1996 - 2021 SILVER JUBILEE YEAR

Ooredoo and Sheikh Joaan MegaFon attends FINA sign MoU at General SPIEF 2021 Congress

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SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 25 SHAWWAL - 1442 VOLUME 26 NUMBER 8645 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

FM: QIA focusing heavily on President Putin lauds diversifying Qatar’s economy relations with Qatar Thanks to joint efforts with Qatar Petroleum, and the QIA H H the Amir, the two is the arm that helps and sup- ports the government to create countries have reached a alternative energy sources for new level of cooperation in future generations. various fields, especially in “We are very much focused investment, as joint on sustainable investments whether it’s in technology, investment funds are infrastructure, education, witnessing constant healthcare, and those sectors growth, affirming both prevailed even during the countries’ keenness on (COVID-19) pandemic. And one important element we are exploring new investment looking at is to apply it to our opportunities". matrix which should have any economic impact for the Vladimir Putin country that we are investing in and for Qatar and its envi- ronmental impact for the globe,” he added. QNA — DOHA investment opportunities. “We are very much focused The Russian President reit- and determined even with the President of the Russian Feder- erated Russia’s support for Qatar pandemic. I believe most of the ation H E Vladimir Putin in hosting the FIFA World Cup sovereign wealth fund has done praised the relations between Qatar 2022, noting that he had COVID-19 pandemic has changed the global economic ↑ Deputy Prime Minister and very well in terms of invest- his country and the State of discussed Qatar’s hosting of the landscape, created many opportunities, and stopped some Minister of Foreign Affairs ments in the last year, and we Qatar at all economic and world tournament with H H the businesses that were growing in previous years. H E Sheikh Mohammed hope that we continue like this. political levels and the mutual Amir. He said that Russia supports bin Abdulrahman Al Thani “It is very important to keep cooperation in the humani- the Qatari friends in hosting the QIA is focusing heavily on diversifying Qatar’s economy, and speaks during “West Asia and our strategy very dynamic given tarian field. He said they reflect championships and is ready to this means creating an alternative energy source for North Africa ... Paths Towards the change in the dynamics in the personal relations between cooperate with Qatar to hydrocarbon. Stability and Prosperity” the world, (it) is getting much him and Amir H H Sheikh overcome all difficulties, if any, session at SPIEF. faster than before,” the Minister Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. to make the hosting a success. Qatar is very much focused on sustainable investments said. Putin disclosed this during a On the Palestinian issue, Putin In response to a question meeting via videoconferencing underlined that lasting peace in whether it’s in technology, infrastructure, education, Investment Authority (QIA), the about the importance of tech- with heads and representatives the region could not be achieved healthcare, and those sectors prevailed even during the investment situation, and eco- nology, digital assets, and diver- of 16 global news agencies, without resolving the Israeli-Pal- (COVID-19) pandemic. nomic outlook in today’s world, sification of assets, H E Sheikh including Qatar News Agency estinian conflict, stressing the H E the Deputy Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman represented by QNA Director- importance and sensitivity of the Qatar is ready to host the 2022 Qatar World Cup even if and Minister of Foreign Affairs Al Thani said that it was very General Yousuf Ibrahim Al Malki. issue for the entire world. there is uncertainty about the duration of the pandemic and said that the COVID-19 pan- important even before the pan- Putin expressed his com- He stated that the need for how the vaccines will work. demic has changed the global demic, and historically QIA has plete satisfaction with the level multilateral cooperation economic landscape, created focused on financial assets, real of cooperation between the two formats and multilateral dis- many opportunities, and estate, and traditional assets, countries. He added that thanks cussion formats, adding that QNA — ST. PETERSBURG This came during his par- stopped some businesses that but in recent years it has redi- to joint efforts with H H the there are issues that require ticipation in a session entitled were growing in previous years. rected its strategy to focus on Amir, the two countries have special attention from the Deputy Prime Minister and “West Asia and North Africa ... He pointed out that QIA is technology and education, for reached a new level of coop- international community. Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Paths Towards Stability and focusing heavily on diversifying example, the distance edu- eration in various fields, espe- Putin underlined that topics Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul- Prosperity,” which was Qatar’s economy, and this cation, which QIA invested in cially in investment, as joint related to resolving the Pales- rahman Al Thani has said that organised by the Doha Forum means creating an alternative since 2018 and when the pan- investment funds are wit- tinian issue should not be Qatar Investment Authority during the St. Petersburg Inter- energy source for hydrocarbon, demic came, these companies nessing constant growth, raised on the sidelines or in the (QIA) is focusing heavily on national Economic Forum 2021. adding that Qatar’s natural became among the leading affirming both countries’ background of international diversifying Qatar’s economy. Regarding the role of Qatar resources are managed by companies. `P3 keenness on exploring new politics. `P2 MME to provide novel WHO honours HMC’s Tobacco Control Center drying house for dates THE PENINSULA — DOHA Hamad Medical Corporation’s Tobacco SANAULLAH ATAULLAH dates, especially in humid Control Center, has been honoured by the THE PENINSULA areas, avoids the contami- World Health Organisation (WHO) for its nation of dates by insects, birds, work in helping people to quit smoking and The Ministry of Municipality dust, and rain, accelerates the spreading awareness about the dangers of and Environment (MME) will drying process, and reduces the tobacco. provide Polycarbonate Drying loss rate of dates. Every year, WHO recognises individuals House (PDH) to date farms to The Agricultural Affairs or organisations in each of the six WHO reduce wastage of local dates Department had established Regions for their accomplishments in the and improve its marketing polycarbonate houses at area of tobacco control. This recognition quality. Rawdat Al Furs Research takes the form of WHO Director-General Speaking to The Peninsula Center for experimental pur- Special Recognition Award and World No on the sidelines of a recent poses. After a successful exper- Tobacco Day Awards. The HMC Tobacco Ministry event, Sheikh Dr. Faleh iment, representatives of date Control Center, a WHO Collaborating Center, bin Nasser Al Thani Assistant farms were taken to the center has was one of the awardee organisations Undersecretary for Agriculture to educate them about the new from the Eastern Mediterranean Region. and Fisheries Affairs at the technique of drying dates. In 2017, HMC’s Tobacco Control Centre MME, said that the decision According to an earlier Min- was designated as a WHO Collaborating aims to reduce wasting dates istry report, the project is one of Center, the first in Qatar and the region. during the drying process and the key researches of the Agri- WHO Collaborating Centre, which also HMC's Tobacco Control Center official with the award. increasing its market value. cultural Affairs Department that includes research institutes and parts of uni- “The Agricultural Affairs replaces the traditional way of versities and academies, is designated to said he was proud of the achievement and In addition to the main Smoking Ces- Department at the Ministry will drying dates under the sun and carry out activities in support of the WHO’s of the work being done by the dedicated sation Clinic, over the last two years new distribute 100 PDHs to date humidity. The traditional mandated international health agenda. team. “Our team has been at the forefront dedicated smoking cessation clinics have farms initially starting from method used to take between Dr. Ahmad Al Mulla, Head of the HMC’s of not only helping people to quit smoking also been opened at Al Wakra Hospital and forthcoming harvesting 18 to 20 days and caused signif- Tobacco Control Center, received the Rec- but also to educate and spread awareness Hazm Mebaireek General Hospital, ena- season,” said Sheikh Dr. Faleh. icant losses in dates. ognition Award presented to the Center in amongst the community about the dangers bling the team to reach even more patients. The initiative is part of a As per the experiment, the presence of: Dr. Abdulla Al Ansari, Chief of tobacco use,” Dr. Al Mulla said. “This Dr. Al Mulla said the Center continued major Ministry plan to increase drying dates in a polycarbonate Medical Officer at HMC, Ali Abdulla Al award is international recognition of this to treat and support people who wanted to the country’s self-sufficiency house took three to five days, Khater, Chief Communication Officer at vital service and our work, that has so pos- quit smoking throughout the pandemic. rate in fresh food production depending on the type of dates. HMC, Dr. Abdul Badi Abou Samra, Chief itively impacted the many patients. “Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure food security. The polycarbonate house has Quality Officer, Deputy Chief Medical “The Tobacco Control Center’s mission HMC’s Tobacco Control Center has con- The PDH is a drying many benefits as it gives good Officer at HMC, and Dr. Ahmed Al is to raise public awareness on the dangers tinued to provide consultations and support, chamber cover by a polycar- quality, better colour, and Mohammed, Chairman of HMC’s Intensive of tobacco use, in addition, to providing health including medication and psychological bonate sheet equipped with an clearer dates and cuts drying Care Units and Medical Director of Hazm and medical advice, as well as behavioral support for tobacco-dependent patients exhaust fan. The new technique times compared to the tradi- Mebaireek General Hospital. support and counselling for smokers to help through telephone-based consultations,” improves the quality of the tional process. `P4 The Center’s Director Dr. Ahmad Al Mulla them quit the habit,” said Dr. Al Mulla. he said. `P2 02 HOME SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021

Qatar slams attacks Al Mahmoud urges global community in Burkina Faso to address scourge of corruption QNA — DOHA The State of Qatar has strongly PRAYER QNA — DOHA incentives, among other mech- condemned the brutal attacks TIMINGS anisms. He believed that while that targeted civilians in PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING Speaker of the Shura Council it is absolutely necessary to Burkina Faso causing dozens and Chairman of the Global provide incentives for economic of deaths. 03.15 am Organization of Parliamen- recovery, it is also important to In a statement issued yes- FAJR tarians Against Corruption ensure that this financial aid is terday, the Ministry of Foreign SUNRISE 04.43 am (GOPAC) H E Ahmed bin provided to those who need it Affairs reiterated Qatar’s firm DHUHR 11.32 am Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud most. stance rejecting violence, ter- ASR 02.56 pm called on the international Al Mahmoud underlined the rorism, and criminal acts, community to address the important and significant role regardless of motives and MAGHRIB 06.25 pm scourge of corruption, effec- of parliamentarians in com- reasons. The Ministry’s ISHA 07.55 pm tively implement the interna- bating corruption, especially at statement expresses the con- tional commitments related to this time when the world is dolences of Qatar to the corruption, and take the facing the coronavirus victims’ families and to the necessary measures to enhance pandemic. Government and people of transparency in management He said that the role of par- Burkina Faso. and accountability, in order to liamentarians is becoming eliminate this global threat. increasingly important at this H E Al Mahmoud said that critical time to ensure that these Shura Council Speaker H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud 192 new COVID-19 the Global Organization of Par- huge funds that have been allo- liamentarians Against cated do not go to a few corrupt. cases: MoPH WEATHER Corruption (GOPAC), as the only significance of convening this Therefore, parliaments and par- TODAY international network of par- emergency session at this time liamentarians must exercise THE PENINSULA — DOHA liamentarians, calls on the while countries are working to oversight over the work of these Al Mahmoud underlined international community to accelerate recovery processes people to the fullest extent in The Ministry of Public Health strengthen cooperation and and vaccination against the order to protect public funds reported 192 new cases of the important and partnership with parliamen- COVID-19 pandemic. from misconduct and enhance COVID-19 yesterday. Among significant role of tarians to fulfil their com- However, these processes accountability for corrupt indi- them, 69 were travellers parliamentarians in mitment to the international are harmed by the abuse of viduals, especially since parlia- returning from abroad. 34oC 43oC combating corruption. anti-corruption standards. power by those who are in the mentarians are the guardians A total of 325 people Minimum Maximum He said that the role of This came in a speech centers of power and unsuper- of public money, and they are recovered from COVID-19 yes- delivered by the Speaker of the vised who exploit the public responsible for enacting good terday, bringing the total parliamentarians is Hot to very hot with slight dust to Shura Council via videoconfer- money. legislation. number of people recovered blowing dust at places by afternoon. becoming increasingly encing, before the special The Speaker of the Shura The parliamentarians are in Qatar 214,950. important at this critical session of the UN General Council noted that large sums the main stakeholders in setting The Ministry announced W ALRUWAIS : 31o → 35o time to ensure that Assembly on the challenges and of money are currently being budgets, they are role models one death, aged 58 who had a W ALKHOR : 28o → 40o these huge funds that measures to prevent and disbursed as a means of in their societies and, as history of chronic disease and combat corruption and financial stimulus through political figures, have a strong was receiving the necessary W DUKHAN : 28o → 43o have been allocated do strengthen international coop- several mechanisms, including mandate to prevent and combat medical care. → W WAKRAH : 26o 44o not go to a few corrupt. eration, held in New York tax incentives, the provision of corruption, therefore they must Meanwhile, 13,122 W MESAIEED : 26o → 44o yesterday. vaccines, social protection pro- be part of the solution not a part COVID-19 vaccine doses were W ABUSAMRA : 28o → 46o Al Mahmoud stressed the grams, and small business of the problem. administered in 24 hours.

