coa- liament that may show he has Southeast Asian politics. gency measures, sparking to the rule of law and disregarded the king’s lition, have echoed calls for lost majority support and “It will increase pressure for renewed calls for the embattled Muhyiddin to resign. prompt the king to call for a him to quit and weaken his leader to resign. functions and powers as the head of state. Muhyiddin was defiant and new leader. support at a time when he is Muhyiddin obtained royal defended his government’s The Parliament session was seen as mismanaging the pan- consent to declare the emer- action. The Prime Minister’s delayed after the Health Min- demic,” she said. Welsh said gency in January, allowing him Sultan Ahmad Shah, took issue carried out. He said the govern- Office said in a statement later istry ordered a swab test for all Muhyiddin “is trying to make it to halt Parliament and rule by with Law Minister Takiyuddin ment’s hasty move was an yesterday that Muhyiddin had lawmakers following two pos- a legal interpretation battle ordinance without legislative Hassan’s statement to Par- affront to the rule of law and written to the king on July 23 to itive COVID-19 cases in Par- when it is actually a cultural approval. Critics have slammed liament on Monday that the disregarded the king’s functions advise him on the Cabinet’s liament. The house deputy battle about respect for Malay the emergency as a ruse for emergency ordinances had and powers as the head of state. decision to annul the ordi- speaker later said Parliament traditional authority.” Muhyiddin to cling to power at been annulled on July 21, ahead The king’s statement imme- nances, and had advised him will be postponed to Monday as Despite the emergency a time when his razor-thin of the scheduled August 1 diately sparked an uproar in again during an audience on two more cases have been measures, the government has majority in Parliament is in expiration. Parliament, with opposition July 27. It said that under the detected, ignoring shouts of failed to curb a worsening surge jeopardy. The monarch said he didn’t lawmakers shouting “treason” constitution, the king must protests from lawmakers who in coronavirus infections, with Parliament reopened approve the proposed and demanding Muhyiddin accept the Cabinet’s advice and accused the government of total cases breaching the 1 Monday for the first time this annulment and that Takiyud- resign. act based on it. orchestrating the delay to buy million mark on Sunday. year after Muhyiddin caved to din’s statement was “inaccurate The king’s statement shows “The government is of the time amid the crisis. Muhyiddin became prime pressure from the king, but the and has confused” members of the Cabinet led by Muhyiddin view that all the actions taken Analysts said the unprece- minister after initiating the government said the five-day the legislature. has “violated the constitution, are in order and in accordance dented royal rebuke further downfall of the reformist gov- special session would only be Sultan Abdullah said he had insulted the royal institution” with the provisions of the law undermines Muhyiddin’s une- ernment that won the 2018 to brief lawmakers on the pan- asked the law minister and and that Takiyuddin has delib- and the federal constitution,” lected government, which took elections. His Bersatu party demic and no other motions attorney general to present the erately lied to the house, said the statement said. power in March 2020 with a formed an unstable alliance that would be allowed. matter in Parliament for debate opposition leader Anwar Earlier, Deputy Prime Min- tiny majority in Parliament. includes UMNO, which was The King, Sultan Abdullah and was disappointed it wasn’t Ibrahim, who filed a motion of ister Ismail Sabri, an UMNO “Muhyiddin was dependent ousted in the 2018 polls. Austin in Vietnam to push IN BRIEF Russia fines Google ties amid rights concerns 3m roubles for data law violation REUTERS — HANOI ensuring that our allies and partners have the freedom and US Defence Secretary Lloyd the space to chart their own MOSCOW: Russia yesterday Austin sought yesterday to futures,” Austin said. fined Google 3 million roubles nudge forward security ties He did not mention China ($41,017) for violating personal with Vietnam that have been but there is a perception in Asia data legislation, Google’s first slowly deepening as both coun- that China is making countries fine for that offence, Moscow’s tries watch China’s activities in chose between it and the United Tagansky District Court said. the South China Sea with States, as tension rises between Google confirmed the fine growing alarm. those two big powers. and offered no further Despite closer military rela- On Wednesday, a US Navy comment. tions, more than four decades warship carried out a transit The penalty comes amid after the Vietnam War ended in through the Taiwan Strait. a wider standoff between 1975, President Joe Biden’s While such operations are Russia and Big Tech, with administration has said there routine, they usually anger Moscow routinely fining social are limits to the relationship Beijing. media giants for failing to until Hanoi makes progress on “(Vietnam) wants to know remove banned content and human rights. that the US is going to remain seeking to compel foreign tech Vietnam has emerged as the engaged militarily, it’s going to firms to open offices in Russia. most vocal opponent of China’s continue its presence in the - Reuters territorial claims in the South South China Sea,” said Greg China Sea and has received US Poling, with the Center for Stra- US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin visits the site where late US Senator John McCain’s plane was shot Hundreds protest military hardware, including tegic and International Studies. down on October 26, 1967 in Hanoi, Vietnam, yesterday. coastguard cutters. The two sides signed a in Slovakia against Before a meeting with his “memorandum of under- On Sunday, the United vaccine scheme, to 5 million Experts say there are lin- Vietnamese counterpart in standing” for Harvard and States shipped 3 million doses doses. gering concerns in Vietnam vaccination law Hanoi, Austin said the United Texas Tech University to create of the Moderna COVID-19 Poling said there was a limit about Biden’s predecessor, States did not ask Vietnam to a database that would help Viet- vaccine to Vietnam, raising the to how fast and far the Viet- Donald Trump, withdrawing PRAGUE: Hundreds of people choose between countries. namese search for those missing amount given by the United namese were comfortable with from the Trans Pacific Part- blocked traffic in the centre of “One of our central goals is from the war. States, via the global COVAX deepening ties. nership trade pact in 2017. Slovak capital Bratislava, protesting against a law which gives those who have had the COVID-19 vaccine easier Pakistan to