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THURSDAY Vol. XXXX No. 11150 April 11, 2019 Sha’baan 6, 1440 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

In brief Amir receives message from Jordan king Amir meets Lord Mayor of London

QATAR | Offi cial Amir condoles with German Chancellor His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani and HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani sent yesterday cables to German Chancellor Angela Merkel to express their condolences on the death of her mother.

QATAR | Visit President of Bulgaria arrives in Doha His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani received yesterday a verbal message from King Bulgarian President Rumen Radev Abdullah II of Jordan, pertaining to bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries and ways to arrived in Doha yesterday for an enhance them. The message was conveyed by the Speaker of the Jordanian House of Representatives, off icial visit to the country. He was Eng Atef al-Tarawneh, during his meeting with the Amir at the Amiri Diwan off ice yesterday. The Jordanian received by Minister of Transport Speaker conveyed the king’s greetings to the Amir and his wishes of health and happiness to the Amir, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met at the Amiri Diwan off ice yesterday with and Communications HE Jassim and the wishes of more development and prosperity for the Qatari people.The Amir reciprocated his the visiting Lord Mayor of the City of London Peter Estlin and his accompanying delegation. The meeting Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti, Qatar’s greetings to the Jordanian king. The meeting was attended by HE the Advisory Council Speaker Ahmed reviewed the relations between Qatar and Britain in the areas of economy, trade and investment, and ambassador to Bulgaria Rashid bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud. opportunities for their development. Page 4 bin Ali al-Khater and Bulgaria’s ambassador to Qatar Metin Kazak. Page 5

QATAR | Meetings Botswana looks to boost Qatar trade ties Trade delegation members from IPU delegates decry siege of Qatar Botswana have already held business meetings in Doha while O Separation of families Union (IPU) in Doha, alongside IPU “During the event, we held many seven ministers are slated to arrive hurts, not the blockade: president Gabriela Cuevas Barron and meetings with the speakers of parlia- tomorrow ahead of President IPU secretary-general Martin Chun- ments of diff erent countries and heads Mokgweetsi Masisi’s two-day state al-Mahmoud gong. of delegations, who expressed their ap- visit to Qatar next week, a top O 80 parliament speakers, “We in Qatar have said the blockade preciation for the high level of organi- diplomat said yesterday. Speaking 40 deputy speakers is behind us, but what continues to be sation of the assembly. They also met to Gulf Times on the sidelines of painful for us is the ongoing severing of with His Highness the Amir Sheikh a business meeting at the Qatar and 2,200 members of close family relations within the GCC Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and HE Chamber yesterday, Botswana parliaments attend historic countries. This has resulted in a lot of the Prime Minister and Minister of In- ambassador Manyepedza P Lesetedi Doha event suff ering for many families across the terior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin said Masisi’s visit aims to strengthen Gulf region, as some of the blockad- Khalifa al-Thani. They expressed their bilateral relations with Qatar. Page 6 ing countries have not stopped from admiration for Qatar’s ability to organ- By Ayman Adly separating a mother, who is one of their ise an event of this scale in spite of the AMERICA | Astronomy Staff Reporter citizens, from her children, only be- ongoing blockade,” HE al-Mahmoud cause the father is a Qatari citizen and observed. Pages 23, 24 First photo of black naturally his children are Qataris. hole unveiled atar has put the blockade im- “This has also had negative conse- Astronomers yesterday unveiled the posed on it by Saudi Arabia, the quences such as interruption of edu- HE Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud with Gabriela Cuevas Barron and IPU condemns US first photo of a black hole, one of the QUAE, Bahrain and Egypt be- cation, with some of these countries Martin Chungong. PICTURE: Thajudheen decision on Golan star-devouring monsters scattered hind it but the resulting separation of denying Qatari students access to com- throughout the Universe and families across the GCC region is still plete their studies.” affi rmed that what is happening against assembly and its accompanying meet- The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) obscured by impenetrable shields a matter of concern, HE the Advisory He noted that these acts amounted Qatar in this regard is unethical, inhu- ings despite the unjust blockade, the has condemned the recent US recogni- of gravity. The image of a dark core Council Speaker Ahmed bin Abdullah to violations of basic human rights and mane and illegal and could amount to offi cial QNA reported. tion of the Golan Heights as part of encircled by a flame-orange halo bin Zaid al-Mahmoud said yesterday. such family issues should not be hos- the waging of an economic war. He stressed that the praise refl ected Israel. IPU President Gabriela Cuevas of white-hot plasma looks like any HE al-Mahmoud made the observa- tage to politics. HE al-Mahmoud said all The Advisory Council Speaker, who the appreciation of the IPU members of Barron said in a Presidential Statement number of artists’ renderings over tion while addressing a press confer- such violations have been documented was also president of the 140th IPU His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim on the Golan Heights: “The IPU stands the last 30 years. But this time, it’s ence on the concluding day of the 140th in a report of the United Nations High Assembly, said Qatar appreciated the bin Hamad al-Thani, Qatar’s govern- for the inadmissibility of the acquisi- the real deal. Page 12 Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights, which praise it received for its hosting of the ment and the people. tion of territory by war. Page 23 Al Jazeera wins many awards Conrad Washington hotel opened

QNA O The network receives Washington 49 prizes in total E the Minister of Finance Ali Sherif l Jazeera Media Network has al-Emadi inaugurated yesterday picked up a record number of HThe Conrad Washington, DC, one Amedals at the prestigious New of Qatari Diar’s projects in Washington. York Festivals TV & Films awards. The inauguration ceremony was attended The network won 18 Gold, 17 Silver and by Chairman of Qatari Diar HE Sheikh Khalid 14 Bronze medals for various news, pro- bin Khalifa al-Thani, CEO of Qatari Diar Eng grammes, digital and creative content. In Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah, Qatar’s am- addition, Al Jazeera English was named bassador to the US Sheikh Meshaal bin Ha- ‘Broadcaster of the Year’ at the awards mad al-Thani, Mayor of Washington Muriel ceremony for the third consecutive year. Bowser, as well as several prominent fi gures Among the winners were 101 East, in the US. the channel’s weekly current aff airs Part of the Qatari company’s global ex- programme featuring stories from pansion, the project was carried out in across Asia and the Pacifi c which won association with Hines Interests Limited 4 Gold and 4 Silver medals. The obser- Partnership. Together they built the 370- vational-documentary Witness strand room luxury hotel which also has 62,000sq won three Gold and 4 Silver medals. ft of large-format retail space, at CityC- Earthrise, the environmental show on From left to right: Giles Trendle, Managing Director Al Jazeera English, Poh Si Teng, enterDC, the 10-acre, landmark, mixed- Al Jazeera English won 2 Gold medals Senior Producer Witness, Kevin Hirten, Producer Investigations Unit AJMN, Jeremy use development located in the heart of the and 1 Silver. To Page 10 Young, Senior Producer Investigations Unit AJMNA. (Photo: Al Jazeera website) nations capital. To Page 5 HE Ali Sherif al-Emadi and other dignitaries at the opening ceremony. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, April 11, 2019 QATAR

Amir honours ambassador of Ukraine OFFICIAL Cabinet praises Foreign minister of Morocco arrives in Doha

The Minister of Foreign Aff airs and International Co-operation of Morocco, Nasser Bourita, Amir’s speech arrived in Doha yesterday. He was welcomed at Hamad International Airport by HE the Minister of State for Foreign Aff airs Sultan bin Saad al- Muraikhi, and Chargé d’Aff aires of at IPU meeting Morocco to Qatar Saeed Hal. CRA president QNA on the success of its General As- The Cabinet reviewed the fol- Doha sembly and the accompanying lowing topics and took the ap- meets ITU meetings which included in- propriate decisions thereon: depth and fruitful discussions 1- Letter of HE the Governor secretary-general he regular Cabinet meet- that will be refl ected positively of Qatar Central Bank on the ing, presided over by HE on the IPU programmes and proposal to amend some articles President of the Communications Tthe Prime Minister Sheikh approaches during the coming in the Code of Criminal Proce- Regulatory Authority (CRA) Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa period, and will add much to its dure, promulgated by Law No 23 Mohamed Ali al-Mannai met al-Thani, praised the speech of outstanding achievements for of 2004. the Secretary-General of the His Highness the Amir Sheikh the peace and stability of the 2- Letter of HE the Minister International Telecommunication Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani at world and the freedom and well- of Municipality and the Envi- Union (ITU) Houlin Zhao, on the the opening of the 140th Assem- being of its people. ronment on a draft law amend- sidelines of the 2019 UN World His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met the outgoing ambassador of Ukraine bly of the Inter-Parliamentary ing some provisions of Law No Summit on the Information to Qatar, Yevhen Mykytenko, at the Amiri Diwan yesterday. The Amir honoured the ambassador Union (IPU) in Doha on Satur- The Cabinet expressed its 4 of 1985 on the organisation of Society (UN WSIS) being held in with the Al Wajbah Decoration in recognition of his eff orts and role in enhancing relations between day. pride in Qatar hosting this buildings. Geneva from April 8 to 12. The Qatar and Ukraine. The Amir wished the ambassador success in his future duties, and the relations The speech included insight- important parliamentary 3- Letter of HE the Minister of two sides discussed the relations between the two countries further progress and prosperity. For his part, the ambassador thanked ful visions and opinions, espe- event Municipality and the Environ- between Qatar and the ITU and the Amir and the off icials in Qatar for the co-operation accorded to him. cially in the fi elds of education, ment on the following: means of developing them. youth issues, the rule of law, jus- The Cabinet then considered a. Draft decision of the Min- tice, dialogue and understanding the topics on its agenda as fol- ister of Municipality and the Real estate among nations, combating ter- lows: Environment on the places of rorism and enhancing the role of The Cabinet approved a pro- swimming in public and private transactions parliamentary diplomacy. posal to amend Decree Law No beaches. Following the meeting, HE (17) of 2010 on the organisation b. Draft decision of the Minis- The trading volume of FM calls for fi rm stance the Minister of Justice and Act- of the National Human Rights ter of Municipality and the Envi- registered real estates between ing Minister of State for Cabinet Committee, including increas- ronment on the requirements of 31 March and 4 April at the Aff airs Dr Issa Saad al-Jafali al- ing the term of membership in security and safety in swimming Ministry of Justice’s real estate Nuaimi stated the following: the Committee from three years places. registration department stood at against violations in Libya The Cabinet expressed its to fi ve years, renewable for a pe- The Cabinet then listened to QR333,485,919. pride in Qatar hosting this im- riod or other similar periods. the presentation by HE the Di- The department’s weekly portant parliamentary event, The Cabinet also endorsed a rector of the Government Com- report said that the trading QNA which affi rms the world’s ap- draft memorandum of under- munications Offi ce on the strat- included empty lands, residential Ankara preciation for its active role, its standing for co-operation in egy and achievements of the units, residential buildings, positive contributions and its the field of youth between the Offi ce during 2018 and its objec- multipurpose empty lands and internal and external achieve- Ministry of Culture and Sports tives for 2019. multipurpose buildings. E the Deputy Prime ments, and its confi dence in its in Qatar and the Ministry of The Cabinet stressed the Most of the trading took place in Minister and Minister wise policies and good initiatives Home Affairs of Vietnam, and importance of all government Doha, Al Daayen, Umm Salal, Al Hof Foreign Aff airs Sheikh to serve the people and promote a draft memorandum of under- agencies co-ordinating and co- Rayyan, Al Wakrah, Al Khor and Al Mohamed bin Abdulrahman a culture of peace and the peace- standing for co-operation in operating with the Government Thakhira. al-Thani has urged the interna- ful settlement of disputes. the field of youth between the Communications Offi ce, in ac- The trading volume of registered tional community to take a fi rm The Cabinet congratulated governments of Qatar and Ar- cordance with the mechanism real estates between 24 to 28 stance against the violations of the Inter-Parliamentary Union gentina. set by the offi ce. March was QR342,452,126. international law, not only in Libya but also in all the regions where the law is fl outed. HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Addressing a joint press con- Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani holding talks with Minister of ference with the Minister of Foreign Aff airs of Turkey Mevlut Cavusoglu yesterday in Ankara. Foreign Affairs of Turkey Mev- They discussed bilateral relations and means to enhance them, as lut Cavusoglu that was held in well as issues of joint interest. Foreign ministry holds Ankara, HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani said operation in light of the chang- that there were some countries the conflict in Libya is devel- ing circumstances in the Muslim who supported Haftar’s forces, oping rapidly, noting the latest world. He highlighted Qatar’s but also issued joint statements attacks on Tripoli carried out support for Turkey in this. condemning the latest move. workshop on human rights by illegal forces led by Khalifa On Libya, he said that despite He criticised those actions, Haftar. the continuous eff orts made saying they were hard to un- The Foreign Minister said by the Government of National derstand. The meeting with the QNA society organisations are taking Human Rights at the Ministry man rights challenges, as well as that the meeting with the Turk- Accord, which is recognised by Turkish foreign minister also Doha part in the event. of Foreign Aff airs Ambassador to share the best practices in the ish Minister of foreign aff airs the international community in discussed the latest develop- The two-day workshop will Faisal al-Henzab said in a speech fi eld of human rights between discussed bilateral relations, compliance with Security Coun- ments of the Palestinian issue, see lectures by experts in the that organisation of the work- States and other stakeholders. important regional issues and cil resolutions, and despite all especially in light of the recent he Ministry of Foreign Af- fi eld, who will aim to provide the shop is part of the state’s prepa- He pointed out that the inter- events taking place in the Mus- the support provided by the remarks of the Israeli Prime fairs’ Department of Hu- participants with information rations for discussing its third est of Qatar in the universal pe- lim world that require further United Nations’ mission to reach Minister saying he will annex Tman Rights is holding a and sources on the international periodic report before the Uni- riodic review mechanism comes consultations and co-ordina- a political solution, there are the West Bank. He stressed that workshop on co-operation with law for human rights. versal Periodic Review’s working within the framework of its full tion. those who want to override the such a move is rejected based on Geneva Institute for Human They will also provide a brief group in May. He noted that UPR commitment to the promotion The Foreign Minister de- international will, in violation of international laws and conven- Rights, the UN Human Rights overview of the international is a new mechanism, established and protection of human rights, scribed the ties between Qa- laws to impose a new reality us- tions. Training Centre for South-West agreements of which Qatar has with UN Human Rights Council which comes alongside human tar and Turkey as strategic and ing force. For his part, the Turkish min- Asia and the Arab Region. become a signatory. The work- in 2006. development at the top of the added that they were growing He urged the international ister of foreign aff airs said that The workshop, which opened shop will look to develop skills to It aims to improve the human country’s priorities. He high- continuously on the political and community to take a fi rm stance the talks with HE Deputy Prime yesterday at the ministry’s perform the Universal Periodic rights situation by assessing lighted that this interest was re- economic levels. against these violations of inter- Minister and Minister of Foreign headquarters, was on the Uni- Review. It will also enhance their state records and reports on the fl ected in Qatar National Vision The Foreign Minister ex- national law, not only in Libya Aff airs focused on bilateral is- versal Periodic Review (UPR) ability in discussing the state’s matter. It also aims at providing 2030, as well as in its two devel- pressed the gratitude of Qatar but also in the regions where sues that focused on expanding mechanism adopted by the UN. report presented to the mecha- technical assistance to states to opmental strategies (2011-2016, to Turkey for its role in leading international laws are violated. bilateral trade and joint projects Representatives of diff erent nism’s working group. help them strengthen their ca- 2018-2022), and the recent leg- the Organisation of Islamic Co- The Foreign Minister pointed out in the defence fi elds. ministries, institutions, and civil Director of Department of pacity to eff ectively address hu- islations issued. ‘About 67% of Qatar’s higher education graduates are women’

QNA in this regard is no diff erent from that transparent comments to take ad- Washington of the UK, Germany or the European vantage of them including reform and Union or most countries. improvement, noting that much had On Yemen, she said that Qatar was already been done”. bout 67% of Qatar’s higher edu- part of the Arab alliance in Yemen at “Qatar knows that expatriate cation graduates are women, HE the beginning, on the grounds that it workers represent the most vulner- Athe Spokesperson of the Minis- would be a limited operation for three able part of society,” she said, add- try of Foreign Aff airs Lolwah Alkhater weeks. “Unfortunately, the situation is ing that “the state has changed its has said. catastrophic in Yemen after four years, policies and responded to the needs This came during the participation and the humanitarian crisis outweighs of expatriate workers because these of HE the Spokesperson of the Minis- anyone’s understanding. “ people are ultimately helping us try of Foreign Aff airs, in a meeting of HE Alkhater considered violent ex- build our country,” she said, stress- the Women’s Group for Foreign Policy tremism a phenomenon and that its ing the importance of honouring and in the United States. root causes and factors that cause it appreciating migrant workers and Asked about women’s rights in Qa- must be addressed. She stressed that seeking to do more to improve their tar, she said: “Qatar is fi ne when it the solution must be comprehensive, situation and accept the criticism comes to women’s rights. We look for- noting that the Syrian situation re- with an open mind. ward to seeing more women leaders. quires transitional justice. On freedom of expression in Qatar, About 67% of Qatar’s higher education “As long as Bashar is permitted to she urged everyone to visit any of the graduates are women, 52% of women commit his heinous crimes against his universities in Doha to listen to the work in Qatar, we are more than men in people, deterioration would continue discussions taking place, including the educational fi elds”, she added. in Syria”. discussions on governance and wheth- On other issues, HE the Spokesper- She stressed the importance of a plan er the Gulf should be a monarchical son of the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs to resolve the Syrian crisis. “Reward- HE the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs Lolwah Alkhater participating in a meeting of the Women’s Group for or democratic system of government. reiterated Qatar’s support for the two- ing the regime by restoring relations Foreign Policy in the United States. “These are the types of discussions state solution on the 1967 borders and is certainly not a solution, and this has that we conduct in our universities the right of return, and that East Jeru- unfortunately begun,” she said, stress- of resources and their inability to ob- the blockade of Qatar were the same On Qatar’s relationship with Iran, freely, and that is the diff erence be- salem be the capital of Palestine in line ing the need to refl ect on the issue and tain an education that can rehabilitate cause of instability in the Arabian Pe- the offi cial spokesperson of the Min- tween us and many of our neighbours with all UN resolutions and said: “The its long-term implications and that them as good citizens in their coun- ninsula”. istry of Foreign Aff airs said Iran is the who prefer to silence the diff erent international community has agreed one of the most important problems tries,” she said, stressing that Qatar is She regretted the absence of pros- only corridor to Qatar after the closure views of their opinion.” to these basic issues and, most impor- that the international community has ready to be part of this comprehensive pects for resolving the Gulf crisis and of all land and air borders with Qatar, On the economic reforms in Qatar, tantly, to have them implemented.” to deal with is the problem of the fami- solution. said: “The chances are slim because where 90% of the food and medicine she said said that Qatar had diversifi ed In response to a question about the lies of the fi ghters in “Daesh”, who were On the Gulf crisis, HE Lolwah our neighbours are not responding to came through. sources of supply after the blockade so-called “deal of the century”, HE estimated in thousands. Alkhater said: “When the blockade calls from outside forces urging dia- On Qatar World Cup 2022, she said and receives a lot of food supplies from Lolwah Alkhater said that any solution “Those are subject to many risks, began, many in the world thought that logue,” she said, referring to the call by Qatar welcomes visit by Amnesty In- countries such as Azerbaijan, Turkey, put forward by any party must comply including human traffi cking and the this was just another tribal confl ict in many US offi cials for all sides to return ternational and Human Rights Watch, Australia and Africa. “We do not rely with international law and UN resolu- re-exploitation of terrorist acts, in ad- the Arabian Peninsula, but soon they to the negotiating table. “We are still and other human rights groups to Qa- on one country, this the policy now”, tions, noting that the position of Qatar dition to the problems of poverty, lack discovered that those who started open to dialogue,” she added. tar “to be provided with honest and she added.

Gulf Times 4 Thursday, April 11, 2019 QATAR

PM meets Lord Mayor of the City of London Ministry to promote mental health and well-being

s part of the implemen- ucational and public awareness being NHS 2018-2022 priority Work is underway to imple- under the National Develop- tation of the National drug prevention campaigns. population. ment the Mental Health Law, ment Strategy 2018-2022, which AHealth Strategy (NHS) In addition, the plan aims to There is a rising incidence which was enacted in 2016. The aim to deliver the Qatar National 2018-2022, the Ministry of improve access to integrated of people experiencing men- law safeguards the rights of Vision 2030 of “Improving the Public Health has set out a plan mental health services in pri- tal health issues across the people with mental illness and health of Qatar’s population, to promote mental health and mary and community settings, world. According to the World those of their family and will through an integrated healthcare HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah well-being and improve access which are free from the stigma Health Organisation (WHO), be overseen by an independ- system, managed according to bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani met the Lord Mayor of the City to mental health services, with often associated with psychiat- one in four people will suf- ent authority that will monitor world-class standards, designed of London, Peter Estlin, and his accompanying delegation, in a national target that ensures ric facilities, with the aim of en- fer from some kind of mental the implementation of the law. to meet the needs of existing and Doha yesterday. The meeting discussed the economic and that 40% of services are off ered abling people to access services illness at some point in their Relevant training will be pro- future generations.” investment relations between Qatar and the UK and ways of in the primary and community in mainstream health facilities. lives. In Qatar, a recent study vided to the health sector pro- The strategy was launched promoting them, as well as issues of mutual concern. settings by 2022. “There is much to do to of visitors to Primary Health fessionals to enable and ensure under the theme ‘Our Health, The plan, which is already change attitudes and ensure Care Centers, showed that the consistency and compliance Our Future’, and refl ects a glo- in its implementation phase, that the negative views of percentage adults who suff ered in service provision to achieve bal shift in thinking by taking a focuses on increasing aware- mental illness are replaced by from at least one type of men- better outcomes for those ac- population health approach. It ness about mental health with a much greater understanding tal disorder is in line with the cessing mental health services. identifi es seven priority popu- the aim of reducing stigma. about the importance of mental international percentage. A further priority is to better lation groups and fi ve priority PM meets outgoing This will be achieved through health and well-being. There is Key stakeholders from across understand the prevalence of areas for system wide focus. conducting national surveys a major challenge in breaking the Qatar health sector, in- mental health conditions with- HE the Minister of Public Ukraine ambassador on mental health attitudes and down the stigma that is often cluding the Ministry of Public in Qatar to ensure that services Health Dr Hanan Mohamed al- awareness, delivering training associated with mental health Health, Hamad Medical Cor- can be developed and tailored Kuwari appointed 12 National programmes on children mental and our National Health Strat- poration, Primary HealthCare to the needs of the diff erent Health Strategy Leads to lead health for families, health pro- egy has started to tackle this,” Corporation and Naufar, worked population groups. the planning and implementa- fessionals, and education pro- said Iain Tulley, national lead together to develop a robust plan The NHS 2018-2022 is one of tion for the 12 Strategy priori- viders, as well as developing ed- for the Mental Health and Well- for this priority population. eight diff erent sector strategies, ties. (QNA)

Indonesian embassy puts Cornerstone laid for Armed Forces Technical Institute up four voting precincts Under the patronage of HE the Deputy The Qatar government, through its Ministry of Prime Minister and Minister of State for Foreign Aff airs, has permitted the Indonesian Defence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mohammed embassy to put up voting precincts for the al-Attiyah and in the presence of Chief Indonesian general elections outside its of Staff of the Qatar Armed Forces HE premises. Lt General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Shaheen In a statement, the embassy said the absentee al-Ghanem, the cornerstone of the Armed voting tomorrow for Indonesian expatriates will Forces Technical Institute was laid in co- be taking place from 1pm to 9pm in four areas operation with BAE Systems. of Qatar: Doha, Messaied - Wakrah, Dukhan and The institute will include a Al Khor. comprehensive technical training HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah “We are beyond grateful to have a support from system and the latest equipment to bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani met yesterday with Ukraine’s the Qatar government to allow this important enable trainees to carry out all required ambassador to Qatar Yevhen Mykytenko, on the occasion of event to be held outside the premises of the work eff iciently after receiving an the end of his tenure in the country. The prime minister wished Indonesian embassy,” Indonesian ambassador internationally recognised diploma in the ambassador success in his future duties and the relations Mohamed Basri Sidehabi said. technical disciplines (electronics and between the two countries continuous development and The embassy reached out to as many Indonesian mechanics). prosperity. For his part, the Ukrainian ambassador expressed expatriates in Doha as possible for them to have Technicians will be able to work on all the thanks and gratitude to the prime minister and interior minister the opportunity to vote and choose their leaders equipment in the Qatari armed forces that and the off icials in the state for the co-operation accorded to while in Qatar. will serve in the future for the purpose him and contributed to the success of his tour of duty in the Overseas voters can only cast two ballots, of self-reliance and keep up with the country. namely legislative candidates and the president continuous growth of the armed forces and the vice-presidential candidates. and the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Al Adeid exercise concludes

nder the patronage ish mechanised infantry of HE the Deputy company, joint infantry UPrime Minister and company between the Qa- Minister of State for De- tar Armed Forces and the fence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mongolian Armed Forces. Mohammed al-Attiyah and Head of the exercise in the presence of Chief of Colonel Ali Haseen al- Staff of the Qatar Armed Khayarin said Al Adeid Forces HE Lt-General (Pi- 2019 exercise is com- lot) Ghanem bin Shaheen prised of seven phases al-Ghanem, the Amiri and aims to train com- Land Forces concluded the manders on planning, Al Adeid 2019 exercise in Al blocking intrusion and Galayel. preventing infi ltrations. The conclusion of the It aims to provide train- exercise was participat- ing on assessing the situa- ed by all commands and tion in diff erent units, pre- branches of the Amiri Land paring reports and plans, Forces, other units of the providing briefi ng, manag- armed forces and forces ing meetings and training from other countries. on leadership, communi- Major General Jassim bin cations and intelligence, Attiyah carried out the sec- mobility and logistics op- ond phase of the exercise in erations. It also trained on Kuwait, with the participa- preventing infi ltrations, tion of Kuwait 35th Shahid organising and circulating (Martyr) Armored Brigade operational, intelligence and US mechanised in- and administrative reports fantry brigade. The fi nal and coordinating diff erent phase was joined by Turk- leaderships. (QNA) Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 5 QATAR