HIGH TIDE 0:40–16:03 Qatar has leadership, vision to be reliable partner for peace, security: FM

LOW TIDE 9:05 – 21:26 ST. PETERSBURG QNA — mainly the evacuation of the relationship with Hamas and the after Palestine and Syria, the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood Taliban movements does not Minister said, “Unfortunately, Deputy Prime Minister and and the provocation that The Foreign Minister said mean that we finance or support there are now countries in a Minister of Foreign Affairs H E occurred to the people trying to that Qatar has been a them.” critical stage, for example, 9 new lawyers Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul- reach Al Aqsa Mosque, most of facilitating country and a The Foreign Minister added Libya, and we believe that they rahman Al Thani stressed that whom are Muslims and mediator between the that Qatar aims with this rela- will move to the stage of sta- take oath the State of Qatar has a wise Christians. tionship to establish contact and bility after the elections. As for leadership and a clear vision to Regarding the focus of the various conflicting parties open a channel with them, Iraq, it is trying, after the war and has proven its QNA — DOHA be a reliable partner for peace administration of US President adding that in Gaza now there against IS, to reform some laws, and security in the region and Joe Biden on the Iranian file, success for decades in is, unfortunately, a lot of mis- especially after the recent pro- The Lawyers Admission the world. Qatar’s willingness in the past this field. information spread by the tests, and the Prime Minister is Committee held a meeting He further said that Qatar to facilitate discussions between Israelis, while they know very trying will arrange for the under the chairmanship of has been a facilitating country the Taliban movement and the well how strict Qatar controls upcoming elections, and we Minister of Justice and Acting and a mediator between the US, between other partners, and Iran is our next-door neighbor, this process and where the hope that these elections will Minister of State for Cabinet various conflicting parties and with Hamas and Qatar’s vision and we want to see stability money it contributes goes. Since bring national unity to Iraq, not Affairs H E Dr. Issa bin Saad Al has proven its success for to achieve peace and a two- over there.” 2012, Qatar has contributed sectarian elections.” Jafali Al Nuaimi at its decades in this field. state solution, the Deputy Prime Regarding the controversy $1.4bn to the reconstruction of The Deputy Prime Minister permanent headquarters at This came during his par- Minister and Minister of Foreign surrounding Qatar during the Gaza, and has built 42,000 and Minister of Foreign Affairs the Ministry of Justice. ticipation in a session entitled Affairs said that Qatar has past years due to the blockade housing units, roads, hospitals, expressed his belief that many The Committee considered “West Asia and North Africa.. always been a reliable partner and the accusations of its and schools, and is contributing Arab countries are either in a the topics listed on its agenda. Paths Towards Stability and for peace and security in the support for Hamas and extremist to the care and maintenance of gradual stage to achieve sta- Nine new lawyers took the Prosperity,” which was region, and has facilitated and elements in Gaza and the those facilities, he pointed out. bility, or in a fragile stage, for oath before the Committee. organised by the Doha Forum mediated between the various financing of terrorist elements, He also asked, “Where do example, Sudan, which is wit- The Committee accepted during the St. Petersburg Inter- conflicting parties. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul- we get fuel from”, explaining, nessing some small progress but 11 requests for new lawyers national Economic Forum 2021. The Foreign Minister said, rahman Al Thani said, “Unfor- “It is obtained from the Israeli faces many challenges such as under training, and considered On the recent developments “About Iran and the United tunately, this is part of the mis- side and sent to the Electricity economic and geopolitical the requests for the regis- in the Gaza Strip and the Israeli States, it is in our interest not information campaign that Qatar Company of the Palestinian challenges. tration of new lawyers of government's request from the only in Qatar, but also in the is exposed to. Our aid and money Authority, which generates He stressed, “We do not similar occupations, requests United States for $1bn and mil- Gulf Cooperation Council states go directly to the people. We electricity for the people of want to see a country collapse. for calculating the period of itary aid to restore the Iron that there be an agreement apply very strict mechanisms Gaza, and this support repre- Lebanon is very important and experience, and requests for Dome, the Deputy Prime Min- between them, that there is an that everyone knows, including sents 50 percent of the money it is now in a very dangerous transferring the registration of ister and Minister of Foreign agreement that also stops the the Israelis and the United States. that Qatar donates monthly to situation, but unfortunately, the lawyers in the lists of working Affairs said that what led to the nuclear race that is taking place We also abide by all interna- Gaza, and the remaining 50 political parties there do not lawyers. The Committee also situation that happened in Gaza in our region, and it is in our tional rules and the US sanctions percent goes to 230,000 poor agree to form a new gov- reviewed a number of organ- is not related to the restoration interest not to see any esca- system because we are tied to families in Gaza, each of whom ernment, and now the Central isational topics, and the files of the Iron Dome, or how strong lation between the US And Iran, the dollar in the end. Our receives $100.” Bank of Lebanon will stop presented for discussion, and or steadfast the Israelis are, but the United States is a strategic banking system works transpar- Concerning whether the financing the government took the appropriate decisions in fact with the behaviour of the ally for Qatar, and we want to ently and in accordance with Middle East can afford Lebanon shortly, and it will become gov- thereon. Israelis in Jerusalem recently, maintain this strategic alliance. good governance practices. Our to become another failed state ernment without a budget.” President Putin lauds relations with Qatar Doha Forum attends St. Petersburg FROM PAGE 1 The Russian Putin praised his American The President expressed President stressed counterpart, saying that Pres- International Economic Forum hope that all major crises will ident Biden is a very experi- the need to unify be resolved, foremost of which enced politician, and hoped that QNA — DOHA is the issue of the two-state global efforts in their meeting would be the most prominent participants International Economic Forum solution, which is the estab- constructive. The Doha Forum participated in the forum. has been held in St. Petersburg, lishment of a Palestinian and combating the Speaking on efforts to in the Saint Petersburg Interna- Assistant Foreign Minister Russia since 1997, and is a an Israeli state, provided that pandemic. combat the coronavirus tional Economic Forum, which and Executive Director of the leading global forum for this solution will positively (COVID-19) pandemic, the was held from June 2 to 5 at the Doha Forum H E Lolwah Al members of the business com- impact the interests of both the Russian President stressed the EXPOFORUM Convention and Khater, said that for 22 years, munity to meet and discuss Palestinian and Israeli peoples. two countries have “common need to unify global efforts in Exhibition Centre in Saint the Doha Forum has been a major economic issues and He stressed that his country will interests.” combating the pandemic. He Petersburg, Russia. platform for dialogue and trends in the world. continue to contribute to He believes that despite the noted that the world has not yet The St. Petersburg Interna- diplomacy that brings together Founded in 2000, the Doha solving the Palestinian issue. contradictions — which he said recovered from the difficulties tional Economic Forum is a leaders and thinkers in the Forum is a platform for global On his upcoming meeting were not created by Russia — and restrictions caused by the global platform where members Middle East to discuss the dialogue on critical challenges with US President Joe Biden in the two countries still have pandemic and that effective of the business community meet pressing challenges facing the facing the world, promoting Geneva on June 16, President overlapping interests, including results can be achieved only to discuss key economic issues world, and Qatar is excited to exchange of ideas and dialogue, Putin said that he does not environmental issues, strategic through cooperation. facing Russia, emerging markets bring the Doha Forum to Russia policy-making, and provision expect any breakthrough in the stability, and the joint action to He called for prioritising and the world. this year for the first time, and of actionable recommenda- relations between the two resolve some regional crises humanitarian issues and peo- This year, the Doha Forum, to partner with a variety of tions. The Doha Forum was last countries after he meets with due to their security importance ple’s health and lives over eco- in partnership with the Roscon- guests at St. Petersburg Inter- held in Doha in December Biden, but indicated that the to both countries. nomic benefits at this stage. gress Fund, hosted a prominent national Economic Forum, and 2019, with 243 participants, 142 session during the third day of strengthening relations with nationalities, and 300 media the St. Petersburg Forum, in partners in Russia, adding that professionals, in addition to which Deputy Prime Minister the State of Qatar, as the guest more than 100 bilateral WHO honours HMC’s Tobacco Control Center and Minister of Foreign Affairs country of this year’s St. meetings and 40 View Point FROM PAGE 1 H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Petersburg International Eco- interviews. the team which has seen more “With this kind of high-level Abdulrahman Al Thani, partic- nomic Forum, maintained a Doha Forum continued The Center and its team also than 50 academic papers support, we are able to make a ipated, and the session was high-level presence throughout during the years 2020 and 2021 run regular training and edu- published. real difference to the lives of titled “West Asia and North the four days of the Forum, in virtually, through a series of cational events for healthcare Dr. Al Mulla thanked Min- our patients,” he said. “Tobacco Africa: The Way towards sta- addition to a unique business sessions with the participation staff in Qatar and the region as ister for Public Health H E Dr. use as one of the most pressing bility and prosperity”. platform in Qatar Pavilion, of senior policy makers, experts well as community outreach Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari for health risks in Qatar and we During the forum, other within a dedicated space called and researchers to discuss a programs. her continued support for the need to continue our collabo- successful interviews were con- Doha Hall. number of pressing global This is addition to the Center’s activities and rative efforts to educate and ducted to obtain the opinions of The St. Petersburg issues. research work undertaken by programs. help the public quit tobacco.” SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 HOME 03 QU, Waseda University launch Qatar MoTC conducts high-level meetings at SPIEF 2021 Chair in Islamic Area Studies THE PENINSULA — DOHA toward building a smart Qatar, and, in addition to that, the THE PENINSULA — DOHA The Ministry of Transport and country has taken notable steps Communications (MoTC) of in improving its global con- In a virtual ceremony, Qatar Qatar participated in the St. nection with world-class sea, University (QU) and Waseda Petersburg International land and air facilities.” University in Japan launched the Economic Forum (SPIEF) as part The Minister added, “During Chair of the State of Qatar in of the State of Qatar partici- the Forum, we held a number Islamic Area Studies at Waseda pation as a guest country at the of high-level meetings with University, which will see the Forum. contribution of faculty members Entities such The Smart from both institutions to Qatar Program (TASMU), the enhance research cooperation Qatar Railways Company (Qatar between academic institutions Rail), Qatar Navigation (Milaha), The Ministry and its and research centres in various Mwani Qatar, the Qatar Aero- entities hosted several aspects of Islamic civilization. nautical Academy and Hamad high-level meetings with Several international digni- International Airport partici- Officials take part in a virtual ceremony during the launch of the Chair of Qatar in Islamic Area Studies their Russian taries and experts in the field of pated under the umbrella of the at Waseda University in Japan. counterparts to explore the Middle East and Islamic Ministry where they exchanged studies attended the ceremony, expertise between Russia and opportunities of including Ambassador of Japan University, Dr. Aiji Tanaka, said, “I would like to congratulate both universities, as well as between Qatar. collaboration within the to Qatar, H E Kazuo Sunaga; “This project began as a proposal universities, who have come a Qatar, the Gulf region, Japan, The Ministry and its entities framework of Ambassador of Qatar to Japan, from Waseda University to the long way to establish the Chair and the rest of the world,” he hosted several high-level developing economic H E Hassan bin Mohammed Rafi Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin of the State of Qatar in Waseda said. meetings with their Russian relations and Al Emadi; President of Waseda Hamad Al Thani, during the University. My appreciation goes Several professors from counterparts to explore oppor- University, Dr. Aiji Tanaka; QU Japan-Qatar Economic Forum to the government of Qatar for Waseda University working on tunities of bilateral collaboration partnership with the President, Dr. Hassan Al in 2015. The support of their very generous support. the Qatar Chair project shared within the framework of devel- Russian Federation. Derham; and Chair of the State numerous individuals and Qatar and Japan have been their plans and projects, oping economic relations and of Qatar in Islamic Area Studies organizations made it possible developing a mutually beneficial including Dr. Tetsuya Ohtoshi, partnership with the Russian and Visiting Professor at to sign an agreement in January relationship in the last half- Dr. Alexander Mallett, Dr. Waseda University, Dr. Abdullah 2019. We are grateful for the century, and the Qatar Chair has Woohyang Chloe Sim, Dr. Baabood. The session was intro- support and cooperation over opened a new chapter in our Matthew Gray, Dr. Shohei Sato, duced by the Director of Inter- the past few years. It is a great excellent relations.” and a closing address by Prof. national Affairs Office, Cesar honour for Waseda University Dr. Abdullah Baabood, who Maji Christine Rhee, Dean of Wazen, and Waseda University to contribute to the friendship previously held the position of International Affairs at Waseda Professor Dr. Keiko Sakurai. between Qatar and Japan Director of the Gulf Studies University. QU