bar unvaccinated public sector staff, teachers access to public events and spaces, Slovak media reported REUTERS — ISLAMABAD offices, schools, restaurants or coronavirus infections soar, you’re not ready to get the touch one million doses a day. yesterday. shopping malls, said Asad dominated by Delta variant, and vaccine.” According to the NCOC, The law, which requires Pakistan will ban air travel for Umar, who heads National its poor health infrastructure is The NCOC has said the over 27.8 million have now people who haven’t been inoc- anyone without a COVID-19 Command and Operations under extreme pressure. Delta, Beta, and Alpha variants received at least one vaccine ulated to take a test for such vaccine certificate from Centre (NCOC), a military-run The national positive test rate of the virus have all been shot, while only 5.9 million have access, was approved by par- tomorrow and will require all body that oversees the pan- for COVID stands at 7.53%, detected in Pakistan since May. been fully vaccinated out of a liament on Sunday and signed public sector workers to get demic response, at a joint news according to the NCOC. The rate After a sluggish start, the population of 220 million. by President Zuzana Caputova vaccinated by August 31, the conference with the health min- in the southern port city of Karachi government ramped up its It said Pakistan registered on Monday. - Reuters government announced ister in Islamabad. touched 23% in recent weeks. “If national vaccination drive, 4,497 new cases and 76 deaths yesterday along with a host of Teachers and students you’re not vaccinated you can’t especially in the heartland in the last 24 hours, with over Italy reports 19 other restrictions. above 18, public transport and go to teach at schools and colleges Punjab province, with 850,000 3,000 people in critical con- From August 31, unvacci- retail staff will also be required from August 1,” Umar said. doses administered on dition. So far 23,209 people virus deaths and nated staff will no longer be to get vaccinated, they said. “We can’t put our children’s Wednesday across the country. have died of COVID-19 in allowed to enter government Pakistan has seen lives at risk just because that Umar said the target is to Pakistan. 6,171 new cases

MILAN: Italy reported 19 coro- Taliban say navirus-related deaths Inquiry blames state for Malta journalist’s slaying yesterday against 15 the day flooding kills 150 before, the health ministry AP — VALLETTA said, while the daily tally of in northeastern new infections rose to 6,171 An independent inquiry into the from 5,696. Afghanistan murder of investigative jour- Italy has registered 128,029 nalist Daphne Caruana Galizia deaths linked to COVID-19 AP — KABUL released yesterday has found since its outbreak emerged in that the Maltese state “has to February last year, the second- Flash flooding killed 150 bear responsibility” for the highest toll in Europe after people in a remote area in assassination due the culture of Britain and the eighth-highest Afghanistan’s mountainous impunity emanating from the in the world. The country has northeastern Nuristan highest levels of government. reported 4.34 million cases to province controlled by the Caruana Galizia’s family had date. - Reuters Taliban, a spokesman for the sought the inquiry into the October insurgents said yesterday. The 16, 2017 car bombing near the Taliban claim provincial government family home in Malta. The murder appealed to the Taliban to in the small EU country sent shock- responsibility for allow rescue teams into the waves felt not just in Malta, but area to help. throughout Europe. killing comic Taliban spokesman Zabi- The inquiry found that there hullah Mujahed said heavy was no evidence that the state ISLAMABAD: Afghanistan’s rains late on Wednesday played a direct role in the assas- Taliban took responsibility this caused the flash flooding. sination, but said the state “has week for the killing of a comic In a statement, Mujahed said to bear responsibility... by cre- in the country’s south, raising the insurgents ordered their own ating an atmosphere of the spectre of revenge killings rescue crews to the affected area. impunity, generated from the A woman walks past a banner depicting anti-corruption journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia during a as the US and Nato put the He also said the Taliban have highest levels in the heart of the commemoration at th e site where the journalist was assassinated in 2017, in Bidnija, Malta, in the file photo. final touches on their also ordered that 5m Afghanis — administration of (the prime departure. or about $62,000 — be spent minister’s office) and, like an take measures to avoid the risk, allegedly organizing and has the middleman. A video of two men aiding the clean up and the vil- octopus, spread to other the report found. financing the bombing. Joseph Muscat, Malta’s slapping and abusing Nazar lagers affected by the flooding. entities, like regulatory author- Yorgen Fenech, a prominent In addition, three men have former prime minister, stepped Mohammad, better known as “We re calling on the ities and the police, leading to businessman who had ties with been charged with carrying out down in late 2019 following Khasha Zwan, spread widely public to offer as much help as a collapse of the rule of law.” some government officials, is the attack, two with providing protests that pressed for the on social media. He was later they can to the affected people The report said the state and alleged by prosecutors to have explosives and another with truth about the assassination of killed, shot multiple times. of Merdesh village,” Mujahid its entities failed to recognise been the mastermind of the being the middleman. Trials are the investigative journalist, Taliban spokesman Zabi- said in the statement, adding the real risk to Caruana Galizia’s killing. He has pleaded not under way. One of those whose reports targeted Muscat’s hullah Mujahed acknowl- that charitable organizations life, given the threats she had guilty to charges of alleged charged with carrying out the administration but also the edged that the two men were are also being asked to assist. lived under, and also failed to complicity in the killing and attack has admitted his role, as opposition. Taliban. -AP 08 VIEWS FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021 Qatar warns of deteriorating situation in Established in 1996 occupied Palestinian territories CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI QNA agreement, the statement said, stressing process that leads to a political transition the importance of a ceasefire at this stage in accordance with the Geneva-1 Con- The State of Qatar warned against the and avoiding a re-escalation. vention and the implementation of EDITOR-IN-CHIEF danger of continuing the current situ- Qatar has urged the need to address Security Council