CRA attends first Finance minister opens Qatari Diar’s Conrad Washington DC hotel session of Council From Page 1 of Administration of Universal Qatari-Bulgarian It was further announced that the hotel will be the Conrad Postal Union Washington, DC, the new- est property in the Conrad The Communications Regulatory Hotels & Resorts luxury brand Authority (CRA) is attending the first relations based portfolio operated by Hilton session of the Council of Adminis- Worldwide. tration (CA) of the Universal Postal The Chairman of Qatari Diar Union (UPU), which is being held at praised the completion of the UPU headquarters in Berne, Swit- project and thanked the com- zerland until April 12. The five-day on mutual respect pany’s strategic partner and all session discusses diff erent postal the workers on the project for subjects related to the work of UPU their eff orts. and includes a conference on postal The Qatari Diar CEO said the regulation covering topics like company’s new strategy is competition and policy options. The and co-operation focused on speeding up the CA discusses various postal topics construction phase of all its such as regulatory, administrative, projects. financial, legal, economic, and com- Bowser said the US capital mercial issues. In addition, to ensure attracts 20mn visitors every that the UPU is able to react quickly Ties between the two countries have year and is one of the most to changes in the postal sector, prominent political and the CA has the power to approve been strengthened through mutual business destinations in the A view of The Conrad Washington, DC. proposals by the Postal Opera- world. She added that the tions Council for the adoption of visits and active co-operation in various inauguration of Conrad Hotel investment in the city’s new- Airport, about 40 minutes from regulations or new procedures until was another remarkable ad- est landmark. Dulles International Airport, 47 the next Universal Postal Congress, fields, both bilateral and multilateral dition to the city’s facilities The project is strategically minutes from Baltimore/Wash- which convenes every four years. and services. She thanked located as it is a 14-minute ington International Thurgood “CRA ensured to participate actively Qatari Diar and Hines for drive from Ronald Reagan Marshall Airport, and 9 min- in this important international postal QNA various fi elds. In this context, ambassador their terrific work and big Washington International utes from the Union Station. event with the aim of increasing the Doha In an offi cial visit to the coun- of Qatar to Bulgaria Rashid bin exposure of CRA at relevant interna- try, President of Bulgaria Rumen Ali al-Khater said that Qatari- tional postal meetings and forums Radev arrived in Doha yesterday. Bulgarian relations have been The relationship between Qatar and investment opportunities in the as the new postal regulator in Qatar, he relations between His Highness the Amir Sheikh remarkable, and have witnessed fi eld of infrastructure, mines, and to keep abreast of current key Qatar and Bulgaria have Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and overall development in recent Bulgaria has been strong for more than real estate and tourism. changes and challenges that the Twitnessed close co-op- the Bulgarian president will hold years, pointing out the keenness 27 years. The two countries have strong The Qatari delegation also met postal sector is facing worldwide eration since the establishment talks at the Amiri Diwan today, of Qatar to strengthen them at all with the executives of the Indus- and which have an influence on the of diplomatic relations between and they will discuss the friendly levels and in all fi elds to serve the ties of mutual respect and trust trial Zones Corporation and the sector’s regulations. “All this will help Doha and Sofia on 16 October relations between the two coun- interests of the Qatari and Bul- Bulgarian Energy Holding Com- the CRA to fulfil its mandate and 1990. tries, ways of developing them garian peoples. between countries and peoples another between Qatar Cham- pany, where the Qatari side was develop eff ective postal regula- In the context of these grow- and a number of regional and He pointed out that the joint of the world. ber of Commerce and Industry briefed on the investment op- tory frameworks, which are in line ing relations, Bulgaria opened international issues of common committee for economic co- The relationship between Qa- and Bulgaria Chamber of Com- portunities in the energy sector with the latest international best its embassy in Doha in 2009, and interest. Over the past few years, operation between the govern- tar and Bulgaria has been strong merce. and the industrial zones. practices, taking into consideration after three years, in 2012 Qatar both countries have made eff orts ments of Qatar and Bulgaria has for more than 27 years. The two A forum was organised for Qa- Qatari investments are very the characteristics of the Qatari opened its embassy in the Bul- to lay the foundations of a mod- been established since 2009. countries have strong ties of mu- tari businessmen and their Bul- important to Bulgaria’s economy market, and that for the benefit of garian capital Sofi a, and since ern rule of law aimed at intensive The two countries have been tual respect and trust. garian counterparts to discuss in diff erent sectors such as agri- both stakeholders and consumers then the relations between the co-operation. able to strengthen their eco- Bulgaria off ers the best exper- ways to enhance trade co-opera- culture. in Qatar,” said Faisal Ali al-Shuaibi, two countries have developed Relations between the two nomic and trade relations, which tise to companies operating in tion and discuss investment op- There are also Qatari compa- Public Relations and Communica- and became stronger. countries have been strength- is refl ected in the continuous Qatar and elsewhere in many ar- portunities in both countries. nies operating in Bulgaria, pro- tions manager at CRA. In 2009, the fi rst offi cial visit ened through mutual visits and increase in the terms of trade eas, and 500 Bulgarians are living In 2012, the minister of state ducing and exporting poultry of His Highness the Father Amir active co-operation in various between the two countries in re- in Qatar and working in diff erent for foreign aff airs visited Bulgaria meat to Doha, and there are ad- Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al- fi elds, both bilateral and multi- cent years. companies and institutions. accompanied by representatives vanced contacts to discuss ways Thani to Bulgaria was to promote lateral. Ambassador al-Khater said Last year, during the visit of of several Qatari government to enhance the work between bilateral relations. The last visit More than 30 agreements and that the two countries’ govern- His Highness the Amir Sheikh companies such as Qatari Diar, Bulgarian and Qatari companies was made last year by His High- strategic arrangements have been ments have been able to push Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Qatar Investment Authority, Qa- to invest in Qatar. ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim signed between the governments forward bilateral co-operation Bulgaria, a number of agree- tar Mining, Qatar Rail and Qatar And this is an important step to bin Hamad al-Thani and wit- of the two countries. in the economy through many ments and memorandums of National Hotels Company. On strengthen relations between the nessed the signing of a number In those years, there have been bilateral agreements, stress- understanding were signed in the Bulgarian side, the minister two countries, especially with of co-operation agreements and many great eff orts with strong ing that Qatar’s foreign policy is the fi elds of energy, sports and of economy and energy, the dep- the presence of many Bulgarian memorandums of understand- co-operation between Qatar and based on peace, security, stabil- an agreement between Qatar uty minister of tourism and other companies operating in the fi eld ing between the two countries in Bulgaria. ity, co-operation and friendship University, Sofi a University and offi cials participated to discuss of infrastructure in Qatar. Faisal Ali al-Shuaibi Gulf Times 6 Thursday, April 11, 2019 QATAR Botswana looks to boost Qatar trade ties during Masisi visit

By Peter Alagos kets, which refl ects the high the pipeline with major Qatari Business Reporter level of the quality of beef companies like Hassad Food from Botswana. in relation to investments in “We also have a very good the agriculture sector. rade delegation mem- livestock management sys- One area of opportunity is bers from Botswana tem in terms of disease con- the production of dates on a Thave already held trol measures; because beef is commercial scale, he noted. business meetings in Doha one of our major exports, we “Dates consumption is very while seven ministers are want to really preserve this high during the holy month slated to arrive tomorrow product and make sure that of Ramadan but it is not yet ahead of President Mokg- the quality is not compro- ready for harvest. weetsi Masisi’s two-day mised,” Lesetedi pointed out. “In Botswana’s southern state visit to Qatar next Botswana Ambassador While he declined to pro- hemisphere, however, the week, a top diplomat said Manyepedza P Lesetedi vide specifi c details, Lesetedi climate is ideal and dates are yesterday. said several agreements are already ripe, so we are also of- Speaking to Gulf Times on bassador explained. expected to be signed during fering this opportunity to Qa- the sidelines of a business In May 2015, Lesetedi said Masisi’s visit next week. taris willing to invest in this meeting at the Qatar Cham- Botswana signed a bilateral Lesetedi said talks are in sector,” he said. ber yesterday, Botswana Am- agreement with Qatar. bassador Manyepedza P Le- Among the areas of discus- setedi said Masisi’s visit aims sion between both countries to strengthen bilateral rela- is ways to expand co-oper- tions with Qatar. ation between Air Botswana “We have had some engage- and Qatar Airways. ments at the ministerial level Currently, Air Botswana has as early as December 2015. But a code sharing with Qatar Air- even before that several delega- ways, the ambassador said. tions from Qatar had already “This time we are coming visited Botswana where we to Qatar with very concrete were able to identify a number projects, as well as invest- of areas in which both coun- ment and trade opportunities, tries are interested. export of beef to Qatar being “The Qataris are interested one of these. in sectors like agriculture, “We have a state-owned beef imports, hotels, and ICT, beef company that is export- among many areas,” the am- ing to European Union mar-

Rolls Royce, Porsche models recalled

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with Alfardan Automobiles, announced the recall of Rolls Royce Phantom, and Cullinan models of 2018 over incorrect oil cooler line installation. The ministry, in collaboration with Porsche Centre Doha, Al Boraq Automobiles, also announced the recall of Porsche 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster models of 2017-2019 over reconfiguration of the luggage compartment bracket. The recall campaign comes within the frame- work of the ministry’s continuous eff orts to protect consumers and ensure that car dealers follow up on vehicle defects and repairs. Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 7 QATAR

US chargé d’affaires William Grant, HE the Minister of Municipality and Environment Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti and ambassador Ibrahim Yousef Fakhro, director of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stand amid a shower of confetti at the ceremony. US embassy celebrates enduring American-Qatari partnership

he US embassy in Doha hosted – tolerance of people with diff erent Grant pointed to the success of the its National Day celebration, religions and backgrounds, a constant US-Qatar Strategic Dialogue in Doha, Tits biggest event of the year, on drive to improve and focus on the fu- which covered trade and investment, Tuesday evening. ture. Both America and Qatar under- education and culture, energy co-op- US chargé d’aff aires William Grant stand that through diversity and open- eration, labour rights, regional security welcomed the guests of honour, HE ness to others there is strength. There and defence co-operation, and law en- the Minister of Municipality and En- is progress. There is resilience,” he said. forcement and counter-terrorism. vironment Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Grant noted that, after more than 45 During the Dialogue, US Secretary Turki al-Subaie, HE the Minister of years of friendship and partnership, the of State Michael Pompeo and HE the Transport and Communications Jassim US embassy continues to build bridges Deputy Prime Minister and Minister Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti and ambassador between Qataris and Americans across of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin Ibrahim Yousef Fakhro, director of Pro- many disciplines. Abdulrahman al-Thani signed agree- tocol at the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs. More than 500 Qataris have visited ments covering education, the fi rst bi- More than 1,000 Qatari offi cials, for- the US on its world-renowned Interna- lateral agreement in cultural co-opera- eign dignitaries, American citizens and tional Visitor Leadership Programme, tion, and expansion and upgrades at Al leaders from business, academia and including programmes this year on dis- Udeid Air Base. civil society gathered to celebrate the aster preparedness, women in civil so- The US is the largest source of im- United States’ independence. ciety and combating money laundering ports to Qatar as well as one of the Grant’s speech highlighted the and the fi nancing of terrorism. largest investors in Qatar’s energy strength of the US-Qatar partner- The embassy’s Discover America sector. ship and the values that propel the two Week in late-2018 brought more than “It has been an impressive year for countries forward, regardless of what- 150 American and Qatari companies Qatar,” Grant noted, referring to ac- ever challenges they may face – inno- together to promote trade, travel and complishments like new labour reforms vation, integrity and an entrepreneur- the arts. to protect the millions of foreigners ial mindset, the US embassy said in a Also, joint military exercises like the who live and work here, opening the statement. recent Invincible Sentry are helping spectacular new National Museum of “We enjoy working with Qatar be- enable a secure environment for World Qatar and the “exciting victory by Al cause we see so many values we prize Cup 2022 and beyond. Anabi in the AFC Asian Cup”. Gulf Times 8 Thursday, April 11, 2019 QATAR

HMC wins Arab healthcare organisation award 9.16mn used HIA in fi rst quarter

amad Medical Corporation (HMC) has healthcare institutions and a second on the use atar’s Hamad Interna- quarter of 2019, with 160,218 than 52mn passengers annu- won the Distinguished Arab Health- of technology in healthcare. tional Airport served tonnes in January, 154,168 ally by 2022. Hcare Organisation Award for 2019 and Nasser al-Naimi, HMC’s deputy chief of Qsome 9.16mn pas- tonnes in February and 191,194 The expansion plans will HE the Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan quality, Center for Patient Experience and sengers in the fi rst quarter of tonnes in March. further see an increase in car- Mohamed al-Kuwari was bestowed the Pio- Staff Engagement and director of the Hamad 2019, HIA said yesterday. On the closure of the fi rst go capacity to 3mn tonnes per neer Leadership Award in Healthcare for 2019 Healthcare Quality Institute presented an ac- HIA has also handled 56,573 quarter, Hamad International year, the airport said. by the Arab Hospitals Federation during its 21st countability framework for healthcare institu- aircraft movements and Airport chief operating offi cer In addition to physical ca- annual forum. tions, specifi cally on enhancing transparency 505,581 tonnes of cargo from Badr Mohamed al-Meer said: pacity enhancements, HIA A delegation of senior offi cials from the and accountability to promote high-quality, January to March this year. “The strong start to 2019 il- expects improvements in op- Ministry of Public Health and Hamad Medi- safe patient care. The state-of-the-art air- lustrates HIA’s accelerated erational effi ciency, including cal Corporation (HMC) is in Kuwait for the 21st “To understand how the healthcare environ- port has served 3,175,316 pas- and sustained growth. increased automation to allow Annual Forum of the Arab Hospitals Federa- ment can be modifi ed to ensure, we provide our sengers in January, 2,844,241 “As we continue to wit- 50% of passengers to perform tion. patients with the safest, most eff ective care, we in February and 3,147,683 in ness this steady growth, we self-check-in, increase in air- The two-day conference which started yes- need to understand our vulnerabilities and our March, which includes pas- are committed more than ever space capacity, and optimised terday, is being held under the patronage of strengths. Human factors approaches to pa- sengers arriving, depart- to empower our passengers baggage handling processes. Sheikh Dr Basel Hamoud al-Hamad al-Sabah, The officials pose after the presentation tient safety and quality improvement can help ing and transferring through and continue to provide them “The expansion is a key part Kuwait’s minister of health. ceremony in Kuwait City. us achieve clinical excellence by incorporating Qatar’s airport, signifying a with a seamless and hassle- of Qatar’s preparations to host Ali Abdullah al-Khater, chair of the Minis- the psychology of human behaviour and group 5.07% increase from the pre- free journey at the airport. the 2022 World Cup where the try of Public Health’s Healthcare Communica- and a member of the Executive Board of the dynamics to identify potential risks to patient vious year. HIA operations will see an in- country will witness a large tions Committee and chief communications Arab Hospitals Federation was awarded an care and propose solutions to those risks,” said The airport also handled creased investment in cutting number of visitors to the glo- offi cer at HMC, is leading the Qatar delegation. Arab Hospitals Federation Golden Medal dur- al-Naimi. 19,458 aircraft movements in edge technology to help shape bal sporting event,” HIA said. “Qatar has created an infrastructure of ing the event in recognition of his contribution Dr Khalid al-Jalham, director of HMC’s Am- January, 17,563 movements the future of the passenger ex- In addition to the immedi- healthcare services that are recognised as be- to the success of the Arab Hospitals Federation. bulatory Care Center and senior consultant in February and 19,552 move- perience in 2019” ate benefi ts of increased space ing on par with the best international stand- He noted Qatar’s health sector has much to in Urology Surgery, will lead a session on the ments in March, which in- and capacities, the airport will ards. Gatherings like this conference ensure share and celebrate and has a responsibility to impact healthcare technology is having on im- cludes total number of aircraft witness the construction of an we remain abreast of the latest developments, impart its knowledge and experience with the proving the quality of patient care. take-off s and landings at the 52mn by 2022 Airport City which will pro- the most cutting-edge techniques, and emerg- objective of helping to improve the region’s He said new medical technologies are trans- airport marking an 8.27% in- vide signifi cant future invest- ing issues and challenges facing the healthcare health systems. forming how and where care is delivered, with crease from the fi rst quarter of HIA has also embarked on ment opportunities including sector,” said al-Khater. Senior HMC offi cials will lead two sessions a vast number of acute and secondary proce- 2018. its second phase of expansion a free trade zone, offi ce and Mohamed Mubarak al-Noimi, chief of staff during the event’s scientifi c programme – one dures now being safely performed in outpa- HIA further handled 505,581 plans in early 2019, which will business complex, and hotels for the Offi ce of the Minister of Public Health on building an accountability framework for tient facilities. tonnes of cargo in the fi rst aim to accommodate more among others.

Attorney-general honours Palestinian judges, prosecutors

The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Center (ROLACC) yesterday honoured a number of judges, prosecutors, members of the Anti-Corruption Commission and off icials of Border Administration in the State of Palestine after passing a training course on the recovery of funds and management of recovered funds provided in co-operation with the United Nations Off ice on Drugs and Crime and the Central Off ice for Seizure and Confiscation in Belgium. HE the Attorney-General and chairman of the Board of Trustees of ROLACC Dr Ali bin Fetais al-Marri handed over the certificates and honoured the participants in the three-day course, which was attended by a number of experts specialised in the management of confiscated funds. The attorney-general praised the interest and keenness of the State of Qatar to assist countries in various fields, including training, especially for brothers in Palestine.

Lusail Expressway diversion to facilitate the construction of a pumping station

he Public Works ised intersection on Al Ja- Authority (Ashghal) miaa Street. At the street Thas announced a they can make a U-turn and temporary closure on Lu- head back towards 5/6 In- sail Expressway 5/6 In- terchange and use the right terchange for vehicles exit onto Onaiza Street. heading from Corniche to For traffi c heading from Onaiza Street from April Lusail towards Corniche 13 until October 31. The through 5/6 Interchange, closure is to allow the the number of available construction of Al Wahda lanes will be reduced from pumping station. three to one. The number The closure has been an- of lanes for traffi c head- nounced in co-ordination ing from Omar Al Mukhtar with the General Directo- Street towards Corniche rate of Traffi c and Ashghal will be reduced from four has requested road users to two. follow certain directions. Ashghal will install road Road users coming from signs warning motor- Corniche and heading to- ists about the diversion. wards Onaiza Street will Ashghal has urged all road have to continue straight users to adhere to the re- onto Omar Al Mukhtar duced speed limit of 60kph Street to reach the signal- in order to ensure safety.

Bazzar show wins Ooredoo backing

oredoo will be an offi cial spon- Osor of Bazzar, the newest spectacle from the legen- dary Cirque du Soleil, set to hit the stage in Doha in April. Brought to Qatar by Alchemy Project Entertainment in association with Qatar National Tourism Council and host- ed by Katara Hospitality, the show’s opening night is set for April 25 under the Big Top at the Ritz-Carlton Doha Island. Performances will run until May 4. Bazzar – Cirque du Soleil’s 43rd original production since 1984 – is billed as a breathtaking, colourful homage to Cirque du Soleil and an ‘eclectic lab of infi nite creativity, where a joyful troupe of acrobats, dancers and musicians craft an awe-inspiring spectacle’. Led by their maestro, they band together to invent a whimsical one-of-a-kind universe. In a place where the unexpected is expected, the colour- ful group reimagines, rebuilds and reinvents vibrant scenes in an artistic, acrobatic game of order and disorder. Manar Khalifa al-Muraikhi, director PR and Corpo- rate Communications at Ooredoo, said of the sponsor- ship: “We’re delighted to be sponsoring this, the latest in a long line of spectacular performances from the legendary Cirque du Soleil. Supporting events that bring together our community is a priority for Ooredoo, and we hope Qatari citizens and residents enjoy being entertained by such tal- ented, high-quality performers.” Tickets are now available for sale exclusively at tixbox.qa. Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 9 QATAR ‘LuLu-Sadia Win Gold’ promo victors picked Lexus UX claims ‘Best Urban Crossover’ award

exus has once again to a high specifi cation and brings achieved success at the exceptional quality unique to the L2019 Golden Steering segment,” the statement noted. Awards, the premier annual Imbuing a youthful appeal to competition, winning the Best its lineup, the Lexus UX is an in- Urban Crossover award for the novative addition to the luxury Lexus UX. compact crossover segment. Firas Mufti, senior marketing The all-new model combines manager, received the award on the brand’s latest luxury off er- The draw for the ‘LuLu-Sadia Win Gold’ promotion, organised by LuLu Hypermarket Qatar and Federal Foodstuff s Qatar, has been behalf of Abdullah Abdulghani & ings and safety technologies in held at LuLu Hypermarket-D-Ring Road under the supervision of an inspector from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Twenty Bros Co (AAB). a package that combines new gold coins of 8gm each were given away as prizes. Off icials from LuLu Hypermarket Qatar and Federal Foodstuff s Qatar were “The UX has an evolution- charismatic design elements and present at the draw. ary design that closely echoes ultra-effi cient powertrains. Lexus’ current models. The fi rst thing that jumps out is the front Lexus has achieved success end. It sports a large and aggres- at the 2019 sive spindle grille with corner Golden Steering Awards cuts, thin headlights that in- clude a unique LED strip, and While the UX name is derived Grand Hyatt Doha celebrates 10th anniversary a sharply curved hood. The UX from the guiding concept of the was the fi rst ever-Lexus vehicle vehicle’s design team and de- engineered by a lady chief engi- scribes the vehicle’s mission as rand Hyatt Doha Hotel and Villas, ing to a statement. The hotel boasts an array neer, Chika Kako,” AAB said in a Off icials with the award. Urban + X-over (crossover), the one of the leading 5-star hotels in of dining delights from the authentic Thai rel- press statement. UX is engineered to deliver a Gthe country, hosted a grand celebra- ishes of Isaan, West Coast comfort food from On the sides there are unique inch on the F-Sport trim levels). quick and engaging driving ex- tion to mark its 10th year anniversary, it was Santa Monica Breakfast Club, traditional Ara- side skirts, a coupe-like roofl ine “The UX also excels at cabin perience with a Lexus-smooth announced yesterday. bic gastronomies in Majlis and robust Italian and a 17-inch alloy wheels (18- design. The interior is completed demeanour, making it a unique Top corporate clients, media and infl uenc- fare in the poolside restaurant Rocca. entry in the luxury compact ers were invited to be part of the event at the Guests can also be part of this grand cel- crossover segment. newly-opened beachside lounge, Monkey ebration and enjoy a special room and food The UX is the fi rst Lexus ve- Tale which overlooks tranquil waters of the hospitality can be felt in the 91 luxurious vil- & beverage promotion for the 10th year an- hicle to be constructed on the Arabian Gulf off ering a fun escape with live las that run along their 400m private beach niversary. Use code 10YEAR when booking at new Global Architecture Com- music and sumptuous cuisines. and 249 elegantly fashioned rooms and suites, grandhyattdoha.com to avail this discount in pact (GA-C) platform. With A blend of modern decor and warm Arabian where quality and care is a way of life, accord- the month of April. a lightweight yet super-rigid structure, extremely low centre of gravity, and a refi ned suspen- sion tuning, the GA-C platform Now, enrol for Nojoom programme via Ooredoo app provides the UX with exemplary handling agility and ride com- Ooredoo has made it easier to enrol for its popular Nojoom loyalty pro- select a mobile number under their account and confirm. Speaking of fort, along with a distinctive gramme, by enabling customers the new feature, Manar Khalifa al-Muraikhi – director PR and Corporate driving personality. to sign up via the Ooredoo app. Communications at Ooredoo – said: “We know customers are often very Lexus, known for its certifi ed Customers with mobile num- busy and time-poor, and as complete customer satisfaction is our priority, and high-quality vehicles, enjoy bers registered under their we’re always looking for ways to make our customers’ interactions with us the “best after-sales services of QID are eligible to join the programme and enjoy a range of features and quick and easy. Enabling them to enrol in our Nojoom programme via the eight service centres across Qa- benefits, including earning points for every QR spent and reward redemp- app is a great example of our eff orts to digitalise our services and improve tar where some of the locations tions with over 250 brand partners across Qatar. All customers have to do people’s digital lives.” Customers who do not yet have the Ooredoo app also operate seven days a week”, is enter their Ooredoo app, go to the Nojoom section, select “Enrol Now”, can download it at the App Store and Google Play. The Lexus UX. the statement added. Gulf Times 10 Thursday, April 11, 2019 REGION/ARAB WORLD/AFRICA Khashoggi family denies settlement with Saudi govt

AFP dollars per month by authorities. a source of information”. The Arabia, which leads a regional humanitarian crisis.The text Dubai Khashoggi — a contributor to statement did not openly con- military campaign battling Yem- Arrests of activists’ supporters rise to 14 cleared the Senate last month the Post and a critic of the Saudi fi rm or deny possible reparations eni rebels.US President Don- and now heads to Trump, who government — was killed and from the Saudi king or crown ald Trump has been Riyadh’s The number of Saudis detained support for women’s rights and is widely expected to veto the he family of murdered dismembered in October at the prince, whom the family called strongest Western ally through- over the past week in a fresh other reforms. The 11 women legislation. journalist Jamal Khashog- kingdom’s consulate in Istanbul “guardians to all Saudis”. out the Khashoggi aff air, phon- wave of arrests has risen to 14, on trial had campaigned for the The US State Department on Tgi denied yesterday being by a team of 15 agents sent from “Acts of generosity and hu- ing Prince Mohamed yesterday people close to them said, even right to drive and an end to the Monday also barred entry to 16 in talks to reach a settlement out Riyadh. His body has not been re- manity come from the high moral to discuss “bilateral relations,” as Riyadh faces intense interna- kingdom’s male guardianship Saudi nationals under the De- of court with Saudi authorities covered. Saudi Arabia’s powerful grounds they possess, not admis- Saudi state news agency SPA re- tional criticism over the murder system. partment of State, Foreign Op- following reports that his sons crown prince Mohamed bin Sal- sion of guilt or scandal,” the state- ported. of a journalist and the trial of Three of them have been tem- erations, and Related Programs had taken payouts. man has been accused of orches- ment said. According to the Post, But Republicans and Demo- prominent women activists. porarily released, but the rest Appropriations Act. “Currently, the trial is taking trating Khashoggi’s killing, but the payments to his four children crats have both bristled over The arrests, which started with will return to court next week for The section in question place and no settlement discus- a local investigation exonerated — two sons and two daughters the White House’s apparent eight late last week and include another hearing. “provides that, in cases where sion had been or is discussed,” him. Riyadh initially said it had — “are part of an eff ort by Saudi embrace of the kingdom and its two dual US-Saudi citizens, have It was unclear if the arrests are the Secretary of State has cred- read an English statement post- no knowledge of Khashoggi’s fate, Arabia to reach a long-term ar- leadership. targeted writers and academics ongoing or information about ible information that officials ed to Salah Khashoggi’s verifi ed later blaming rogue agents for his rangement with Khashoggi family At least seven writers and who are not frontline activ- some of them had just been of foreign governments have Twitter account. death. Saudi Arabia’s public pros- members, aimed in part at ensur- bloggers — including two US ists but who have expressed slower to surface. been involved in significant The Washington Post on April ecutor has charged 11 people over ing that they continue to show re- citizens — were arrested in corruption or gross violations 1 reported Khashoggi’s children, the murder. straint in their public statements”. Saudi Arabia on Friday, ac- of human rights, those individ- including Salah, had received Khashoggi’s son said only The Khashoggi murder has cording to rights groups, in the The arrests came the day Saudi-led war in Yemen, which uals and their immediate family multimillion-dollar homes and the family and their attorney sparked international outcry and first major crackdown since after US lawmakers voted to has triggered what the UN de- members are ineligible for en- were being paid thousands of were authorised to “claim to be calls to end arms sales to Saudi Khashoggi’s murder. end military support for the scribes as the world’s worst try into the United States”.