President Dr. Al Derham through research and Center in QU, was appointed Following the formal said during the ceremony, dedication.” Chair of the State of Qatar in session, the two institutions “Although this event is hap- Ambassador of Qatar to Islamic Area Studies and Visiting jointly hosted a public webinar pening virtually due to the Japan, H E Hassan bin Professor at Waseda on “Gulf-Asia Relations within current health and safety pre- Mohammed Rafi Al Emadi com- University. the Changing Global Order,” led cautions — it does not detract mented, “This inaugural cer- “It is indeed a great honour by many senior officials from from the significance of this emony holds special importance, and a real privilege to be both universities. The webinar occasion.” we feel a great sense of pride in appointed as a Chair of the State aimed to discuss, analyze, and He added, “Through estab- launching this great academic of Qatar for Islamic Studies at dissect Gulf-Asia relations fol- lishing the Chair, we draw on the project, as it follows the direction the prestigious Waseda Uni- lowing the last decade’s shift in expertise of our two institutions of H H the Amir to strengthen versity in Japan. The mission global economic relations. to enhance research cooperation academic and cultural cooper- and the objectives of the Chair It is worth noting that this in numerous fields related to ation between educational insti- are both far-reaching and wide- event takes place on the 50th Islamic civilization and build a tutions and research projects ranging. They will certainly anniversary of Qatar-Japan Officials at the pavilion of the Ministry of Transport and Communications greater understanding of the between Qatar and Japan.” prove to be both stimulating and relations, a relationship built on at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, in Russia. Islamic identity.” Ambassador of Japan to inspiring in promoting academic shared values and mutual President of Waseda Qatar, H E Kazuo Sunaga, said, cooperation between both respect and trust. Federation, in addition to high- leading Russian entities to lighting the investment oppor- enhance the means of bilateral tunities that the country pro- cooperation between the two vides in the fields of transpor- countries in addition to shedding CNA-Q promotes tree planting to mark World Environment Day tation and information and light on the investment oppor- communication technology, tunities that the country pro- THE PENINSULA — DOHA always adopted green initiatives something which can contribute vides in the fields of transpor- and ways to save the planet from to attracting more foreign direct tation and information and College of the North Atlantic – further harm. This day is an investments and boosting the communication technology.” Qatar (CNA-Q) celebrated opportunity to make impactful State of Qatar’s competitive The TASMU Program show- “World Environment Day” by decisions. It is a time to think standing in the region and cased the efforts exerted by actively engaging in green initi- about how we can contribute to outside of it. Qatar on the path of trans- atives and fostering a culture of making this world a better place Commenting on the Minis- forming into a smart country, in environmental leadership to live in. try’s participation, Minister of addition to pitching a number of among its staff, faculty, and “We need to adopt an eco- Transport and Communications investment opportunities to students. The College President, friendly lifestyle and ensure a H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti global companies and delega- Dr. Salem Al Naemi, started the balance between economic said, “The St. Petersburg Inter- tions to contribute to these day by planting a “Sidra” tree on growth and environmental pro- national Economic Forum was efforts. This high-profile event campus. tection as stated in the Envi- an immense success as the first year is one of the largest in the This tree is the iconic symbol ronment Development Pillar of global event of this scale to be world concerned with the sectors of Qatar’s heritage and repre- Qatar National Vision 2030.” held in the post-pandemic of investment and economy. It is sents learning, growth, perse- The College also has an world. Under the leadership of organised by the Roscongress verance, and solidarity. Environmental Club that aims Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Foundation of Russia. Moreover, the College dis- to advocate for a better Hamad Al Thani, Qatar has It will witness the partici- CNA-Q President Dr. Salem Al Naemi planting a tree on campus. tributed 150 plants to its com- environment. made enormous progress in the pation of a number of their excel- munity across campus, encour- The club organised beach field of digital transformation lencies Heads of States, senior aging all members to grow them Management Program in collab- such as cans and foils, card- clean-ups in collaboration with and digital services using inno- political and economic officials, at home and create a healthy oration with many companies. board, glass, paper, plastic, the municipalities. It also holds vative initiatives and programs in addition to representatives of indoor environment. Special colour-coded containers metal, printer and toner car- many virtual awareness events such as TASMU with the MoTC leading Russian and interna- Furthermore, the Facilities have been placed across the tridges, etc. and will resume more initiatives for building a diversified tional companies and multiple Department at the College campus to segregate and Commenting on this day, Dr. once the COVID-19 restrictions national economy and keeping business leaders from around the implements a Recyclable Waste manage different kinds of waste Al Naemi said, “CNA-Q has are fully lifted. pace with the latest digital skills world. Al Jazeera denounces assault, violent FM: QIA focusing heavily on diversifying Qatar’s economy arrest of journalist by Israeli forces FROM PAGE 1 estate, now it is investing On the future of the vaccinated and the travel ban THE PENINSULA — DOHA international conventions. “For us, technology and dig- mainly in infrastructure, tech- will be lifted.” Today’s violent actions by itization is a very important nology, healthcare, and edu- QIA in the next 10 In response to a question Al Jazeera News Channel’s Israeli occupation forces element and I think it is an cation. “Diversification in terms years, the Deputy about Qatar’s plans to host the journalist Givara Budeiri was against Givara Budeiri and infrastructure goal. We have of sector and geography is key 2032 Olympic Games, he said arrested in a brutal manner by Nabil Mazzawi are in total dis- seen an expansion in commu- for us,” he added. Prime Minister said that at the moment Qatar is in Israeli occupation forces while regard for the fundamental nications technology.” On the impact of the that the goal is an ongoing dialogue with covering demonstrations in the human rights of journalists.” About digital and crypto- COVID-19 pandemic on tourism to have a balance International Olympic Com- occupied East Jerusalem neigh- He further stated, “The currencies, the Foreign Minister and preparations for the 2022 mittee (IOC), therefore, they bourhood of Sheikh Jarrah. silencing of journalists by ter- said: “For us, as a sovereign Qatar World Cup, the Deputy between financial cannot comment, explaining “Al Jazeera holds the Israeli rorising them has become a wealth fund, we look very care- Prime Minister said that the services, technology, that Qatar has planned some- government responsible for her routine activity for the Israeli fully how risky is the people will not stop traveling thing that is fully consistent welfare and demands her authorities as witnessed in investment because we believe and tourism, which is seen in infrastructure, with the Qatar National Vision, immediate release,” said a recent weeks in Gaza and that we are managing funds for Saint Petersburg, as there are healthcare, and and the United Nations’ Sus- statement issued yesterday by occupied Jerusalem. These our children, our grandchildren, many people and everyone tainable Development Goals, the channel. Al Jazeera’s cam- actions cannot be viewed in for the next generations to wants this pandemic to end as education. and there is a lot of investment eraman, Nabil Mazzawi, also isolation. Today’s arrests come come, not for ourselves to enjoy quickly as possible because underway for the FIFA World had his camera destroyed by just two weeks after the for a short term.” they want to return to their Cup in Qatar, and the country’s the Israeli authorities whilst bombing and destruction of the “Digital currency is still normal lives, adding there is an the World Cup will be a happy infrastructure has been built, reporting. Al Jalaa building, which housed unclear there is no certainty impact on the work of hotels celebration for people after two so Qatar will focus on deliv- Commenting on the arrest, Al Jazeera and other media about it, maybe in the coming because of the pandemic, that years of lockdown, so Qatar is ering a sustainable, environ- Dr. Mostefa Souag, Acting organisations offices in Gaza. years it will be strengthened, it needs a year or two years to focused on organizing an mentally friendly, economic Director-General said, “We Such attempts to prevent jour- will be something more popular return to normalcy. amazing World Cup. and social impact. condemn the actions of the nalists from carrying out their and it will get much better value He added that concerning Regarding the talks of He added, “The region has Israeli occupation forces in the professional duty to inform the and this will be good for the the upcoming World Cup, Qatar leaders of airlines and govern- been deprived of such events strongest terms. The systematic world and report events on the early investors but we would is ready to host the 2022 Qatar ments about opening countries as the World Cup and the targeting of our journalists is in ground is a crime against the rather have less return but be World Cup even if there is to tourists and vaccinations Olympics, and Qatar is trying total violation of all journalistic profession.” on a solid ground,” he said. uncertainty about the duration programs, the Deputy Prime to seize this opportunity to The Minister stressed that of the pandemic and how the Minister said: “For us, we are bring this to the region because they have no plans to get into vaccines will work. talking with the countries that we believe that the benefit of 5 arrested for violating home quarantine the crypto space anytime soon. He added that Qatar has are currently closed... and we the entire region, and we have On the future of the QIA in prepared an alternative plan to are following up with them a proven legacy that supports QNA — DOHA designate prosecution, are the next 10 years, the Deputy ensure that all people who will what is the situation there, and successful sporting events since Faris Ahmed Arabi Adam, Prime Minister said that the attend the World Cup have been I believe that during the coming the Asian Games and all tour- The authorities arrested five Mohammed Abkar Hassan goal is to have a balance vaccinated and tested to months when the vaccination naments after that, and we people who violated the Haroun, Mohammed Ibrahim between financial services, provide them with the campaign achieve the level they hope and dream about the 2022 requirements of the home Sayed Mohammed Khaja, Hani technology, infrastructure, maximum experience they aim for, they will open their World Cup. I think Qatar is quarantine. Nabil Ibrahim Rifai and healthcare, and education, as would like to see at the World countries,” expressing the hope proving even more that it is The violators, who are cur- Ramper Das Brimando QIA focused at the beginning Cup. that by the end of 2021 most of capable of hosting a world-class rently being referred to the Mojomder. on financial services and real He expressed the belief that the world will have been event like the World Cup.” 04 HOME SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 Mandatory training courses for new jurists begin QNA - DOHA according to the requirements The training plan for the legal specialised studies and research. provisions of civil evidence, and and needs of the concerned It also deals with the provi- the regulating foundations to The Legal and Judicial Studies authorities and the training courses for the year 2021 includes more than sions of the permanent consti- implement judgments, judicial Center at the Ministry of Justice objectives. The training plan for 90 specialised courses aimed at developing tution of the state, the juris- orders, implementation has started the work of the the legal specialised courses for diction and skills of preparing problems, banking transaction three-month programme of the year 2021 includes more the skills and expertise of the beneficiaries in defenses before the judiciary, disputes and judicial applica- special training courses for new than 90 specialised courses various legal disciplines. and the legal system for con- tions, skills for preparing and jurists. aimed at developing the skills tracting and electronic drafting legislation, regulations A total of 65 trainees from and expertise of the benefici- signature. and administrative decisions, various legal authorities in the aries in various legal would implement training pro- into account in the preparation The specialised courses and other specialised courses country benefit from the disciplines. grammes for judges and their of the various fields related to scheduled for new jurists during that can be viewed through the training programme, divided The training programme assistants, members of the the work of government the following three months also website of the Ministry of Justice. into four groups. came after Minister of Justice Public Prosecution Office and agencies and the jurisdiction of deal with the legal mechanisms The candidates can join the The training programme and Acting Minister of State for their assistants, and candidates legal affairs in these agencies, for combating money laundering specialised legal training courses comprises programmes and Cabinet Affairs H E Dr. Issa bin from the Supreme Judicial as it includes the areas of devel- and terrorist financing crimes in through Mawared, and fill out workshops that include various Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi, issued Council or the Attorney General oping negotiation skills, man- Qatari law, the legal organisation the nomination form for the spe- legal tracks and skills that Resolution No. (4) of 2021 for for appointment to positions in aging legal problems, legal pro- for adjudicating administrative cialised courses that include the support government agencies the Training Regulations at the the judiciary and the Public tection of public and private disputes, the skills of preparing name of the course, the name of in their various fields of work. Center for Legal and Judicial Prosecution. state properties, legal drafting and drafting statement of claim, the candidate, the date of the The training courses for the Studies at the Ministry of Justice, The training programme’s of legislation and regulations memoranda and pleadings, the meeting, and the educational programme are distributed which stipulated that the Center comprehensiveness was taken and skills of preparing legal art of pleading, jurisdiction, qualification. More than 2,400 female students graduate from nine QU colleges