resolution 2254. DR. KHALID MUBARAK AL-SHAFI ation in the Palestinian territories and the the urgent needs of the two million Pal- The statement called for completing [email protected] lack of a sustainable settlement of the estinians whose suffering has worsened the tasks of the Constitutional Com- Palestinian cause. this year and are still under siege in the mittee, Confidence-building measures Qatar called on the UN Security , the statement added. (CBMs) such as settling the file of MANAGING EDITOR Council to assume its responsibilities in The statement said that the State of detainees and the forcibly disappeared MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI enforcing international law, imple- Qatar continues its pioneering efforts to people, and creating conditions for the [email protected] menting its resolutions, putting an end to provide humanitarian and development safe, voluntary and dignified return of the illegal occupation and settlement and aid to meet the urgent needs of the refugees and displaced persons. The State supporting the achievement of peace. brotherly Palestinian people, referring in of Qatar reiterated the importance of This came in a statement made by this context to the financial grant that was ensuring accountability for war crimes Permanent Representative of the State of directed by the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim and crimes against humanity, including EDITORIAL Qatar to the United Nations H E Ambas- bin Hamad Al-Thani of an amount of USD the use of chemical weapons, as account- sador Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al- 500 million for the reconstruction of Gaza ability is a factor in sustaining peace. For a world free of crimes Thani at UN Security Council meeting on Strip. The statement noted that this com- The statement said that millions in Syria depend on international aid and the THE positive outcomes of Qatar’s initiatives in peace- mechanism for delivering humanitarian making and crime prevention have drawn widespread assistance across borders, praising the applause from several countries. Qatar is an active efforts of the United Nations in this partner with international organisations, especially regard. The State of Qatar is at the fore- different agencies of the United Nations. This part- front of donors to alleviate the humani- nership has already resulted in several breakthroughs tarian suffering of the brotherly Syrian in making the world a better place, especially the less- people, the statement added. developed countries. With regard to the situation in Yemen, In a recent meeting with Secretary-General of the Min- the State of Qatar reiterated that ending the istry of Foreign Affairs H E Dr. Ahmad Hassen Al Hammadi, crisis there requires negotiation between Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) the Yemeni parties on the basis of the out- Division for Treaty Affairs in Vienna John Brandolino comes of the national dialogue, the Gulf ini- expressed the gratitude of the United Nations Office for tiative and relevant Security Council reso- the generous support extended by Qatar, which enhanced lutions, especially Resolution 2216, UNODC’s capabilities in assisting countries, especially stressing that this solution will contribute to the developing ones, in combating organised crime and overcoming the humanitarian difficulties related drug crimes, terrorism, corruption and protecting that face Yemen and preserving its unity, young people from the dangers of these crimes. sovereignty and independence. Qatar has significantly expanded its cooperation with On the situation in Libya, Qatar UNODC after the 13th Crime Congress hosted in Doha expressed satisfaction with the efforts in April 2015, which resulted in the adoption of Doha Dec- made by the Libyans and the support of laration. Following the Congress, UNODC launched ambi- the international community that led to tious global programmes, funded generously by Qatar, the encouraging developments that took dedicated exclusively to promote rule of law. The pro- Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations H E Ambassador place over the past year, including the gramme is anchored on four main components such as Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani at UN Security Council meeting on the Situation in ceasefire agreement, the Libyan Political Education for Justice, Judicial Integrity, Youth Crime Pre- the Middle East”. Dialogue Forum (LPDF) and the for- vention through Sport and Prisoner Rehabilitation. The mation of the Interim Government of programme known as Global Programme for the Imple- the “situation in the Middle East, plements the grants made by Qatar to pay National Unity. mentation of the Doha Declaration, is aimed mainly to including the Palestinian Question. the salaries of Palestinian employees, The statement indicated that Qatar understand that rule of law and sustainable development The statement drew attention to the provide financial assistance to needy fam- stressed the importance of ensuring com- are interrelated and mutually reinforcing. repeated provocations and attacks ilies, operate power stations and develop mitment to maintaining this progress on In November 2015, a multi-million-dollar funding carried out by the occupying forces in the infrastructure. the political, economic and security agreement was signed between Qatar and UNODC in city of Jerusalem and settlers on the The statement renewed Qatar’s call to tracks and ensuring that the elections are Vienna. The agreement, worth more than $49m, was Islamic and Christian holy sites, espe- the Security Council to assume its respon- held on the specified date, in order to slated to run over four years to deliver projects related cially the Holy Mosque, which is con- sibilities in enforcing international law, consolidate and sustain stability in the to justice, prisoners, youth and justice education. During sidered one of the most important holy implementing its decisions, putting an end interest of the brotherly Libyan people. the signing ceremony, UNODC Executive Director Yury places for Muslims. The statement to the illegal occupation and settlement, In conclusion, the statement under- Fedotov said: This agreement is unprecedented in the stressed that any attempts to change the supporting the achievement of peace, lined that Qatar firmly believes in the history of UNODC and I commend Qatar’s support for legal, historical and cultural status of the which must be achieved through negotia- principle of settling disputes by peaceful the 13th Crime Congress and the leadership and com- occupied city of Jerusalem constitute a tions between the two parties, and on the means, continues mediation efforts and mitment it has shown during and after the event.” violation of international law, relevant basis of international law, United Nations other efforts that contribute to consoli- Qatar