RIGHTS Zimbabwe to exhume, rebury Jazeera wins massacre victims ‘Broadcaster Zimbabwe yesterday said it will Algeria to hold presidential exhume and rebury thousands of victims massacred during the of the Year’ 1980s state crackdown against dissidents, as part of a slew of award measures to bring closure to one of the country’s dark moments. Citing a justice ministry off icial, the poll on July 4 after protests From Page 1 state-owned Herald newspaper said the government will off er medical Reuters Then Salah intervened, de- “We are delighted to receive assistance to survivors as well as Algiers claring Boutefl ika — rarely seen these special awards,” said Giles issue death and birth certificates for in public since suff ering a stroke Trendle, Managing Director of victims of the brutal crackdown that in 2013 — unfi t to rule. Al Jazeera English. “Around the claimed the lives of around 20,000 lgeria will hold a presi- If Boutefl ika had seen globe our journalists work day perceived political dissidents. dential election on July through his original plan to run and night to inform and empow- The campaign unleashed by an A4, the interim presidency for a fi fth term despite grow- er people with accurate, impar- elite North Korean-trained military said yesterday after weeks of ing grassroots opposition, that tial and independent content. It unit shortly after independence, is mass protests led to the resig- would have put the military is not an easy job. We face chal- known infamously as Gukurahundi, nation of long-serving leader under pressure to restore order, lenges in the context of increas- which means “the rain that washes Abdelaziz Boutefl ika. instead of focusing on swaying ing attacks on journalists and away chaff ” in the local Shona No further details were im- politics from the shadows.“It media organisations. But these language. Government will “facilitate mediately given. is unreasonable to manage the awards represent for us a grati- the exhumation and reburial of On Tuesday, interim presi- transition period without in- fying validation from our indus- Gukurahundi victims,” the paper dent Abdelkader Bensalah had stitutions that organise and try peers of the professionalism quoted justice ministry secretary, said he would organise free oversee this operation,” said of our work and the importance Virginia Mabhiza as saying. elections within 90 days. Salah, lending support to in- of what we do.” Earlier yesterday, Algeria’s terim leaders. The Al Jazeera Investigative army chief said he expected to Algeria’s generals are highly Unit, which serves the public JUSTICE see members of the ruling elite sensitive to instability. interest by uncovering malfea- Zambian villagers in the major oil and natural In the early 1990s, the army sance, wrongdoing and abuses gas-producing country pros- cancelled an election that con- of power, won 6 Gold and 2 Silver cleared to sue ecuted for corruption and that servatives were poised to win, medals for its work. copper mine he would support a transition touching off a shattering civil “I am very grateful to the New towards elections. war that killed an estimated York Festivals for honouring our Some 2,000 villagers in Zambia Lieutenant General Gaid 200,000 people. work,” said Phil Rees, Manager were yesterday granted permission Salah’s comments were the “The army is pushing hard of the Investigative Unit. “By by the British Supreme Court to sue strongest hint yet that the mili- to get the protesters to back recognising investigative televi- in Britain over pollution by Konkola tary would play its traditional People protest against the appointment of interim president Abdelkader Bensalah and demanding its plan to hold elections in sion journalism, the NYF is pro- Copper Mines (KCM), a unit of role as kingmaker after the radical changes to the political system in Algiers, yesterday. 90 days, keeping the tran- viding a great boost for the genre London-listed Vedanta Resources, ailing 82-year-old Boutefl ika sition within the constitu- globally.” their representatives said. The villag- bowed to popular pressure and have used in the protests to de- ruption case against oil and gas ised and diversifi ed to reduce its tion framework,” independ- This year marked a debut in ers filed a claim in London in 2015 quit on April 2 after 20 years in scribe Boutefl ika’s inner circle, giant Sonatrach, an object of reliance on energy. ent analyst Ferrahi Farid said the New York Festivals for Al against KCM, Zambia’s largest min- power. which encompassed retired in- resentment for many Algeri- In 2012, a series of scandals before the announcement of Jazeera’s Digital Division with ing company and its London-based “The army will meet the peo- telligence offi cials, oligarchs, ans who accuse their leaders of shook Sonatrach, which was the election date. The mili- AJ Shorts, which specialises in parent company, for toxic pollution ple’s demands,” said Salah, ad- members of the ruling National stealing the North African na- tightly controlled by Boutefl ika tary has faced little resistance short documentaries of ordinary caused by water discharged from dressing offi cers and soldiers at Liberation Front (FLN) and tion’s wealth. More than one in loyalists. Its CEO and other ex- from protesters; rather, their people in extraordinary circum- its unit Nchanga Copper Mines, situ- a military base.”The judiciary some veterans of the 1954-62 four people under the age of 30, ecutives were imprisoned for fury has been directed at what stances. AJ Shorts won two Gold ated in the central copperbelt re- has recovered its prerogative war of independence against some 70% of the population, graft off ences. is popularly described as the medals and a Bronze medal in gion. They claimed to have suff ered and can work freely.” France. are unemployed — one of the The army patiently moni- fortress — an FLN-associated the event. health problems and loss of income He referred to the ruling caste The army chief of staff urged central grievances of protesters tored the unrest, which started old guard that has been en- “It’s a great privilege to tell through damage to the land KCM as “the gang”, a term people the judiciary to reopen a cor- who want the economy liberal- on Feb 22, from the sidelines. trenched for decades. the stories of incredible people and Vedanta then challenged the from diff erent parts of the world decision by the Zambian villagers and to collaborate with so many to sue in Britain and the jurisdiction talented fi lmmakers,” said Car- of the English courts to hear their los Van Meek, Director of Digital complaint. Innovation. “To have our eff orts Sudan agitators rally for 5th day outside army HQ recognised by industry experts CASUALTY at the New York Festivals is an honour. Al Jazeera Digital strives Cyclone death AFP A woman dubbed the protest move- test movement in December urged wom- to keep human stories at the toll nears 1,000 Khartoum ment’s “Nubian queen” said she was “very en to continue demonstrating outside the heart of its content. It’s encour- proud to take part in this revolution”. army complex and other military bases. aging to see our eff orts being ap- The death toll from Cyclone Idai, “I hope our revolution will achieve its Yesterday, protesters were raising preciated.” which devastated Mozambique and housands of Sudanese protesters goal,” Alaa Salah said after footage went vi- funds to ensure a regular supply of food This year’s tally of 49 medals Zimbabwe last month, is nearing were camped outside army head- ral of her conducting chanting with dem- and water for the crowd. is signifi cantly higher than the 1,000, according to the latest figures Tquarters for a fi fth day yesterday onstrators outside army headquarters. “Many shop owners and businessmen total from the previous year. The released by the two governments. demanding President Omar al-Bashir A student of architecture and engi- have off ered us free supplies,” said one New York Festivals TV & Films Zimbabwe on Tuesday updated its step down, after the police ordered their neering, Salah said women were “widely demonstrator. competition honours program- toll to 344 while Mozambique said forces not to intervene. participating” in the protests “not only The anti-government demonstrators ming in all lengths and forms recorded fatalities stood at 602, In what has become the biggest chal- for their rights but for the rights of the have braved regular volleys of tear gas Alaa Salah, flashes the victory gesture and from over 50 countries. This taking the combined tally to 946. lenge yet to Bashir’s three decades of entire community”. from members of the powerful National shouts slogans in Khartoum, yesterday. year’s powerhouse Grand Jury Zimbabwean Information Minister rule, crowds of demonstrators thronged “If you see Sudan’s history, all our Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) was composed of prominent in- Monica Mutsvangwa said 257 listed the sprawling complex, singing and queens have led the state. It’s part of our since they began camping at the army Tuesday they did not face any “threat” ternational broadcast and fi lm as missing on the night of March 14-15 dancing to the tunes of revolutionary heritage.” The Sudanese Professionals headquarters on April 6, protest organ- from security agents, said a protester who industry executives from over 30 were now considered dead. songs, witnesses said. Association (SPA) that launched the pro- isers say. But for the fi rst time overnight requested anonymity for security reasons. countries across six continents.

CONFLICT EU to call on Libya’s Haftar to stop offensive Iran orders over 60,000 to evacuate European Union states will call on Khalifa Haftar to halt his eastern forces’ off ensive in flood-hit oil city Libya, according to a draft statement, amid disagreements between France and Italy over policy towards the north African state. Thousands of residents fled yesterday as Authorities ordered tens of Haftar’s forces — called the Libyan National Army (LNA) — and troops loyal to the Tripoli thousands of residents of the government battled on the outskirts of Libya’s capital. The military attack launched by southwestern Iranian city of Ahvaz Haftar on Tripoli “is endangering the civilian population, disrupting the political process to evacuate immediately yesterday and risks further escalation with serious consequences for Libya and the wider region, as floodwaters entered the capital including the terrorist threat”, the EU will say in a joint statement, a draft of which was of oil-rich Khuzestan province, seen by Reuters yesterday. Speaking on the sidelines of an EU summit focused on state television reported. Britain’s exit from the bloc, European Parliament head Antonio Tajani, who is Italian, said The province’s governor, Gholam- Paris and Rome had “diverging interests” in Libya. France, which has oil assets in eastern reza Shariati, said he ordered the Libya, has provided military assistance in past years to Haftar in his eastern stronghold, evacuation of five districts as a Libyan and French off icials say. “precautionary and preventive move to avert any danger”, Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported. UNREST Residents in two of the districts Yemen holds mass funeral for kids killed in blast were reluctant to leave, preferring to stay and battle the rising waters, Yemeni rebels held a mass funeral yesterday for children killed in an explosion near two according to AFP reporters on the schools in the war-torn country’s capital Sanaa. The explosion in the rebel-held capital killed scene. “We cannot evacuate the 14 children and wounded 16 others on Sunday, the UN said. The cause remains unknown. houses. Each household has at Most of the casualties of the blast in the city’s Saewan district were girls under the age least three children, we have lots of nine, according to the UN. The children were buried under the watchful eye of Houthi of cattle, water buff aloes, furniture,” rebels, who have been at war with a pro-government alliance led by Saudi Arabia. Crowds one resident said without provid- of men spilled into the streets of the capital where coff ins draped with Yemeni flags were ing his name. If the floods continue, lined up. Relatives of the children and schoolboys hoisted the coff ins above the crowd and “we could stay on our roofs or made their way to the cemetery, escorted by a line of ambulances. “What sin have they second floors”, he added. committed?” asked Essam al-Abed, a local Houthi off icial and funeral organiser. Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 11 HOL STIC Wellbeing Organic: Not always 100% necessary Why self-optimising can be suboptimal if they’re not organic. These include avocados, egg plants and pineapples. By Joseph Reagle His bestselling diet book The Organic produce tends to be Guardian Shangri-La Diet was based on more expensive because organic his experiment of drinking un- farms are smaller than conven- fl avoured sugar water. Roberts’ tional ones, and they take more erfection is the goal of many theory was that foods that smell time to produce crops since they 21st-century self-improv- and taste good make the body don’t use synthetic fertilisers Pers. By treating their lives as think it is a good time to pack on and pesticides. I believe in the systems to be hacked, they believe fat against future privation, so the healing power of naturally grown they can optimise their productiv- body increases appetite. Calories food. I know that it’s safer for ity, happiness, health, and intel- without much smell trick the body By Ghanim al-Sulaiti the environment and cleaner ligence. into thinking it is in lean times, so and healthier for my body. The Tech entrepreneur Serge Faguet it lessens hunger and the amount future is organic, and I believe is reported to have spent $250,000 of fat to be held in reserve. Sometimes, the ‘old fashioned’ it is important to support local on such eff orts, with the ultimate Because he believed diet experts way is the best way. Hundreds farmers and help stop the use goal of living for ever. In one of had been ‘utterly wrong’ for years, of years ago, people were not of chemicals on our food. But his outsized essays peppered with he was sceptical of those who using chemicals to prolong the I’m also very sympathetic to the performance charts and memes, warned against saturated fat, in- life of their food, so why should reality of how organic food isn’t he writes: “We are (complex) ro- cluding a cardiologist at one of his we settle for it today? I agree, to always an option for everyone. bots. Robots can be tuned and im- talks who told him he was killing an extent, that we should eat as One of the biggest complaints I proved.” himself. Roberts trusted his own organic as possible, wherever hear from people who are trying However, naively optimising experiments over the recommen- possible. But I’m also realistic. to eat healthier is that organic one’s life can be suboptimal – and dations of experts. We live in a world where eating foods is expensive — and well, even dangerous. side the columns of a spreadsheet. of their possessions – 100 things tablets on his own without realis- Though it did not appear Rob- ‘Organic’ has become somewhat they’re absolutely right. Organic For those trying to hack a Another danger is optimis- was a popular challenge – was also ing anything. He was stricken with erts was tracking his cholesterol, of a trend, rather than the norm. food is more expensive than healthy relationship, the perfect ing the wrong thing. Those intent a mistake. No matter what they intense cramps, profuse sweating, he had some evidence that his risk The trend has created a reality regular food. can become the enemy of the good. on achieving success may seek to optimised, contentment remained and remained on a toilet for 45 of heart attack was low – a scan whereby organic food is now ex- Organic foods come with higher One life hacker went on more than optimise their productivity and elusive. A few realised a newfound minutes, not the sort of endurance of his coronary arteries showed pensive food, which is a shame, labour costs, and organic farm- 150 dinner in four months because material success. But in doing so, appreciation for moderation. record he was hoping for. low levels of calcium deposits. His given it is the food in its purest land only accounts for about 1% he feared missing out on ‘the one’. they fail to realise that effi ciently Optimisers also tend to have Seth Roberts, a professor of psy- write-up on how ‘Butter Makes form. Once I properly became of farmland worldwide. Most This is a paradox of choice in the paddling around in a circle is not tunnel vision when it comes to chology, was well known among Me Smarter’ was to be the fi rst of aware of the term organic and organic farmers use cover crops digital age, and of optimisers not the same as pursuing a meaningful their goals. This means they can life hackers for his self-experi- a regular column on personal sci- why I should make the switch to to improve nitrogen retention in knowing when to stop. course. fail to appreciate when they are in mentation. He found that watch- ence in the New York Observer. In- eating as organic as possible, I the soil after their main crop has The impulse to optimise can also Around 2010, this insight led danger of stepping off the edge. ing life-size talking heads on TV in stead, it appeared as ‘Seth Roberts’ started to consciously switch as been produced. This makes the lead to rigidity. As another rela- dozens of self-improvers to aban- Lifestyle-design guru Tim Fer- the morning improved his mood. fi nal column’, two days after his much food as possible to its orig- soil more nutritious for future tionship hacker discovered, start- don their consumerist lifestyles. riss once gave himself severe di- Skipping breakfast and standing death from apparent heart disease. inal, purest form, if only to avoid products, but it also limits how ing a relationship requires more They quit their jobs and sold eve- arrhoea by experimenting with more than eight hours a day im- However noble the goal of self- the chemicals that are ruining much can be grown. than a comprehensive spreadsheet rything that couldn’t fi t in a back- mega-doses of resveratrol. This proved his sleep. He theorised that improvement may be, it is not many foods in order to preserve Organic food is more expensive, for eliminating ‘deal breakers’ and pack so they could travel the world compound may increase endur- our prehistoric ancestors spent without risks. Treating one’s life as and prolong their lifespan which but understanding why helps ranking those who remain. A re- spreading the gospel of digital ance, at least in rats. Ferriss wanted a lot of time on their feet, ate no a system to be optimised can lead benefits supermarkets. justify the cost. But even so, the lationship is a negotiation, which minimalism. Yet, in time, some re- to impress the folks at a sports- breakfast, and saw others’ faces to outcomes that are suboptimal – While it’s not always possible important message here is that if requires some give-and-take out- alised that optimising the number science lab and took a bunch of fi rst thing in the morning. or worse. to eat 100% organic, there are you’re trying to eat healthy, there’s foods known as the ‘Dirty 12’. You no need to buy all of your food should eat organic because of organic. Step by step, you can their high rate of chemical con- better your life, your body, your Stretches to try at home tent. When grown convention- fitness level and your wellbeing by ally, they need a lot of pesticide. introducing more fruits and veg- These are strawberries, spinach, etables into your diet, specifically By Firas Iskandarani on your left knee, lengthening Build up to holding this for about kale, nectarine, apple, grapes, knowing which would be better as Guardian your right leg back to stretch two minutes. peaches, cherries, pears, toma- organic (the ‘Dirty 12’), and which your right hip. Build up to hold- toes, celery and potatoes. will be just fine taking the less ing this for five minutes on each Pigeon: The ‘Clean 15’ are foods that expensive option (the ‘Clean 15’). pend a long time sitting hip. Sit on the fl oor in a lunge posi- can more safely be sourced not down or driving? These tion with your right foot forward organically, some because of The author is an expert in vegan Scould help. Puppy dog: and your left leg extended behind an outer shell, which protects wellbeing and health. Lie fl at on your front, then you. Move your right foot across the produce and means it’s ok Instagram handle: @Ghanim92 Lunge: push your bum into the air until your body, and drop your right Lunge your right leg back, it’s above your knees. Extend your knee to the ground, so your right putting your knee on the floor. arms in front of you and put your shin is parallel to the body. The Keep your left leg forward, forehead on the fl oor (or chin or more fl exible you are, the more Wellness Meal Plan shin vertical. Put your hands chest, if you are more fl exible). parallel your shin will be. Where did the adults go?

reaches a stable stage of devel- substances and the consistent opment at the age of approxi- throb of instant gratifi cation mately 25. Therefore, until then, ringing in our ears. we’re navigating the world with I engage with more people on an immature limbic system and a daily basis today, than I would prefrontal cortex, responsible for have ten years ago. I send e-mails self-control and higher cognitive to adult companies with adult skills such as long-term deci- employees, and get ignored re- sion making and logical thinking petitively. As emotions fl icker respectively. With technology with every tone less text message increasing mediums of commu- exchanged, I can hardly recog- nication, creating a global com- nise the feeling before I’ve upset munity of shared adolescent or triggered someone. And since By Sanah Thakur experience — the world is infan- opinions are the common cur- tilising the youth. This means rency, you’d better start sharing that the risk taking and imma- if you expect an increase in their As a child I was often told ture behaviour we easily excuse value. It’s easier to drive past ‘With great power, comes great under, ‘we’re young’ is now hov- mistakes and run away than own responsibility’, yet the quote ering over a large part of an indi- up and fi x them, because who is never seemed to spell out the vidual’s early thirties. My main really going to chase us anyway? specifi cations of this great pow- concern isn’t that we’re ‘stay- When things don’t go our way, er. Growing up I have come to re- ing younger’ as a generation, we’ll fi nd another way – we’ll alise the subjective nature of this but that growing up or taking justify it as the only way. What power that is today accumulated responsibility doesn’t seem to about parts of our life we dislike, in the variety of choice each child be a necessity. The Extension of or interactions that emphasise is served on a platter. It is in this adolescence is impacting brain our fl aws? I could probably edit playground that they grapple on maturation, with erratic sleep them out of my personality be- to the infi nity of childhood po- patterns, consumption of toxic fore you even call them out. tential, rather than move on to With every commitment we to choose what makes life mean- the reality of being something avoid, hiding from account- ingful in the long term. To share Vegan taco fi lling — because who really needs to ability, we are diluting the im- our mistakes as proudly as we grow up today. This great power, portance of responsibility. And share our achievements and hold Ingredients: allows you to spin a wheel of ac- this I can tell you, is no good for ourselves accountable for the 1 cup chickpeas tions and be held accountable for healthy brain maturation. To consequences of every action. If 1 cup sliced cauliflower none. And so, we have ‘grown successfully sow the seeds of you do choose to reinforce the 1 cup mixed beans up’ to become restless, and im- adulthood, one needs to prepare infantilisation of our culture, 1/2 a cup of corn pulsive, lacking a desire for re- the prefrontal cortex by regu- don’t throw a tantrum when the A handful of chopped kale sponsibility. As a fresh gradu- larly challenging it with deci- consequences of that come in 3 tbs tomato paste ate, I stepped onto this sandpit sions. Just because we have a sea the way of what you want. After 3 tbs liquid aminos of reality only to wonder, ever of choices, it doesn’t mean we all, if you decide to be a child, be 1 lime juice so concernedly: where did the throw big nets and catch what- okay with being treated like one. Coconut oil adults go? ever swims our way. ‘With great Salt The adolescent brain con- power of choices, comes great The author can be contacted on Pepper sistently rewires itself, until it responsibility’ —responsibility Instagram @sincerelysanah Paprika Garlic powder Chilli flakes Avocados to top your tacos with

Method: Just let it go Add your oil, cauliflower, chickpeas, corn, beans and spices to a hot pan. Then add the tomato paste, lime juice and liquid aminos to your veggies I used to want to cling on to a pleasant experience when and that last job, thought I of mind in which I was in while and mix well. Add the kale once your mix is ready to make sure your certainty, in the same way you things don’t go according to would be there till retirement. doing the work that has the kale stays fresh; mix and fill your tacos with your delicious vegan filling. try and cling on to a slippery plan. Change can be messy and Have you ever been that sure? value and which is more im- You can top with avocado slices or guacamole or even some mangos or bar of soap when you are in the there is definitely uneasiness And then, suddenly, in the flash portant, which a healthy per- honey molasses! bathtub. about it. We think our certain- of a second, not so sure. Just spective to have. I am a bit of a control freak ties will protect us from hav- like that slippery bar of soap in I try very hard not to make Enjoy the taste of eating right! and I always want to have it ing to deal with beautiful chaos the bath tub. grand fi rm conclusions in my planned out and then play out that comes with things not go- My yoga practice supports head or out loud. These days I the way it is in my head, when ing the way we want them to me to have less attachment to am fi ne with being half certain things didn’t always go accord- and that’s why we hold on to things and people. I’m now ok about things. I know that I don’t ing to my plan I would become them with dear life. with movement, people and always have to have a plan; I can upset and frustrated. I have I have been certain about a things, coming and going. The just breathe, let go and know By Shefa Ali learnt the hard way that the few things in the past. Once I teachings of yoga have taught that God is walking beside me old Woody Allen cliché If you thought; this is the way I am me to cultivate the ability to on the journey I have chosen. want to make God laugh, tell going to feel about this situ- be disciplined and determined Over the last couple of years, him about your plans turned ation forever, then there was without focusing on the out- The author is a consultant and I have become really good at out to be true. that time I thought I finally comes too much. The outcome coach. Instagram handle: @miss_ mastering the art of letting go. Of course, it’s not always found my best friend, oh yeah is not the point, it’s the state shefa, Website: missshefa.com Gulf Times 12 Thursday, April 11, 2019 AMERICAS

SAFETY JUSTICE INVESTIGATION POLITICS REFORM Recall sought of rocker Suspect pleads guilty for Daughter, grand-daughter Canada plans to end Medical school to stop linked to infant deaths firebombing black homes held for killing woman ‘asylum shopping’ using race in admissions

The American Academy of Pediatrics called on the A member of a Hispanic street gang has pleaded Police in northern Arizona on Tuesday discovered Canada plans to stop migrants from seeking asylum A Texas medical school will no longer consider US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guilty to federal charges after he orchestrated the the remains of a 77-year-old woman and arrested if they have already done so in another country — a race in its admissions decisions under an on Tuesday to issue a full recall of the Fisher-Price 2014 firebombing of African-American homes in her daughter and grand-daughter, accusing the pair move decried by refugee advocates but defended agreement with the US Department of Rock ‘n Play Sleeper infant rocker, which has been a Los Angeles public housing complex, off icials of killing the woman two years ago. Briar Aven, 24, yesterday by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The Education, the first of its kind as the Trump linked to 32 infant deaths, it said on its website. said on Tuesday. Carlos Hernandez, 34, pleaded and her mother, Tara Aven, 46, were booked into measure against so-called “asylum shopping” administration seeks to roll back aff irmative- The infant deaths were tallied by an analysis guilty in federal court in Los Angeles on Monday Yavapai County Jail on suspicion of first-degree was slipped into a 392-page budget omnibus bill action practices. The education department said from the consumer watchdog group, Consumer to conspiracy to violate civil rights, violent crime in murder and other charges after confessing to killing presented to parliament late on Monday. Critics called in an e-mail on Tuesday that its civil rights off ice Reports. “AAP urges all parents to stop using aid of racketeering, carrying explosives to commit Sandra Aven in mid- to late 2017, police said. Police it an attack on the rights of vulnerable people, and reached the deal in February with Texas Tech the product immediately,” the paediatricians’ a felony, possessing a firearm in a crime of violence began looking into Sandra Aven’s whereabouts said it flies in the face of a compassionate Canada University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, association said in an announcement. “This and violating the Fair Housing Act. On May 11, 2014, after receiving a report she had not been seen for advanced by Trudeau, once seen welcoming ending a 14-year investigation into its admission product is deadly and should be recalled Hernandez and seven other members of a street a long time, said Prescott police spokesman David newcomers with a hug and a gift of a parka. But practices. The Wall Street Journal reported that immediately,” said Kyle Yasuda, president of the gang agreed to firebomb several apartments Fuller. Her badly decomposed body was found on off icials said it will ease pressure on Canada’s refugee the action taken was the first time the Trump paediatrician group. A representative for Fisher- in the Ramona Gardens Housing Development Tuesday by off icers checking her home in Prescott, system, which has been overwhelmed by a recent administration has asked a school to stop its Price could not be reached yesterday. because the residents were African-American. Arizona, less than 160km north of Phoenix. flood of migrants arriving via the United States. aff irmative-action practices. Midwest braces for ‘Medicare for all’ ‘life-threatening’ blizzards, fl oods

Reuters along the Missouri River and to absorb more precipitation Chicago more than $3bn in damage to than last month’s frozen ground property and crops in Nebraska and a fall of heavy snow rather and Iowa. than rain will slow the runoff blizzard hitting the US Pueblo, Colorado, hit 85 de- process. Rockies yesterday was grees Fahrenheit (30 Celsius) on Nearly 500 fl ights were can- Aforecast to move east- Tuesday, but will drop down to celled yesterday at Denver In- ward over the next day, threat- 25F (minus 4C) by today morn- ternational Airport, about a ening to bring new fl ooding to ing. quarter of its total schedule, ac- the Plains states including parts Similar temperatures are cording to FlightAware.com, an of South Dakota and Missouri forecast in Denver. airline tracking website. that are still recovering from The storm is expected to Airport offi cials said they had last month’s inundation. bring blinding, heavy wet snow-removal crews in place. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) speaks while introducing healthcare legislation titled the ‘Medicare for All Act of 2019’ with Senators Kirsten High spring temperatures snow across the region, likely The coming storm was ex- Gillibrand and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) at a news conference on Capitol Hill yesterday. will give way to heavy snow, downing trees and causing pected to exacerbate fl ooding gale-force winds and life- widespread power outages, along the Missouri River in ar- threatening conditions across widespread road closures and eas where dozens of levees were a swathe of the central United making driving treacherous, breached in March, exposing States running from the Rockies Burke said. communities to future surges. to the Great Lakes, according to “It’s slow moving. It won’t The river was not expected the National Weather Service. push farther east until Friday,” to crest in areas of Nebraska, “This is potentially a life- he said. Iowa and Missouri until be- threatening storm,” Patrick Some areas of western Min- tween three to fi ve days after Burke, a meteorologist with nesota and southeast South the storm. the NWS’s Weather Prediction Dakota were expected to get up The storm is expected to Barr: FBI spied on Center in Maryland, said yes- to 30 inches of wet, heavy snow, weaken and push off tomorrow terday. the NWS said. into the Great Lakes area and A cyclone last month dropped Two factors may limit the northern Michigan, bringing heavy rains over that region, fl ooding eff ect, forecasters said. more rain and snow, the weath- causing extensive fl ooding Thawed ground will be able er service said. Trump campaign

Reuters/AFP no unauthorised surveillance,” he will pull it all together to see if He chose Barr in December Last ‘Doolittle’ raider who Washington modifying his language. there may be “remaining ques- to lead the Justice Department He said the Justice Department tions to be addressed.” months after Barr submitted an would release a redacted version “Spying on a political cam- unsolicited legal memorandum struck Japan in WWII dies S Attorney General Wil- of the Mueller report next week. paign is a big deal,” Barr told the to the White House criticising liam Barr sparred with “I’m landing the plane right Senate Appropriations Commit- the basis for Mueller’s investiga- Ulawmakers yesterday over now,” Barr said at a Senate Ap- tee. tion. The last surviving member of a morale-boosting carrier,” the National Museum of the US Air Force whether “spying” occurred on propriations Committee hearing. “I think spying did occur. The Based on Barr’s March 24 sum- secret United States air raid that stunned Japan dur- said on its website. President Donald Trump’s 2016 “I’ve been willing to discuss question is, was it was adequate- mary of Mueller’s still-secret fi - ing World War II has died. “The Raiders dropped their bombs on oil storage presidential campaign, and said my letters and the process going ly predicated? I’m not saying it nal report, which said there was Lieutenant Colonel Dick Cole “has slipped the facilities, factory areas and military installations. that a redacted version of Special forward, but the report is going wasn’t,” he said. insuffi cient evidence that the surly bonds of Earth & reunited w/his fellow Doolit- Although the brilliant strike caused relatively little Counsel Robert Mueller’s report to be out next week and I’m just Barr confi rmed he was open- president obstructed justice, tle Raiders,” General Dave Goldfein, United States physical damage, it stunned the Japanese popula- on Russian interference in the not going to get details of the ing a review into whether the Trump declared he was “com- Air Force Chief of Staff , wrote on Twitter. tion — their embarrassed leaders had promised the election will be out next week. process until the plane’s on the investigation, which eventually pletely exonerated.” “We off er our eternal thanks & condolences to mainland would never be attacked,” the museum During questioning by sena- ground.” became Special Counsel Robert Speaking to journalists yester- his family. We will proudly carry the torch he & his said. tors, Barr said “spying” on Barr discussed the report after Mueller’s collusion and obstruc- day, Trump again said the inves- fellow Raiders handed us.” On the homefront, news of the US attack Trump’s campaign was carried a blistering assault by Trump on tion probe, was justifi ed. tigation was politically driven. US media reported that Cole, who died aged 103 caused morale to soar “from the depths to which out by US intelligence agencies, the FBI investigation that was “This is not launching an in- “This was an attempted coup. on Tuesday in Texas, was the last survivor of 80 it plunged following Japan’s many early victories,” but he later recharacterised his taken over by Mueller, which vestigation of the FBI,” he insist- This was an attempted takedown Doolittle raiders air crew members. it added. concerns as focused on “unau- the Republican president called ed, while adding: “I think there of a president and we beat them,” Cole was copilot of the plane led by Lieutenant A photograph of Cole with his crewmates, all thorised surveillance.” an “attempted coup” involving was probably a failure among he said. Colonel James Doolittle who led the raid by 16 B-25 wearing bomber jackets, showed him tight- Initially using language echo- “dirty cops.” a group of leaders at the upper “What they did was treason, bombers, each with a five-man crew. lipped, wearing a tie, and with the thumb of ing Trump’s attempts to discredit Barr told the committee that echelon” of the FBI. what they did was terrible, what On April 18, 1942 — four months after Japan’s his left hand hooked into the side pocket of his Mueller’s probe, Barr pulled back he would review all the intel- “I have an obligation to make they did was against our consti- surprise attack against the US at Pearl Harbor — the pants. under questioning by Democrat- ligence activities directed at sure that government power is tution.” US Army Air Forces bombers took off from the deck In May 2014 President Barack Obama signed a ic Senator Brian Schatz, who said Trump’s 2016 campaign. not abused.” Asked if he believed the Muel- of a US Navy aircraft carrier that sailed to within a law to award the Congressional Gold Medal, the the use of the term “spying” was Barr noted much of this has Trump has maintained since ler probe was a witch hunt, Barr few hundred kilometres of Japan. highest civilian recognition Congress can bestow, “unnecessarily infl ammatory.” been done already, both in Con- the Mueller probe was launched would only say: “It really de- “Medium bombers had never been flown from a on the 80 members of the Doolittle team. Barr, a Trump appointee, said: gress and by the Justice Depart- in May 2017 that he was the tar- pends where you are sitting. It is “I want to make sure there was ment inspector general, but that get of an “illegal witch hunt.” what it is.”