THE PENINSULA — DOHA served as the guest of honour. In the presence of Sheikha The graduation ceremonies of Hanadi Nasser bin Khalid Al nine colleges’ for female Thani, founder and chair- students at Qatar University person of Amwal, CEO of the (QU) were held individually. Nasser Bin Khaled Group, These ceremonies included Chairman of the Board of College of Business and Eco- Directors of Injaz Qatar as the nomics — First Group and guest of honour of College of Second Group, College of Edu- Business and Economics at cation, College of Sharia and Qatar University, where the Islamic Studies, College of graduates of the departments Law, College of Engineering, of Accounting, Economics, A group of graduating students of Qatar University. College of Health Sciences, Finance (Second Group) were College of Pharmacy, and honoured. The number of Nisf, a judge of the Court of The first batch of 206 Work, and Psychology with college honoured the third College of Arts and Sciences — female graduates in the col- Cassation and a member of the female graduates were hon- 300 female graduates. Dr. batch of graduates for the 43rd First Group, Second Group, lege’s second cohort reached Supreme Judicial Council, was oured with specialisations in Aisha Yusuf Omar Al Mannai, batch, class (2020), in Media, and Third Group. 279. the guest of honour of the Mathematics, Statistics, Chem- Director of Muhammad bin International Affairs, and The College of Business Director of the Ministry of College of Sharia and Islamic istry, Biology, Environment, Hamad Al Thani Center for Politics. and Economics held a gradu- Public Health’s Public Health Studies and the College of Law Sports Sciences, English, and Muslim Contribution to Civi- The college graduated 381 ation ceremony for its 43rd Department, H E Sheikh Dr. joint ceremony. The colleges Arabic with H E Dr. Ibrahim lization at the College of female graduates. As QU grad- batch of Graduate Studies, Mohammed bin Hamad Al honoured 265 female bin Saleh Al Nuaimi, Under- Islamic Studies (CIS), Hamad uates its 43rd cohort of grad- Management, Marketing, and Thani, was the guest of honour graduates. secretary of the Ministry of bin Khalifa University was the uates, the university chron- Management Information at the College of Engineering, The College of Education Education and Higher Edu- guest of honour. icles a long history spanning Systems (First Group) grad- College of Health Sciences, graduated 381 students from cation, as the guest of honour Meanwhile, Fatima Al decades. It contributes heavily uates in the presence of and College of Pharmacy grad- the 43rd batch in the presence of the College of Arts and Sci- Rumaihi, CEO of Doha Media to Qatar’s development and Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari, uation ceremony, which hon- of Prof. Hissa Mohamed Sadiq, ences graduation. The second Corporation, was the guest of prosperity by boosting the Director General of Qatar oured 356 female students. a part-time professor at QU batch included graduates in honour at the College of Arts labour market with qualified Fund for Development, who Judge H E Ibrahim Saleh Al and the college’s former dean. History, Sociology, Social and Sciences graduation. The graduates. MME to provide novel drying house for dates