has been instrumental in bringing fundamental Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, the Arab Peace Initiative and dating the foundations of sustainable changes to the life of prisoners, which helped them find resolutions, and that provocative prac- the principle of the two-state solution that peace at the regional and international a livelihood and lead a decent life after completion of tices and other illegal measures, such as according to it, the State of Palestine will levels, and works with international prison terms. Qatar funded a prison rehabilitation pro- confiscating and demolishing Palestinian be established on the 1967 borders, with partners to reduce tensions, end crises, gramme in Kyrgyz Republic and with the aid of Qatar, property, as in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan East Jerusalem as its capital, ending the and achieve stability, security and the a programme was implemented for medical and pre- neighborhoods, reflect a policy to Judaize occupation of all Arab lands, and finding a common interest of all. ventive equipment for prison workers in El Salvador. Jerusalem, expand settlements and dis- just solution to the refugee issue. In April 2019, a memorandum of understanding regard international law and resolutions The statement also reiterated the Qatar has urged the need to between the Supreme Committee for Delivery and of international legitimacy. continued commitment of Qatar to address the urgent needs of Legacy and UNODC was signed to strengthen inter- These measures led to the recent support and participate in all sincere national efforts in promoting sport for preventing escalation that caused hundreds of international efforts aimed at achieving a the two million Palestinians crimes and weaning away sports from the involvement civilian casualties, including dozens of just, lasting and comprehensive peace. whose suffering has worsened of organised crime, fraud and abuse of function etc. children, as a result of the aerial bom- Regarding the Syrian crisis, the All these are just a few examples for Qatar’s con- bardment of residential neighborhoods in statement pointed out that this year wit- this year and are still under tribution towards eradicating the scourge of drugs the Gaza Strip, it said. nessed the 10th anniversary of the launch siege in the Gaza Strip. and crime from the world and to provide education Qatar has sought to restore security of the peaceful demonstrations of the and employment opportunities for thousands of youth and stability, and has taken diplomatic brotherly Syrian people, adding that the in the developing world. moves in coordination with the United Syrian crisis is still waiting for a solution, Nations and brotherly and friendly coun- which will not be achieved by the military tries to facilitate reaching a ceasefire option, but rather by a purposeful political

D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR EMAIL: [email protected] Mask up (again) and get vaccinated

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 THE WASHINGTON POST FAX: +974 4455 7758 Cases, hospitalizations and who want to continue to live are among the vulnerable: deaths had plummeted among in a perpetual pandemic unvaccinated, children or MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 The highly transmissible delta the vaccinated, and an average state.” Does the Republican immunocompromised. variant of the coronavirus has of more than 1 million vaccine leader not understand that At a time when hundreds of DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 forced a return to face masks in doses were being adminis- senselessly politicizing this millions of people around the some places. Despite the grim tered every day. Now things issue is a certain route to a world are desperate for a shot, LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 disappointment of what might have changed. In July, the daily “perpetual pandemic state?” it is unfathomable why only BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 appear to be a step backward, doses administered have been For those who are confused 49.3% of eligible Americans are the nation’s pandemic response less than half a million a day. by changing government fully vaccinated when the SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 must not flag. Vaccines have The seven-day average of new advice, hear this: Vaccinated or doses are free and widely proved to be extraordinarily daily cases has soared from not, if you are in an area where available. We think vaccine ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 effective in preventing severe 11,701 on June 19 to 51,836 on community transmission is ele- mandates by organizations - email: [email protected] disease and death, and there is July 25. The delta variant now vated, wear a face mask when businesses, health-care institu- PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 no better solution at hand than accounts for 8 in 10 cases in indoors in public, crowded tions, government - are defen- email: [email protected] getting millions more people the United States. Given this areas and in schools. If you are sible and sensible for in-person vaccinated in the United States shift in circumstances, the CDC not vaccinated, rush to get one; activity. It is also evident that MARKETING: TEL: 4455 7657 and the world. Face masks can is issuing new advice. it can save your life. CDC incentives can work. email: [email protected] restrain the spread of this virus. House Minority Leader Director Rochelle Walensky If we truly want this mis- However, it is going to take Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., revealed in her briefing erable pandemic to end, we ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 857 longer than once hoped. We could not be more wrong - Tuesday that the reason for the have to act - together, and FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] must not give up. and foolish - than when he switch on masks is the dis- with a clear sense of what it CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 When the Centers for said on Twitter, “Make no covery that some vaccinated will take to put it behind us. email: [email protected] Disease Control and Pre- mistake - The threat of people are transmitting the The minor inconvenience of a vention relaxed guidelines for bringing masks back is not a delta variant although they are face mask and the prick of the SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 66766718 face masks two months ago decision based on science, but not feeling sick. Wearing a vaccine needle are a small WhatsApp: 66766718, email: [email protected] for the vaccinated, the a decision conjured up by mask protects the wearer and price to pay for the long-term decision seemed warranted. liberal government officials those nearby, especially if they health and safety of all.