‘Seeing the unseeable’: Scientists reveal fi rst photo of a black hole

By Will Dunham, Reuters es in Washington, Brussels, San- hole’s shadow or silhouette. The project has also targeted Washington tiago, Shanghai, Taipei and Tokyo. The scientists said Einstein’s another black hole — Sagittarius The image was obtained using theory correctly predicted that A* — situated at the centre of our data collected in April 2017 from the shape of the shadow would be own Milky Way galaxy. sing a global network of eight radio telescopes in six lo- almost a perfect circle. Scientists expressed optimism telescopes to see “the cations that essentially create a With M87, it deviated from about getting a picture of that Uunseeable,” an interna- planet-sized observational dish. perfect circularity by less than one, perhaps within a year. tional scientifi c team yesterday The team’s observations 10%. Sagittarius A* possesses 4mn announced a milestone in astro- strongly validated the theory of “We found literally the pro- times the mass of our sun and is physics — the fi rst-ever photo of general relativity proposed in verbial hole in the middle of this located 26,000 light-years from a black hole — in an achievement 1915 by Einstein, the famed theo- galaxy, and to me that is just Earth. that validated a pillar of science retical physicist, to explain the stunning,” said astrophysicist Streaming away from M87 at put forward by Albert Einstein laws of gravity and their relation Dimitrios Psaltis of the Univer- nearly the speed of light is a hu- more than a century ago. to other natural forces. sity of Arizona, the EHT project mongous jet of subatomic par- Black holes are monstrous “We have achieved something scientist. ticles, though that was not cap- celestial entities exerting gravi- presumed to be impossible just a Einstein’s theory also was vali- tured in the photo. tational fi elds so vicious that no generation ago,” said astrophysi- dated by another major astro- The researchers estimated that matter or light can escape. cist Sheperd Doeleman, director physics achievement announced the observed shadow of M87 is The somewhat fuzzy photo of the Event Horizon Telescope in 2016, the detection of gravita- roughly 2-1/2 times larger than of the black hole at the centre at the Center for Astrophysics tional waves, or ripples in space- the actual size of the black hole’s of Messier 87, or M87, a massive (CfA), Harvard & Smithsonian. time, arising from two black boundary — the event horizon — galaxy residing in the centre of Black holes, phenomenally holes that smashed together. due to light bending because of the relatively nearby Virgo galaxy dense and coming in various siz- “Science fi ction has become the extreme gravitational forces. cluster, shows a glowing ring of es, are extraordinarily diffi cult to A handout photo provided by the European Southern Observatory shows the first photograph of a black science fact,” University of Ari- They think the event horizon red, yellow and white surround- observe by their very nature. hole and its fiery halo, released by Event Horizon Telescope astronomers. zona astronomy professor Daniel measures just under 40bn km ing a dark centre. A black hole’s event horizon Marrone said. across, about three times the size The research was conducted is the point of no return beyond imaginable mass of 6.5bn times “It did bring tears to my eyes,” viewing them difficult. “The image has this exquisite of Pluto’s orbit around the sun. by the Event Horizon Telescope which anything — stars, planets, that of the sun. Cordova added. The scientists looked for a ring beauty in its simplicity,” said CfA The project’s researchers ob- (EHT) project, an international gas, dust and all forms of electro- A light year is the distance light The existence of black holes of light — super-heated disrupt- astrophysicist Michael Johnson, tained the data using radio tele- collaboration involving about 200 magnetic radiation — gets swal- travels in a year, 9.5tn km. was fi rst predicted in 1916. ed matter and radiation circling the project’s imaging coordina- scopes in the US states of Arizona scientists begun in 2012 to try to lowed into oblivion. “This is a huge day in astro- Most galaxies are thought to at tremendous speed at the edge tor. and Hawaii as well as in Mexico, directly observe the immediate The M87 black hole observed physics,” said US National Sci- have a supermassive black hole at of the event horizon — around a “It is just a fundamental state- Chile, Spain and Antarctica. environment of a black hole. by the scientifi c team resides ence Foundation Director France their centre. region of darkness representing ment about nature. It’s a really Since then, telescopes in The announcement was made about 54mn light-years from Cordova. “We’re seeing the un- The fact that black holes do the actual black hole. moving demonstration of just France and Greenland have been in simultaneous news conferenc- Earth and boasts an almost-un- seeable.” not allow light to escape makes This is known as the black what humanity is capable of.” added to the global network. Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 13 ASIA

Bangladesh Dhaka vows to bring citizens seeks US help for Rohingya stranded in Vanuatu home repatriation Thomson Reuters Foundation ple were arrested on charges of Details of 101 traffi cking cording to offi cial data, at least jobs in Vanuatu and nearby earn some money because this Dhaka traffi cking them, and are living victims plight emerged 1 million Bangladeshis secured Australia, the Bangladeshis case might go on for a long off handouts and rations. last month and the jobs overseas in 2017 – the said they had sold property and time,” he said by phone from IANS Details of their plight government has asked its highest number ever recorded. taken out loans worth up to Vanuatu. Dhaka emerged last month and the nearest high commission But this depends largely upon $20,000 to pay for the move. “Some of the NGOs are try- angladesh has begun government has asked its near- in Australia to verify that unlicensed brokers working in Vanuatu, with about 280,000 ing to get us a work permit for at steps to bring home est high commission in Aus- they are Bangladeshi rural areas and opens the door people spread across roughly least four months. If we get that angladesh has sought B101 traffi cking victims tralia to verify that they are to traffi cking, campaigners say. 80 islands, is one of the world’s permission, it will help us a lot.” help from the US in pres- stranded in Vanuatu after they Bangladeshi. The Bangladeshis, two of The 101 migrants are all male poorest countries. Only about The men are currently liv- Bsurising Myanmar to of- were lured there with the prom- “They will send a team to whom are under 18, have been and say they were duped by a a third of its inhabited islands ing off the support of the local fer safeguards for the return of ise of work that never material- Vanuatu and begin the national named as witnesses in the trial network of brokers in the cen- have airfi elds and proper roads. government, local charities and thousands of Rohingya refugees ised, a government offi cial said verifi cation soon,” home min- of the four accused, who deny tral Bangladeshi cities of Tan- Harun Or Rashid, one of the the United Nations migration who have fl ed the country since yesterday. istry offi cial Abu Bakar Sid- the charges. gail and Barisal who transported 101 victims, expressed doubts agency. August 2017. The migrants, who include dique told the Thomson Reuters One of the largest export- them to Vanuatu via India, Sin- they would be able to leave soon “The next hearing is on Sun- Foreign Minister A K Abdul two minors, have been stuck in Foundation, saying it was a fi rst ers of manpower in the world, gapore and Fiji over the last two because of their role in the trial. day,” said Rashid. “Hopefully Momen sought the US assist- the remote Pacifi c island nation step towards bringing them Bangladesh depends heavily on years. “We have told the local NGOs that will bring us some positive ance during a meeting with US since November when four peo- home. remittances from abroad. Ac- Lured by the promise of sales here that we want to work and news.” Secretary of State Mike Pom- peo in Washington, the govern- ment of Bangladesh said in a statement. During the meeting, Momen discussed the importance of “repatriation of Rohingyas and Fresh clashes erupt creation of credible internation- al pressure on Myanmar in that respect”, the statement said. According to the statement, Pompeo reiterated that the US in Myanmar’s state “would stand beside Bangladesh (both politically and fi nancially) in fi nding a permanent solution AFP of rebels have been killed. release further details. to the Rohingya crisis”, Efe news Yangon Thousands of troops have The military has vowed to reported. been deployed to try to quell crush the rebel group, which “It is the responsibility of the the spreading unrest. formed exactly 10 years Myanmar government and mili- ighting between the My- Three weeks ago the fi ghting ago and enjoys widespread tary to create a conducive envi- anmar army and ethnic reached Mrauk U, the ancient support from many ethnic ronment for Rohingyas to feel FRakhine rebels has es- capital of the Rakhine kingdom Rakhine. safe to return home,” he said. calated in the western state’s and a site popular with intrepid The AA posted on its website Momen told Pompeo about temple-studded town of tourists for its array of temples yesterday a message of con- Dhaka’s plans to transfer a Mrauk U, sources confi rmed and pagodas. gratulations for its 10th an- group of Rohingya to the un- yesterday, with reports of mili- Mrauk U resident Khin Than niversary from an allied rebel inhabited Bhashanchar is- tary jets streaking across the told AFP by phone the fi ghting group based on the other side land in the Bay of Bengal. The sky. started about 10pm on Tues- of the country. A woman is seen on a stretcher after the Central World Complex was evacuated due to a fire, in Bangkok yesterday. island has been prepared to Riven by complex ethnic and day night and was worse than Some 26,000 people have host 100,000 refugees from religious divides, Rakhine state last time. been forced from their homes the overcrowded camps in the was the epicentre of a brutal “It’s getting serious. Peo- due to the fi ghting across Ra- Two killed in fire at busy Bangkok mall Cox’s Bazar district. military campaign in 2017 that ple are scared to leave their khine and in neighbouring Two people were killed and more “I have been informed that the firefighters and emergency More than 738,000 Rohingya forced some 740,000 Rohingya homes,” she said, describing areas of Chin state while aid than a dozen injured after a fire fire was put down,” he said in a medical staff moved the injured have arrived in the camps since Muslims over the border into the ground shaking under the groups estimate some 95,000 broke out at one of Bangkok’s press conference, adding that out on stretchers. the beginning of the crisis on Bangladesh. roar of jets. people are aff ected by new re- busiest shopping malls an investigation will commence Police spokesperson Krissana August 25, 2017, following a But the army is now locked AA spokesman Khine strictions on movement. yesterday evening, off icials said. tomorrow. Pattanacharoen said one person wave of violence and persecu- in deadly battles with the Thukha said they re-entered There are also reports of in- The blaze at Central World broke By 9pm, the number of people had leapt to their death. tion, which has been described Arakan Army (AA), a group Mrauk U on Tuesday night discriminate attacks and use out at around 6pm, a spokesperson injured had reached 17, said the The area around Central World is by the United Nations an that claims to represent the to retaliate against artillery of landmines, according to the for the Erawan Medical Emergency Erawan Medical Emergency a popular shopping destination attempted ethnic cleansing. state’s ethnic Rakhine Bud- bombardments. UN Offi ce for the Coordina- centre told reporters. centre. and was chock-full of tourists Although Bangladesh and dhists and is vying for more “The Burmese military is tion of Humanitarian Aff airs “One (person) died at the scene” Footage circulating on social and rush-hour traff ic. Myanmar signed an agreement autonomy. dropping bombs from jet fi ght- (OCHA). and another at a nearby hospital, media earlier in the evening A company representative told on November 23, 2017, the re- The AA has killed at least 22 ers and helicopters,” he said. Much of Rakhine is under the spokesperson said. showed smoke billowing from reporters the fire appeared to patriation attempts have failed police offi cers since fi ghting Military spokesman Colonel strict lockdown and infor- Bangkok’s governor Aswin the structure. have started on the 8th floor, due to absence of conditions ramped up in January. Win Zaw Oo confi rmed clashes mation is diffi cult to verify Kwanmuang confirmed the two Employees of the mall stood but had been contained and the necessary for safe and voluntary The government says dozens were taking place but did not independently. deaths. outside as sirens blared, while building evacuated. (AFP) return of the refugees. Breaking taboo Historic victory for former Maldives leader’s party

AFP Colombo

he party of exiled former Maldives president Mo- Thamad Nasheed has won the country’s fi rst outright ma- jority in parliament in its dem- ocratic history, offi cial results showed yesterday. The fi nal count released by the Election Commission shows Nasheed’s Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) won 65 of the 87 seats in parliament in elections held Saturday – more than two-thirds majority. Mohamed Nasheed speaks during a news conference. His party will rule without needed to form a coalition, an democracy in the Maldives. embezzlement allegations. unprecedented election out- The holiday destination Yameen did not run but his come for the Indian Ocean ar- popular with honeymooners is party – the Progressive Party of chipelago nation. only just emerging from years Maldives – only collective fi ve The MDP’s closest rivals, the of strongman rule, political seats. Jamhooree Party and Progres- crises and corruption scandals Nasheed was barred from sive Party of the Maldives, both miring the government and running in the presidential won fi ve seats each. Two mi- judiciary. election but his former deputy, nor parties and independents Nasheed’s comprehen- President Ibrahim Mohamed secured 12 seats among them. sive victory was another Solih, emerged triumphant Nasheed – who until fi ve rebuke for his rival Abdulla over Yameen. months ago was still in exile Yameen, who was dumped Nasheed returned to the Bangladesh university students wear a ‘lungi’ (a traditional man’s dress) in Dhaka yesterday. The students of a top university yesterday – has vowed to use his party’s as president in a shock elec- Maldives in November after the rallied Dhaka wearing lungi breaking a long-standing taboo in the South-Asian nation. thumping mandate to usher tion defeat in September un- Supreme Court quashed a ter- in a new era of stability and der a cloud of corruption and rorism conviction against him. Thailand ramps up fi ght against forced labour with stricter law

Thomson Reuters Foundation tion, which has come under “It shows the serious intent of There are about 4.9mn mi- a report earlier this year. It can be enforced immedi- recruitment fees paid by work- Bangkok scrutiny for slavery and traf- the Thai government in tackling grants in Thailand, making up Besides the seafood industry, ately, whereas a new law could ers, and banning the practice fi cking in its seafood indus- forced labour and improving the more than 10% of the country’s exploitative practices have been have taken years to draft and of withholding identifi cation try, has added “forced labour image of the country,” said Put- workforce, according to the recorded in domestic work, con- enact, said Ruttiya Bhula-Or, an documents. hailand will use a newly or service” as an off ence in its tanee Kangkun, a human rights United Nations. Most are from struction, agriculture, livestock, assistant professor at Bangkok’s Last June, it became the amended law to crack anti-human traffi cking law, specialist with advocacy group poorer neighbouring countries hospitality, garment manufac- Chulalongkorn University. fi rst country in Asia to ratify Tdown on forced labour according to a notifi cation on Fortify Rights in Bangkok. including Myanmar, Cambodia, turing and other sectors in the “But its inclusion as part of the forced labour protocol of with hefty fi nes and prison Sunday. “It spells out the conditions, Laos and Vietnam. country, it said. the anti-human traffi cking act the International Labour Or- time, a move analysts said Anyone found guilty can be and the penalties are quite strict. Migrant workers get few pro- The amendment widens the can also make it less potent, and ganisation (ILO) for combat- could help curb exploita- jailed for four years and fi ned But we have to see how eff ec- tections such as a minimum defi nition of forced labour and the defi nition of forced labour ing all forms of forced labour, tive practices against migrant 400,000 Thai baht ($12,516), tive the implementation is,” wage and overtime pay, and con- includes anyone engaged in the remains unclear,” she said. including traffi cking, and en- workers. with more severe penalties if a she told the Thomson Reuters tend with unsafe working and purchase, sale, confi nement or Thailand has taken some steps suring access to remedies and The Southeast Asian na- victim is harmed. Foundation . living conditions, the UN said in exploitation of a person. to tackle abuse by eliminating compensation. Gulf Times 14 Thursday, April 11, 2019 ASIA/AUSTRALASIA New Zealand votes to amend gun laws after Christchurch attack

Reuters from the governor general to be- automatic guns in the Christch- A-category gun license cover- rushing through the bill. Yester- security and cancelled several Wellington come law. urch mosque attacks, killing 50 ing semi-automatics limited to day’s dissenting vote came from events in Auckland, its largest “There have been very few oc- people as they attended Friday seven shots. David Seymour, leader of the city, intended to commemorate casions when I have seen parlia- prayers. The bill grants an amnesty small free-market ACT Party, ANZAC Day on April 25. awmakers in New Zealand ment come together in this way, Authorities have charged until Sept 30 for people to sur- who questioned why the meas- “There is no information voted almost unanimously and I can’t imagine circum- Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, render prohibited items. More ure was being rushed through. about a specifi c threat to ANZAC Lyesterday to change gun stances when it is more neces- a suspected white supremacist, than 300 weapons had already Ardern said majority lawmakers events,” police offi cial Karyn laws, less than a month after its sary,” Prime Minister Jacinda with 50 counts of murder fol- been handed in, police minister believe such guns had no place in Malthus, said in a statement. worst peacetime mass shooting, Ardern said in presenting the lowing the attacks. Stuart Nash told parliament. New Zealand. “However it’s important that in which 50 people were killed legislation. The new curbs bar the cir- The government has begun work “We are ultimately here be- the public be safe, and feel safe, in attacks on two mosques in Ardern banned the sale of all culation and use of most semi- on a second arms amendment cause 50 people died and they at events in the current environ- Christchurch. military style semi-automatics automatic fi rearms, parts that bill it hopes to introduce in June, do not have a voice,” she added. ment.” Parliament passed the gun (MSSA) and assault rifl es just six convert fi rearms into semi- he said, adding that the measure “We, in this house, are their In 1996, neighbouring Aus- reform bill, the fi rst substantial days after the March 15 shooting, automatic fi rearms, magazines would tackle issues regarding a voice and today we have used tralia banned semi-automatic changes to New Zealand’s gun and announced plans to tighten over a certain capacity, and gun registry, among others. that voice wisely.” weapons and launched a gun laws in decades, by 119 to 1. It gun laws. some shotguns. Existing gun The government has faced Since last month’s shoot- buyback after the Port Arthur Jacinda Ardern must now receive royal assent A lone gunman used semi- laws had provided for a standard criticism from some quarters for ing, New Zealand has tightened massacre that killed 35 people. Crashed Japanese Melbourne protest F-35 wreckage found in Pacifi c, pilot still missing

Reuters catastrophic fault hidden away Heavy Industries in Japan, a sec- fi cult, the offi cial said. Without Tokyo in the F-35A,” he added. “It’s ond ASDF offi cial told Reuters. the device, investigators could pretty unlikely given the large Japan’s 12 remaining F-35s are study the aircraft’s classifi ed number of fl ight hours already grounded for now, he added. The communications and data shar- earch and rescue teams completed.” previous four were used for train- ing system for clues, an industry found wreckage from a The advanced, single-seat ing in the United States before be- source said on condition of ano- Scrashed Japanese F-35 jet disappeared in good weather ing brought to Japan, the defence nymity. stealth fi ghter in the Pacifi c about 135km east of the Misawa offi cial said. No other countries The ASDF received the air- Ocean close to northern Japan, air base in Aomori prefecture at operating the F-35 have grounded craft, designed to penetrate en- and are scouring the waters for about 7:27pm, the Air Self De- their stealth aircraft. emy defences by evading radar the missing pilot, authorities fense Force said. “We recovered The Pentagon said yesterday detection, last May, its spokes- said yesterday. the wreckage and determined it that it was not grounding its man said. Japan’s fi rst squad- The aircraft, less than a year was from the F-35,” a spokesman fl eet of more than 250 US F-35 ron of F-35s has just become old, was the fi rst F-35 assembled said. fi ghter jets but was monitoring operational at Misawa, and the in Japan and was aloft for only Eight ships and seven aircraft, the situation. government plans to buy 87 of 28 minutes on Tuesday before including a US Navy P-8 Orion A spokesman for South Ko- the stealth fi ghters to modernise contact was lost, a defence of- maritime patrol plane, joined rea’s defence ministry said its air defences as neighbouring fi cial said. The plane had logged the search and rescue eff ort. The there was no plan to ground that China and Russia upgrade their a total of 280 hours in the air, he aircraft was leading three F-35s country’s newly delivered F-35s, military forces. Lockheed said it added. on training manoeuvres when it as there were no recommenda- was standing by to support the It was only the second F-35 sent an “aborting practice” sig- tions from the United States to Japanese Air Self Defense Force to crash since the aircraft’s fi rst nal and disappeared from radar, do so. Britain said it was review- as needed. fl ight in 2006 and could reignite Defence Minister Takeshi Iwaya ing the status of its 17 F-35B The crash was the fi rst of the concern about the F-35 having told reporters. fi ghters for now. A variant of the fi fth-genera- only one engine. The pilot, who had 3,200 A representative for Mitsubi- tion fi ghter. A US Marine Corps Manufacturer Lockheed Mar- hours of fl ying time, but had shi Heavy Industries Ltd said short take-off and landing tin is competing for orders in spent only 60 hours in the F-35, it had no immediate comment. (STOVL) F-35B version crashed Finland and Switzerland against gave no other indication he was The company assembles the air- near the Marine Corps Air Sta- the twin-engined Eurofi ghter in trouble, the ASDF spokesman craft at a plant near Nagoya in tion Beaufort in South Carolina Typhoon and Boeing F/A-18E/F said. “We’ll need to co-operate central Japan. The lost aircraft in September, prompting a tem- jet. The accident could infl uence with the US forces and I believe cost 14bn yen ($126mn), several porary grounding of the aircraft. Switzerland’s decision, but Fin- arrangements are being made,” million more than one bought Lockheed also makes a C version land could still pick the F-35 as Iwaya said, adding that the directly from the United States. of the fi ghter designed to oper- it is close to Russia, said Justin cause of the incident would have The aircraft crashed in wa- ate off carriers. Bronk, a research fellow at the to be determined. ters whose depth reaches about Japan’s new F-35s include People take part in a march for better work conditions and higher wages in Australia, in Melbourne Royal United Services Institute The crashed aircraft was the 1,500m (4,920ft), making re- 18 STOVL B planes it plans to yesterday. Tens of thousands marched for better work conditions and higher wages in Australia in London. “I would be sur- fi fth delivered to the ASDF, but covery, particularly of its fl ight deploy on its islands along the bringing the city of Melbourne to a standstill, ahead of national elections in May. prised if there was a common the fi rst assembled by Mitsubishi data recorder, or black box, dif- edge of the East China Sea.

China calls Taiwan flight Australia PM seeks new law to a ‘routine Seoul cancels permit for new penalise animal rights activists exercise’ China yesterday derided Japanese embassy building “wild talk” from Taiwan’s Reuters president as it defended a Sydney flight by its fighter jets across AFP symbolising the Korean wom- under South Korean law must the traditionally respected Seoul en forced to work in Japanese start within a year of a permit maritime line dividing the military brothels mostly during being received — was repeat- ustralia’s government island from the mainland last World War II stands across the edly delayed. Japan argues that proposed yesterday to month as a routine exercise. uthorities in Seoul have road from the embassy plot. the “comfort women” statue is Acriminalise some actions The rare incursion of two cancelled the permit for Since 1992 campaigners have against the 2015 bilateral agree- of animal rights protesters after J-11 fighter jets over the Aa new Japanese embassy held weekly rallies at the site to ment, under which Tokyo off ered activists blocked traffi c in Mel- “median line” separating the building citing construction de- demand a “full, heartfelt apolo- an apology and a 1-bn yen pay- bourne and stormed farms and self-ruled island from China lays, local offi cials said yesterday, gy” for wartime sex slavery from ment. abattoirs this week to protest drew condemnation from with relations between South Tokyo. The 1,382th such gather- But South Korean President factory farming. Taipei at the end of March, Korea and Tokyo strained by his- ing took place yesterday, with Moon Jae-in said last year that The new law proposed by which called the incident torical disputes. activists surrounding the statue. the deal had been signed by his Prime Minister Scott Morrison “intentional, reckless and The neighbours are both de- The previous embassy build- ousted predecessor Park Geun- is unusual, legal experts say, be- provocative”. Citing remarks mocracies, market economies ing was demolished some years hye without consulting the Ko- cause it appears to be a specifi c by Taiwan Aff airs Off ice and US allies faced with an in- ago, with staff moving into of- rean victims and disbanded a response to the actions of a ve- Scott Morrison spokesman Ma Xiaoguang creasingly assertive China and fi ces in the neighbouring high- foundation set up with the Japa- gan activist group, AussieFarms. at a press briefing, state- the long-running threat of nu- rises, and the plot is now a patch nese funds. The group has posted an in- organisation that can only think ment. Hugh de Kretser, ex- run China Daily said the clear-armed North Korea. of bare earth behind a high wall, An offi cial at the Jongno Ward teractive map online of animal of itself and not think to the real ecutive director of the Human fly-by was part of a planned But their own ties have re- vines growing through the sur- Offi ce in Seoul said: “We had a businesses, including farms, damage that is being done to the Rights Law Centre, said there routine exercise by the mained icy for years due to bit- rounding barbed wire. meeting with Japanese offi cials zoos and horse racing tracks, livelihoods of these hard-work- were laws in place that limited People’s Liberation Army ter rows stemming from Japan’s City authorities gave permis- in February, and they said they to promote a documentary fi lm ing Australians,” he added. the actions of environmental (PLA). “Protecting national brutal 1910-45 colonial rule sion for a new six-storey building will accept the revocation of the that calls for a ban on slaughter- Australia is due to hold an campaigners, including a ban sovereignty and territorial of the Korean peninsula, with in 2015, the year Seoul and Tokyo permit as they cannot start the houses. election in May and most polls on trespassing. “There’s a suite integrity has been the sacred forced labour and wartime sex signed a controversial deal to set- construction work due to cir- Under the new law, people predict Morrison will lose, part- of powers available to police and duty of the PLA, and it is in slavery key examples. tle the wartime sex slavery issue. cumstances in their home coun- who encourage trespassers by ly due to a drift of rural voters to law enforcement agencies to the interest of people from A statue of a “comfort woman” But construction — which try.” posting the location of an ag- other conservative parties. deal with trespass and obstruc- both sides of the straits,” he ricultural business on the In- Traffi c stopped for an hour tion of traffi c and the like,” de said. China has significantly ternet could face up to a year in in central Melbourne on Mon- Kretser told Reuters. stepped up diplomatic Singapore seizes 12.7 tonnes of pangolin scales in second bust prison if found guilty, the gov- day when about 100 protest- “Any attempts to further lim- and military pressure on ernment said. ers waved signs to promote the it protest rights need to be very Taiwan since Beijing-sceptic Singapore authorities have seized Monday turned up 474 bags of The scales were identified by “When they are using people’s AussieFarms documentary, Do- carefully scrutinised to make President Tsai Ing-wen took 12.7 tonnes of pangolin scales in pangolin scales, estimated to National Parks authorities as personal information, details minion, which used drones and sure any penalty is not crush- off ice in 2016. Dismissing a second bust, five days after an be valued at $38mn. The first belonging to 17,000 pangolins about their homes, it’s not just undercover footage to fi lm feed- ing, and the scope of any off ence Tsai’s vow to forcibly expel earlier seizure yielded 12.9 tonnes, shipment had been declared as from two diff erent species of the their farm, it’s their home, it’s lots and saleyards. is not disproportionate to the Chinese fighter jets if they according to a joint statement a shipment of “frozen beef,” and animal. The seizure comes shortly where their kids live and grow It was part of a wave of action conduct they’re trying to pre- cross the median line again released yesterday. The shipment the bags of pangolin scales were after similar raids by Malaysian up,” Morrison told reporters in in three states, where activists vent,” he added. Chris Delforce, as “wild talk”, Ma said the was declared as containing “cassia found amid the frozen meat. Both authorities turned up a record the rural state of Tasmania. targeted abattoirs in the middle the director of Dominion, said Taiwanese president’s seeds” before an inspection by vessels were charting the same 30 tons of pangolin from two “They are being targeted in of the night and at some farms he would rather go to jail than comments showed she was Singapore customs off icials of route, originating in Nigeria and processing plants in the northern the most mercenary way by an chained themselves to equip- take down the group’s website. “scared.” the 12-m shipping container on bound for Vietnam via Singapore. Borneo state of Sabah in February. Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 15