A Polycarbonate Drying House set up by MME at Rawdat Al Furs Assistant Undersecretary for Research Center for experiment. Agriculture and Fisheries Affairs at the MME, Sheikh Dr. Faleh bin Nasser Al Thani fodder such as fodder cactus and Each rack has two shelves dry palm trees for pollen powder. equipped with a wooden frame A polycarbonate house is similar and the base of a robust plastic FROM PAGE 1 to a protected house covered net.The house is also equipped with solid polycarbonate (2mm). with a powerful automated The polycarbonate houses The facility has four rust- exhaust fan to maintain the could dry desert herbs and proof iron racks. required temperature inside. QRCS provides medical care to Myanmar refugees in Bangladesh

THE PENINSULA — DOHA relation to ophthalmology. when needed. It is estimated Under the project, 250 patients that the project will cover up Qatar Red Crescent Society will undergo cataract proce- to 424,000 beneficiaries, (QRCS) has initiated a new dures. In order to promote including 27,720 patients to be project to provide anti- community awareness among treated at health centres, 250 blindness medical care for eye the refugees and locals, a to be operated in the eye, and diseases in Bangladesh, both program of field visits will be 396,000 to attend field at the camps of Myanmar implemented to inform the awareness-raising sessions refugees in Cox’s Bazar and the public about eye health, held by well-trained host local community. identify cases with eye dis- volunteers. With a budget of $134,823 eases, and give advising and Together with its Bang- (or around QR492,100), the health education. ladesh counterpart, QRCS is 14-month project is executed The last component of the recruiting and training the staff in collaboration with Bang- project is to support the system and procuring the medical ladesh Red Crescent Society of referral to specialised hos- equipment and supplies to be (BDRCS). pitals, for more advanced diag- used under the project, which The purpose of the project nosis and treatment services will last until June 2022. is to provide the refugee and local communities with access to high quality eye health care and increase the curability of eyesight problems. To that end, QRCS secure medical exami- nations and medications at seven health centres for one year, each receiving an average of 15 to 20 patients per day during week days. Also, QRCS seeks to build the capacity of medical and technical staff at the target health centres, particularly in A man getting his eyes checked under a QRCS project in Bangladesh. SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 HOME 05 UDC inaugurates ‘Seabin’ project to maintain clean waters

THE PENINSULA — DOHA fuel and plastic fibers will be Driven by UDC’s removed by filtering 2.3 United Development Company commitment to billion liters of water. UDC (UDC), a leading Qatari public sustainability practices, further plans to increase seabins shareholding company and the the Seabin project is a up to 30, covering more loca- master developer of The Pearl- tions in Porto Arabia and Qanat Qatar and Gewan Island, inau- multi-award-winning Quartier. gurated a new environmental invention that acts as a The Pearl-Qatar prides itself ‘Seabin’ project, the first of its floating trash bin and in its multiple initiatives that kind in the State of Qatar, to sucks waste including reflect positively on the envi- prevent sea pollution and plastic, oils and ronment through recycling, pol- protect marine species at The contaminants from the lution reduction, energy and Pearl-Qatar. water saving measures. The event, which took place water of docks and Through its recycling and waste on the occasion of World Envi- marinas, removing management strategy, UDC was ronment Day, was held in Porto hazards to marine life and able to achieve significant envi- Arabia Marina where the maintaining a healthy ronmental savings at The Pearl- seabins have been installed in ecosystem. Qatar which contribute to a ten different locations, in the healthy and balanced eco- presence of senior officials from system, preserve natural UDC and the Ministry of Munic- resources and ensure the well- ipality and Environment. healthy ecosystem. being of the Island’s residents Driven by UDC’s com- The seabin is made from and community. mitment to sustainability prac- recycled material and its catch UDC also plays a vital role tices, the Seabin project is a bag can hold up to 20 kilo- in the National Climate Change UDC officials inaugurating ‘Seabin’, a new environmental project. multi-award-winning invention grams. Each day, the seabin has Action Plan (NCCAP) which that acts as a floating trash bin the potential to collect almost aims to position the State of and sucks waste including four kilograms of floating water This is as many as 90,000 Seabin collected waste is erated at The Pearl-Qatar. Qatar as a pioneer in climate plastic, oils and contaminants pollution and filters over two plastic shopping bags, 11,900 recycled and reused as part of Starting with ten seabins in change initiatives and is soon from the water of docks and million liters of water. Per year, plastic bottles, 50,000 water UDC’s ongoing recycling Porto Arabia, UDC estimates to introduce a new technology marinas, removing hazards to the seabin can collect approxi- bottles, 35,700 disposable cups, program which has helped that within one year, 15 tons of that leads to significant marine life and maintaining a mately 1.4 tons of debris. and 117,600 plastic utensils. recycle 22% of total waste gen- microplastics, marine litter, oil, reduction in carbon footprint. Lulu marks footprints on World Environment Day

THE PENINSULA — DOHA months. It is widely recognised that The country’s leading retailer to avoid the worst impacts of Lulu Hypermarket Qatar has climate change, the world needs joined hands with the Ministry to urgently reduce emissions. of Municipality and Envi- Keeping this in view, Lulu ronment by participating in its Group has focused on reducing ‘Plant Million Tree’ initiative on carbon emissions from its oper- the sidelines of the World Envi- ations by investing in waste ronment Day. management hierarchy. The inaugural ceremony Lulu focused on recycling of the above initiative will be of paper and cardboards, col- held today at 9am at Lulu lection of waste oil and disposal Hypermarket premises on the of food wastage through ORCA D-Ring Road. Senior officials waste disposal system. Lulu’s Middle East and North from the Public Parks recent Sustainability Report Department namely states that, with the above Mohammed Al Sada, Assistant measures they could contribute Africa Short Film Week Director; Khalid Asindi, Head positively to the environment of Project Section; Mayson, by evading overall 13,159 tonnes Engineer; Naser Aldarweish and of CO2 emission. to begin tomorrow Abdelmahdi Salman from the Lulu Group had introduced Gardens Section- of Doha both biodegradable shopping THE PENINSULA — DOHA Municipality and the senior bags and given customers the The shows are available to management of Lulu Group will option of using Reusable With participation of 20 distin- the public for free, through attend the event. shopping bags. guished drama works in the the center’s website odka. To promote the Ministry’s Lulu also introduced a field of short films, the 'Middle initiative and to communicate ‘borrow a bag’ program to East and North Africa Short eventive.org. the message about the impor- encourage customers to think Film Week' program, tance of protecting the nature, about reusable bags. They also organised by the Yunus Emre Lulu Hypermarket will plant work with its local and inter- Center, will kick off virtually Emre Turkish Cultural Center trees in the garden aisles of its national suppliers to reduce tomorrow. in Doha indicated that most of parking grounds as also they packaging and encourage recy- Ten Turkish shows, and 10 the films participating in the will distribute plants to their cling.In observance of the Arab short films from Qatar, program had previously partic- shoppers during the day. World Environment Day, Lulu Morocco, Lebanon, Jordan, ipated in international festivals Sustainability is one its key has come out with lucrative Egypt and Palestine will be on and won important prizes. priorities at Lulu, not just as part a socially responsible manner. optimization and reduction of offers on LED lights with a view show. The shows are available Within the framework of the of its Corporate Social Respon- They have always endea- carbon footprint initiative on its to conserve energy. As part of to the public for free, through program and activities of the sibility (CSR) but part of its com- vored to disseminate the Central AC Units, Freezers and promoting the usage of LED the center’s website odka. center, Yunus Emre Center is mitment to the community. message about the necessity of Chillers starting with its Al Khor Lights, Lulu Hypermarket will eventive.org, with an average conducting a number of Lulu Hypermarket has energy optimization by imple- Mall Project, and these energy give away an energy saver LED of four different films every meetings with the film makers always stood for the cause of menting the same first on its optimization and predictive bulb to those shoppers, who day, available to watch and directors of these films, and environment all along its stores. maintenance measures have buy supermarket items for a throughout the day. these meetings will be broadcast journey as a true retailer, and Recently, Lulu Hypermarket saved approximately 566,000 sum of QR100 and above until On the other hand, a directly through the center’s all its expansions were done in had implemented the energy Kw of Energy in a span of three June 6. statement issued by the Yunus accounts on social media. MES Indian URGENTLY REQUIRED School teaches ecosystem

A leading medical company in THE PENINSULA — DOHA Qatar is currently in need of: With an objective to educate the children about the ways to restore ecosystem, MES Indian Medical Record coder School has celebrated the World Environment Day 2021 Receptionist on the virtual mode under the theme, ‘Ecosystem Resto- ration’. Receptionist “Male, Arabic Speaker” Students of all Sections of MES Indian School enthusias- Storekeeper “helper” tically participated in various activities. A special assembly was conducted virtually to cel- Anesthesia Technician ebrate the Environment Day wherein the students gave OPD Nurse speeches followed by students’ Requirements: pledge to preserve their self- sustaining planet for the eco- OR Nurse Bachelor degree system restoration. To mark the occasion, Inpatient Nurse Data flow and promtetric various competitions were MOPH License conducted which included ‘Be a Designer’ (painting) activity Scrub Nurse Min 3 years Experience and show-and-tell activity for Local hiring the Kindergarten which made Nurse Aid them understand the ways to Candidate must be available conserve the environment. Clerical Assistantt in Qatar Painting for Classes I-IV, Transferable visa Poster Designing for classes V-VI, Best out of Waste for Nurse Assistant Or Family Sponsorship Visa Classes VII and VIII, and Collage Making for Classes IX and X gave the students a platform to showcase their artistic and creative skills. Stu- dents made amazing and cre- ative products. 06 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 Yemeni rebels not trying to reach truce: US envoy AP — CAIRO Tim Lenderking said the “considerable regional and international support” for the The US special envoy for Yemen the Iranian-backed UN peace plan. has lashed out at the Houthi Houthis bear the Lenderking’s rebuke to the rebels, accusing them of failing Houthis came as the UN to try to reach an urgently major responsibility Security Council criticized the needed ceasefire in the war- for refusing to engage rebels for delaying a technical wrecked nation. meaningfully on a assessment of an oil tanker Tim Lenderking said the moored off the war-torn coun- Iranian-backed Houthis bear ceasefire and to take try’s coast loaded with more the major responsibility for steps to “resolve a than 1 million barrels of crude refusing to engage meaning- oil. fully on a cease-fire and to take nearly seven-years An Omani delegation, steps to “resolve a nearly conflict that has meanwhile, arrived in Sanaa for seven-years conflict that has talks with rebel leaders that aim brought unimaginable suffering brought unimaginable to advance the peace process, to the Yemeni people.” suffering to the according to Mohammed A spokesman for the Yemeni people”. Abdul-Salam, the chief Houthi Houthis was not immediately negotiator. Iran gears up for elections available for comment. Another Houthi official said Yemen has been embroiled the delegation arrived on an Workers at a printing house prepare posters for the presidential election, in Tehran, Iran. in a civil war since 2014, when anti-Houthi stronghold held by Omani military plane and the Iranian-backed Houthis the internationally recognized would try to convince Houthi swept across much of the north government that is crucial to leaders to halt their offensive and seized the capital, Sanaa, the country’s energy supplies. on Marib and return to the forcing the internationally rec- The ongoing Marib attack, negotiating table in Oman’s Turkish President vows to save ognized government into exile. which began in February amid capital of Muscat. A Saudi-led coalition an international and regional The official spoke on con- entered the war the following diplomatic push to end the con- dition of anonymity because he sea from ‘sea snot’ outbreak year on the side of the gov- flict, has left the rebels “increas- was not authoriSed to brief the ernment. The war has killed ingly isolated,” Lenderking said. media. AP — ISTANBUL Turkish President Recep Istanbul and neighbouring more than 130,000 people and The State Department said The visit came after Sec- Tayyip Erdogan said untreated provinces.Erdogan said he spawned the world’s worst Lenderking coordinated his retary of State Antony Blinken Turkey’s President promised waste dumped into the instructed the Ministry of Envi- humanitarian crisis. efforts closely with the UN spoke by phone Friday with yesterday to rescue the Marmara Sea and climate ronment and Urbanization to Lenderking’s remarks came special envoy for Yemen Martin Omani Foreign Minister Badr Marmara Sea from an outbreak change had caused the sea snot coordinate with relevant insti- in a statement late Friday by the Griffiths, who held video talks bin Hamad bin Hamoud Al of “sea snot” that is alarming bloom. tutions, municipalities and uni- State Department after his last week with the Houthis’ reli- Busaidi. marine biologists and environ- Istanbul, Turkey’s largest versities. Teams are inspecting return from a Mideast diplo- gious and military leader, Blinken reiterated the need mentalists. city with some 16 million resi- waste water and solid waste matic mission on Yemen that Abdel-Malek aL Houthi. for “an immediate, compre- A huge mass of marine dents, factories and industrial facilities, along with other took him to Saudi Arabia, Griffiths expressed frus- hensive ceasefire to help bring mucilage, a thick, slimy sub- hubs, borders the sea. potential sources of pollution, Oman, the United Arab tration that his efforts to achieve the war in Yemen and the stance made up of compounds Marine mucilage has he said. Emirates and Jordan. a cease-fire have been derailed humanitarian suffering of the released by marine organisms, reached unprecedented levels “We will save our seas from He also criticized the by warring parties seeking gains Yemeni people to an end,” has bloomed in Turkey’s this year in Turkey. It is visible this mucilage calamity, leading Houthis’ renewed offensive on on the battlefield. according to the State Marmara, as well as in the above the water as a slimy gray with the Marmara Sea,” the oil-rich Marib province, an He urged the sides to seize Department. adjoining Black and Aegean Seas. sheet along the shores of Erdogan said. Lebanon urges UN to Israeli police attack Palestinians Hamas chief expects major breakthrough find alternative funding running to protest expulsions in Gaza humanitarian, for Hariri tribunal AL JAZEERA — OCCUPIED EAST with stun grenades to dis- wounding hundreds of economic situation JERUSALEM perse them, even though the Muslim worshippers. AL JAZEERA — BEIRUT run was peaceful. Hamas, the Palestinian ANADOLU — GAZA CITYY The Palestinian Red Crescent On social media, people group that rules Gaza, fired Lebanon has asked the UN secretary-general in a letter to urgently said 23 runners were injured posted videos of Israeli several rockets at Israel on May The head of Palestinian resistance explore ways of financing the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL), when Israeli police fired tear forces beating protesters. 10 following the expiration of group Hamas in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, tasked with investigating the 2005 assassination of former gas and stun grenades at an One of the runners, Jalal the group’s ultimatum said yesterday he expects a major Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, in light of funding diffi- activist-organised run in soli- Abu Khater, posted images of demanding Israel stand down breakthrough in humanitarian and culties. darity with Palestinian families his bruised leg and tweeted: its security forces from the economic conditions in the seaside “The Government of Lebanon would be grateful to Your Excel- facing forced expulsion in “I was beaten six times, mosque compound. territory. lency for urgently exploring different and alternative means of occupied East Jerusalem attacked by Israeli forces, for Israel then bombarded “This breakthrough will be felt by financing the Tribunal with the Security Council and Member Hundreds of runners took part running in my ancestral town Gaza for 11 days, killing at the people of Gaza on the humani- States,” Hassan Diab, the country’s caretaker prime minister, said in the event on Friday which & city.” Protests in May least 253 people, including tarian, living and financial levels,” in the letter on Friday. began in Sheikh Jarrah and against the forced expulsions 66 children. Rockets fired by Sinwar said during a meeting with An exclusive report by Reuters news agency last week revealed ended 3.5km away in Silwan. of Palestinians in Sheikh armed groups in Gaza killed academics in the besieged enclave. that the UN tribunal, created by a 2007 UN Security Council res- Dozens of Palestinians living Jarrah frequently drew at least 12 people in Israel. Sinwar expressed optimism that olution, had run out of funding amid Lebanon’s economic and in the two neighbourhoods violent responses by the Rights groups say expul- the aid will relieve the suffering of the political crisis, threatening plans for future trials. face the threat of losing their Israeli security forces. sions could still proceed in Palestinians in Gaza, rebuild the ter- The tribunal, which is 51 percent funded by voluntary contri- homes to Israeli settlers. On May 9, amid growing the coming months, poten- ritory and revive its economy. butions and 49 percent by the Lebanese government, could close The runners were tensions, the Israeli High tially igniting another round He also promised not to hinder the after July if the funding shortage is not resolved. wearing white T-shirts with Court delayed a ruling on the of fighting. reconstruction of the territory, while Last year the tribunal, based in the Hague, convicted Salim “7,850” printed on them, rep- expulsion of four Palestinian Israeli rights group Ir stressing that the reconstruction Jamil Ayyash, a former member of the Shia movement, Hez- resenting the number of families. A new court date Amim, which closely follows money will not be used to fund Hamas. bollah, in absentia for the bombing that killed veteran Sunni people activists say are would be announced in 30 the court cases, estimates “We will not put obstacles in the Muslim politician Hariri and 21 others. That ruling is being facing forced expulsion in the days, it said. that at least 150 households way of the Gaza reconstruction, and appealed. city. An Israeli crackdown on in the neighbourhoods of we will not take from the recon- Israeli protesters also spread to Al Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan struction funds for the benefit of the security Aqsa Mosque, which Israeli have been served with resistance. We will be keen to facilitate forces had security forces stormed expulsion notices and are at the reconstruction tasks and revive the attacked the several times during the holy various stages in a long legal economy,” the Hamas leader said. protesters month of Ramadan, process. An Egyptian-brokered truce that took effect in the early hours of May 21 ended Israel’s 11-day bombardment of the Gaza Strip. Sudan leader warns of worsening conditions amid reports of tension