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+974 6698 6188 Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook CEO FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021 EUROPE 09 Europe on vacation, but no break for vaccinations

AP — CARRY-LE-ROUET From France’s sun- cinemas to casinos to the Eiffel Tower to get a pass that shows Europe’s famed summer kissed Mediterranean they are either fully vaccinated, holiday season is in full swing, coast to the azure have tested negative for the but efforts to inoculate people waters of Italy’s coronavirus or recovered from against the coronavirus are not COVID-19. The measure will be taking a break. Adriatic beaches extended to restaurants and Instead, with lockdowns and Russian Black cafes from next month. That’s easing despite concerns about part of the reason more people variants and nations looking to Sea resorts, health are leaving the sand for a shot breathe new life into their ailing authorities are trying in the arm. tourism industries, vaccinations It was enough to push are being taken to vacationers. to make a COVID-19 Bomard to take Nolan: “Not It’s all part of an effort to shot a part of this being able to go out for dinner maintain momentum in cam- together with the family, go to paigns to protect against the summer. restaurants, and maybe having pandemic that has killed more to find at the last minute an than 1 million across the con- clinics in parks, a recent event appointment in a packed vacci- Global Education Summit enters second day tinent, including in the complete with DJ at the Tate nation centre in September in European Union, the United Modern museum and shots on order for him to go to middle Kingdom and Russia. offer to music lovers at the Lat- school.” After a slow start to vac- Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson is greeted by Australia’s former prime minister Julia Gillard From France’s sun-kissed itude Festival. cinations, 57% of adults in the on the second day of the Global Education Summit in London, Britain, yesterday. Mediterranean coast to the Mickael Bomard, from Le European Union are now fully azure waters of Italy’s Adriatic Plessis-Robinson in the Paris vaccinated against COVID-19, beaches and Russian Black Sea region, recently took his the bloc’s executive says. resorts, health authorities are 15-year-old son Nolan to a Even so, European Com- Rise in virus tracing alerts reveals trying to make a COVID-19 shot squat building just meters from mission President Ursula von as much part of this summer as the gently lapping waves of the der Leyen is warning against sunscreen and shades for those Mediterranean at Carry-le- complacency given the well- scale of Britain’s ‘pingdemic’ who are not yet fully Rouet, a popular holiday spot established presence in Europe vaccinated. near the port city of Marseille. of the highly contagious delta BLOOMBERG — LONDON from 10.4 million. also planning to exempt anyone The new drive to take shots “Given the measures that variant. The legal requirement for who’s fully vaccinated from to tourists is a way of adapting are being taken now and the She recently said that the Almost 690,000 people in hospitality and other businesses August 16. to Europe’s annual summer obligations when school starts “variant is very dangerous. I England and Wales were told to display QR “check-in” codes Carmakers yesterday urged migration, when it seems whole again in September, we have therefore call on everyone - to isolate by the official was removed on July 19, but the Prime Minister Boris Johnson cities empty of their residents decided to get him vaccinated,” who has the opportunity - to be COVID-19 mobile phone app in dramatic decline in the data to make their workers exempt for weeks. Those long absences Bomard said. vaccinated. For their own the week ending July 21, illus- also suggests some people are from quarantines as self-iso- from home pose a particular The vaccination centre is health and to protect others.” trating the pressure on key choosing to disable or not use lation rules exacerbated labor challenge for many nations giving shots to about 200 To that end, flexible vaccination industries as staff shortages the app, after recent surveys shortages that are hampering European, where public health people each day — vacationers initiatives are cropping up brought some supply chains showed a rise in deletions. production. systems often focus on deliv- and locals — says Agnes Gatto, across Europe. close to breaking point. Food and logistics com- But the pressure on industry ering vaccines to people based a nurse who runs the facility. In Italy, a vaccination van Contact-tracing “pings” panies have warned of critical could soon ease amid a signif- on where they live. In France, where resistance is set to start circulating in the from the National Health Service shortages of workers in recent icant fall in virus cases that is In Britain, where 70% of to the vaccine has been partic- popular Adriatic Sea destination app were up 11% from 620,000 weeks, and ministers have not yet reflected in the app data adults already are fully vacci- ularly stubborn, a new rule Rimini this weekend, following the week before, though the rate allowed limited numbers to for England. The number of nated, campaigns now are came into effect last week that a similar mobile campaign at of increase slowed. The number avoid the 10-day self-isolation “pings” in Wales decreased aimed at the younger genera- forces those who want to visit Lazio’s beaches, where many of venue “check-ins” recorded to ensure services can keep slightly in the most recent tions with walk-in pop-up public sites ranging from Romans have second homes. by the app fell to 6.7 million running. The government is numbers. Hillsborough victim dies 32 AstraZeneca to seek US approval of vaccine in 2nd half AP — LONDON AstraZeneca said it has the world," CEO Pascal Soriot reports that the vaccine may be it’s ready to be used if needed,” years after UK decided to ask the US Food and said on a conference call with linked to rare blood clots, which he said. AstraZeneca said yesterday that Drug Administration for full reg- reporters. “A BLA is a much have caused some countries to AstraZeneca said yesterday stadium disaster it intends to seek US approval ulatory approval of the vaccine, bigger submission than the limit its use in younger people. that it delivered 319 million for its COVID-19 vaccine in the rather than the fast-track emer- emergency use approval.” The AstraZeneca vaccine is doses of the vaccine in the first AP — LONDON second half of this year, further gency use authorisation origi- The news on the US filing is already in widespread use around half of this year, $1.17 billion in delaying the long-awaited nally anticipated. As part of this being closely watched because the world following approval by revenue. AstraZeneca has A British man who died 32 application. Biologics License Application, the timetable has slipped in regulators in the European Union, pledged to deliver the vaccine years after being caught in a The Anglo-Swedish drug- the FDA has requested extensive recent months. When Astra- World Health Organisation, UK on a non-profit basis as long as crush of soccer fans at an over- maker announced the new data from clinical trials around Zeneca released data from its and other countries. the pandemic lasts. crowded Hillsborough Stadium timetable as it said the company the world, as well as data on real US trial of the vaccine on March While the US is currently Despite complaints from the has been recorded as the 97th and its partners have delivered world use of the vaccine. 