BRITAIN Man planned ex-wife’s killing for a year, court hears

Daily Mail The 18-inch crossbow bolt in Ilford, East London. knife, cable ties and duct tape. London Hospital where her son In 2012, Unmathallegadoo was married him in June 2012. London narrowly missed the mother-of- But her ex-husband did “not re- When Imtiaz went into the gar- was delivered not breathing be- arrested in an incident when Sana The court heard Unmathal- fi ve’s unborn baby boy, who “mi- act well”, quitting his job as a hos- den, the court heard Unmathal- fore being revived, but she suc- jumped out the fi rst-fl oor win- legadoo was “distressed” at the raculously” survived after being pital site manager and developing a legadoo emerged brandishing a cumbed to her injuries. dow and fractured her heel. He turn of events and would turn up father-of-three spent a delivered by emergency caesar- “deeply held desire for a most vio- high-powered hunting crossbow. During the trial opening, was acquitted following a trial, at the house “begging and crying” year amassing a cache of ean, the Old Bailey was told. lent revenge”, Wright said. He chased him into the house be- Wright said it was “a cold-blood- but while he was on bail, Imtiaz for her to come back to him. Aweapons before hiding in Prosecuting, Peter Wright QC He spent at least a year plot- fore shooting his ex-wife as she ed execution by a man who was moved into the family home. He took sick leave from his his ex-wife’s garden shed and kill- said Unmathallegadoo’s arranged ting to kill the couple, spending ran up the stairs screaming to her consumed by hatred and an un- Sana had met and become role as site manager at Newham ing her with a crossbow, a court marriage to Sana had ‘disintegrat- £2,000 on weapons and using children. quenchable thirst for revenge”. friends with Imtiaz – who was General Hospital in East London heard. ed’ after 13 years and they sepa- his children to carry out surveil- Her fi ve children – aged at the Unmathallegadoo had wed already married with a son in and stopped paying the bills and Ramanodge Unmathallegadoo, rated in 2012. lance on his former family home. time between two and 17 – tried to Sana in an arranged marriage Pakistan – while he worked on mortgage on the family home. Ju- 51, is alleged to have killed heavily That same year, she mar- On the morning of November 12 help her, with two trying to shield when she was 16 in their home a property next door in 2011. rors heard that he may have begun pregnant Sana Mohamed, 35, in a ried the couple’s former kitchen last year, he took up position in her from the defendant and the country of Mauritius in 1999. But They grew closer when he planning his attack as far back as “devastating and murderous act decorator, Imtiaz Mohamed, 42, the garden shed armed with two eldest two disarming him. the court heard their relationship decorated her kitchen, and she April 2015 after buying his fi rst of revenge” last year. who moved into the family home ‘ferocious’ crossbows, a hammer, Sana was taken to the Royal was “not a happy one”. later converted to Islam and crossbow. Meghan ‘plans European Council meets on Brexit to have a home birth like the Queen’

Daily Mail 34-year-old prince would be by London his wife’s side “every step of the way”. The option would also have the added benefi t of giving the he Duchess of Sussex is couple the privacy they crave. considering a home birth It is understood they quickly Tat Windsor later this ruled out the option of using the month, friends have revealed. private Lindo Wing at St Mary’s Meghan, 37, is keen to follow Hospital, Paddington, like the in the Queen’s footsteps by hav- Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. ing a midwife-led birth at Frog- Kate delivered George, now fi ve, more Cottage, the new home she Charlotte, three, and 11-month- shares with Prince Harry on the old Louis at St Mary’s. However Berkshire estate. it is thought Harry and Meghan The Queen was born at the decided against it because it felt Mayfair home of her grandpar- too much like a “goldfi sh bowl”. ents and gave birth to each of her The duchess objected to the four children at either Bucking- idea of standing on the steps of ham Palace or Clarence House. the maternity unit surrounded Sources stressed that Harry by the public and the media just European Council president Donald Tusk, Prime Minister Theresa May and Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel look at a tablet ahead of a European Council meeting on and Meghan, who are expecting hours after the birth, particularly Brexit at The Europa Building at The European Parliament in Brussels yesterday. their fi rst child within weeks, when her child will not be in the have not ruled out a hospital de- direct line of succession. livery because a woman having Last week it emerged the cou- a baby over the age of 35 is at an ple had also made clear that they increased risk of premature birth want minimal involvement from or the need for an epidural or the Queen’s household doctors, caesarean. surgeon gynaecologists Alan But a friend in America said Farthing and Guy Thorpe-Bee- the duchess – who still prac- ston, widely considered to be tices yoga daily and has ‘sailed’ among the best in the business. through her pregnancy – is in ex- Sources said suggestions it was a May’s legacy will be rising tremely good health and sees no “snub” were “wide of the mark”, reason why she could not enjoy a however. safe delivery in the privacy of the “When it comes to giving cottage. birth, every woman has to decide “It is her favoured choice,” the what’s best for her and what’s source said, “but it obviously de- best for her baby. The Queen’s poverty, crime: Corbyn pends on how things are nearer team will be involved, but it has the time.” not been decided how much Guardian News and Media Instead he used the exchange ernment stands for tax cuts for expected to continue today. byn said, highlighting statistics If she does go ahead with a yet,” said one. Opting for a home London with Theresa May to highlight the richest and swingeing cuts The Labour leader highlighted which suggest child poverty is home birth, Meghan could give birth would also explain why child poverty in Swindon and for the rest. council cuts, child poverty and more than one-third higher in birth without any pain relief at there would be minimal need for Stoke-on-Trent, two authori- “Will the prime minister now homelessness in both Swindon Swindon than in Surrey, but all, but would also have the op- a consultant, aside from con- eremy Corbyn yesterday ties targeted by Labour before admit that far from tackling the and Stoke-on-Trent, two coun- the former has faced more than tion of gas and air, a warm bath, a fi rming that the baby is fi t and turned his fi re on the Con- the local elections next month. burning injustices she talked cils which Labour hopes to target £235 per household in funding birth pool, TENS (a machine that healthy. Jservative cuts to local au- He said the prime minister’s about, her government’s cruel in the elections on May 2. cuts. uses small, electrical impulses to Home births only account for thorities during prime minis- legacy, a nod to her expected and unfair policies have pushed Swindon, a marginal Con- “Why does Swindon face cuts reduce pain and muscle spasms) around 2.3% – one in 40 births ter’s questions, suggesting the imminent departure, would councils to the brink and left the servative council, has a third of when Surrey gets more money?” or relaxation techniques such as – in England and are normally prime minister’s legacy would be austerity and rising crime, just-about-managing not being its seats up for grabs and Stoke- he said. Corbyn also highlighted hypnobirthing, which Califor- led by a local midwife. Commu- be rising poverty and crime. rather than the help for strug- able to manage at all? That is on-Trent, which has no overall statistics on homelessness, nian Meghan – who very much nity midwives are available on The Labour leader avoided gling families that she had de- her legacy.” control, is run by a Conservative three times higher in Swindon favours alternative therapies – is the NHS but it is also possible discussion of Brexit for the sec- scribed in her fi rst leadership Opening his questions, Cor- and independent coalition. than Surrey, and food bank use believed to have been studying to hire an independent midwife ond week in a row as the two speech. “Child poverty is up, byn mentioned the continuing “Take Swindon for exam- in Stoke-on-Trent, where he with Harry. at a cost of between £2,000 and parties remain in talks over a violent crime is up, homeless- talks between Cabinet ministers ple, where Honda recently an- said more than 4,000 parcels It is understood that the £5,000. possible compromise deal. ness is up,” he said. “This gov- and senior Labour fi gures, were nounced 3,500 job cuts,” Cor- had been handed to children. Harry, Oprah team up for Website on bees sends mental health TV series people to escort service Guardian News and Media ing a “simple message on the es- London sential needs of pollinators and Guardian News and Media complete breakdown on numer- get this right as we bring you the how to fulfi l them”. London ous occasions”. facts, the science and the aware- A government page was still In the 2017 podcast Mad ness of a subject that is so rel- he department for envi- linking to the Bees’ Needs site World, by the Telegraph’s Bry- evant during these times. ronment, food and rural yesterday, when the Guardian he Duke of Sussex is team- ony Gordon, Harry admitted it “Our hope is that this series Taff airs has inadvertently informed Defra of the situation, ing up with Oprah Winfrey had led him to “shutting down will be positive, enlightening and been sending members of the and the site is prominently linked Tfor a documentary series all of my emotions for the last inclusive – sharing global sto- public looking for advice on en- to other government advice on on mental health, Kensington 20 years” and he had only truly ries of unparalleled human spirit couraging pollinators to a web- supporting pollinators. Palace has announced. addressed his grief at the age fi ghting back from the darkest site advertising escort services. The mistake has concerned Prince Harry said he hoped it of 28 after feeling “on the verge places, and the opportunity for The Bees’ Needs campaign, those seeking advice on how to would show examples of “hu- of punching someone”. He had us to understand ourselves and launched in 2014 by the then help hives in their local area. A man spirit fi ghting back from the since seen a therapist “more those around us better.” environment minister Lord de Guardian reader who spotted the darkest places”. He added that than a couple of times” and Together with the Duke and Mauley, called on the public to do error and asked to remain anon- he was “incredibly proud to be had reached a “good place” but Duchess of Cambridge, Har- more to help insect pollinators by ymous said: “It’s disturbing to working alongside Oprah on this hoped by speaking out to en- ry launched Heads Together, growing more nectar-rich fl ow- think people such as myself, who vital series, which we have been courage others to do the same he a mental health initiative by ers, leaving patches of land to are sincerely trying to help polli- developing together for several would help break the stigma sur- the Royal Foundation, and has grow wild and cutting grass less nators, are not being directed to months”. rounding mental health. worked with veterans around the often. the correct site. Kensington Palace said the Harry and Winfrey will be co- world with the Invictus Games However, the site now dis- “It shows the government is series would build on Harry’s creators and executive producers foundation and the Endeavour plays a list of hundreds of Brit- not taking seriously the threat of long-standing work on mental of the series to be broadcast on Fund as well as UK military char- ish neighbourhoods, all of which loss of pollinators.” health that has seen him share the US streaming service Apple ities to ensure the best possible link to a site off ering “independ- A Defra spokesperson said that his personal experience and ad- TV+. mental health services for armed ent escorts”. conclusion was “a leap, consid- vocating for those who “silently Harry, who together with service personnel. It is unclear when the domain ering the amount of work we are suff er”. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, in- Apple TV+ , unveiled last was taken over by the escort site, doing around pollinators, and far Harry, 34, has championed vited Winfrey to their wedding, month, is set to launch in the but the website was being cited more recently than fi ve years ago”. mental health issues since re- said: “I truly believe that good autumn and will compete with in parliament as late as Septem- In December 2018, the govern- vealing the “quite serious ef- mental health – mental fi tness – Netfl ix and Amazon Prime Vid- ber 2015, when the then envi- ment published the latest version fect” his mother’s death has had is the key to powerful leadership, eo. There are as yet no details on ronment minister Rory Stewart of the National Pollinator Strat- on his life, admitting at times it productive communities and a how much the service will cost highlighted the call to action in egy implementation plan, detail- was “total chaos” and that he had purpose-driven self. and what will be available for a written answer. Stewart de- ing the next three years of the “probably been very close to a “It is a huge responsibility to British viewers. Prince Harry:championing mental health issues scribed the campaign as provid- strategy. Gulf Times 16 Thursday, April 11, 2019 EUROPE

PANDA DIPLOMACY AUTHORISED JUSTICE REFORM Royals welcome giant Vatican opens cold-case Facebook fined in France Norway to ban fur farms by pandas to Copenhagen probe into missing teen over ‘abusive’ usage terms 2025, compensate farmers

Two giant pandas were given a royal welcome to The Vatican is opening an internal probe into A French court has ordered Facebook to Norway’s government yesterday detailed plans Denmark — and Copenhagen Zoo — by Danish the case of Emanuela Orlandi, a teenager who pay 30,000 euros ($34,000) over “abusive” to ban fur farms by 2025, off ering financial Queen Margrethe II. The queen off iciated at disappeared in 1983 in one of Italy’s darkest terms-of-use agreements that people had compensation to farmers who blasted it as a yesterday’s gala opening of the zoo’s panda mysteries, media reports said yesterday. The to accept in order to access their social “historic betrayal”. A bill presented to parliament facility built for female giant panda Mao Sun Holy See has “authorised the opening of an media accounts, the consumer group which would render it illegal after 2025 to possess and male panda Xing Er. The duo arrived in the investigation”, the family’s lawyer Laura Sgro told filed the lawsuit said yesterday. France’s animals for the purpose of killing them “for the sale Scandinavian country a week ago, and have Italian media. Orlandi, the daughter of a member of consumer protection agency has said it or any other use of their fur.” The proposed ban since been given time to settle in. In her brief the Vatican’s police, was last seen leaving a music and the European Commission had secured is the result of an agreement reached in January remarks, the queen said this was “a day many class aged 15, and theories have circulated for Facebook’s agreement to “significantly 2018 when the right-wing government expanded had looked forward to with great expectations.” decades about who took her and where her body modify its terms of use” by June. They will to include the small Liberal Party, which insisted on Crown Princess Mary, patron of the panda may lie. The Vatican said last month that it may include “clear language” spelling out that the measure. While the fur sector has largely come A giant panda named Mao Sun explores its facility, was present at the ceremony as was open a tomb on its grounds to see if it holds the girl’s Facebook makes money by allowing targeted to terms with the idea of a gradual dismantling of enclosure at the Copenhagen zoo during the China’s ambassador to Denmark, Deng Ying, and remains, after Sgro received an anonymous tip-off advertising based on the contents of a user’s their industry, it was critical of the compensation off icial presentation yesterday to the press. Mette Bock, the Danish culture minister. telling her to look inside the marble-topped grave. profile. the government was off ering farmers. France pushes new Tail tale ‘growth contract’ to eurozone partners

By Leigh Thomas, Reuters with weak competitiveness in exchange for more Paris public investment in countries with less budget strains, like Germany, Finland and the Nether- lands. rance will propose a new “growth contract” France has long called for more public invest- with its eurozone partners to encourage ment in northern Europe, but its appeals have Fnorthern countries in the bloc to invest more largely been ignored. and for southern countries to undertake further As economy minister at the time, President reforms, its fi nance minister said yesterday. Emmanuel Macron urged Germany in 2014 to Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said he would spend an additional 50bn euros ($56bn) on in- make the proposal to his euro zone counterparts to- vestments to support the European economy. day on the sidelines of a G7 meeting in Washington. Le Maire insisted he was not simply reiterat- “We can’t just stand there with our arms ing such calls for more spending from Germany, crossed in the face of the marked and worrying as France was pushing ahead with reforms of its global slowdown,” Le Maire told a French parlia- economic model. mentary fi nance commission. “But solidarity requires that they make the “I think eurozone fi nance and economy min- necessary public investments so that overall the isters have a responsibility to take action,” he eurozone does better. If it is everyman for him- added. self, there is no point in being in a monetary un- The global economic outlook has dimmed rap- ion,” he said. A zookeeper interacts with a sea lion during its training aimed at making medical interventions easier at the Vincennes zoological idly in recent months amid trade tensions and Le Maire said his plan also relied on more ef- gardens in Paris. The zoo of Paris will tomorrow celebrate five years since its reopening. Brexit worries, the International Monetary Fund forts to protect the eurozone against a future had warned on Tuesday, downgrading its outlook crisis, such as having a shared budget to reduce for the third time since October. economic divergences, fi nalising a planned back- Growth is slowing in regional powerhouse stop for bad bank loans and better integration of Germany as well as Italy, while it is proving more fi nancial markets. resilient in France. The IMF forecast growth in The Organisation for Economic Co-operation Germany this year at 0.8% and Italy at only 0.1%, and Development has estimated that a co-ordi- while France was seen at 1.3%. nated package of reforms and fi scal stimulus in Le Maire said the proposed new “growth con- the eurozone could boost growth by 0.5 percent- tract” would consist of reforms in countries age points over the next three years. ‘Lukewarm EU is Taxi travails hurting Balkans’

By Briseida Mema and elections approach, the region is For example, he places some starting negotiations by another Nicolas Gaudichet, AFP feeling increasingly unwelcome blame with Brussels for a recent year for Albania and neighbour- Tirana as public opinion and politicians nosedive in already bitter rela- ing North Macedonia which now inside the bloc, particularly in tions between Serbia and Ko- expects a reward for agreeing a France, sour on the prospect of sovo, a former province that is diffi cult diplomatic deal that in- alkan countries are hurting bringing in new members. mainly ethnic Albanian. volved changing its name to set- from the stalled integration Rama said he could understand The spark of their latest dis- tle a dispute with Greece. Bprocess with the European the “lukewarmness” around pute — Kosovo’s imposition of a Rama also warned that if the Union, where member states are enlargement in light of rising 100% tariff on Serbian goods — EU now decides only to kick off growing weary of enlargement, populism, Euro-scepticism and was a “political cry” after Brus- North Macedonia’s bid while Albanian Prime Minister Edi other turmoil. sels failed to lift visa require- leaving Albania behind, it would Rama told AFP in an interview. But the “lack of clarity” has ments for Kosovars inside the show a “monumental blindness “I believe (the Western Bal- consequences for the fragile Bal- Union, Rama argued. from a strategic point of view”. kans) are not as well off today as kans, he added, recalling a warn- While the European Parliament In Albania, the main refrain we were two years ago,” the pre- ing that European Commission has recommended scrapping the from Brussels is the need to tack- mier said from his offi ce in Ti- President Jean-Claude Juncker visa requirements since Pristina le widespread corruption and or- rana, adding he had “no doubt” it delivered last year. met all the conditions, EU mem- ganised crime. was linked to growing uncertain- If “the impression arises that ber states have not followed suit Rama feels the focus on crime ty about the EU’s commitment to we’re not serious about off ering and opening their doors. has been “infl ated” and is used to the region as a whole. the prospect of EU membership “We would not have these justify a delay in starting nego- All countries in the Western to the western Balkans, then we 100% tariff s if there had been tiations. Balkans, a poor corner of southeast might see later — and probably visa liberalisation,” Rama said. “Crime, crime, crime. Of Europe surrounded by EU member even sooner — what we saw in What the Balkans needs, he course we have a crime problem states, aspire to join the bloc. the Balkans in the 1990s,” Junck- said, is “a relationship with a but no more than other countries Montenegro and Serbia are er said, referring to a decade of Europe where we are not hostage that are even members of the Un- furthest along in accession nego- brutal confl ict as the former Yu- to the internal dynamics of the ion,” he countered. tiations, hoping to join by 2025, goslavia fell apart. member states.” But the longing for a future in- while Albania and North Mac- While Rama did not use the As for his own country of side the bloc has not abated in his edonia expect to see their bids dramatic “EU or war” phrasing, around 2.8mn, it “deserves” the country, he claims. opened this June. he said a “deepening” of Euro- promised opening of accession “We are still in love with Eu- Drivers take part in a protest of licensed taxi drivers against a planned change of the passenger Further behind are Bosnia and pean engagement was needed to negotiations in June “without a rope. That’s the problem. That’s transport law in Berlin yesterday. Kosovo. tackle tensions between Balkan doubt”. why we don’t like delays, luke- But as European Parliament neighbours. Last June, the EU delayed warmness.” ‘Flight shame’ has Swedes rethinking air travel

By Johannes Ledel, AFP Forum in Davos and the climate Viktoria Hellstrom, a 27-year- between 1990 and 2017 were fi ve abroad less last year did so be- #fl yingless or #stopfl ying — but say that changing travel patterns Stockholm summit in Katowice, Poland. old political science student in times the global average. cause of climate reasons. average CO2 emissions of 285gm are not always a direct result of A growing number of public Stockholm, told AFP. Emissions from Swedes’ in- National rail operator SJ re- per air kilometre, compared with “fl ight shame”. fi gures have vowed to #stay- Last summer, she took the ternational air travel have soared ported a 21% boost in business 158 for cars and 14 for trains, have Frida Hylander, a Swedish addled with long dark win- ontheground, including Swedish train to Italy, even though the 61% since 1990, their study said. travel this winter, and the gov- given many pause. psychologist, said shame, and ters at home, Swedes have television skiing commentator friends she was meeting there Swedes’ concerns rely on solid ernment has announced plans to Fausta Gabola, a French-Ital- the fear of being shamed, was a Sfor decades been frequent Bjorn Ferry who said last year he went by plane, as that would have data: the Swedish Meteorological reintroduce night trains to major ian student in Paris, is no longer powerful motivator, but she also fl yers seeking out sunnier climes, would only travel to competi- been her second fl ight within a Institute said last week that the European cities before the end of sure that she should take up an cautioned against overstating its but a growing number are chang- tions by train. few weeks. average annual temperature was its mandate in 2022. off er to study in Australia on a importance. ing their ways because of air trav- And 250 people working in “The only way I could jus- rising twice as fast in the country The number of domestic fl ight scholarship. Other factors were at play, Hy- el’s impact on the climate. the fi lm industry signed a recent tify going there was if I took the as the global average. passengers was projected to be “It’s my dream to go there,” she lander said, citing as an example ‘Flygskam’, or fl ight shame, has article in the country’s biggest train,” she said. In March, the World Wildlife down by 3.2% in 2018, the trans- told AFP. Sweden’s unusually hot summer last become a buzz word referring to daily Dagens Nyheter calling for The Scandinavian country’s Foundation published a survey port authority said in its latest “I applied without thinking year which caused massive wildfi res feeling guilt over the environ- Swedish fi lm producers to limit location far north — it is 4,000km indicating that nearly one in fi ve fi gures from September, though too much about it and now I have and may have sparked wider con- mental eff ects of ying,fl contrib- shoots abroad. from the northernmost town of Swedes had chosen to travel by the number of passengers on in- a dilemma. I would feel like a cerns about climate change. uting to a trend that has more An anonymous Swedish In- Kiruna to France’s Cote d’Azur rail rather than by air in order to ternational fl ights rose 4%. hypocrite if I went.” “You should exercise caution and more Swedes, mainly young, stagram account created in De- — as well as its robust standard minimise their environmental So far the “fl ight shame” trend French political scientist when pointing to one single fac- opting to travel by train to ease cember has been shaming social of living, the popularity of char- impact. hasn’t had the same traction Mathilde Szuba said any no-fl y tor,” Hylander said. their conscience. media profi les and infl uencers for ter trips and the rise of low-cost The trend was most noticeable among Sweden’s neighbours, al- decision eff ectively puts distant A new fl ight tax introduced in Spearheading the movement promoting trips to far-fl ung des- airlines have all contributed to among women and young peo- though Finland has spawned its countries out of reach. April 2018 may also have played a for trains-over-planes is Swe- tinations, racking up more than making Swedes big fl yers. ple, it said. own version of the expression, “There is no easy substitute for role, she said, as well as the bank- den’s own Greta Thunberg, the 60,000 followers. Researchers at Chalmers Uni- Meanwhile, a survey published calling it “lentohapea”. fl ying,” she told AFP. “You can’t ruptcy of regional airline Nex- 16-year-old climate school strik- “I’m certainly aff ected by my versity of Technology in Gothen- this week in Sweden’s lead- Other parts of the developed go to faraway places without tak- tJet, which led to the closure of a er who refuses to fl y, travelling surroundings and (fl ight shame) burg last year found that Swedes’ ing travel magazine Vagabond world may not have a word that’s ing the plane.” number of domestic fl ight routes by rail to the World Economic has aff ected how I view fl ying,” per capita emissions from fl ying said 64% of those who travelled quite as catchy — making do with Back in Sweden, some experts for several months. Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 17 INDIA ‘Some PMO offi cials may leave if Modi re-elected’

Reuters They said offi cials in several Sanjay Mayukh, a spokesman Senior bureaucrats said Modi’s at state government level, Modi’s sultative work after retirement. ignation of its governor and his New Delhi ministries were trying to move, for the ruling Bharatiya Janata top-down approach, and his or- style of leadership has been a jolt. There is also a handsome replacement with an offi cial who but did not have a number. Party (BJP), declined to comment ders to work on public holidays, Many of these top offi cials pension. is considered more loyal to Modi, There are about 25 senior civil on the grounds that governance to demand they submit details have received a Western-style But such conditions can also offi cials said. he Indian government may servants working in the PMO, issues were managed directly by of their assets, and to clean their education at India’s elite univer- breed complacency and a lack of RSS fi gures also criticise Modi have to make a series of which under Modi has become ministers. own workplaces at the start of a sities or schools overseas and are ‘can do’ behaviour, according to for not having enough profes- Tmajor changes at the top of the single most powerful depart- A spokesman in the PMO did fi ve-year cleanliness campaign uncomfortable with the ruling politicians and civil servants. sionally trained experts in place the nation’s civil service if Prime ment in government. not return phone calls seeking in 2014, has widened the gap be- party’s Hindu nationalism and They say there are plenty of Sir to implement some of his more Minister Narendra Modi is re- The three offi cials said the rea- comment. tween the civil servants and the Modi’s rough-hewn approach to Humphreys in New Delhi, refer- controversial policies. elected to a second term in May, sons for wanting out are almost To be sure, some other major nation’s leader. governance. ring to a character in the British “The country needs a profes- according to multiple sources in all the same. governments around the world Amit Shah, a close aide of While getting into the Indian TV comedy series Yes Minister sional administration for eco- the administration. Many top bureaucrats com- often face a series of departures Modi and president of the BJP, in Administrative Service (IAS) is about how top offi cials in White- nomic development and can’t At least eight senior bureau- plained about two aspects of the and changes, especially when a a closed door meeting attended incredibly hard - only 1 out of hall stall government policies depend on generalists,” said crats in the Prime Minister’s Offi ce Modi administration – their in- fi rst term morphs into a second by two ministers in February said about 4,500 who took the civil they don’t agree with. Ashwani Mahajan, co-convenor (PMO) have either sought a trans- ability to infl uence government term. bureaucrats continued to suff er service exam got selected in 2018 In particular, there is deep of the Swadeshi Jagran Manch fer to other departments or plan to policy as it is largely controlled Also, just because an offi - from “communist romanticism”, - traditionally once someone got resentment in the top echelons (SJM), the economic wing of the take premature retirement, three and set by the prime minister cial talks about quitting doesn’t a reference to the alleged infl uence in they had a job for life with few of the Indian civil service over RSS that has campaigned against government offi cials said. and a small group of ministers mean they will. of the Congress Party on the bu- risks of ever getting fi red. the interference in government some bureaucrats. The offi cials, from the PMO, and advisers, and the demanding But in India, offi cials in the reaucrats. An IAS job – one of the most by the Rashtriya Swayemsevak Last year, Modi proposed the home ministry and the for- work schedule they face. PMO are hand-picked for loyalty The ministers, who spoke to sought after in India – bestows Sangh (RSS), these officials bringing in at least ten profes- eign ministry, declined to be “The sense of partnership is and tend to stay if the adminis- Reuters, declined to be identi- huge power as well as cheap said. sionals from the private sector named because of the sensitivity missing, Modi and his ministers tration is re-elected. fied. housing, a car with a driver and RSS functionaries have had a into the civil service at the joint of the subject. do not have an organic relation- Modi’s BJP-led alliance is For some of the 5,000 or so other perks, leave for govern- major role in successfully lob- secretary level, but the plan has Two of them said they too are ship with the bureaucrats,” said tipped to win a slim majority in mandarins who run the Indian ment-paid foreign study, and of- bying for big changes at the Re- still to be implemented, and is keen to be transferred to state the civil servant in the home the April-May general election, government, its state-owned en- ten the chance for plum positions serve Bank of India, for example, facing strong resistance from capitals or to other jobs. ministry. pollsters say. tities, as well as administration in business or government con- leading to last December’s res- civil servants. Court to hear Rafale deal in setback for BJP govt