ANADOLU — KHARTOUM

The deputy leader of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has warned of deteriorating economic, political and security conditions in the country. “Sudan is on a rough juncture, [experiencing] social disintegration, is politically shaky, the security situ- ation is worrisome and both the poor and rich have been affected econom- ically,” Dagalo, generally referred to as Hemedti, said in a video shared on his official Facebook page. Sudan’s local currency, the pound, fell to a record low level on the black market with the selling of the dollar stretching to 490 pounds compared to 410 pounds a week ago. Hemedti said that no change has occurred in Sudan since April 11, 2019, except the ouster of former President Omar Al Bashir. He accused some parties, which he did not disclose, of carrying out campaigns against him because of his position as the deputy leader of the Sovereign Council and vowed to pros- ecute them. SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 AFRICA 07 Famine imminent in Tigray: UN official AP — UNITED NATIONS “We are hearing of trolled areas, he said. But Lowcock said there are Famine is imminent in Ethio- starvation-related more than 1 million people in pia’s embattled Tigray region deaths already. places controlled by Tigrayan and in the country’s north, the People need to wake opposition forces and “there UN humanitarian chief said, have been deliberate, repeated, warning there’s a risk that up, The international sustained attempts to prevent hundreds of thousands of community needs them getting food.” people or more will die. In addition, there are places Mark Lowcock said the to really step up, controlled by the Eritreans and economy has been destroyed including through the other places controlled by along with businesses, crops militia groups where it is and farms and there are no provision of money,” extremely difficult to deliver banking or telecommunications UN humanitarian aid, he said. services. “The access for aid workers “We are hearing of star- chief Mark Lowcock is not there because of what vation-related deaths already,” said. men with guns and bombs are he said in a statement on doing and what their political Friday. masters are telling them to do,” A man reading a newspaper at a news stand in Abuja, Nigeria, yesterday. “People need to wake up,” “There are now hundreds the undersecretary-general for Lowcock said. “The interna- of thousands of people in humanitarian affairs said. tional community needs to northern Ethiopia in famine Lowcock said all the really step up, including conditions,” Lowcock said. blockages need to be rolled Nigeria’s Attorney-General orders prosecution through the provision of “That’s the worse famine back and the Eritreans, “who money.” problem the world has seen for are responsible for a lot of this for those who break Twitter ban rules No one knows how many a decade, since a quarter of a need to withdraw,” so aid can thousands of civilians or com- million Somalis lost their lives get through to those facing AGENCIES — ABUJA yesterday morning, he said with young urban Nigerians, batants have been killed since in the famine there in 2011. This famine. network carriers “are in the ranking as the sixth-most used months of political tensions now has horrible echoes of the “Prime Minister Abiy Nigeria’s Attornery-General has process of disconnecting social media platform in the between Ethiopian President colossal tragedy in Ethiopia in Ahmed needs to do what he ordered immediate prosecution access” across all platforms. country, and its suspension Abiy Ahmed’s government and 1984.” said he was going to do and of those who break rules “Our members received caused an outcry. The social the Tigray leaders who once In the disastrous famine of force the Eritreans to leave banning Twitter, after telecoms formal instruction from the media company said it was dominated Ethiopia’s gov- 1984-85, about two million Ethiopia,” he said. firms yesterday blocked access Nigerian Communications concerned by the move and will ernment exploded into war last Africans died of starvation or Lowcock said leaders of the following a government regu- Commission, the industry reg- work to restore access. November. famine-related ailments, about seven major industrialized lation aimed at suspending the ulator, to suspend access to Nigeria’s government was Eritrea, a longtime Tigray half of them in Ethiopia. nations — the United States, US social media giant indefi- Twitter,” Awonuga said. already facing criticism over a enemy, teamed up with neigh- “There is now a risk of a loss United Kingdom, Germany, nitely. “We are only following the proposed bill that would pro- boring Ethiopia in the conflict. of life running into the hun- France, Japan, Italy and Canada The country’s chief legal directive of the government, as hibit statements on social In late May, Lowcock dreds of thousands or worse,” — need to put the humanitarian officer did not provide details we are licensees of the media deemed “likely to be painted a grim picture of Tigray Lowcock said. crisis and threat of widespread on the prosecution and who government.” prejudicial to national security” since the war began, with an He said getting food and famine in northern Ethiopia on will be targeted. Nigerian President and “those which may diminish estimated 2 million people dis- other humanitarian aid to all the agenda of their summit Major network providers Muhammadu Buhari, who was public confidence” in Nigeria’s placed, civilians killed and those in need is proving very from June 11-13 in Cornwall, disconnected Twitter as of briefly a military dictator government. injured, rapes and other forms difficult for aid agencies. England. 11.59pm on Friday, Gbenga during the 1980s, ran afoul of The legislation could see of “abhorrent sexual violence” The United Nations and “Everyone needs to under- Awonuga, executive secretary Twitter’s rules when he issued offenders fined and imprisoned widespread and systematic, and the Ethiopian government stand that were there to be a of the Association of Licensed a threat to crack down on sep- for up to three years and would public and private infra- have helped about two colossal tragedy of the sort that Telecommunication Operators aratists waging a rebellion in empower law enforcement structure essential for civilians million people in recent happened in 1984 the conse- of Nigeria, said by phone. the southeast of the country. His agencies to order Internet destroyed, including hospitals months in northern Ethiopia, quences would reach far and While Twitter was still tweet was removed. service providers to restrict and agricultural land. mainly in government-con- last long,” he said. accessible in some cases Twitter’s app is popular access. Thousands of families Attack leaves at least 100 civilians dead in Burkina Faso AP — NIAMEY deadliest attack recorded in Despite the presence of room and about 10 in another. army has been struggling to displaced, crops Burkina Faso since the West more than 5,000 French troops There were many relatives contain the spread of Gunmen killed at least 100 African country was overrun by in the Sahel, violence is caring for the wounded. There militants. destroyed in people in a northern Burkina militants linked to Al Qaida and increasing. In one week in April, were also many people running The government enlisted Somalia floods Faso village, the government the Islamic State about five more than 50 people were from Solhan to enter Sebba.... the help of volunteer fighters said Saturday, in what was the years ago, said Heni Nsaibia, killed in Burkina Faso, including People are very afraid and last year to help the army, but country’s deadliest attack in senior researcher at the Armed two Spanish journalists and an worried,” he told the Associated the volunteers have incurred ANADOLU — MOGADISHU years. Conflict Location & Event Data Irish conservationist. More than Press by phone. retaliation by extremists who The attack took place Friday Project. 1 million people in the country The government has target them and the commu- Recent floods in Somalia’s evening in Solhan village, in the “It is clear that militant have been internally declared 72 hours of mourning. nities they help. southern province of Middle Sahel’s Yagha province, gov- groups have shifted up gears to displaced. Islamic extremists have Mali also is experiencing a Shabelle displaced thousands ernment spokesman Ousseni aggravate the situation in A local who did not want to been increasingly staging political crisis that has led to the of families and destroyed Tamboura said in a statement. Burkina Faso, and moved their be named, fearing for his safety, assaults in Burkina Faso, espe- suspension of international crops on vast agricultural land. The local market and several efforts to areas outside the was visiting relatives in a cially in the region that borders support. Jowhar town, the adminis- homes were also burned down immediate reach of the French- medical clinic in Sebba town, Niger and Mali. France has said it is ceasing trative capital of Hirshabelle in the area toward the border led counter-terrorism coalition approximately 12km from Last month, gunmen killed joint military operations with State, and its surrounding areas of Niger, he said. fighting them in the tri-state where the attacks occurred. He at least 30 people in eastern Malian forces until the West were heavily hit by the floods, President Roch Marc border region,” he said. said he saw many wounded Burkina Faso near the border African nation’s junta complies threatening a dire humani- Christian Kabore called the No group has claimed people enter the clinic. with Niger. with international demands to tarian crisis in the region. attack “barbaric.” This is the responsibility for the attack. “I saw 12 people in one Burkina Faso’s ill-equipped restore civilian rule. Mohamed Abdullahi Adan, a 40-year-old father of 6, said over the phone on Friday that they are facing a humanitarian Uganda move to replace crisis after the floods cut them off from the rest of the country. forest with sugarcane “The river flooded our agri- cultural lands and destroyed crops. We need urgent human- fields draws flak itarian assistance and the only way to do that in some areas is ANADOLU — KAMPALA use the forest by issuing a cer- by air because all the roads are tificate of approval for the completely cut off,” said Adan, As the world observed the Environmental and Social who lives in a village located Environment Day yesterday, Impact Assessment report for 10km from Jowhar. activists in Uganda are drawing mixed land use on 21.54 square Describing the current situ- attention to the government’s miles. Along with sugarcane ation in the region as a “dire move to replace the protected cultivation, the company plans humanitarian situation”, Somali tropical Bugoma Forest with to build schools, a market, a Prime Minister Mohamed sugarcane fields. hospital, and an ecotourism Hussein Roble, who visited the They say these forests center. flood-hit areas Thursday, urged stretching over 40,000 hec- Under the Land Act, forest the international community to tares of land, which work as reserves like Bugoma are held provide humanitarian assistance. lungs for the country’s biodi- in trust for the common good “The flood-hit areas versity, are on the verge of of the people and may not be around Jowhar city are totally destruction due to sugarcane leased or sold by the isolated and can only be plantations. government. reached by boat or air. The The forest that stretches Environmental Protection recent floods in Jowhar have along the northern tip of the campaigners in Uganda are affected thousands of families Mali coalition marks anniversary of protest against Keita Albertine Rift Valley, which opposed to the move and have while destroying vast agricul- divides Uganda and the Dem- taken the government to court tural lands,” Somali gov- A supporter of Mali’s M5-RFP opposition coalition, holds a poster of Colonel Assimi Goita during a rally ocratic Republic of Congo, is to challenge this decision, ernment spokesman, to mark a year since the start of protest marches that contributed to the ouster of former President home to more than 255 species which they say is meant to Mohamed Ibrahim Moalimu, Ibrahim Boubakar Keita at the Independence Square in Bamako, Mali, on Friday. The poster reads of birds, 260 species of trees, destroy the forest reserve. said after the visit. “President Assimi Goita - the hope of Mali”. and 34 species of mammals, Hudhaifa Busuulwa, an including nine on the Interna- environmental activist and PhD tional Union for Conservation fellow at Istanbul’s Ibn Haldun of Nature’s red list of University, said that Bugoma Somalia accuses Kenya of air strikes that killed civilians threatened species. Forest is the largest remaining The government authorized block of natural tropical forests BLOOMBERG — MOGADISHU Defence Force operations begin the process of establishing frosty relations for years and swathes of the tropical forest along the Albertine rift valley resulting in the death and a standing complaints com- are currently locked in a dispute to be cleared for sugarcane and plays an enormous role in Somalia accused Kenya of maiming of civilians, including mission at the pan-African organ- over the ownership of an area plantation by Hoima Sugar preserving wildlife migration carrying out indiscriminate air women and children, that are ization, to hold to account perpe- off their shared Indian Ocean Limited, a Ugandan company. corridors. strikes in El Adde and Hisa-u- increasingly becoming an trators of “unlawful destruction coastline, that’s said to be rich On August 14, 2020, the He is surprised as to why gur in Gedo region in its unpleasant hallmark of the of property” and achieve resti- in oil, gas and fish. The tension National Environmental Man- the government is turning a Jubaland state on June 3, the Kenyan Air Force’s standard tution for the victims, it said. doesn’t bode well for the fight agement Authority, a gov- blind eye to its protection. latest escalation in simmering operating procedure,” according Kenya’s government against Al Shabaab, a Somalia- ernment agency responsible for Robert Turyakira, another tensions between the two to a statement from Somalia’s spokesman Cyrus Oguna didn’t based Al Qaeda-linked group regulating Uganda’s natural environmental and climate neighbouring nations. Ministry of Foreign Affairs. respond to calls seeking that has crossed into Kenya and environment and environ- activist, petitioned the Ugandan The attack “is the most Somalia will present its con- comment. staged deadly attacks on mental policy, granted Hoima High Court to join others in recent example of Kenyan cerns to the African Union and The two nations have had civilians. Sugar Limited permission to saving the Bugoma Forest. 08 VIEWS SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 The confusion of a rushed US withdrawal Established in 1996 from Afghanistan could lead to disaster CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI RONALD E NEUMANN THE WASHINGTON POST EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI Mishandling of the US with- [email protected] drawal from Afghanistan risks crippling the allies being left behind. In announcing the ACTING MANAGING EDITOR troop withdrawal, President MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED Joe Biden said we would [email protected] continue to assist the Afghan security forces. Secretary of State Antony Blinken DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR repeated this. Last month, a MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI US military spokesman in [email protected] Kabul reiterated that “our mission is a safe and orderly withdrawal and to leave the [Afghan military] in the best possible position as we EDITORIAL depart.” Yet the conduct of the withdrawal is moving toward a disastrous contra- Qatar preserves ecosystems diction of these promises. The Afghan military Afghan security personnel searching a car at a checkpoint near the Green Zone, which houses ECOSYSTEMS support all life on Earth. The healthier depends on technology for embassies, in Kabul, recently. the ecosystems are, the healthier the planet — and its much of its power. Technology people. With the world beginning to emerge from the is an enormous “combat mul- combat support airplanes will government and military, Afghanistan months sooner COVID-19 pandemic, there is increasing recognition tiplier,” magnifying the effec- soon cease to fly. Without installed and supported by the even than the September 11 that healing from the pandemic is linked to healing the tiveness of training, discipline maintenance, fire-control United States, reel from the date given by the president. planet. and firepower. This is how the radars will not guide accurate shock of the US decision to It may well be that Resetting humanity’s relationship with nature is the United States fights, and it is artillery fire. The list goes on. leave and cope with their own feverish work is going on focus of World Environment Day, celebrated every year how we have trained the Since ending my tour as US internal problems. But whatever behind the scenes. But on the on June 5. Qatar is at the forefront in protecting envi- Afghans. But technology ambassador to Kabul, I’ve is being planned inside the ground, the withdrawal of ronmental systems and has been raising awareness requires maintenance that has made yearly visits to Afghan- Beltway does not seem to be contractors is messy, con- among its people of the importance of preserving the been done by US contractors istan and maintain civilian and getting down to the field. fused and damaging, a environment. who are now being ordered military contacts, including The only thing that con- process that is not only not The Minister of Municipality and Environment, H E out, along with the troops. with contractor organizations. tractors are being told is to get continuing to support the Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, affirmed Without proper mainte- Since they had no warning of all their personnel out of Afghan security forces, but is that Qatar, under the wise leadership of Amir H H Sheikh nance, Afghan helicopters and the direction Biden would Afghanistan. A memorandum actually weakening them. Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, has attached great impor- choose, neither the US military from the Army Contracting Confusion is famously a tance to the environment and sustainable development. Technology is staff on the ground nor their Command at Bagram air base byproduct of military opera- The Minister said that preparations are being made to an enormous colleagues in the Pentagon had near Kabul reminds them that tions. But this confusion is study green growth opportunities in preparation for the plans ready to replace the con- “the base closure timelines happening as fighting is development of a national strategy for green growth for “combat multiplier,” tractors or lessen the impact of are set for every base at this intensifying and observers the State of Qatar, taking into account sustainable devel- magnifying the their speedy and unexpected time and it is imperative that and analysts predict major opment, in cooperation with the Global Green Growth departure. Some contractors each individual has a ticket Taliban offensives. As Afghans Institute via its office in Doha. effectiveness of say they asked after Biden’s and knows the date they are look for visible signs that On the occasion of World Environment Day, H E the training, discipline decision was announced departing.” The Defense Biden’s promised support will Minister expressed Qatar’s pleasure to participate in and firepower. This whether they should prepare to Department is requiring con- continue, what they see is a the celebration under the theme ‘Ecosystem Resto- manage operations from loca- tractors to submit detailed rush to the door - and silence ration’ and said that the Ministry has undertaken, at the is how the United tions outside Afghanistan, but plans for leaving Afghanistan about the details that would national level, many plans and strategies that focus on States fights, and it is were told no. for every one of their make the promises real. preserving the Qatari land, protecting endangered trees, Some of the gap might be American employees, on pain Morale is as much a part planting many Qatari wild trees, and working to mul- how we have trained bridged by hiring trained, of being held in noncom- of combat power as tiply endangered animals such as the Arabian Oryx and the Afghans. But non-US personnel. Some US pliance of their contract. equipment and technology. Re’em, as well as preserving aquatic ecosystems companies have indicated a In principle, maintenance The current uncertainty through a national network for continuous monitoring technology requires possible willingness to remain will be turned over to the undercuts morale and could of the state of the marine environment. maintenance that - for example, if they were Afghans. But they have not yet gravely weaken the Afghan H E Al Subaie explained that Qatar has attached hired by Afghan authorities. received any US funding to army just as major Taliban great importance to climate change, by ratifying the has been done by US Some training and support pick up the operations, and attacks begin. And if the army Paris Agreement on Climate Change, to contribute to contractors who are might be maintained from setting up new procedures or crumbles, it will be the doing what is necessary to reduce the effects of climate now being ordered outside Afghanistan. contracts takes time. Perhaps women of Afghanistan, the change with the countries of the whole world. The efforts One US official has assured we and the Afghans will find journalists, judges, democracy and achievements of the Ministry in the field of restoring out, along with the me that the Pentagon is doing ways to manage the problem, activists and the like - the environmental systems are progressing at a steady pace troops. all it can do for the Afghans, but in the meantime, balls same people now being regu- through a clear approach based on strategic planning including developing bridging seem to be dropping right and larly assassinated - who will in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. strategies. And there may be left as the US military (or the be left to the Taliban’s mercy. World Environment Day is the United Nations’ exaggeration in some of the White House, or wherever the Ronald E. Neumann was biggest annual event for positive environmental action stories coming out of Afghan- orders are flowing from) the US ambassador to Afghan- to encourage worldwide awareness of the need to istan, as that country’s pushes to get out of istan from 2005 to 2007. protect the planet. Restoring ecosystems is key to the prosperity and well-being of people. Vibrant ecosystems provide benefits from food and water to health and security that the growing population needs today and How Microsoft let Skype lose out to Zoom will need in the future. It is key to achieving the Sus- tainable Development Goals by 2030. TIMOTHY L. O’BRIEN falls out of fashion, but it often Teams, has proven very Steve Ballmer, told the Asso- BLOOMBERG comes down to price, quality, popular and will theoretically ciated Press in 2009. performance and ease of use. scoop up Skype for Business Browsers that played Zoom Video Communications If a company is selling some- enthusiasts. better on the web and smart- Inc., maker of the ubiquitous thing other than a luxury good All of this shores up phones, such as Google videoconferencing tool that and it doesn’t check those Microsoft’s lucrative business Chrome, stole market share D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR made a global pandemic less boxes, it’s in trouble - even if and lessens the number of from Microsoft. Other browsers that loaded faster, EMAIL: [email protected] isolating, just reported the company is as rich and products orbiting its core another quarter of explosive powerful as Microsoft. In this software offerings. But the were more secure, made life growth. While its business regard, Microsoft illustrates company might not have had easier for developers or had EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 better privacy controls also FAX: +974 4455 7758 may not continue to soar how having a head start to go to the trouble of quite so much, Zoom is well doesn’t matter if you can’t retooling those products if it eventually shredded Explorer. MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 positioned, appears to have a maintain the lead. had done a better job of man- A product that, in 2001, con- loyal fan base and continues Skype isn’t the only high- aging Explorer and Skype in trolled about 95 percent of the DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 to innovate. flying product that Microsoft the first place. global browser market has less It has also achieved a rare has fumbled. Two decades ago, In 1985, when Microsoft than 1 percent today. (Edge has LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 corporate feat: It created a Internet Explorer, its web launched its Windows oper- about 3.4 percent.) In 2011, BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 product popular enough to browser, was so dominant and ating system, it ushered in the when Microsoft acquired become a common verb. To popular that it drew the personal computer revolution Skype for $8.5bn, Zoom had SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 “Zoom” now means to “chat attention of federal antitrust by giving consumers and busi- just launched and Skype by video” - in the same way regulators. In August, Microsoft nesses an affordable, reliable already had 100 million users. ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 that to “Google” is to search plans to sunset Explorer, about and easy-to-use product. But By 2014, Skype was popular email: [email protected] the web. Yet not so long ago, a month after it does the same Microsoft was so tethered to enough to merit inclusion as a PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 another product’s name stood with Skype for Business, the desktop computers, it failed to verb in the Oxford English Dic- email: [email protected] for videoconferencing: Skype. corporate version of its video- recognize how the internet tionary. And by 2015, it had Although Skype, launched conferencing tool. would shake up its business in 300 million users. But Skype’s MARKETING: TEL: 4455 7657 in 2003, has been available To be sure, Microsoft isn’t the 1990s, and how mobile technology wasn’t well-suited email: [email protected] nine years longer than Zoom abandoning web browsing devices would do the same in to mobile devices. When and is owned by tech titan and videoconferencing. Its the 2000s. It neglected to Microsoft set about to address ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 857 Microsoft Corp., Zoom has newer cross-platform web tailor its offerings to those new that problem, it introduced a FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] effectively left it in its dust. browser for business users, worlds. host of reliability nightmares CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 People don’t say “I’ll Skype Edge, will absorb Explorer “Let’s face it, the internet for users. It gave them further email: [email protected] you” as often as they say “I’ll users who want to continue was designed for the PC. The headaches by redesigning Zoom you” anymore. How did using a Microsoft product. A internet is not designed for Skype frequently and haphaz- SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 that happen? It’s never easy newer video and collabo- the iPhone,” Microsoft’s ardly while integrating mes- FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected] to pinpoint why a product ration tool for businesses, former chief executive officer, saging and video functions.