22, company officials said they “well supplied” with vaccines, EU about its vaccine supply, the victim of the 1989 tragedy. more than 1 billion doses of the “We have an enormous expected to seek FDA authori- AstraZeneca believes its shot 27-nation bloc received more Andrew Devine was badly vaccine to over 170 countries amount of data, clinical data zation in the first half of April. could “play a role in the future,” doses directly from AstraZeneca injured in a crush of Liverpool where it is already authorised and all of the data coming from Among the concerns Astra- Soriot said. “It’s a good vaccine, than any other single entity in fans at the stadium in Sheffield for use. the work we’ve done around Zeneca will have to address are and we just want to make sure the six months through June. on April 15, 1989. He died Tuesday in a hospital in Liv- IN BRIEF erpool, northwest England, at 55. After an inquest on Wednesday, Liverpool Germany to require proof of virus Coroner Andre Rebello said Devine died of aspiration immunity or negative test on arrival pneumonia, to which he had been left vulnerable because BERLIN: All travellers arriving in Germany will be required from of injuries from the this weekend to demonstrate immunity from COVID-19 either Hillsborough disaster. from a vaccine or previous infection, or present a negative test “I find that it is more likely result, government sources reported. than not that Andrew Devine The plan reflects growing concern among Germany’s regional was unlawfully killed, making and national leaders that rising case loads in tourist destinations him the 97th fatality from the could help fuel a fourth wave when Germans come home from events of April 15, 1989,” the holiday. coroner said. Germany now requires a negative test or proof of immunity Authorities spent years only from those arriving from so-called “risk areas”, “high-inci- blaming fans for the disaster, dence areas” and “virus-variant areas”, which in Europe now which unfolded when more include Britain, Spain and the Netherlands. - Reuters than 2,000 Liverpool sup- porters flooded into a Spain to extend COVID-19 aid to most standing-room section behind a goal, when the vulnerable until October 31 54,000-capacity stadium was nearly full for a match against MADRID: Spain’s prime minister yesterday announced that existing Nottingham Forest. Many measures to protect the most vulnerable from the pandemic’s victims were smashed against economic fallout will be prolonged until the end of October. metal fences, trampled Spain, one of the country’s that was hardest hit at the beginning underfoot or suffocated in the of the health emergency, has extended subsidies for the unem- crush. ployed and furloughs for companies that have gone out of business An initial inquest ruled the Migrants and NGO activists instal a camp made of tents to draw attention to the migrant living to try to cushion an economic drop of 11% of its gross domestic deaths an accident. But a cam- conditions and to demand accommodation, at Place des Vosges in Paris, France, yesterday. product in 2020. paign by survivors and victims’ As a national lockdown extended in March last year, the gov- families succeeding in getting ernment also rolled out a series of social measures, including a ban the verdicts overturned in Aid group vaccinates migrants on leaving impoverished families without utilities and a moratorium 2012, after a far-reaching on forced evictions for those who saw their income vanish. -AP probe that examined previ- ously secret documents and as France expands virus pass Three more workers found dead at found wrongdoing and mis- takes by authorities. AP — PARIS groups are carrying out similar when the tents opened yes- German industrial blast site A second inquest con- actions in other countries, too. terday, most of them migrants cluded in 2016 that the 96 Vaccination rates are picking “People think that these from Bangladesh, Afghanistan BERLIN: The known death toll from an explosion at a German victims were unlawfully killed up again in France as the people wouldn’t need a vaccine and sub-Saharan African coun- industrial park grew to five yesterday after authorities said the as a result of failings by police, government requires a virus passport,” Cristiana Castro, who tries. Many of them arrived only bodies of three more people were recovered from the chemical the ambulance service and pass for more and more activ- oversees Doctors Without recently in France. manufacturing site. Sheffield Wednesday Football ities — but social workers worry Borders’ COVID-19 operations “I’m feeling good because Two people are still missing following Tuesday’s explosion at Club, which ran the stadium. that the measure will further in France, said. today I’m getting the COVID-19 the waste management facility of the Chempark industrial park, It found the behaviour of fans marginalise migrants and other But “they often need to vaccine, and after I’ll feel safe,” located in the city of Leverkusen, near Cologne.. did not contribute to the poor populations. access public places for Mdamasud Parves, a migrant The cause of the blast, which also injured 31 people, isn’t yet deaths. So aid group Doctors housing, administrative proc- from Bangladesh who arrived known. Police began their on-site investigation yesterday, German Several former police Without Borders has set up a esses, and they worry that one six months ago, told the AP. news agency dpa reported. officers and a lawyer were tent this summer in northeast day the passport would be Doctors Without Borders gave Currenta, the company that operates the industrial park, said charged years after the dis- Paris to vaccinate migrants, required to access those, and it Parves his first shot of a Pfizer the explosion was linked to storage tanks filled with solvents. aster with attempting to homeless people and others creates a lot of anxiety.” vacine, and an appointment for The explosion sent a large black cloud of smoke into the air pervert the course of justice, without access to state or A line of about 30 people the second dose in three and ignited a blaze that took firefighters almost four hours to but none has been convicted. private health insurance. Aid had already started to form weeks. extinguish. - AP 10 AMERICAS FRIDAY 30 JULY 2021 Senate gives nod for bill to help Afghans with visas