Agencies Sinha, two former ministers New Delhi of the BJP and activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan seeking the investigation argued that the he Supreme Court said deal’s escalating price should be yesterday it will hear a investigated after documents re- Trequest for an investiga- lating to some aspects were pub- tion into a $8.7bn Rafale fi ghter lished by The Hindu newspaper. jet deal with France’s Dassault The government told the court Aviation, in a setback for Prime national security was at stake Minister Narendra Modi’s gov- and the leak of the documents ernment. infringed the Offi cial Secrets Act, As general elections get un- a law dating to the colonial era. derway today, the court agreed to “We deem it proper to dismiss examine new evidence published the preliminary objections raised Porters carry Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines and Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) through Buxa tiger reserve forest to a remote polling station, in Alipurduar by newspapers after it rejected by the Union of India question- district in West Bengal yesterday. the petitions last December. ing the maintainability of the The published material was review petitions. We hold and privileged defence documents, affi rm that the review petitions the government says. will have to be adjudicated on “Preliminary objections of the their own merit by taking into Centre are dismissed,” said the account the relevance of the court, led by Chief Justice Ran- contents of the three documents, jan Gogoi, referring to the fed- admissibility of which, in the ju- eral government, adding that it dicial decision making process, India on high security would set a date for further hear- has been sought to be questioned ings. by the respondents in the review Modi, facing a tightening elec- petitions,” said the judgment by tion, has vehemently denied op- Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and position allegations of wrongdo- Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul ing in the purchase of 36 Rafale Justice K M Joseph, in his sepa- planes and the government had rate but concurring judgment, alert for mega elections asked the court to reject the peti- said: “...the case does not strictly tions, citing national security. involve in a sense the claim for AFP in troubled Chhattisgarh state – The result is predicted to be by patrols, and in nearby Bihar urged fi rst-time voters to dedi- The arms deal has been an privilege as the petitioners have New Delhi where the attack was carried out close however. where two roadside bombs were cate their ballot to the military election issue with opposition not called upon the respondents to – when voting starts today, state Chhattisgarh is among sensi- detonated. who staged the air strike inside Congress Party chief Rahul Gan- produce the original” and pointed police chief D Awasthi said. tive states where polling is stag- Kashmir hit the headlines Pakistan. dhi, saying it exposed the claims out that “the state does not take ndia went on high security Maoist rebels are behind many gered over several weeks so secu- ahead of the election after 40 Congress said the speech of his Bharatiya Janata Party objection to the correctness of the alert yesterday ahead of the of the long-simmering insurgen- rity and administrative staff can paramilitaries were killed in a breached an Election Commis- (BJP)-led government’s asser- contents of the documents”. Istart of its marathon election, cies in at least nine states. be moved around. suicide attack in February. sion order that political parties tions of running a clean admin- The three documents, over after a campaign dominated by But the Election Commission, The killing of a Rashtriya India blamed the attack on should not use the armed forces istration. which the government had Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s which organises the world’s big- Swayamswevak Sangh leader in a Pakistan-based group and for propaganda. Law Minister Ravi Shankar claimed privilege, are an eight- leadership that has focused on gest democratic election with Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday launched a cross-border air raid, Meanwhile, Congress presi- Prasad said yesterday’s decision page note June 1, 2016 written by keeping the country safe from 900mn eligible voters choos- reinforced fears of trouble during which sparked a retaliatory strike dent Rahul Gandhi fi led his was not a setback for the gov- three members of the Indian ne- attack. ing 543 MPs, insisted the attack voting. Parts of Kashmir will also by Pakistan that briefl y brought nomination papers yesterday ernment and the court had only gotiating team on the Rafale deal; A bomb blast on Tuesday would not change its schedule. vote today. the rivals close to a new war. following a roadshow in his home agreed to consider new evidence. note 18 of the Defence Ministry blamed on Maoist rebels killed Seats in 20 states will be de- Gunmen burst into a Jammu Modi has used India’s action constituency of Amethi in Uttar “We are very sure that the re- marked secret under the Offi cial fi ve people, including a lawmaker cided on the fi rst of seven days of hospital and shot dead the leader against Pakistan to bolster his Pradesh. view petition in the light of these Secrets Act; and note 10 written of Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Par- voting spread over six weeks. of the rightwing RSS, which is strongman image and divert at- Amethi goes to the polls on facts would not be considered,” by Defence Ministry’s deputy ty, heightened fears of election The BJP is seeking a second closely linked to the BJP. tention from criticism over a lack May 6. he said, adding it would probably secretary on November 11, 2015 bloodshed. term, defending a landslide win Tensions also simmered in the of jobs across the country and a The last vote is on May 19 and be dismissed. and marked secret under the Of- Some 80,000 troops, police and over the opposition Congress eastern state of Odisha where farmers’ debt crisis. the results will be announced on Arun Shourie and Yashwant fi cial Secrets Act. paramilitaries will be deployed Party in 2014. two landmines were recovered At a rally on Tuesday, Modi May 23. Hunting for freebies with ‘mobile fl ying squads’

AFP team of offi cials around the pros- Rs1.5bn ($22mn), 4.4mn litres of today are multi-millionaires. important part of the election Coimbatore perous industrial town of Coim- liquor and even precious metals “Our statistics prove that the process – even though almost batore in their two SUVs. and illegal drugs. candidates with criminal back- 73% know it is illegal. “There are days when we get From the moment the election grounds and money have a much “Many politicians say that t’s a game of cat and mouse nothing. But on others, a timely was announced in mid-March, better chance of winning,” Anil voters themselves demand free- for Naresh and his “fl ying tip-off by rivals or by plain per- special laws took eff ect ban- Verma, head of ADR’s National bies and they feel even more Isquad”, stopping cars, trucks severance and luck, we may fi nd ning Indians from carrying large Election Watch unit, told AFP. pressured if any rival off ers and scooters to hunt for goodies cash, a stash of alcohol or other amounts of money, gold or silver “The unlimited fl ow of money them,” said Verma. being handed to voters in India’s freebies,” he added. without proper supporting doc- and its use to induce voters is in- “It is a temptation many can’t mammoth election starting to- Over several hours, and in umentation. creasing and we can see it with resist. One can still understand day. constant touch with a command Offi cials such as police and rail- the nationwide cash seizures by the economically weak doing it The illegal doling out of every- centre, they stop dozens of ve- way staff are also granted tempo- authorities,” he added. but in some Indian states includ- thing from alcohol to kitchen ap- hicles and comb through the in- rary powers during the campaign Kumar, a Coimbatore resi- ing Tamil Nadu, even the middle pliances has long been a feature teriors, even under moped seats, to seize items they believe are be- dent who uses only one name, classes often take the money and of the vast undertaking that is but in vain – this time. ing used to sway voters. told AFP that he always rejected the freebies,” he added. Indian elections. The day before another squad The phenomenon may not be any inducements off ered by local Meanwhile, others say that But it’s getting worse. impounded a vehicle packed with new but many observers say that candidates. while they might take what is of- Naresh (not his real name) is saris. it has only become more acute in “The parties give us Rs500 each fered, they won’t necessarily ful- part of one of 60 “mobile fl ying Others in the past have seized recent years, giving a huge advan- asking us to vote for their party. I fi l their side of the bargain. squads” in just one district in booze, watches, juicers, mixers, tage to richer candidates who can tell them that I don’t need money “Why refuse when they off er Tamil Nadu, where political par- or just hard cash. always spend more to get elected. to vote and that I’d vote for who- us money? We can still go and ties are notoriously generous at And while Tamil Nadu is a A report by the Association for ever I want to vote,” he said. vote for the candidate we like,” election time. hotspot for such practices, it’s a Democratic Reforms (ADR), a New But he’s likely just one side of said Senthil Kumar, a Coimbatore “We never really know how our nationwide phenomenon in the Delhi-based non-government en- the coin. cab driver. day will end,” Naresh, a khaki- country. tity pushing for electoral trans- Another ADR survey found “I even tell my family to take uniformed policeman, said as In late March authorities said parency, says that 32% of candi- 41% of those polled felt that the the money but vote for whoever A member of an Election Commission “flying squad” searches a truck AFP accompanied him and his that they had already seized dates in the fi rst phase of voting distribution of freebies was an they want.” in Coimbatore. Gulf Times 18 Thursday, April 11, 2019 INDIA

For younger generation of voters, the only issue is good jobs

DPA amount Coaching, one of many voters, according to a 2018 sur- Janata Party in the 2014 elec- But recent reports on the among the applicants, reported compared to the size of the work- New Delhi similar institutions that line the vey by the Association of Demo- tions, in which it received a number of applicants – often news website The Print. ing age population, have reduced road to the railway station in Gur- cratic Rights (ADR), a non-profi t thumping majority. During that overqualifi ed – for government The job qualifi cations were wages in the private and unor- gaon, 32km south of New Delhi. working on electoral reforms. campaign, Modi criticised the jobs indicate something is seri- an education up to standard fi ve ganised sectors to the point where undreds of young people In 2018, there were an es- The political parties are prom- incumbent Congress Party-led ously amiss. of school and the ability to ride only the desperate are willing to stream into a three-sto- timated 2.7mn applicants for ising better educational oppor- alliance government for “job- In April 2018, the state-run a bicycle. India remains among take up such jobs,” writes Mahesh Hrey building in a suburb 8,084 inspector and clerical as- tunities, skill development and less growth” and said his party Indian Railways received 23.7mn the fastest-growing economies Vyas, who heads the independent of New Delhi on a dusty summer sistant posts in various federal employment creation if elected would create 10mn new jobs. applications for 123,000 vacan- in the world, clocking average consultancy Centre for Monitor- morning. government departments. to power. More than a third of But a recently leaked govern- cies for posts such as train driver, gross-domestic product (GDP) ing Indian Economy. They are among thousands Rising demand over the past India’s population of 1.3bn are ment statistical survey showed technician and track worker. growth of about 7.5% between Jatin Yadav, 23, is an engi- across the country on their way decade for a limited number of between ages 18 and 35. that Modi’s India in 2017-2018 In February, a report from 2014 and 2019. neering graduate who worked in to attend classes to prepare for government jobs highlights In- Not all of them have registered reached the highest unemploy- Uttar Pradesh found that there The problem is that the rate the private sector for a year as a entrance examinations for gov- dia’s failure to meet the aspira- as voters, but of the new addi- ment rate in 45 years, at 6.1%. were over 90,000 applicants for of job creation is failing to keep trainee technician for a salary of ernment jobs. tions of a growing number of tions since elections in 2014, The government dismissed the 62 telephone messenger posi- pace with the growth of a young Rs5,500. “There is security, the salary educated young people seeking about 15mn are aged 18-19 and survey, saying a jump in income tions in the police department. population ready to join the “The experience was very comes in every month, and you secure, well-paid employment. more are expected. tax and provident fund accounts The job involves carrying doc- workforce, while the private bad. There was hardly any paid could even get quarters (accom- As India prepares to elect a Prime Minister Narendra Mo- showed that job numbers had uments and fi les between po- sector is failing to produce good leave, no sick leave, increments modations),” says Krishna, 23, a new government in month-long di’s promise to boost a sluggish risen. Experts maintain that it is lice stations. There were 3,700 quality jobs, Delhi-based econo- and promotions were given on a mathematics postgraduate. polls that kick off today, em- economy was a key campaign nearly impossible to accurately people with PhDs, 28,000 post- mist Shikha Patel says. whim rather than merit or hard Krishna attends classes at Par- ployment is a priority issue for commitment by his Bharatiya measure job growth in India. graduates and 50,000 graduates “The low job opportunities, work,” he says. A fi lm that sent Sanjay Gandhi to jail, ruined the Congress

IANS Gandhi-led Congress in the 1977 Jaipur Lok Sabha elections. The Shah Commission estab- lished by the Janata Party gov- mid the controversy sur- ernment in 1977 to probe the rounding Prime Minister excesses committed during the ANarendra Modi’s biopic, Emergency found Sanjay Gandhi which was banned by the Elec- guilty of burning the negatives of tion Commission (EC) yesterday, the fi lm along with V C Shukla, IANS revisits another fi lm that the information and broadcast- rocked the country during the ing minister at the time. Emergency. Sanjay Gandhi, who was also A man looks at the poster of upcoming film PM Narendra Modi outside a theatre in Mumbai. Directed by Amrit Nahata, a accused of infl uencing witness- three-time MP from Rajasthan, es, spent a month in Tihar Jail Kissa Kursi Ka can be termed as after being denied bail by the Su- the fi rst political spoof in Indian preme Court. Shukla was jailed cinema made in 1975, just before for two years though the verdict the declaration of the draconian was overturned later. Emergency in June. Nahata was a two-time Con- Starring Shabana Azmi, Raj gress MP from Rajasthan. He Kiran and Utpal Dutt, the fi lm joined the Janata Party after the Poll panel bans Modi was a satire on the politics of In- Emergency and became an MP dira Gandhi and her son Sanjay on its ticket in 1977. Gandhi, making apparent refer- Hailing from Jodhpur, he fi rst ences to the latter’s Maruti car joined the Congress in 1962 and project. contested his fi rst Lok Sabah However, after the Censor elections in 1967 and won from Board’s revising committee sent Barmer. Nahata was re-elected biopic and NaMo TV the fi lm for clearance to the gov- from Barmer in 1971 after he ernment, a show-cause notice defeated Bharatiya Janata Par- Agencies broadcasts Modi’s rallies live, as a censors’ certifi cate and was panel added that in case of a viola- The Commission added there raising 51 objections was slapped ty (BJP) heavyweight Bhairon New Delhi well as promotional material for planned to release today as the tion, a committee constituted by is an emergent need for inter- on the fi lmmakers by the Infor- Singh Shekhawat. the ruling party. fi rst wave of voters went to the the Commission would examine vention in such political content mation and Broadcasting Minis- In 1977, he became a Janata Under election rules, known ballot box. and suggest appropriate action. “intended (or purported to be) try. By the time, the Emergency Party MP from Pali in Rajasthan ndia yesterday banned the as the Model Code of Conduct, “Any biopic in the nature of The committee would be for benefi ting or discrediting the was declared. after defeating Mool Chand Da- release of a biopic about the publication of any content biography or hagiography sub- headed by a retired Supreme electoral prospects” of any can- Subsequently, all the prints gan of the Congress. IPrime Minister Narendra deemed as campaign material – serving the purposes of any po- Court judge or a retired chief didate or political party, for en- and the master-print of the Known for his outspoken Modi during the country’s mara- including advertisements, fi lms litical entity or any individual justice of a high court. suring a level playing fi eld. fi lm were picked from the Cen- nature, Nahata did not even thon elections after complaints and even social media – requires entity connected to it or which The poll panel said it had re- In the past the Election Com- sor Board offi ce and brought to spare the then prime minister that the fl attering portrayal the Election Commission’s prior has the potential to disturb the ceived complaints about cer- mission has ordered that el- the Maruti factory in Gurugram Indira Gandhi about whom he would give the ruling Bharatiya approval. level playing fi eld during the tain fi lms, namely NTR Laxmi, ephant statues be covered up (then Gurgaon) where they were once said: “India has got such Janata Party an unfair advantage. The commission – which elections should not be dis- PM Narendra Modi and Udyama during campaigns involving burned. a prime minister in the form of Modi is seeking a second term, organises the world’s biggest played in electronic media, in- Simham, which “claimed to ei- the Bahujan Samaj Party whose Nahata later remade the fi lm Indira Gandhi who has no trust defending a landslide win over democratic poll with 900mn cluding cinematograph during ther diminish or advance the icon is the pachyderm, and that with a new cast, which was re- in morality. For her, results are the opposition Congress Party eligible voters choosing 543 MPs the operation of MCC (model electoral prospect of a candidate cooling fans in a voting station leased in 1978. everything and to attain these in 2014. – said the fi lm “has the potential code of conduct),” the Commis- or a political party in the garb of be removed so as not to favour a The unreleased version of the results, any channel can be fol- The result is predicted to be to disturb the level playing fi eld sion said in its order. creative freedom”. candidate who had adopted the fi lm is remembered for mark- lowed.” close however. during the elections”. It also said that any poster or Though the display materials fan as his offi cial symbol. ing the beginning of the end of In his fi lm career, Nahata di- In a win for the opposition, Congress insisted it was prop- publicity material concerning claimed “to be part of creative Had it been released the Sanjay Gandhi, who had to go to rected three movies – Sant Gy- the Election Commission barred aganda and resisted the timing any such certifi ed content which content, it has been contended fi lm would have been screened jail facing charges of burning its aneshwar (1965), a religious the cinematic release of the fi lm of its release, even taking its fi ght either depicts a candidate for fur- that these have propensity and throughout the election cam- prints. biopic, Raton Ka Raja (1967), a PM Narendra Modi until voting to the country’s Supreme Court. therance of electoral prospect di- potentiality to aff ect the level paign and its poster – depicting Kissa Kursi Ka also emerged as crime thriller, and the political concludes on May 19. The movie tells the story of rectly or indirectly shall not be put playing fi eld” which is “not in Modi surrounded by children a powerful tool at the hands of satire Kissa Kursi Ka (1975). The commission also ordered Modi’s ascent to power from his to display in the electronic media consonance with the provisions under the tagline “patriotism is the Janata Party and eventually Nahata died in 2001 at the age a ban on NaMo TV, a recently days selling tea at a train station. in the area where MCC is in force. of model code of conduct”, it my strength” – could have been led to the debacle of the Indira of 72. launched television channel that The fi lm had been granted The order issued by the poll said. freely displayed. British PM voices regret over Ten women die in Telangana mudslide

Agencies Jallianwala Bagh massacre Hyderabad

Agencies troops opened fi re on thousands also consider the “fi nancial im- en impoverished women working as London of unarmed protesters, remains plications” of any apology for daily wage labourers died after being an enduring scar from British events of the past. Tburied alive yesterday in the south- colonial rule in India. A ceremony was due to take ern state of Telangana by a mudslide, police ritish Prime Minister Colonial-era records show place at the site of the massacre said. Theresa May yesterday about 400 people died in the on Saturday. On Tuesday De- The incident took place in the Narayanpet Bexpressed regret for a northern city of Amritsar when fence Minister Nirmala Sithara- district of the state, a senior police offi cer massacre by British troops in In- soldiers opened fi re on men, man said Britain should apolo- said. dia in 1919 but stopped short of a women and children in an en- gise for the massacre and also for “They were daily wage labourers and were full apology. closed area, but Indian fi gures the 1943 Bengal famine. working at a digging site. They went near a “We deeply regret what hap- put the toll at closer to 1,000. In 1997, Queen Elizabeth II hill to have their lunch when the mudslide pened and the suff ering caused,” Former British prime minister laid a wreath at the site but her occurred,” said G Sridhar, the deputy police May told the British parliament, David Cameron described it as gaff e-prone husband Prince superintendent of Narayanpet. as India prepares to mark the “deeply shameful” during a visit Philip stole the headlines by re- Police and rescue offi cials used earth mov- 100th anniversary of the killings. in 2013 but also stopped short of an portedly saying that Indian es- ers to clear the mud and retrieve the bodies. “I am pleased that today the apology. May’s statement comes a timates for the death count were Witnesses said the women were buried un- UK-India relationship is one of day after British MPs debated the “vastly exaggerated”. Sithara- der a mound of mud some 6 to 8ft deep. collaboration, partnership, pros- issue of a formal apology. man said that now was the time Five others, employed under the Mahatma perity and security. Indian di- Foreign Offi ce Minister Mark for Britain to say sorry. Gandhi National Rural Employment Guaran- aspora make an enormous contri- Field had told MPs that he had “Without a doubt, yes,” Sith- tee Scheme (MGNREGS), were injured in the bution to British society and I am been “compelled” by the argu- araman said. “There couldn’t incident. They were rushed to a hospital. sure the whole House wishes to ments to raise the issue of going have been a bitterer tragedy dur- State Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao see the UK’’s relationship with In- further than the “deepest re- ing the freedom movement in asked offi cials to provide help to the families dia continue to fl ourish,” she said. gret” expressed over the killings. India. That was an inhuman act.” of the victims who he said “belonged to the Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the “I feel that we perhaps need Arguments that apologising poorest strata” of the society. main opposition Labour Party, to go further... I have now been would leave London open to le- Hundreds of people die in fl oods and land- called for “a full, clear and un- persuaded – not just by this gal claims “could be no legiti- slides across India each year. equivocal apology”. debate – to take a diff erent ap- mate reason to say I shall not re- The landslides are more common during The April 13, 1919 Jallianwala proach,” the minister said, add- gret this. That’s the baggage you Workers look on as family members mourn near the victims of a mudslide in Marikal the monsoon season which runs from June to Bagh massacre, in which British ing that the government had to have to carry with you.” village, Narayanpet district of Telangana yesterday. September. Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 19

LATIN AMERICA Assange ‘being spied on in Ecuadorean embassy’

Guardian News and Media and colleagues of Assange said in-chief of WikiLeaks, said he had sult of having Assange extradited ward extradition to the US. leged extortionists were projected Supporters of Assange gathered London yesterday was an attempt at extor- met four individuals, one of whom to the US. WikiLeaks said that the surveil- on to a screen at the press confer- outside the embassy in central tion. he was told was a ringleader and “If you connect the dots it’s easy lance had constituted a total inva- ence. London last Friday after the organ- Some of the material came from who had prior convictions. There to draw that picture,” said Hrafns- sion of privacy, which had included In March last year, Ecuador cut isation said its sources in Ecuador ikiLeaks has said it has video cameras with the capacity was a possibility that at least one son, who was appearing with the recordings of Assange’s meetings off Assange’s Internet connection, had revealed he could be removed uncovered a surveil- to record audio and had been in- was not a Spanish national, he barrister Jennifer Robinson and with his lawyers and doctor. saying he had breached an agree- from the building “within hours to Wlance operation at the stalled last year after a new gov- added. The matter is now in the Fidel Narvaez, a former consul of Robinson, a lawyer at Doughty ment not to issue messages that days”. Ecuadorian embassy against Julian ernment took power in Ecuador, hands of an investigating Span- Ecuador in London. St Chambers who has long advised might interfere with other states. Ecuador’s foreign ministry Assange and that images, docu- a press conference organised by ish magistrate, according to the It remained unclear whether Assange, described the surveil- In a statement, the government released a statement last week ments and videos gathered have WikiLeaks was told. whistleblowing website. Assange was planning to leave lance as a severe breach of lawyer- said his behaviour on social media saying it “doesn’t comment on been off ered for sale. The revelation comes after the Hrafnsson said the surveillance the embassy of his own accord client privilege, which had under- “put at risk the good relations (Ec- rumours, theories or conjectures Spanish police mounted a sting Guardian reported a surveillance at the embassy – which had led to at any point soon. His legal team mined the ability of his legal team uador) maintains with the United that don’t have any documented operation against unnamed indi- operation targeting Assange last Assange living a “Truman Show said they would still need assur- to properly defend their client. Kingdom, with the other states backing”, but a senior Ecuadorian viduals in Madrid who off ered the year. existence” – was part of an escala- ances from the UK government Copies of photos, videos and of the European Union, and with offi cial said no decision had been material for sale in what lawyers Kristinn Hrafnsson, the editor- tion designed to achieve an end re- that Assange would not face on- documents recovered from the al- other nations”. made. Lapin named Proclamation of new Cuba constitution Haiti’s new prime minister

AFP someone who isn’t an irritant, Port-au-Prince who can talk to everybody re- gardless of their political lean- ings,” he said. “Secondly, we are aiti’s President Jovenel looking for someone who is go- Moise confi rmed Jean- ing to work in their role as prime HMichel Lapin as the minister...to focus on the devel- country’s new prime minister, opment of the country.... just weeks after the Chamber of “And thirdly, a person who has Deputies censured his predeces- good relations with the interna- sor’s six-month-old govern- tional community.” ment. The installation of a new gov- The new administration that ernment is an International Lapin — currently the acting Monetary Fund pre-requisite prime minister — must assem- for the disbursement of the fi rst ble with Moise will face pressing tranche of a $229mn loan to Hai- problems such as the high cost ti. of living and the insecurity that In 2018, Haiti racked up a plagues the capital. record $290mn defi cit, while its First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba, Raul Castro, holds hands with Cuban President Miguel Diaz Canel and president of the National Assembly Esteban Lazo Haiti is still recovering from national budget, the lowest in (right) during the proclamation of the new constitution of the Republic of Cuba at the Convention Palace in Havana, yesterday. Cuban National Assembly widespread riots in February, the Caribbean region, amounts proclaimed its new constitution yesterday, supporting an “irrevocable” socialism although with apertures to the market, at a time of growing hostility from the US when thousands of people took to $1.8bn. due to Cuba’s support to Venezuela. to the streets across the country Haiti is the poorest country in — one of the world’s poorest — to the Americas, with 60% of the demand better living conditions population living below the pov- and the departure of the head of erty line. state. Transparency International For about 11 days, all activi- places the country at number 161 ties ground to a halt in Port-au- out of 180 in its corruption rank- Prince and across most of the ing. Caribbean country’s cities. Since the summer of 2018, a Lapin, the former culture and civic movement has mobilised communications minister, was to demand an accounting of the UN should accept Guaido named acting prime minister use of funds from Petrocaribe, on March 21, three days after a Venezuelan-fi nanced aid pro- the Chamber of Deputies voted gramme established in 2008. to censure the government of Haiti’s High Court of Auditors former prime minister Jean- in January published a report Henry Ceant. detailing the mismanagement of as Venezuela leader: Pence Lawmakers overwhelmingly the fund and the possible diver- voted for Ceant’s resignation, sion of nearly $2bn. AFP the legitimate president of Ven- faced with an infl ux of millions head of the Red Cross and agreed “The United States of America saying he had failed to improve Lapin is a relative unknown United Nations, US ezuela and seat his representa- of migrants. to receive international aid. will continue to exert all diplo- conditions in the six months despite his years in the public ad- tive in this body,” Pence said. US Secretary of State Mike “We confi rm our readiness to matic and economic pressure to since he took over at the head of ministration and having served The US is among some 50 Pompeo yesterday said Presi- establish co-operation mecha- bring about a peaceful transition government. under the last four Haitian S Vice President Mike countries that recognise Guaido, dent Nicolas Maduro’s govern- nisms for international assist- to democracy in Venezuela but Lapin is the third head of gov- presidents, dating back to Rene Pence yesterday asked the opposition leader who de- ment poses a threat to the US, ance and support,” Maduro all options are on the table,” he ernment under President Moise, Preval. He started as a messenger Uthe United Nations to clared himself interim president referring to the increased in- posted on Twitter after meeting added. who has led the Caribbean island in government, and then became recognise Juan Guaido as the in January, and consider Maduro volvement of Russia and Cuba ICRC president Peter Maurer. The Organisation of American nation since February 2017. an administrator in the ministry legitimate leader of Venezuela, to have lost legitimacy. in the country. “I don’t think Maduro has denied that his States on Tuesday recognised The announcement was made of culture and communications telling the Security Council: Maduro has maintained con- there is any doubt that...the Ma- country faces a humanitarian Guaido’s envoy, Gustavo Tarro, by Moise via Twitter. before becoming its executive di- “Nicolas Maduro must go.” trol with support from the mili- duro regime presents a threat crisis and blames US sanctions as Venezuela’s representative to In an interview with the Miami rector after Preval’s Lespwa po- Washington will present a tary, Russia and China. to the US of America,” Pompeo for Venezuela’s economic prob- the regional group. Herald last month, Moise said he litical coalition achieved victory draft UN resolution aimed at Russia last month sent troops told a US congressional hearing. lems, but Guaido has pointed to After appealing for UN recog- was in search of a prime minister under senator Joseph Lambert. recognising Guaido and ap- to Caracas, raising tensions be- He added: “It is clearly...a true corruption and mismanagement nition for Guaido, Pence turned who wasn’t divisive, who could A native of Jacmel, a port city pointing his representative as tween Washington and Moscow. threat to the United States.” by the Caracas government for to Venezuela’s ambassador swim between the diff erent po- in the south-east, he was one of the ambassador to the world Pence argued that Maduro had Meanwhile, Venezuela the crisis. Samuel Moncada who was seat- litical factions and had good re- the few offi cials in the Martelly body, Pence told the council. brought “deprivation” to Ven- plunged into another major Pence described Venezuela as ed in the council chamber and lations with the international administration who managed to “The time has come for the ezuela and that without action, blackout yesterday leaving large a “struggle between dictatorship said: “With all due respect Mis- community. “We are looking for keep his job during Privert’s 2016 United Nations to recognise in- “chaos and suff ering will only parts of the country without and democracy” and declared ter Ambassador, you shouldn’t a man or a woman who binds... interim presidency. terim president Juan Guaido as spread” to the region, already power as Maduro met with the that “Nicolas Maduro must go.” be here.”