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar Big step taken by the G7 towards an unprecedented global agreement on tax reform. /Peninsula_Qatar The EU Commission will contribute actively to making that happen at next month’s G20 in Venice. /ThePeninsulaNewspaper Paolo Gentiloni, European Commissioner for Economy +974 6698 6188 SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 ASIA 09 Clashes in Myanmar delta region; 20 reported dead

REUTERS — MANDALAY, MYANMAR Protesters in assaulted residents in what they Myanmar’s second said was a search for arms. Myanmar’s security forces MRTV state television said clashed with villagers armed city of Mandalay security forces had come under with catapults and crossbows burned an Asean attack with compressed air guns during a search for weapons in and darts. After the shootout, the Ayeyarwady river delta flag yesterday and the bodies of three attackers region yesterday and local accused the group of had been found, it said. media reported as many as 20 giving legitimacy to If confirmed, the toll given people had been killed. by the local media would be the State television news said the army. highest in one day in nearly two three “terrorists” had been months. Some 845 people had killed and two arrested at the previously been killed by the village of Hlayswe as security of Myanmar yesterday, with an army and police since the Feb- forces went to apprehend a man Asean flag being set ablaze in ruary 1 coup, according to an accused of plotting against the the second city of Mandalay. activist group. The junta dis- state. Clashes broke out before putes that figure. An army spokesman did not dawn yesterday at Hlayswe, It was some of the worst answer calls from Reuters to some 150km northwest of the violence since the coup in the request comment on the vio- main city of Yangon, when sol- Ayeyarwady region, an lence at the village in the diers said they had come to important rice growing area Kyonpyaw township of Aye- search for weapons, at least four that has large populations of A protester against Myanmar’s army holding a placard criticising the Association of Southeast Asian yarwady Region. Reuters was local media outlets and a res- both the Bamar majority ethnic Nations (Asean), in Mandalay yesterday. unable to confirm the toll ident said. group, from which much of the independently. “The people in the village army is drawn, and the Karen northern Shwegu late on Friday Myanmar’s army has shown envoys’ visit on Friday that it The army has struggled to only have crossbows and there minority. together with the Kachin Inde- little sign of heeding calls from had lost faith in Asean’s impose control since it over- are a lot of casualties on the Since the coup, conflicts pendence Army (KIA). its opponents to relinquish its attempts to end the crisis - the threw elected leader Aug San people’s side,” said the resident, have flared in the borderlands Reuters was unable to reach hold. This week, the army main international effort to Suu Kyi after a decade of dem- who asked not to be identified where some two dozen ethnic the KIA for comment. received its first high-profile resolve it. ocratic reforms had opened up for fear of retribution. armies have been waging insur- In eastern Myanmar, the foreign visitors - the head of the Protesters in Myanmar’s the once isolated state. Khit Thit Media and the gencies for decades. The army MBPDF (Mobye People’s International Committee of the second city of Mandalay burned A meeting between army Delta News Agency said 20 has also been faced by daily Defence Force) said it had Red Cross and the two Asean an Asean flag yesterday and leader Min Aung Hlaing and civilians had been killed and protests and paralysing strikes. clashed with the army on Friday envoys. accused the group of giving envoys from the Association of more wounded. They said vil- The anti-junta Shwegu Peo- and four “terrorist soldiers” had An underground opposition legitimacy to the army. One Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) lagers had tried to fight back ple’s Defence Force said it had been killed. government set up by oppo- placard said “Asean way just on Friday drew anger in parts with catapults after soldiers attacked a police station in Despite the turmoil, nents of the army said after the means standing by uselessly”. India issues final warning to Twitter to comply with new rules Floods, mudslides kill 6 in Sri Lanka; BLOOMBERG — NEW DELHI representatives to redress Last month, police officers forged. the intermediary guidelines on grievances. Penalties, including visited Twitter’s New Delhi The company issued a the basis of which it is claiming five more missing The Indian government issued jail terms, can be imposed if a premises — vacated since statement on May 27 describing a safe harbor protection from a final warning to Twitter Inc. company violates them. March 2020 due to the pan- the police visit as “intimidation criminal liability in India.” AGENCIES — COLOMBO to immediately comply with “The refusal to comply demic — to deliver a notice in tactics” and expressing concern Other social media com- new rules for social media demonstrates Twitter’s lack of an inquiry over posts by senior about the government’s actions panies have argued against the Flash floods and mudslides companies or face “conse- commitment and efforts members of India’s ruling and IT rules that threaten to measures, alleging they would triggered by heavy rains in Sri quences” under local laws, in towards providing a safe expe- Bharatiya Janata Party. They curb free speech. infringe user privacy. WhatsApp Lanka have killed at least six an escalating dispute with the rience for the people of India had tweeted out documents “Protecting free speech in has filed a lawsuit against the people and left five missing, micro-blogging site. on its platform,” the Ministry of purporting to show opponents India is not the prerogative of government challenging the while more than 5,000 are The new rules, which took Electronics and Information strategizing to exploit the coro- only a private, for-profit foreign validity of the rules. displaced, officials said effect in February, require Technology said in notice yes- navirus for political gain. entity like Twitter,” the ministry India’s warning follows an yesterday. intermediaries such as Twitter, terday, adding it is giving “one San Francisco-based said in response. The company’s indefinite suspension of the Rains have been pounding Alphabet Inc.’s Google and last notice” to the site to comply Twitter labeled the posts as actions are undermining India’s micro-blogging site’s operations six districts of the Indian YouTube, Facebook Inc. and its as a “gesture of goodwill.” “synthetic and manipulated legal system, the government in Nigeria after it deleted a post Ocean island nation since WhatsApp messaging platform A Twitter spokesperson in media” amid rival Congress said. “Twitter refuses to comply by the country’s President Thursday night, and many to assign and appoint New Delhi declined to comment. Party allegations of them being with those very regulations in Muhammadu Buhari. houses, paddy fields and roads have been inundated, blocking traffic. Four people died in floods Three US senators to visit while another two lost their lives in mudslides, according Taiwan, discuss relations to the government’s Disaster Management Center. AP — TAIPEI senior Taiwan leaders to Another five people are discuss US-Taiwan relations, missing in floods and A bipartisan group of three US regional security, and other sig- mudslides. senators will travel to Taiwan nificant issues of mutual A mound of earth crashed next week to meet with senior interest,” the AIT said. onto a house and buried four government officials and discuss Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry members of the same family - US-Taiwan relations and other thanked the three senators in parents and two children - in issues, the de facto US Embassy a separate statement, saying Kegalle district, about 85km in Taiwan announced yesterday. the trip demonstrated unan- east of the capital Colombo on Today’s trip is likely to imous and firm support for US- Saturday, officials and local anger China, which claims Taiwan relations. media said. Taiwan as its territory and China has in recent months A local television channel, objects to Taiwan being called increased pressure on the self- Hiru, showed soldiers and vil- a country. Like most nations, ruled island, including flying lagers removing mud and the US has no formal diplo- warplanes into Taiwan’s air- debris to recover the victims. matic ties with Taiwan. space. Taiwan, which is cur- Later, the body of the daughter Democratic Sen Tammy rently facing its most serious was uncovered. Duckworth of Illinois and coronavirus outbreak of the Meanwhile, two Rohingya Republican Sen Dan Sullivan pandemic, has accused China Muslims were killed yesterday of Alaska, members of the of hindering its efforts to after heavy monsoon rains Armed Services Committee, acquire COVID-19 vaccines. triggered landslides in refugee and Democratic Sen Chris- The vast improvements in camps in southern Bangladesh, topher Coons of Delaware, a China’s military capabilities officials said. member of the Foreign Rela- and its increasing activity “We have information of tions Committee, will visit around Taiwan have raised one man and one woman Taiwan as part of a larger trip concerns in the US, which is (who) died in the landslides. to the Indo-Pacific region, the legally bound to ensure Taiwan World Environment Day We are trying to get details,” American Institute in Taiwan is capable of defending itself Mohammad Shamsud Douza, Samsudin, a storyteller holds paper cutouts of animals, as he performs fairy tales for the local said in a statement yesterday. and to regard all threats to the the deputy Bangladesh gov- children to commemorate World Environment Day at a beach in Indramayu, West Java Province, in “The bipartisan congres- island’s security as matters of ernment official in charge of sional delegation will meet with “grave concern.” Indonesia, yesterday. the refugees, said. Indian states begin easing lockdown curbs Japan plans to supply vaccines

REUTERS — NEW DELHI Hospitals in Delhi had struggled to In the industrialised western state provide oxygen cylinders and beds to of Maharashtra, the local government to Vietnam and Malaysia Some of India’s states are easing patients as infections surged but that will from June 7 allow malls, movie lockdown restrictions as coronavirus wave began subsiding from the middle theatres, restaurants and offices to BLOOMBERG — TOKYO Japan is also considering making infections subside, with the world’s of last month. open regularly in districts where the vaccines available to Pacific Island second most-populous nation Kejriwal said the state would in positivity rate has fallen below 5 Japan is planning to provide COVID-19 countries in a plan that may be yesterday logged its lowest daily case future be prepared to deal with 37,000 percent. vaccines to Vietnam and Malaysia, the announced at a teleconference summit count in nearly two months. new cases a day. Its peak thus far was In Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Yomiuri newspaper reported yesterday, later this month, according to the news- The national capital territory of 28,395 new infections on April 20. home state of Gujarat, also in the west, without saying where it got the infor- paper. An earlier report by public Delhi, the seat of India’s federal gov- In northern Uttar Pradesh, the all government and private offices will mation. broadcaster NHK said the government ernment, was among those relaxing country’s most populous state, only be allowed to operate fully staffed from Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga’s was considering shipping vaccines to restrictions and will allow shops to night curfew restrictions remain for 55 June 7, instead of the current restriction administration is preparing to dispatch Vietnam. open on alternate days. Shops with of its 75 districts. of 50 percent. the vaccines as soon as this month, the Japan on Friday delivered about 1.24 even numbers will open on one day “Districts which have positive cases The Gujarat government has also report said. The supply of the inocula- million doses of AstraZeneca vaccines while those with odd numbers will under 600 have been given permission eased restrictions on commercial activ- tions would be made outside the Covax to Taiwan. The Japanese government open the next day. Private offices to open but with restrictions, while ities, allowing shops in 36 cities to initiative, the World Health Organization- has sufficient supplies to cover its own will also now be allowed to operate cities with over 600 positive cases will remain open for longer. backed effort to buy and distribute vac- population and on Wednesday hosted at 50 percent of normal staffing be under lockdown till the next order,” In eastern Odisha state, lockdowns cines to low- and middle-income nations, a summit aimed at accelerating global levels. a local government spokesperson said. have been eased in three districts according to the Yomiuri. vaccination efforts. “The coronavirus situation in Delhi Overall, India saw 120,529 new thanks to a decline in coronavirus cases The government will offer Malaysia Vietnam’s government seeks to buy is slowly getting better,” Chief Minister coronavirus infections emerge over the while the southern state of Tamil Nadu and Vietnam the AstraZeneca vaccine 150 million doses this year to cover 75% Arvind Kejriwal said in an online news last 24 hours, while deaths rose by now allows grocery retailers to open because it’s approved by both nations’ of its population, and has so far secured conference as he announced that the 3,380. The country’s total case tally for most of the day and has permitted health authorities, the report said. The more than 80% of that target. The state will build oxygen storage capacity stands at 28.69 million while 344,082 offices to operate with 30 percent amount of doses will be determined nation is facing a lack of vaccines as of 420 tonnes. people have died. capacity. later, Yomiuri said. outbreaks hit key manufacturing hubs. 10 ASIA / EUROPE SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 UN: Unprecedented Taliban violence surges amid talks