AP — WASHINGTON The bill loosens that the hearing had perhaps “jarred the Senate to move in a An emergency spending bill some requirements bipartisan way to pass this passed by the Senate 98-0 for the visas, which legislation.” yesterday would bolster A more generous bill nar- security at the Capitol and lawmakers say are rowly passed the House in May, repay outstanding debts from especially pressing but no Republicans supported the January 6 insurrection. The as the US military it and some liberal Democrats $2.1bn bill would also increase voted against it as well. In the the number of visas for allies withdrawal enters Senate, Republicans rejected who worked alongside Amer- its final weeks and Leahy’s earlier $3.7bn proposal icans in the Afghanistan war. before they negotiated the final Democrats and Republicans Afghan allies face version. struck an agreement on the leg- possible retaliation Pelosi said the Senate bill is islation this week, saying the months overdue. money is urgently needed for from the Taliban. “It’s not what we sent, it’s the Capitol Police and for the certainly not what we need, but translators and others who Congress doesn’t pass the bill, it’s a good step forward,” she Senator Rob Portman speaks to reporters while announcing an agreement on infrastructure with worked closely with US gov- money would start running out said. “It doesn’t mean that we’re Senators Lisa Murkowski, Bill Cassidy, Susan Collins and Mitt Romney after meeting in Senate Minority ernment troops and civilians in for officers’ salaries by August finished, but it does mean that Leader Mitch McConnell’s office at the US Capitol in Washington, on Wednesday. Afghanistan. and that the National Guard we can’t wait another day until The bill loosens some might have to cancel some we strengthen the Capital requirements for the visas, training programs. Police force, strengthen the Senators upbeat on prospects for which lawmakers say are espe- “We can’t let that happen,” Capitol.” cially pressing as the US mil- Senate Majority Leader Chuck For the allies in Afghanistan, itary withdrawal enters its final Schumer said before the vote. the bill would allow 8,000 bipartisan infrastructure bill weeks and Afghan allies face He said the agreement additional visas and provide possible retaliation from the “shouldn’t have taken this long” $500m for their emergency REUTERS — WASHINGTON chances of passage. advance the measure, called it Taliban. but that passing the legislation transportation, housing and Both Senate Majority Leader a “focused compromise” and an The House is expected to is living up to Congress’ respon- other essential services. The US Senate yesterday Chuck Schumer, a Democrat, “important, basic duty of vote on the legislation in the sibility to keep the Capitol safe Alabama Senator Richard prepared to tackle the details and Minority Leader Mitch government.” coming days and send it to “and to make sure that the Shelby, the top Republican on of a $1 trillion bipartisan infra- McConnell, a Republican, were “I’m glad to see these dis- President Joe Biden. people who risk their lives for the appropriations panel, who structure bill backed by Pres- upbeat about the road ahead cussions making progress and The money for the Capitol us and protect us get the help negotiated the legislation with ident Joe Biden, with the possi- on the bill, which was brokered I was happy to vote to begin — including for police salaries, they need.” the Democrats, said it would be bility of weekend work looming by Senate negotiators and moving the Senate toward what the National Guard and to The bill’s passage comes “shameful” not to help the after lawmakers voted to White House officials and ought to be a robust, bipartisan better secure windows and after four police officers who Afghan allies and that they advance the measure. cleared a key procedural hurdle floor process for legislation of doors around the building — fought off the rioters in the Jan. could be killed by the Taliban Senators and aides said by a vote of 67-32 on this magnitude,” McConnell comes more than six months 6 attack testified in an emo- as the US withdraws. another vote was expected on Wednesday. said. after the violent insurrection by tional House hearing on Senate Republican Leader Friday to begin debate on the “It took some prodding and Some amendments are former President Donald Tuesday and detailed the Mitch McConnell said senators proposal to rebuild America’s a few deadlines, but it has all expected to be proposed, Trump’s supporters and is “medieval” battle in which they “intend to keep our nation’s roads, ports and bridges, worked out for the better,” including on the bill’s scaled back from a House- were brutally beaten and ver- promises to brave Afghans who launching a process that Schumer said yesterday on the broadband internet provisions, passed bill and previous Dem- bally assaulted. have taken great risks to help could last for days and could Senate floor. the Senate’s number two ocratic proposals. House Speaker Nancy America and our partners fight include amendments that McConnell, who was among Republican, John Thune, said, Democrats have said that if Pelosi suggested on Wednesday the terrorists.” change the bill or cloud its 17 Republicans who voted to without giving details. Harris releases plan to tackle migration’s root causes IN BRIEF Thousands stuck in Colombia amid AP — SAN DIEGO El Salvador, including cor- works, and we will pivot away anti-corruption prosecutor, ruption, violence and poverty. from what does not work,” saying it “lost confidence” in the surge in migration US Vice-President Kamala The governments of Mexico, Harris wrote in an introduction country’s willingness to fight Harris said yesterday that Japan and South Korea, along to the 20-page plan. “It will not corruption. BOGOTA: Some 9,000 migrants are stranded in a Caribbean munic- efforts to address root causes with the United Nations, have be easy, and progress will not The White House also ipality in Colombia amid a surge of people passing through on their of migration from three Central committed to joining the push, be instantaneous, but we are released a “Collaborative way to north America following the re-opening of international American countries won’t she said without elaborating. committed to getting it right.” Migration Management borders post-lockdown, the Colombian migration agency said. produce immediate results as The plan, which avoids Harris noted that she Strategy,” which President Joe The irregular migrants — who are mostly Haitians but also she unveiled a broad strategy deadlines, supports short-term recently travelled to Guatemala, Biden ordered in February to include Venezuelans and Cubans, as well as a number from African that expands on principles the relief for migration pressures “where one of the largest chal- outline how the United States countries - are stuck in Necocli, in Colombia’s Antioquia province, Biden administration previously like extreme weather while lenges is corruption.” On will work with other countries migration agency director Juan Francisco Espinosa said in a virtual outlined. committing sustained attention Tuesday, the Biden adminis- to address migration flows. The press conference. “This is a recurring and historical phenomenon. Harris said the United States to long-term motivations for tration said it suspended coop- 14-page document summarizes Colombia is not the cause or the destination of this migration,” alone cannot tackle deep- people to leave their eration with Guatemala’s earlier announcements and Espinosa said. seated motives for people to countries. Attorney General’s Office after espouses goals that Biden and The migrants hope to pass from Necocli and on through the leave Guatemala, Honduras and “We will build on what the firing of the agency’s top top aides have outlined before. dangerous Darien Gap towards Panama and then onwards to north America, principally the United States or Canada, he added. - Reuters Pacific tsunami warnings lifted Two arrested in deaths of three men after big quake found at Wisconsin quarry LA CROSSE: Sheriff’s officials say they have arrested two people shakes Alaska in the deaths of three men found slain in a western Wisconsin quarry last week. REUTERS — ANCHORAGE The La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office says one male suspect was arrested shortly before 2am yesterday in Wausau and another Tsunami warnings were lifted man was taken into custody about 8.30pm on Wednesday in for Alaska and the rest of Amherst. Both communities are in central Wisconsin. Pacific after a huge earthquake The bodies of Peng Lor and Nemo Yang, both 24, and Trevor of 8.2 magnitude struck the Maloney, 23, were discovered shortly before 5am on Friday by seismically active US state in two Milestone Quarry workers, the sheriff’s department said. The the late hours yesterday. quarry is located near West Salem, about 14 miles northeast of In Alaska, small tsunami La Crosse, which is along the Minnesota border. waves measuring under a foot La Crosse County Sheriff Jeff Wolf has called the deaths a “tar- above tide level were observed geted act.” Officials said the victims were fatally shot early Friday, in Sand Point, Old Harbor, that they knew their attacker or attackers and were slain at the King Cove, Kodiak, Unalaska quarry. -AP and Alitak Bay, according to the US National Tsunami $1m settlement after two patients Warning Center (NTWC). There were no immediate drowned in transport van reports of injuries or damage to property. Several Alaskan Mayan indigenous people block a road as they take part in a protest demanding the resignation of CONWAY: A manufacturer of cages for inmate transport vans has coastal communities were Guatemalan President and Attorney-General, in San Cristobal Totonicapan, Guatemala, yesterday. agreed to pay $1m to the family of a South Carolina mental health evacuated following the patient who drowned during 2018’s Hurricane Florence while quake. Among them was trapped inside a sheriff’s department van outfitted by the company. Seward on the Kenai Guatemalans protest president, attorney-general A court on Monday approved the agreement between American Peninsula, south of Anchorage, Aluminum Accessories and Linda Green, the mother of drowning where sirens blared and resi- AP — GUATEMALA CITY since Attorney General Con- ation with Porras’ office. victim Nicolette Green, according to WBTW-TV. dents were told to move to suelo Porras fired anti-cor- President Alejandro Giam- Deputies were driving Green, 43, and Wendy Newton, 45, higher ground. Thousands of Guatemalans ruption special prosecutor Juan mattei has previously spoken through Marion County to a mental health facility under a court The US Geological Survey took to the streets in protest Francisco Sandoval on July 23. of his friendship with Porras, order when their van was swept away by rising floodwaters as (USGS) said the quake, which yesterday, blocking highways In response, the United States who was appointed by his pred- Hurricane Florence inundated the state. struck at 10.15pm local time and calling for a national strike government this week said that ecessor, President Jimmy Green and Newton were locked inside a cage in the back of (0615 GMT yesterday), was at a over the government’s apparent it had lost confidence in Gua- Morales. the van and both women drowned. depth of 35km. It struck about unwillingness to tackle temala’s commitment to bat- Some 10,000 people blocked Deputies Stephen Flood and Joshua Bishop were later charged 91km east-southeast of Perry- corruption. tling corruption and was tem- one of the country’s main with reckless homicide and involuntary manslaughter in their ville, about 800km from Pressure has been building porarily suspending cooper- highways early yesterday. deaths and fired from the Horry County Sheriff’s Office. - AP Anchorage, Alaska’s biggest city. The US states of California, Oregon and Washington and the Canadian province of US expected to keep border expulsions policy as delta variant surges British Columbia were not expected to see any significant REUTERS — WASHINGTON President Joe Biden had planned because the Biden adminis- Biden, a Democrat, has northern Mexico. tsunami threats, Dave Snider, to exempt migrant families tration “put the brakes on it” been under intense pressure Biden has kept Title 42 in tsunami warning coordinator The United States is expected arriving at the US-Mexico border due to concerns over the highly from human rights groups, place as border arrests have with the NTWC, told Reuters. to delay a partial rollback of a from the expulsion policy by July transmissible COVID-19 delta some fellow Democrats, risen to their highest monthly “There might be some controversial migrant expulsion 31, while continuing to keep it variant and the rising number migrant advocacy groups and levels in 20 years. Since he took minor damage in some places policy, according to three for individuals, sources familiar of infections in Mexico, one of United Nations refugee officials office in January, migrants have (in Alaska), but a significant people familiar with the matter, with the discussions said earlier the people said. to end the Trump-era policy been expelled under Title 42 tsunami and significant damage citing fears related to the fast- this month. It is now unclear when the they say leads to thousands of more than 500,000 times, from something like that is not spreading delta variant. The partial rollback of the order could be lifted for fam- expelled migrants facing kid- although many of those include expected,” Snider said. The administration of Title 42 policy was delayed ilies or in its entirety. nappings and other violence in repeat border crossers.