Rains lash Rio UN human rights chief El Salvador’s Bukele snubs Ortega, Maduro slams Mexican violence Hernandez appeared to be on Reuters San Salvador track to suff er a shock loss in the Reuters about 3,000 people were killed or have been blamed for more than election before the offi cial vote Mexico City disappeared and 28,000 others 200,000 deaths in Mexico. count came to a sudden halt. were victims of torture, includ- The government has succeed- l Salvador’s incoming pres- When it restarted more than a ing Bachelet and her father, an air ed in taking down cartel bosses, ident Nayib Bukele said he day later, the count turned in his nited Nations human force general. but that has often led to frag- Ewould not be inviting the favour and he was ultimately de- rights chief Michelle In Mexico, homicides rose by mentation of the gangs and more leaders of Honduras, Nicaragua clared the winner. UBachelet said the deadly one-third last year, according killings. and Venezuela to his June 1 inau- Ortega, a former Marxist guer- toll of Mexico’s rampant gang- to government data, breaking a Bachelet said the violence in guration after criticising them as rilla and Cold War antagonist of land violence was reminiscent record for the second consecu- Mexico had unique characteris- illegitimate rulers. Washington, has faced interna- of the era in her native Chile tive year as more than 33,000 tics and that the country suff ered In a Twitter post, the 37-year- tional condemnation for Nica- when thousands died or disap- murder cases were opened. from weak rule of law. old Bukele confi rmed news re- ragua’s a heavy-handed crack- peared during a military dicta- “The truth is you have laws for ports that invitations were not down on months of protests that torship. “It was moving for me to everything,” she said, her voice being extended to Juan Orlando he has described as part of a plot Bachelet, a former Chilean meet with the families. rising. “There isn’t a lack of laws, Hernandez, president of neigh- to oust him. president, concluded a fi ve-day They have the same cries, but rather a need to implement bouring Honduras, Daniel Or- Maduro, who has presided over visit to Mexico where she met the same calls for truth them.” tega, president of Nicaragua, or an economic and political crisis in with victims of violence as well and justice” Asked about crisis-racked Venezuelan President Nicolas Venezuela, has been under pres- as government offi cials and Venezuela, Bachelet said her of- Maduro. sure to step down amid accusa- pushed for a full accounting of In her prepared remarks, fi ce continued to monitor the Bukele, who won an election tions he has abused his power to past abuses. Bachelet cited other “terrifying violation of human rights and in February, did not say why the suppress the opposition. She told reporters at a news fi gures,” including 26,000 bod- humanitarian needs in the South presidents would not be asked, Bukele is one of a host of po- conference that stories of an- ies that Mexican offi cials have American country. but he has previously criticised litical fi gures that have given guish she heard from the families not been able to identify and 850 Last month, Bachelet issued all three as men who did not their support to Venezuelan op- of victims reminded her of the mass graves dug up. a blistering report on excessive deserve to be in power due to position leader Juan Guaido, who darkest days of the police state “It was moving for me to use of force by Venezuelan secu- controversies that have clouded in January declared himself the that Augusto Pinochet oversaw meet with the families,” she rity forces and pro-government their administrations. rightful president. in Chile during the 1970s and added. “They have the same militias, including extra-judicial The 2017 re-election of Her- Venezuela has rejected criti- 1980s. cries, the same calls for truth executions. nandez, a conservative ally of cism of the Maduro government “It was like returning to a part and justice.” She said a visit to Venezuela Kids row on a styrofoam block through a flooded street the US, has been questioned by as hostile propaganda and as at- of my own history,” she said. Since late 2006, vicious inter- was possible “relatively soon,” during heavy rains in the Guaratiba neighbourhood in Rio many, including Bukele, due to tempts to set the stage for an in- During the military dictator- necine strife among drug cartels but emphasised she wanted to de Janeiro, Brazil, yesterday. a disputed vote count that took tervention by foreign powers in ship in Chile from 1973 to 1990, and their clashes with the state guard her offi ce’s neutrality. weeks to resolve. the country. Gulf Times 20 Thursday, April 11, 2019 PAKISTAN

Pakistan determined PM says anti-militant to improve ties with neighbours: Qureshi

Internews the key to resolve the Kashmir Islamabad dispute. The foreign minister said push vital for stability Pakistan is a peace loving akistan remains stead- country. “Our conduct as a Reuters position from the powerful mili- Although Khan insisted that fast to improve its rela- nuclear state will continue to Islamabad tary and the ISI, Pakistan’s main the actions against militant Ptions with neighbouring be defi ned by restraint and re- intelligence agency. groups were being undertaken for countries to build a prosper- sponsibility.” “Today, we have the total sup- Pakistan’s own benefi ts, his gov- ous South Asia, said Foreign He said Pakistan will main- akistan’s push to curb port of the Pakistan army and ernment, which came to power Minister Shah Mahmood tain credible minimum deter- armed militant groups in intelligence services in disman- last August, faces severe eco- Qureshi yesterday. rence to ensure its national Pthe wake of a standoff with tling them,” Khan said. “What nomic headwinds that have made Addressing a National Con- security. India that brought the nuclear- use has ISI of them any more? international support vital. ference on Strategic Stabil- The foreign minister said armed neighbours close to war These groups were created for In discussions with the Inter- ity in South Asia, he stressed Pakistan is opposed to con- refl ected an urgent need for sta- the Afghan jihad.” national Monetary Fund (IMF) that confl ict resolution is the ventional and unconventional bility to meet growing econom- Pakistan’s critics, including over what would be its 13th bail- key to strategic stability in the arms race in the region. ic challenges, Prime Minister India, have dismissed Khan’s out since the 1980s, Pakistan is region. He added that India’s mas- Imran Khan has said. promises of a crackdown, say- struggling to stay off the FATF Talking about the Kashmir sive acquisition of conven- Facing a fi nancial crisis and ing similar pledges have been blacklist, which would bring issue, he said threat to peace tional arms coupled with of- heavy pressure to take on mili- repeatedly made by previous heavy economic penalties. and stability emanates from fensive posture poses threat to tant groups to avoid sanctions governments only to be quietly “We can’t aff ord to be the old dispute which remains regional peace and security. from the Financial Action Task dropped once attention shifted. blacklisted, that would mean unresolved for over a half dec- Referring to the recent In- Force (FATF), a global money Pakistan PM Imran Khan: “Everyone now knows that what is happening They point to Pakistan’s con- sanctions,” Khan said. ade. dian belligerence, the foreign laundering and terror fi nance in Pakistan has never happened (before).” tinued failure to arrest Masood With a currency that has lost Qureshi said the Indian de- minister said that Pakistan watchdog, Khan said Pakistan Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mo- more than a quarter of its value nial to the Kashmir right of is committed to peaceful and was acting in its own interests. pressure – we will not allow of deaths and billions of dollars hammed (JeM), the group which over the past year, a yawning self-determination and its normal relations in its neigh- “Everyone now knows that armed militias to operate,” he in economic damage over recent claimed responsibility for the current account defi cit and gal- blatant human rights viola- borhood. He, however, made what is happening in Pakistan said. decades. February 14 attack in Pul- loping infl ation running at over tions have led to frustration it absolutely clear that Paki- has never happened (before),” The comments underline a But Khan, a former cricket wama district of Indian-con- 9%, Pakistan is in desperate need amongst the Kashmiri youth. stan is capable to frustrate any Khan told a group of foreign push by Pakistan to improve star, implicitly accepted the role trolled Kashmir that killed 40 of a respite to get its economy He said Indian policies are misadventure. journalists at his offi ce in Is- its image after years of accusa- played by Pakistan in fostering paramilitary police. on track. the reason that the freedom Shah Mahmood Qureshi said lamabad on Tuesday, outlining tions that its security services and steering militant groups that Khan said Pakistan was con- Elected on a platform of tack- struggle in occupied Kashmir that Pakistan has shown it is pre- a push to bring the more than have exploited militant groups grew out of the US-backed mu- strained by the need to build a ling the endemic corruption that has gained momentum and pared to take concrete steps to 30,000 madrasas across Paki- as proxies against neighbours, jahideen fi ghting Soviet forces legal case that would stand up has helped cripple Pakistan’s caught world attention. ease tension and work for friendly stan under government control including India and Afghanistan. in neighbouring Afghanistan in in court but said Azhar had been economy, Khan said his top pri- The minister said what the relations with India with Kartar- and rehabilitate thousands of Islamabad has consistently the 1980s. driven underground and was ority was to take 100mn people, world is seeing in Kashmir is pur corridor like initiatives. former militants. denied the accusations and said “We should never have al- “ineff ective” and unwell. or around half the population, the backlash of Indian atroci- “Our neighbour also needs “We have decided, this coun- Pakistan has suff ered more from lowed them to exist once jihad “More important than him is out of poverty. ties infl icted on the local to understand that the only try has decided, for the future militant violence than any other was over,” he said, rejecting sug- the set-up and that is being dis- “You can only do this if there is people. way forward is dialogue,” the of the country – forget outside country, with tens of thousands gestions that he could face op- mantled,” he said. stability in Pakistan.” Qureshi said dialogue was foreign minister said.

Shahbaz Pakistan on track to becoming global tourism player

leaves for Internews visa policy for 175 countries to convoluted,” she said. “Both one of the most welcoming,” 563,000 overseas arrivals. par with the likes of Honduras, Islamabad promote tourism and invest- travellers and tour operators said Westwood. “The moun- That fi gure grew to 965,000 in Sudan and Turkey. ments in Pakistan. needed to fi le numerous sup- tain scenery is staggering and 2016, 1.6mn in 2017 and 1.9mn Moreover, British Airways London The countries will get the porting documents and the it’s perfect for trekking, but last year. will restart fl ights in the coun- akistan is well on its way facility of applying for an on- whole process took two weeks there are fascinating cities too. Some of those will be expats try from June 2 from Heath- to becoming tourism’s line visa. As per the new visa or more now it can be wrapped Islamabad is leafy and green, of Pakistani heritage visiting row to Islamabad, marking its Internews Pnext big thing, The Tel- policy, e-visa facility will up in a matter of hours. It is with wide boulevards; Lahore friends and family, but it is sug- fi rst service to the country for Lahore egraph reported. According initially be provided to fi ve also signifi cantly cheaper, from has a remarkable Old City, gar- gestive of a destination fi nally a decade. “The links between to the newspaper, the country countries namely Turkey, £134 down to the equivalent of dens, museums and forts - a real about to live up to the oft-ap- Britain and Pakistan are already was once one of the highlights China, Malaysia, the United $60 (£46).” combination of old and new. plied billing of “tourism’s next extraordinary from culture and he leader of the opposition of the classic “hippie trail” or Kingdom and the United Westwood also praised the Then there’s the Kalasha Val- big thing”. cricket to people, politics and in the National Assembly, “overland” route from Europe Arab Emirates. The citizens loosening of the no-objection leys, which have a unique pagan Pakistan’s draws – spectacu- education,” said Thomas Drew, TShahbaz Sharif, early yes- to the Far East, a rite of pas- of these countries will be able certifi cate (NOC) system, under culture, with traditional life- lar mountains, ancient civilisa- the British High Commissioner terday left for London to see to sage for disillusioned Western to apply for Pakistani visa via which travellers needed special styles, dress and festivals.” tions and warm hospitality – to Pakistan, when the route was his daughter-in-law and ailing youth. email at $8 fee. permission to visit certain parts She added bookings for Pa- aren’t in doubt, but there is the announced last December. granddaughter who was suff er- Peshawar and Lahore were Jane Westwood who runs of Pakistan. These have been kistan tours have increased sig- issue of safety. “I see this launch as a vote of ing from cardiac issues. considered not only safe but Wild Frontiers, one of the few scrapped for all but a few bor- nifi cantly during the past two or Last year France and Portugal confi dence in the future of those The PMLN president will meet also fi ne places to kick back for a UK operators to off er tours der regions, opening up parts three years, an assertion that’s relaxed their advice on travel links and, of course, a refl ec- his grandchildren and undergo few days in a budget hostel. of Pakistan, welcomed the of Kashmir, Chitral and Gilgit- backed up by offi cial tourism to Pakistan; the US suggests tion of the great improvements a medical checkup in London Last month Prime Minister changes. Baltistan. statistics. its citizens “reconsider travel” in the security situation in as his name was removed from Imran Khan announced a new “The old visa system was very “It’s a beautiful country, and In 2015, Pakistan welcomed to the country, putting it on a Pakistan in recent years.” the exit control list (ECL) on the Lahore High Court’s orders last month. The Interior Ministry had re- moved the name of opposition Demand for jobs Leader Shahbaz Sharif from the ECL on the directions of High Number of Court. In a series of tweets, Sharif said that he will take a “quick visit to London” and plans on re- turning soon. voters tops “Because of judicial grace ex- ercised by honourable courts, I am now on bail and my name has been taken off the ECL. In these circumstances, I am going to take 107.5mn: a quick visit to London to see my grandchildren and go through my own medical check-up and return soon IA!” poll body

Internews ly known as the Federally Ad- Islamabad ministered Tribal Areas (Fata), PIA staff er have 2.50 of the total voters numbering 2.68mn. These in- he number of voters clude 1.61mn (60%) male and goes missing across Pakistan has 1.07mn (40%) female voters. Treached over 107.5mn, Islamabad’s 0.778mn voters with voters from Punjab and constitute 0.72% of the total. in Paris Sindh constituting more than They include 0.413mn (53%) 78% of the total voters. male and 0.365mn (47%) Internews According to the latest fi g- female voters. Lahore ures of voters released by the Prior to 2018 general elec- Election Commission of Pa- tions, the total number of regis- kistan (ECP), these include tered voters in the country was Pakistan International Air- 60.02mn (56%) male and 97mn, including 54.5mn male Transgenders carry placards as they chant slogans during a protest in Karachi yesterday, as they demand to the government to lines (PIA) fl ight attendant 47.48mn (44%) female voters. and 42.4mn female voters. provide jobs and to implement transgenders rights. Ahas gone missing in Paris, Punjab alone has 57.09% of Out of the total count, 55.8mn sources informed local media. the total voters. The province voters were from Punjab, According to sources, fl ight at- has 61.38mn voters includ- 20.64mn from Sindh, 14mn from tendant Shazia went missing from ing 34.03mn (55%) male and KP, 3.7mn from Balochistan, her hotel in Paris and fl ed to Bel- 27.35mn (45%) female voters. 2.14mn from Fata and 0.69mn gium, after arriving in Paris on a Sindh has a share of 21.32% in from the federal capital. PIA fl ight from Lahore a day earlier. the total votes with the number Meanwhile, the ECP has Outgoing German envoy promises to come back The attendant left a letter of of voters in the province stand- given April 30 as a deadline for resignation behind her in her ing at 22.92mn. These in- the KP government to amend hotel room in Paris before leav- clude 12.72mn (56%) male and its local government law, fail- Internews his enthusiastic documentation most wonderful years in Paki- Just like his travels through ing for Belgium, the sources said. 10.20mn (44%) female voters. ing which the upcoming local Islamabad of his nearly two-year stay in stan which were professionally Pakistan, Kobler’s wrapping up The letter was found by her co- The 15.35mn voters from government elections would the country. awarding but also rewarding in of his life in Islamabad was av- workers, who alerted the airline Khyber Pakhtunkhwa con- be held on the basis of the He enjoyed Pakistani cul- my private life. I discovered so idly followed on Twitter. management. stitute 14.28% of the total existing LG law. erman ambassador (and ture and that showed through many beauties of your coun- He gave away his signa- PIA authorities have launched voters. They include 8.71mn The deadline was decided Twitter celebrity) Mar- his tweets, particularly dur- try. Despite all the diffi culties ture Foxy to charity but not an investigation into the incident. (57%) male and 6.64mn (43%) at a meeting on LG polls in KP Gtin Kobler bid adieu to ing his last month’s whirl- you might have in the politi- before taking it for one last Last year too, a PIA fl ight at- female voters. on Monday. The meeting was Pakistan. wind of activity that marked cal world, social and economic spin. The Volkwagen Club of tendant had gone missing in Balochistan, erstwhile Fata attended by the local govern- Kobler arrived in Pakistan his farewell. fi elds I’m very confi dent that Pakistan gave him a token to Canada but was later traced. The and the federal capital form ment and law secretaries from as German ambassador in In an emotional farewell Pakistan will make away to remember it by. attendant, who had reportedly 4.06, 2.50 and 0.72% of the to- the province. The term of the August 2017 and announced video posted this weekend, he peace and prosperity.” He was feted at several been suspended a few years ago tal voters. The total number of local bodies was to expire dur- his retirement in early March said, “I must say I’m leaving “I wish you a good future lunches and got a bunch of cool for her alleged involvement in registered voters is 4.36mn in- ing the last week of August. this year. the country with a sad heart but particular the young genera- gifts like this caricature of him. smuggling phones and foreign cluding 2.52mn (58%) male and Under the law, elections are The ambassador racked up be sure I will come back as an tion. Thank you for giving me He met everyone, from Presi- currency, had fl own to Canada 1.84mn (42%) female voters. to be held within 120 days quite a following on Twitter ordinary tourist.” such a wonderful time in your dent Arif Alvi to the FC guards and sought asylum there. The tribal districts, former- following its expiry of term. (over 200,000 followers) with He added, “I spent two of the country,” he added. who provided him security. Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 21 PHILIPPINES

Military drill Trade dept warns of price hikes over El Nino

By Catherine S Valente Manila Times

he government is adopt- ing contingency measures Tto mitigate the eff ects of El Nino in the country, the De- partment of Trade (DTI) said yesterday, as it expects the prices of agricultural commodities to increase due to the dry spell. During the weekly economic briefi ng in Malacanang, Trade Undersecretary Ruth Castelo said all agencies under the gov- ernment’s National Price Co-or- dination Council (NPCC) would meet “to do a close watch on the eff ects of El Nino on the prices and supply of agricultural prod- ucts.” “The DTI will convene the National Price Co-ordinating Philippine armoured personnel carriers (back) speed past US marines and army using humvees and Interim armoured vehicles during the live fire exercises, as part of the annual US-Philippines joint military Council (NPCC) to discuss about exercise at Crow Valley, in Capas town, Tarlac province, north of Manila, yesterday. the current prices and sup- ply situation of basic and prime goods, and its forecast for the upcoming months,” Castelo told reporters. She noted that “the possibility of a stronger and prolonged El Niño episode together with the continued rise in global crude oil prices provide upside price pres- sures over the near term.” “This is why the government Govt plans fresh protest needs to be ready. The NPCC intends to come up with measures to mitigate the eff ects of El Nino on the prices and supply of agricultural goods in the market,” Castelo said. The Trade offi cial said prices of agricultural commodities were against Chinese vessels expected to increase as some areas would be aff ected by the dry spell. By Ralph Villanueva he said. Last week, Lt Col El- “You must remember that July 12, 2016 that dismissed “If there is low production Manila Times pidio Factor of the AFP West- our responses were calibrat- China’s maritime claims in the countryside, supply will ern Command was reported as ed. We said let’s see first if must be the basis for the decrease and then prices will go saying that about 600 Chinese it’s true; if it’s true, then we claimant countries to resolve higher because there is less sup- he Philippines has vessels were circling Pagasa will undertake action,” he the dispute. ply,” Castelo said. heightened its rhetoric Island, which is occupied by added. Poling said the statement “So we want to address that Tagainst China, with Ma- the Philippines. In 2016, Manila won an of the G7 foreign ministers immediately. And we are actu- lacanang calling on Chinese This prompted the DFA to international arbitration was “largely identical” to the ally looking at how to help the vessels supposedly seen near file diplomatic protests with case against Beijing over the statements issued in the past farmers continue producing de- the Philippine-owned Kota Beijing. disputed waters, but China two years. spite the El Nino,” she added. (Loaita) Island to “go away.” Factor said the ships were refuses to recognise the deci- “This year’s statement Latest estimates from the De- In a news briefing yester- “occasionally complemented sion. slightly strengthened some partment of Agriculture (DA) day, Palace spokesman Salva- by Chinese Coast Guard ves- Meanwhile, Gregory Pol- language about United Na- showed damage infl icted by the dor Panelo said the Chinese sels to sustain China’s asser- ing, director of the Asia Mar- tions Convention on the Law El Nino to the farm sector stood should go away from the Kota tive presence in the vicinity of itime Transparency Initiative of the Sea (Unclos), demilita- at P5.05bn as of April 2. and Panata islands in the dis- the sandbars.” (AMTI), said China would risation and environmental The drought has so far hit puted South China Sea (West The Palace’s recent state- only change its behaviour in concerns, but there were no 164,672 farmers nationwide. Philippine Sea) because “they ments against China had a the SCS if a “broad interna- substantial changes,” he told Damage to rice crops was es- cannot be intruding in our ter- marked shift in tone. tional consensus” would de- Manila Times in an e-mail timated at P2.69bn with 125,590 ritorial property.” President Rodrigo Duterte, clare its actions “illegal” and message. metric tonnes of production loss Panelo said China “had no who had called China his if this would affect its projec- “The only way China will in 37 provinces, according to DA. business being there.” “friend,” said last week the tion as a global leader. ever change its behaviour is Aff ected regions include the “It is an assault to the Phil- Chinese should lay off Pagasa Poling made the statement if a broad international con- Cordillera Administrative Re- ippines’ sovereignty, if they Island. after the Group of Seven (G7) sensus that its actions are il- gion, Ilocos Region, Cagayan continue to be present in our “This is not a warning, this member nations expressed legal begins to erode its abil- Valley, Central Luzon, Calabar- territory then it is an assault to is just a word of advice to my concern over developments ity to play a leadership role zon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, our sovereignty,” he said. friends because we are friends at the disputed South and globally,” Poling stressed. Rizal, and Quezon), Mima- After the sightings are veri- with China. So I am request- East China seas. “Those costs would then ropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, fied, fresh diplomatic protests ing… I will not plead or beg, Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo. G7 is composed of the begin to outweigh the ben- Romblon and Palawan), Western will be filed by the Department but I’m just telling you to lay United States, the United efits of continuing to violate Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zam- of Foreign Affairs (DFA) with off the Pagasa because I have will tell my soldiers to ‘pre- lowing Duterte’s statement. Kingdom, Japan, Germany, international law and bully boanga Peninsula, Northern China, he said. soldiers there,” Duterte said in pare for suicide missions,’” he He said the Philippine gov- France, Italy and Canada. its neighbours. So, if the G7 Mindanao, Davao region, Soc- “They will know that we are a speech in Palawan last April added. ernment would give China a The group, in a communi- can serve as part of that in- sksargen, and the Bangsamoro against it. That we will not al- 4. Panelo said the government “reasonable time” to respond que of its foreign ministers, ternational effort, then they Autonomous Region in Muslim low it. That we will not tolerate “And, if you touch the is- was hoping for a “positive to the earlier diplomatic pro- said the Permanent Court of can play an important role,” Mindanao, the agency said. such presence in our territory,” land, that is another story. I response” from China fol- tests. Arbitration (PCA) ruling on he added.

Rescued Malaysian Top court urges hostage dies in hospital A Malaysian national who was 5mn Filipinos overcame shot by hardline militants while Palace to respond to escaping captivity with two other hostages in the southern Philippines has died, a military complaint over dam statement said yesterday. poverty in 2018: agency Jari Bin Abdullah died on Tuesday at West Metro Medical By Anna L Gonzales hand, or the proportion of fam- by 11% from P9,453 three years By Jomar Canlas The loan agreement has passed Center in Zamboanga City due Manila Times ilies whose incomes fell below prior. The PSA reported that the Manila Times through many channels. There to gunshot wounds he suff ered the poverty line, was estimated subsistence incidence among has been many review, evalua- during his escape, according at 16.1% from 22.2% in the fi rst Filipino families, or the propor- tion. We feel that it is not in vio- to a statement by the Western overty incidence in the half of 2015. tion of Filipino families whose he Supreme Court (SC) lation of the Constitution as al- Mindanao Command. Philippines eased in the This means that 16 out of 100 incomes fell below the food yesterday did not is- leged by the petitioner,” he said. Jari’s relatives and the Malaysian Pfi rst semester of 2018, families had incomes below the threshold, was estimated at Tsue an order stopping On April 4, a group of law- Consul General were present with some 5mn Filipinos ris- amount needed to buy their ba- 6.2%, down from 9.9% in 2015. the government’s $62mn loan makers asked the court to is- when the victim died. ing out of poverty, results of sic food and non-food needs in The subsistence incidence agreement with China for the sue a Temporary Restraining He and two Indonesian hostages the Family and Income and Ex- the fi rst semester of 2018. This among Filipino individuals, Chico River Irrigation Pump Order against the P3.69bn loan escaped from their Abu Sayyaf penditure Survey (FIES) con- Josie Perez translated to about 4mn fami- or the proportion of Filipinos Project in the Cordillera region. from China. The petitioners al- captors on Thursday during a ducted by the Philippine Sta- lies, down from the 5mn re- whose incomes fell below the The tribunal, however, or- leged that the loan agreement rescue operation launched by tistics Authority (PSA) showed. said Perez. Poverty incidence corded in 2015. food threshold, went down to dered Malacanang to submit “contains express waiver by the troops on the militants’ hideout In a press briefi ng yesterday, among families on the other Regions with the lowest pov- 8.5% from 13%. The National its answer to the complaint. (Government of the Republic on Simusa Island. Deputy National Statistician hand, or the proportion of fam- erty incidence among families Economic and Development “The Supreme Court or- of the Philippines) of its sover- One of the Indonesian hostages Josie Perez said poverty inci- ilies whose incomes fell below were the National Capital Re- Authority (NEDA) attributed dered the respondent to fi le eign immunity from execution drowned, while the other es- dence, or the proportion of the the poverty line, was estimated gion, Calabarzon and Central the decline to the sustained their comment to the petition against its patrimonial assets.” caped unharmed. population whose incomes fell at 16.1% from 22.2% in the fi rst Luzon, while the Muslim au- economic growth and critical within a period of 10 days,” They urged the respondents “We extend our heartfelt sympa- below the poverty threshold, half of 2015. tonomous region had the high- and broad-based reforms and Brian Hosaka, spokesman of to produce procurement and thy to the families of Abdullah. declined to 21% from 27.6% in This means that 16 out of 100 est poverty incidence. investments that have translat- the high court, said. other relevant documents. Our troops are exhausting all the fi rst semester of 2018. families had incomes below the The PSA said that during the ed to employment generation Named respondents were The 20-year loan deal was eff orts to defeat the Abu Sayyaf This means that 21 out of 100 amount needed to buy their period, a family of fi ve needed and social protection. President Rodrigo Duterte, signed by Ambassador Ex- and bring justice to the victims Filipinos belonged to poor fam- basic food and non-food needs no less than P7,337, on average, “For one, growth in the con- Executive Secretary Salvador traordinary and Plenipotenci- of terror,” said Lieutenant General ilies whose incomes were below in the fi rst food and non-food to meet the family’s basic food struction and manufacturing Medialdea, Finance Secretary ary of China Zhao Jianhua and Arnel Dela Vega, Western Mind- the amount needed to buy their needs, a reduction from about needs for a month. The amount sectors created more employ- Carlos Dominguez 3rd, So- Dominguez on April 10, 2018. anao Command chief. basic food and non-food needs, 28 out of 100 Filipino in poverty is the food threshold, which in- ment opportunities for Filipi- cio-economic Planning Sec- The lawmakers said the On Tuesday, the military turned a reduction from about 28 out in the same period in 2015. creased by 11.2% compared with nos. Second, we like to high- retary Ernesto Pernia, Justice agreement, among others, over Indonesian kidnap victim of 100 Filipino in poverty in the “This means that about P6,600 in the fi rst half of 2015. light the increase in income of Secretary Menardo Guevarra contains a confi dentiality Heri Ardiansyah to Indonesian same period in 2015. 23.1mn Filipinos (from 28.8mn No less than P10,481, on av- Filipino households, as well as and Irrigation Administrator clause in violation of the right authorities. “This means that about in 2015) had incomes that fall erage, was needed to meet both employment shifts to the in- Ricardo Visaya. to information of Filipinos on At least three more hostages are 23.1mn Filipinos (from 28.8mn below the poverty threshold basic food and non-food needs dustry and service sectors from Palace spokesman Salvador foreign loans contracted by being held by the Abu Sayyaf, in 2015) had incomes that fall in the fi rst semester of 2018,” of a family of fi ve in a month. agriculture,” said Undersecre- Panelo said Malacanang always the government as guaranteed considered the most violent rebel below the poverty threshold said Perez. Poverty incidence This amount is the poverty tary Adoracion Navarro, NEDA respects the order of the high in Sections 12, 21 and 22; Arti- group in the Philippines. in the fi rst semester of 2018,” among families on the other threshold, which also went up offi cer-in-charge. court. “It will respond properly. cle II, Sec 28; and Art III, Sec 7. Gulf Times 22 Thursday, April 11, 2019 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka 11 - 04 -2019 Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Charter schools create opportunity for minority pupils in US The recent college-admissions scandal in the US underscores the importance of having an application process that can’t be gamed. But as high schools in New York City demonstrate, even a process based purely on an incorruptible metric will cause controversy. New York has eight public high schools where admission is determined by a single entrance exam. Applicants with the highest scores get in – end of story. The schools are as sought after as Ivy League colleges precisely because, with their rigorous curricula and reputation for excellence, they can catapult students to elite institutions. Patients with chronic conditions urged For years, however, the entrance exam has produced student bodies that are wildly at odds with the city’s ethnic makeup. At the most selective of these schools, Asian students fi ll almost three-quarters of seats and whites one- to consult doctors ahead of Ramadan fi fth, while Hispanics and African Americans account for just 3% and 1%, respectively. ith Ramadan approach- Outrage over the low numbers of black and Hispanic ing, Hamad Medical Cor- students is justified. But the solution that many are poration (HMC) is urging backing – abolishing the test and exposing the system to Wpatients with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, the sort of political meddling it is meant to prevent – is kidney failure, and heart disease to all wrong. speak with their doctor before begin- The test is not the problem; ning a fast. it’s all those years leading Specialists from across the healthcare Critics charge provider’s network of hospitals say it is up to it that children spend imperative that patients with chronic that charters in classrooms receiving conditions, particularly those who inadequate instruction. require daily medication to treat their divert illness, seek medical advice before Too many children are making any changes to their diet and resources from unprepared for academic medication regimes. and social success by the Professor Abdul Badi Abou Samra, public schools time they reach high school. chairman of Internal Medicine at HMC, says diabetics who choose to fast, need No new test scheme and to be aware of the potential health no revised admissions process will repair these failures. risks. He urges patients who plan to Unless they are addressed through genuine elementary- fast to talk with their doctors as early as and middle-school reform, high schools will be left to play possible before Ramadan begins, saying Dr Amar Salam, senior consultant Professor Abdul Badi Abou Samra, Dr Hassan al-Malki, head of HMC’s catch-up, less-than-constructive debates will persist, and that while many diabetics can safely cardiologist and head of the Cardiology Chairman of Internal Medicine at HMC. Nephrology Department. fast, modifi cations to diet, exercise, and Department at Al Khor Hospital. too many children will continue to be left behind. medication routines are often required. undergoing hemodialysis to treat Salam adds that heart patients are Disparate educational outcomes are a problem not just “Type 2 diabetics who have poorly to refrain from strenuous workouts kidney failure will typically receive advised to eat small portions during in New York City, but across the US. The white-black managed blood glucose levels, patients during Ramadan, particularly during the treatment three times a week and meals and to avoid fatty, salty, and with type 1 diabetes who take insulin, the few hours before the sunset meal cannot fast due to IV fl uid intake during sugary foods and large quantities achievement gap in eighth-grade reading nationwide in pregnant women who take insulin, as this is when they are at risk for low the procedure; however, he said these of beverages. He suggests patients 2017 was 25 percentage points and, in math, 32 points. and breastfeeding mothers who have blood sugar. Low-intensity activity is patients can normally fast during days who drink caff einated beverages For Hispanics, the gaps were roughly three-quarters as type 1 or type 2 diabetes are generally encouraged and performing prayers they are not receiving hemodialysis. ease into Ramadan by reducing their large. advised not to fast. Patients with long- should be considered as part of the daily According to Dr Amar Salam, senior consumption of tea, coff ee, and other term diabetes complications, such as exercise programme,” added Professor consultant cardiologist and head of caff einated beverages prior to Ramadan. Unfortunately, cities and states have been moving to limit kidney failure or heart disease, are also Abou Samra. the Cardiology Department at Al Khor He says going without caff eine for long a change that has proved to be one of the most eff ective advised not to fast. Your doctor can Dr Hassan al-Malki, senior Hospital, while it is necessary for heart periods of time during Ramadan can ways of closing these gaps: charter schools. Restricting help determine if it is possible for you to consultant and head of HMC’s patients to speak with their doctor cause withdrawal symptoms such as the number of public schools that are granted charters safely fast,” said Professor Abou Samra. Nephrology Department, says for before undertaking a fast, especially migraines and can be a shock to the He says for diabetics who do fast, it patients with kidney disease, the patients who require daily medication, system. to operate independently only limits the possibilities of is important they monitor their blood severity of their condition will most cardiac patients are able to safely HMC is asking patients who are students – and in urban areas, the toll falls heaviest on glucose levels regularly and drink determine if they are able to safely fast. unable to attend their appointment black and Hispanic children. adequate fl uids during non-fasting fast. He says while patients with “While fasting is not recommended as a result of their Ramadan-related New Orleans, which moved almost entirely to charter hours. He recommends water over juice acute kidney failure and those who for some heart patients, including those commitments, to call Nesma’ak at and sugary beverages or options that have been diagnosed with stage three who have recently had a heart attack or 16060 so the appointment can be schools after Hurricane Katrina, illustrates their promise: include stimulants, such as coff ee and chronic kidney disease or higher should heart surgery, and patients who have rebooked. This will also allow the Though the system is far from perfect, rates of high-school caff einated soft drinks. not fast, it may be possible for some narrowing or infl ammation of the aortic appointment slot to be assigned to graduation, college attendance and college persistence have Professor Abou Samra also advises patients with kidney disease to safely valve, research indicates that fasting another patient. all increased since the shift to charters. High-performing patients with diabetes to eat the Suhoor fast. According to Dr al-Malki, each is good for the heart. Fasting not only The Ministry of Public Health, HMC, meal and he recommends resting patient’s suitability for fasting should lowers one’s risk for coronary artery and Primary Health Care Corporation charter schools in New York and other cities have also before Iftar, but notes that sleeping be evaluated by their physician. disease and diabetes, but it can also (PHCC) wish to remind members of outperformed traditional schools. during this period should be avoided Dr al-Malki noted that abstaining cause signifi cant changes in a person’s the public about the Ramadan Health Critics charge that charters divert resources from public as some patients may be at risk for from food and water can lead to blood cholesterol levels, increasing website and companion smartphone schools. Never mind that charters are themselves public hypoglycaemia. dehydration, which can cause serious HDL-C, the ‘good’ cholesterol by 30 and tablet app. The Ramadan Health “Patients with diabetes should speak health complications for those with to 40%. However, it is important for website is Qatar’s fi rst online resource (and often receive less in per-pupil funding than traditional with their doctor or health educator chronic kidney disease. He also stressed patients to consult with their doctor, devoted to health and wellness during schools). The real objection is that most charters are not about when and how often they should that kidney transplant patients should especially patients who take medication the Holy Month. Visit the Ramadan bound by union contracts – even though some charters pay check their blood glucose levels. As a refrain from fasting due to their and will require timing and dosage Health website at www.hamad.qa/ higher than average salaries, in exchange for more work and general rule, a reading of 80-180 mg/ medication regime, which is required modifi cations, and potentially an ramadanhealth, or download the app dl post meal is considered safe and it to keep the new organ working properly alternative medication,” says Dr Salam. to your phone or tablet by searching for greater accountability. is advisable to eat the Suhoor meal as and the patient in good health. Also an associate professor at Qatar ‘Qatar Health’ (available for iOS and Allowing failing and substandard schools to persist can late as possible. We also advise patients Dr al-Malki said patients who are University College of Medicine, Dr Android operating systems). impose lifetime sentences on children. Charters off er a way to spare some children that fate. States should allow them to expand, while also doing more to inject excellence into traditional schools. – Tribune News Service

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© 2019 Gulf Times. All rights reserved HMC is the main provider of secondary and tertiary healthcare in Qatar. Gulf Times Thursday, April 11, 2019 23 QATAR NZ legislators thank Qatar for support after terror attack

By Joseph Varghese thanked him when we met him has taken place in the history Staff Reporter during the IPU sessions. Our of New Zealand and effective parliament, as well as the gov- measures are being taken to ernment, have clearly demon- make sure that this is not re- ew Zealand greatly ap- strated the great ideals and val- peated. “What has happened preciates the support by ues of humanity in the moments had a uniting impact on the Gabriela Cuevas Barron speaking at IPU yesterday. NQatar in the aftermath of crisis. Our country upholds whole country and as the par- of the recent terror attack on the values of diversity and in- liament and the government, a mosque and affi rms that the clusion and will always remain we have ensured that we will country will always remain a a pluralistic one,” explained give complete support to the land of diversity and inclusive- Lubeck. victims and those who were ness, two legislators of the New “What happened after the affected by the incident as we IPU chief exhorts Zealand parliament have said. terror attack was the complete move to the next phase of re- Marja Lubeck, Labour List show of unity. We also demon- covery,” she pointed out. Member of Parliament and Dav- strated togetherness and har- She also said that the par- id Carter, National Member of mony as the speaker of the par- liament has passed the arms youth to run for Parliament and a former speak- liament invited all the religious amendment bill which would er, feel that the visit of HE the heads to the House and an Imam ban many of the arms currently Speaker of the Advisory Council, actually led the prayer services,” possessed and used by people. Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al- noted Carter. “The bill was passed today public offi ce Mahmoud, to New Zealand after “The amount of forgiveness (Wednesday). Out of the 120 the terror attack, was a great sign shown by the Muslim commu- members of the parliament, 119 of support and comfort for the nity in Christchurch, where the voted for the bill and only one By Joey Aguilar ing laws and deciding budgets, people and government of New attack took place, is very com- MP voted against it. He did not Staff Reporter among others. Zealand. mendable. They declared that oppose the bill but objected the However, Barron said that in The parliamentarians were they have already forgiven the sudden implementation of it. several countries, the minimum speaking to Gulf Times on the attacker and hold no grudge His objection was only about the nter-Parliamentary Un- age for eligibility to run for offi ce sidelines of the 140th Inter-Par- or bitterness towards him. Af- process of rushing it so fast,” de- ion (IPU) president Gabri- excludes young people, which liamentary Union (IPU) Assem- ter this terrible incident all scribed Carter. Iela Cuevas Barron has urged prompted the IPU to join hands bly, which concluded yesterday the sections have come to un- “But because of the horror young legislators to continue with the United Nations Secre- at Sheraton Doha. derstand the diversity of our of the incident, we need to im- supporting the ‘Not Too Young tary-General’s Envoy on Youth “We are highly grateful that country in a big way,” contin- plement it fast and the law is to Run’ campaign, which calls and other partners to launch the HE al-Mahmoud attended the ued Carter. already approved by the parlia- for states to allow young citizens campaign. memorial service after the ter- Lubeck said that it was the David Carter and Marja Lubeck at the IPU venue. ment and will be in eff ect within to run for public offi ce. “We need your ideas, your ror attack and we personally first time that such an incident PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil a month,” added Lubeck. IPU, through its members and thoughts, your dreams, and we young legislators Members of need to bring more young people Parliaments, wants countries to the IPU. Please keep in mind around the globe to set the mini- all these young persons that are mum age for eligibility for public having their trust in us, we can- offi ce with the voting age. not disappoint them,” Barron IPU condemns IPU delegates “We need to change our leg- said. “Politics and politicians IPU council adopts resolutions to islation, we need to be more in- already disappointed our own clusive, half of the total world generation.” US decision on decry siege population is now on their 30 “We need to understand that years of age,” she said. there are a lot of people – mil- enhance role of parliamentarians “We need you young parlia- lennials, centenarians, and all Golan Heights of Qatar mentarians more than you can these new branding that we are imagine. Please take the lead having for the new generation QNA The council adopted the strat- plementing amendments to and adopt many of the projects that are feeling frustrated be- QNA Doha egy of the Inter-Parliamentary its statute relating to imposing From Page 1 that we are having in our organi- cause they are not finding jobs Doha Union to strengthen its posi- sanctions on parliaments that sation,” stressed Barron, who and not able to go to school tion as a source of information send only men to meetings of the “All of them affi rmed their re- was addressing members of the or to universities,” she added. he Governing Council of on parliaments with a view to union, such as the prevention of jection and condemnation of the Young Parliamentarians at the “The system that we inherited he Inter-Parliamentary the Inter-Parliamentary adopting a holistic approach, voting, in the context of the de- unjust blockade, describing it as just-concluded 140th IPU As- is leaving many young people Union (IPU) has con- TUnion (IPU) yesterday involving geopolitical groups fence of gender equality and the illegal and noting that it should sembly in Doha. behind.” Tdemned the recent US adopted a number of resolutions and strengthening inter-parlia- empowerment of women and not go on. They expressed their Barron said being elected as The IPU president also urged recognition of the Golan Heights that enhance the role of parlia- ments. recognition of the role of par- support for us since the very the youngest president of the legislators to participate in the as part of Israel. mentarians in achieving stability The council also approved the liaments in respect for human start of the crisis,” he added. oldest international organisa- 130th anniversary of the organi- IPU President Gabriela Cue- and development in their coun- Global Campaign to promote rights. HE the Speaker also referred tion of global character and the sation in June this year and bring vas Barron said in a Presidential tries and strengthen the ability the Union on the occasion of its She reviewed the IPU’s eff orts to the IPU president’s position largest parliamentary institution the celebration to their parlia- Statement on the Golan Heights: of national parliaments to carry 130th anniversary in Geneva and in institutionalising the na- on the blockade, noting that the in the world “is quite a challenge ments. “The IPU stands for the inad- out their local, regional and in- New York and in national parlia- tional parliaments and involving same view was shared by other and a huge responsibility.” “I have received some ideas missibility of the acquisition of ternational duties in promoting ments and social media. young people in it and extend- parliament speakers during their She pointed out that young and some initiatives on how to territory by war. The IPU was security and stability. The IPU Governing Coun- ing bridges of co-operation be- meetings with Qatari delegates, people should be allowed to run celebrate IPU at the national founded 130 years ago on the In this context, the Govern- cil, in the words of President tween them and local, regional QNA said. They all stressed their for offi ce for them to fully take level on June 30 – dubbed as values of peace and non-use of ing Council of the Parliamen- of the Inter-Parliamentary and international organisations, rejection of the blockade and part in political decision-mak- the International Day of Parlia- force in international relations. tary Union approved yesterday Union (IPU) Gabriela Cuevas as well as participating in inter- called for an end to it, he said, ing in parliaments – in legislat- ment,” she said. We are convinced that the US a memorandum of co-operation Barron, called for strengthen- national conferences and forums adding that the wide participation announcement moves the world with the United Nations Of- ing the language of dialogue and encouraging local parlia- in this year’s assembly was the further away from achieving fi ce on Drugs and Crime as part and encouraging friendship ments to participate in delega- biggest response to the blockade. a just and lasting peace in the of the activities of the Union to among parliaments and dif- tions in the major international The 140th IPU was described Middle East. combat terrorism and violent ferent organisations, as well economic, social and political by Cuevas Barron as exceptional “The US recognition of the extremism. as changing legislation on the forums. in the history of IPU assemblies Importance of Golan Heights runs counter to It also approved the follow-up accession of young people to The Governing Council heard with the participation of 80 UN Security Council resolution of cases of violation of the rights local parliaments, especially the report of Secretary-General parliament speakers, 40 deputy 497, which, inter alia, discourages of parliamentarians in various since most of these parlia- of IPU Martin Chungong on the speakers and 2,200 members of education in building strongly any attempt by Israel to countries of the world by send- ments do not allow those who annual activities of 2018, which parliaments representing an- “impose its laws, jurisdiction and ing delegations, observers, gov- are under 30 years of age to highlighted the IPU’s achieve- other 46,000 around the world. administration in the occupied ernments to fi nally eliminate join them. ments and the challenges it All came to Qatar looking to seek peace highlighted Syrian Golan Heights” and con- any violations of the rights of In her report on the IPU ac- faced, including the implemen- a better future for the world in siders such attempts as “null and parliamentarians representing tivities, she said that the Coun- tation of two sessions of the terms of peace, stability and the void and without international le- peoples. cil was in the process of im- General Assembly last year . rule of law, it was observed. QNA gal eff ect”, the statement said. She said it has been a wonderful Doha “On behalf of the IPU, I launch event with platforms to enhance a strong appeal for all parties to communication and promote the confl ict in the Middle East to dialogue for a better quality of life ecretary-General of the refrain from any unilateral ac- for the people, stressing that the Inter-Parliamentary Un- tion that would fan the fl ames Silatech attends IPU side events countries that failed to take part in Sion (IPU), Martin Chun- of confl ict. We, as parliaments the event missed a great opportu- gong, has praised Qatar’s hosting or parliamentarians, should re- nity for promoting peace and sta- of the the 140th General Assem- solve to work ever more robustly ilatech, an international, bility in the world. She also talked bly of the Inter-Parliamentary to contribute to peace through social development or- about the various achievements Union and the accompanying genuine dialogue”, the statement Sganisation, established by of the 140th IPU Assembly and its meetings, which provided an added. Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint positive outcomes. opportunity to discuss impor- Nasser, participated at the side Similarly, Chungong de- tant issues that are in the inter- Sanctions on events of the 140th Assembly of scribed the Doha meetings and est of achieving the well-being Martin Chungong the Inter-Parliamentary Union assembly as successful and fruit- of all people and humankind, parliamentarians (IPU) which concluded yesterday. ful. He said the IPU rejects any building sustainable peace and but they have their own human ‘unacceptable’ Silatech’s participation aimed practice that violates the human achieving the goals of sustain- rights, especially in matters of at demonstrating its role and rights of parliamentarians any- able development. governance and transparency. mission to socially and eco- where in the world or any limi- In a joint press conference Concerning not addressing The Inter-Parliamentary nomically empower youth, as tation on them to exercise their with HE the Speaker of the Advi- the violations against Palestin- Union (IPU) said the use of the driving force for community rights. “So, the IPU does not sory Council Ahmed bin Abdul- ian parliamentarians by Israel, political sanctions against development, thus achieving ignore the issues of Palestinian lah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud and which has arrested and impris- parliamentarians legally stability and transforming these parliamentarians and extends its President of the 140th General oned dozens of members of the representing their national communities and societies, ac- Participants at the IPU meetings visited Silatech’s booth. support to resolve them.” Assembly of the Inter-Parlia- Palestinian Legislative Council parliaments and their people is cording to a statement. In response to a question on mentary Union (IPU) yesterday, and other inhumane practices unacceptable. In a presidential Silatech’s CEO Sabah al- and join forces for the interest of world to join eff orts towards this parliamentary diplomacy, HE the Martin Chungong stressed the against them, he explained that statements adopted by the Haidoos stated that “the IPU youth and incorporate them to goal, which is considered as a Speaker said it was an important importance of education as part the IPU did not deny the status general assembly, IPU President assembly in Doha, with the drive the development of their global challenge. part of political work, noting that of building peace and security. of Palestinian parliamentarians Gabriela Cuevas Barron, said participation of politicians societies”, added al-Haidoos. Silatech is seeking more the union’s meetings with the UN He reviewed the various top- in Israeli prisons and said that the IPU was founded on the from all over the world was a Participants at the IPU meet- partnerships to join a net- focused on political conditions all ics and themes discussed, es- it defended human rights and importance of parliamentary valuable opportunity to dem- ings visited Silatech’s booth to work of more than 300 local, over the world, and warned that pecially the issue of education, parliamentarians, whether Pal- diplomacy and dialogue. onstrate Silatech’s mission and learn about its pioneering expe- regional and international there was a slow reaction in deal- the problem of terrorism, inter- estinians or other nationalities. Parliamentary diplomacy is an its role in achieving develop- rience in providing jobs to youth partners with the objective ing with some of the problems. He national security and peace, and In response to a question on essential part of international ment in volatile communities in 17 countries in Africa and the of expanding its operational also highlighted that the UN, dur- immunisation of youth through the support of the Palestin- co-operation, helping to building and those in conflict through Middle East and its success in outreach in new regions. ing a meeting with the IPU three education from falling into the ian refugees’ right to education, bridges between countries the provision of job opportuni- providing more than 1,000,000 Silatech also provided an months ago in New York, asked grip of terrorism and extremism. he called on parliamentarians and peoples and seeking to ties. This message aligns with jobs since its inception in 2008. overview on its programmes that parliaments for help in achieving In response to a question on around the world to ask their contribute a parliamentary the IPU agenda in tackling is- Participants also learned align with a number of UN SDGs its goals. The union proposed a the rights of parliamentarians governments to support the perspective to global governance sues of security, peace, fighting about the future programmes and UN Youth strategy 2030. wider use of preventative diplo- and the inhuman or illegal prac- United Nations Relief and Works as well the promotion of peace. hunger, poverty, and achieving that Silatech intends to im- Silatech aims to combat unem- macy to help resolve problems tices they face in their countries, Agency for Palestine Refugees The statement said: “We welfare and UN SDGs”. plement to reach the goal an- ployment, extremism and the mar- rather than wait for it to occur. such as pledges not to oppose the (UNRWA), which provides great believe in the value of open and “The call of Her Highness nounced by Her Highness ginalisation of youth and women The IPU assembly stressed the government, which undermines humanitarian services to Pales- unrestricted dialogue between Sheikha Moza bint Nasser at Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, and youth through employment right of children to quality edu- their civil and political rights, he tinian refugees. parliamentarians from all over Silatech high-level event in Ge- founder and Chairman of the and economic empowerment ini- cation, which in turn would pro- stressed IPU’s commitment to re- He praised Qatar’s sup- the world. IPU assemblies and neva last month was clear. She Board of Trustees of Silatech, tiatives. It works to empower to be- mote stability and security and spect the human rights of parlia- port for this organisation with off icial meetings are essential called upon the leaders, politi- to provide 5,000,000 jobs for come agents of change, capable of constitute a strong foundation to mentarians. However, he pointed US$500mn, calling on countries forums to resolve diff erences cians, governments, business- youth by 2022, as well as invit- transforming their lives and socie- counteract terrorism and violent out that parliaments and parlia- to emulate Qatar and support through meaningful exchange.” men and NGOs to co-operate ing leaders and politicians in the ties for the better. extremism. mentarians are not above the law, UNRWA’s programmes. Gulf Times 24 Thursday, April 11, 2019 QATAR

Amir honours winners of Arabian Camel Festival

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani honoured the winners of the final of the annual purebred Arabian Camel Festival the sword of His Highness the Amir for the 2018-2019 season which took place at Al Shahaniya racetrack. His Highness the Amir awarded the winners of the four main events for camels older than seven years for camels owned by the Sheikhs. Al Shahaniya camels won all races receiving the golden sword, golden shalfa and two golden daggers. His Highness the Amir also awarded the winners of four main events for camels older than seven years for camels owned by tribe members. Nasser Abdulla al-Misned was awarded the golden sword, Jarallah Mohammed Taleb bin Oqail was awarded the silver shalfa and the silver daggers were awarded to Abdulla Saeed al-Aida. His Highness the Amir also honoured the companies sponsoring the festival. The races were attended by Sheikhs, senior off icials from Arab counties, tribe members and fans of the sport. — QNA

Advisory Council Speaker holds meetings on sidelines of IPU General Assembly

QNA Doha

E the Speaker of the Advisory Council Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud met yesterday with President of the National Assembly of Niger Ousseini Tinni, Hand President of the National Assembly of Central African Republic Mousa Lau- rent Ngon-baba, separately on the sidelines of the General Assembly meetings in Doha. During the two meetings, the parliamentary relations between Qatar and each of the two countries were discussed and ways of strengthening and developing them. The top- ics on the agenda of the General Assembly were also reviewed. The two meetings were attended by Mohamed bin Ali al-Hanzab, who is a member of Advisory Council and Chairman of Qatari Parliamentary Friendship Committee with Niger and Central Africa. HE the Speaker also met yesterday with Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka Karu Jayasuriya, on the sidelines of the current General Assembly meeting in the country. During the meeting, they discussed the parliamentary relations between Qatar and Sri Lanka and means of supporting them and enhancing the issues on the agenda of the General Assembly. The meeting was attended by Rashid bin Hamad al-Meadadi, who is a member of Advisory Council and Chairman of the Sri Lankan Parliamentary Friendship Committee. Al-Meadadi also met with President of the National Assembly of Sudan Prof Ibrahim Ahmed Omer on the sidelines of the General Assembly meetings. During the meeting, they discussed the existing parliamentary relations between Qatar and Sudan, ways of boosting them and reviewing the topics on the agenda of the General Assembly. The meeting was attended by Saqr bin Fahad al-Muraikhi, who is a member of the Advisory Council and Chairman of the Qatari-Sudanese Parliamentary Friendship Committee. Education engenders peace, global security, says IPU Doha Declaration

he Members of Parliament attention. “Diff erent forms of from 160 countries and violence characterise the 21st Chair of Twelve Plus Group hails Tover two dozen regional century. Military interventions, Qatar’s success in organising IPU parliamentary organisations, terrorism, transnational organ- meeting in Doha at the 140th As- ised crime, cyberattacks, civil The Chair of Twelve Plus Group, European countries, Canada, Australia sembly of the Inter-Parliamen- wars, armed insurgencies and and New Zealand in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Duarte Pacheco tary Union, which concluded gang violence all seem to indi- praised the success of Qatar in organising the 140th IPU General As- yesterday, recognised the im- cate a world of ever-greater dan- sembly, and the important decisions and recommendations reached in portance of education as a plat- ger and insecurity. this assembly. In a speech at the closing session of the 140th IPU General form for enhancing peace, secu- “Contrary to popular belief, Assembly, he said that many people were scornful of approval for Qatar rity and the rule of law. The Doha however, most lethal violence to host this assembly, believing that Doha would not be able to organise a Declaration on ‘Parliaments as does not occur in confl ict zones. successful session under the blockade, but it has proved to everyone the platforms to enhance education According to the Small Arms opposite after organising the most successful General Assembly despite for peace, security and the rule Survey’s Global Violent Deaths the ongoing blockade imposed on it. of law’ stated that these are en- 2017, at least 560,000 people He added that Qatar has become a more developed, richer independent during objectives of the interna- died violently in 2016, but only state. When the state is independent, it can determine its future and the tional community. about 99,000 (18%) were killed future of its people. This applies to Qatar, he said. For her part, Chairper- The highlights are as follows: in war zones. Such statistics son of the 29th Session of the Women’s Parliamentarians Forum Reem “Peace, security and the rule highlight that we need to rethink al-Mansouri called for equality in employment, especially in communities of law are the preconditions the way we conceive of peace, that still need eff orts to engage more women in all economic sectors and for people to pursue happy and security and the rule of law in- leadership positions, raising a number of important demands, including meaningful lives and maximise ternationally. promoting girls’ education, especially in science, technology, trade and their socioeconomic potential as “Goal 4 of the 2030 Agenda finance, disseminating a culture of equality and confronting stereotypes individuals, as family and com- for Sustainable Development that keep women away from jobs with a lucrative return and from eco- munity members, and as en- reminds us of the link between nomic decision-making. gaged citizens. education and peace. Moreo- A session in progress. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil “Despite persistent eff orts ver, education is recognised as a to develop robust national and fundamental human right. It re- society. “As Parliamentarians, to create a legal framework and a zenship education. This creates there were more than 12,700 at- ity education for all is a crucial international institutions and inforces the idea that education we are committed to support- regulatory environment that not a sense of belonging to the glo- tacks on schools between 2013 component in this regard. Not mechanisms that enable the is about more than turning indi- ing mechanisms and fi nancing only guarantees equitable access bal community, with its mem- and 2017, harming more than only does education provide in- non-violent settlement of dis- viduals into active agents of the measures that work towards pro- to education, but also ensures bers experiencing solidarity and 21,000 students and educators dividuals with tangible skills that putes and disagreements, many productive system: it also creates moting education as a platform quality education for all. collective identity at the local, in at least 70 countries. enable productive employment, forms of confl ict continue to a sense of citizenship and com- for enhancing peace, security “Everyone residing on a par- national and global levels. “Sup- “In adopting this Declaration, but it also develops life skills that plague almost all our societies. munity belonging. and the rule of law, in line with ticular State’s territory must be porting non-formal education. we acknowledge that, to varying foster civic engagement and re- “Unilateral measures taken by “Education is about helping the SDGs, and in particular SDG provided with quality education. This provides an alternative av- degrees, all of our societies are duce the probability that people states against other states with- people to understand the world, 4. This is essential for fostering enue for lifelong learning and having to tackle manifestations will resort to violence to resolve out authorisation of the interna- participate in public life, and ul- “This support includes: Ena- greater respect for democratic skills development by off ering of intolerance, marginalisation confl ict. In a constantly chang- tional community can also have a timately guarantee social cohe- bling equitable access to educa- values, for sustaining democ- educational opportunities to all. and exclusion. As noted by the ing world, we need to exercise negative impact on security, sta- sion based on common values. tion for all. We recognise that racy, and for ensuring the equal “Protecting education sys- United Nations secretary-gener- our legislative, oversight and bility and people’s livelihoods. Education is also the common access to education is limited by participation of women and men tems in situations of confl ict al, in order to achieve peace “we budgetary prerogatives to make We appreciate that sustaining denominator that helps level the signifi cant social barriers. in political life and their well- or insecurity. According to the must teach our children love be- sure that education is adaptive peace, providing security and fi eld for women and men, rural “Facilitating access and pro- being. 2018 report Education under At- fore others teach them hate.” As and well placed to meet the chal- ensuring the rule of law remain and urban dwellers, and ensures viding quality education. As “Promoting productive civic tack by the Global Coalition to lawmakers, we recognise that the lenges that our societies face.” goals that require our undivided equal opportunities for all in lawmakers, we have the means engagement through global citi- Protect Education from Attack, provision of accessible and qual-