AP — UNITED NATIONS The panel said the ending more than four decades successfully reversed many The panel said the number between the Taliban and al- number of Taliban of relentless wars following the Taliban gains with the of Taliban fighters remains Qaida “remain close, based on Taliban insurgents show no sign 1979 Afghan invasion by forces assistance of international coa- robust, with estimates ranging ideological alignment, relation- of reducing the level of violence fighters remains from the former Soviet Union. lition close air support, but have from about 58,000 to 100,000. ships forged through common in Afghanistan to facilitate robust, with estimates Negotiations between the done so with heavy casualty The panel said many struggle and intermarriage.” peace negotiations with the Taliban and Afghan represent- rates,” they said. “It remains to sources its members spoke to “The Taliban has begun to government, and appear to be ranging from about atives began last September in be seen how Afghan forces will believe the Taliban used the tighten its control over Al Qaeda trying to strengthen their 58,000 to 100,000. Doha, Qatar and continued perform without it.” 2020 fighting season “to further by gathering information on military position as leverage, earlier this year. But the Taliban The panel of experts painted strengthen strangleholds foreign terrorist fighters and reg- with the “unprecedented announced on April 13 that it a grim picture of the violence around several provincial cap- istering and restricting them,” violence” of 2020 carrying into Nato forces by September 11, the would not take part in any con- in Afghanistan, which had been itals, seeking to shape future the panel said. “However, it has 2021, UN experts said in a new anniversary of the 2001 ter- ference intended to decide the expected to decrease in 2020 military operations when levels not made any concessions in this report circulated Friday. rorist attacks on the United future of Afghanistan until all but instead soared to the highest of departing foreign troops are regard that it could not easily The panel of experts said the States, “will challenge Afghan foreign troops were gone. level ever recorded by the no longer able to respond.” and quickly reverse, and it is Taliban are reported to be forces by limiting aerial opera- The UN experts, who United Nations in the country While no one claimed impossible to assess with confi- responsible for the great tions with fewer drones and monitor sanctions against the — more than 25,000 incidents, responsibility for most assassi- dence that the Taliban will live majority of assassinations that radar and surveillance capabil- Taliban, predicted more vio- a 10 percent increase over 2019. nations, the experts said it is up to its commitment to sup- have become a feature of the ities, less logistical support and lence in the run-up to their Violence surged as the talks widely believed that approxi- press any future international violence in Afghanistan, tar- artillery, as well as a disruption departure. began, the experts said, and mately 85 percent of them were threat emanating from Al Qaeda geting government officials, in training.” “Taliban rhetoric and incident rates in the usually carried out by the Taliban. The in Afghanistan.” women, human rights The Taliban were ousted reports of active Taliban prep- calmer winter were higher than UN recorded an increase in Al Qaeda is reported to defenders and journalists from power in Afghanistan in arations for the spring fighting those in the spring or summer reported assassinations from number from several dozen to among others. These attacks 2001 by a US-led coalition for season indicate the group is of 2020. 780 in 2019 to 996 in 2020, the 500 people, mainly nationals “appear to be undertaken with harbouring Osama bin Laden, likely to increase military oper- “Unprecedented violence report said. from north Africa and the the objective of weakening the the architect of the September ations for 2021, whether or not over the winter carried into As part of the US-Taliban Middle East, it said. capacity of the government and 11 attacks. a spring offensive is 2021, with 7,177 security inci- deal, the Taliban was supposed The experts said Al Qaeda intimidating civil society,”it A peace deal that Wash- announced,” they said. dents recorded countrywide to reduce violence and part and other militants continue to said. ington brokered with the The experts also questioned between January 1 and March ways with Al Qaeda, the celebrate developments in In the 22-page report to the Taliban and signed in February how Afghan forces would fare 31, representing a 61 percent extremist group that the Taliban Afghanistan “as a victory for the UN Security Council, the panel 2020 was aimed at bringing without coalition support. increase over the same period sheltered prior to 9/11 attacks. Taliban’s cause and thus for said the withdrawal of US and American troops home and “Afghan forces have in 2020,” they said. But the experts said ties global radicalism.” Designer creates ‘Third Eye’ HK activist says arrest for ‘smartphone zombies’ meant to ‘frighten’ people REUTERS — SEOUL Royal College of Art and Imperial College London, told AP — HONG KONG and consolidating this unjust A South Korean industrial Reuters as he demonstrated use one-party dictatorship.” designer has come up with a of The Third Eye around Seoul. A Hong Kong activist was Chow is a key member of satirical solution for “smart- “As we cannot take our eyes released yesterday after being the Hong Kong Alliance in phone zombies” who can’t take off from smartphones, the extra detained on suspicion of publi- Support of Patriotic Democratic their eyes away from their eye will be needed in future.” cizing a commemoration of Movements of China, which has screen long enough to stop Paeng’s invention uses a China’s deadly crackdown in organized the annual vigil in themselves walking into a wall gyro sensor to measure the Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, the city’s Victoria Park. In or other obstacle. oblique angle of the user’s neck and said her arrest was meant recent days, she said she would Paeng Min-wook, 28, has and an ultrasonic sensor to cal- to have a chilling effect on still go to the park on her own, developed a robotic eyeball he culate the distance between the marking the anniversary. despite the ban, and urged has dubbed “The Third Eye”, robotic eye and any obstacles. Chow Hang Tung had others to light candles which obsessive mobile phone Both sensors are linked to an helped organise previous can- wherever they were. users can strap to their fore- open-source single-board dlelight vigils on June 4, and her Hundreds, if not thousands heads so they can browse microcontroller, with battery arrest on Friday coincided with of people lost their lives when injury-free on the go. pack. the 32nd anniversary of the China’s military put down The device opens its trans- Paeng’s demonstration of Tiananmen crackdown in 1989. student-led pro-democracy lucent eyelid whenever it senses the device in Seoul this week Police said Chow was protests in Tiananmen Square. the user’s head has been garnered attention from arrested on suspicion of publi- China’s ruling Communist Party lowered to look at a smart- passersby. cizing an unauthorised has never allowed public phone. When the user comes “I thought he looked like an Paeng Min-wook showcases a robotic eye, called “The Third Eye”, on his assembly. The vigil was banned events on the mainland to mark within one to two metres of an alien with an eye on his forehead as he uses his mobile phone while walking on street, in Seoul. for a second year running, with the anniversary. obstacle, the device beeps to forehead,” Seoul resident Lee authorities in the semi-auton- Chinese officials have said warn of the impending danger. Ok-jo said. “These days many Paeng said The Third Eye “By presenting this satirical omous Chinese city citing pan- that the country’s rapid eco- “This is the look of future young people can get into acci- was meant as a warning, not a solution, I hope people would demic-related social distancing nomic development since what mankind with three eyes,” dents while using their mobile real solution for smartphone recognise the severity of their restrictions. they call the “political turmoil” Paeng, a postgraduate in inno- phone. This would be good for addicts who won’t pay attention gadget addiction and look back “Somehow this prohibition of 1989 proves that decisions vation design engineering at the them.” to where they are going. at themselves,” he said. on promoting an unlawful, pro- made at the time were correct. hibited assembly became a Although police on Friday prohibition on promoting any closed off parts of Victoria Park remembrance of the June 4 and arrested Chow, hundreds China allows preschoolers to get emergency vaccine massacre, in any form, in any of Hong Kongers were unde- place, in any format by terred, gathering to walk BLOOMBERG — BEIJING COVID-19 vaccines against “The same vaccine, the use listing on Tuesday for anyone,” Chow told reporters around the perimeter of the children 12 years and above. same amount, and the same people aged 18 and older. The after her release on bail park. Many dressed in black China authorised the emer- It’s not yet confirmed when process can be used for children authorisation granted to the yesterday. and used their phones’ flash- gency use of Sinovac Biotech this age group will receive their aged between 3 and 17,” Yin Sinovac shot is the second given She said the government lights instead of candles. Ltd’s coronavirus vaccine for first doses of the vaccine in said. to a Chinese Covid vaccine, was using a “quantum leap of Police said at least six children, becoming the first China. Phase I and Phase II ”China’s health authority after state-owned Sinopharm logic” in her arrest, and said people — four men and two major country to grant approval research, involving several will push forward vaccine use Group Co. secured WHO’s nod authorities aimed to “frighten” women — were arrested across. for those as young as three. hundred participants, showed for different age groups in an for emergency use in early May. people and prevent them from They were arrested on sus- The move comes amid that the Sinovac vaccine is as orderly manner based on Also cleared for emergency marking the Tiananmen picion of inciting others to par- reports that young people with safe and effective for children China’s epidemic needs and use by the WHO are vaccines crackdown. ticipate in an unauthorised the disease could be as infec- as it is for adults, the company’s population structure.” from Pfizer Inc and partner She said those working to assembly, common assault, tious as adults. Singapore, Hong Chief Executive Officer Yin The World Health Organi- BioNTech SE, AstraZeneca Plc, prevent the commemoration criminal damage, disorderly Kong and some US states have Weidong told state broadcaster zation approved Sinovac’s Johnson & Johnson and were covering “the crimes of conduct in a public place and so far authorised the use of China Central Television. vaccine as part of its emergency Moderna Inc. the killers in 1989” and “helping obstruction of police. Hungarians protest against Polish official under fire over comment on Belarus oppn leader planned Chinese campus REUTERS — WARSAW REUTERS — BUDAPEST institution and the campus A deputy Polish parliamentary would “allow students to learn speaker faced calls for his Thousands of Hungarians, from the best.” dismissal yesterday after criti- some of them holding banners MTI news agency quoted cising Belarusian opposition declaring “Treason”, protested Tamas Schanda, a deputy gov- leader Sviatlana Tsikha- yesterday against a Chinese ernment minister, as saying nouskaya for meeting Warsaw’s university’s plans to open a yesterday’s protest was unnec- liberal mayor. campus in Budapest. essary and dismissing “political Tsikhanouskaya met Mayor Liberal opponents of hysteria” based on unfounded Rafal Trzaskowski, a member nationalist Prime Minister gossip and media reports. of Poland’s biggest opposition Viktor Orban accuse him of Opposition politicians and party, during a visit to Warsaw cosying up to China, and fear economists have criticised this week which she used to call the campus could undercut the what they say will be the high for increased Western pressure quality of higher education and costs of the project and a lack on Belarusian President Alex- help Beijing increase its of transparency. ander Lukashenko. influence in Hungary and the Budapest’s mayor opposes Poland’s nationalist gov- European Union. the plan. ernment is critical of “I do not agree with our “Fidesz is selling out Lukashenko, who has cracked country’s strengthening feudal wholesale the housing of Hun- down on his opponents, and relationship with China,” garian students, and their Warsaw has voiced support for Patrik, a 22-year-old student future, just so it can bring the the Belarusian opposition. who declined to give his full elite university of China’s dic- But in comments that did Polish politician Robert Biedron and Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya (second name, said at the protest in the tatorship into the country,” the not appear to chime with the right) attend a gathering to unveil a mural in solidarity with detained Belarusian journalist Roman Hungarian capital. organisers of yesterday’s government’s position, deputy Protasevich and his family, in Wroclaw, Poland, yesterday. He said funds should be protest said on Facebook. parliamentary speaker Ryszard used “to improve our own uni- Beijing said this week “a Terlecki, a senior member of wrote on Twitter late on Friday. “nonsense”. month in which Belarus versities instead of building a few Hungarian politicians” the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) Tsikhanouskaya, who is “That is why we are sub- scrambled a warplane to force Chinese one.” were trying to grab attention party, condemned her meeting now based on Lithuania, told mitting a motion to dismiss him a jetliner to land in Minsk and The government signed an and obstruct cooperation with Trzaskowski. private broadcaster TVN24 she from the post of Deputy arrested a dissident journalist agreement with Shanghai- between China and Hungary. “If Tsikhanouskaya wants found Terlecki’s tweet “strange” Speaker of the Sejm (lower who was on board. based Fudan University in April Orban has built cordial ties to advertise the anti-democratic and that it was “not fair to the house),” Budka wrote on Michal Szczerba, a member on building the campus at a site with China, Russia and other opposition in Poland and speak Belarusian people.” Twitter. of Civic Platform, said support in Budapest where a dormitory illiberal governments, while at Trzaskowski’s meeting, let Borys Budka, who heads the Russia is Lukashenko’s for a free Belarus should tran- village for Hungarian students locking horns with Western her look for help in Moscow, main opposition grouping Civic main ally. It has stood by him scend national disputes and had previously been planned. allies by curbing the inde- and let us support a Belarusian Platform, said he had hoped for despite an international outcry Tsikhanouskaya should be able The government has said pendence of scientiic research, opposition that is not on the an apology from Terlecki but over his crackdown on oppo- to meet whoever she wants “to Fudan is a world-class the judiciary and media. side of our opponents,” he he had gone on writing nents and an incident last call for help for her country.” SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 EUROPE 11 Cruise ships restart in Venice; protesters decry their risks REUTERS — VENICE Campaigners worry think we are against very big financial interests,” Marco Bar- The first cruise ship to leave about safety and avalle, a 42-year old researcher, Venice since coronavirus and member of the No Grandi restrictions were eased set sail, the environment, Navi (No big ships) group. but some local residents including pollution He and other protesters protested over the return to were worried that “everything normal, unhappy about the and underwater will go back to what we had passage of giant liners through erosion in a city before the pandemic”, he added. the historic lagoon city. Italy’s government ruled in Hundreds of people rallied already in peril from April that cruise ships and con- on land and small boats flut- tainer vessels must not enter tering flags saying “No big ships” rising sea waters. Venice’s historic centre but surrounded and followed the rather dock elsewhere. 92,000-tonne MSC Orchestra as But the ban will not take it departed Venice port en route to restart the engines. We care effect until terminals outside the for Croatia and Greece. a lot about Venice and we’ve lagoon have been completed, “We are here because we are been asking for a stable and and a tender for their con- against this passage but also manageable solution for ships struction has not been launched against a model of tourism that for many years,” said Francesco yet. Part of the traffic might be is destroying the city, pushing Galietti, national director for the diverted to the nearby port of out residents, destroying the trade group Cruise Lines Inter- Marghera starting from next planet, the cities, and polluting,” national Association (CLIA). year. said Marta Sottoriva, a 29-year Some residents have been The Orchestra was escorted old teacher and Venice urging governments for years outside the port not just by Venice residents holding a protest to demand an end to cruise ships passing through the lagoon resident. to ban large cruise ships and small vessels protesting but by city, as the first cruise ship of the summer season departs from the Port of Venice, in Italy, yesterday. But port authorities, workers other big vessels from passing tugboats that saluted it with and the city government wel- through the lagoon and docking water sprays, a sea tradition comed the departure of the not far from the famed St. reserved for special “It’s an important day for us, group. He said the port com- “Venice is where many itin- Orchestra, operated by MSC Mark’s Square. occasions. for 4,000 workers and many munity favoured the bans but eraries begin or end, the eco- Cruises, seeing it as a symbol of Campaigners worry about The 16-deck ship can carry others who work in this sector. alternatives had to be found nomic impact on Venice is business kicking off after the safety and the environment, over 3,000 passengers and We are starting again after over given the importance of tourism huge,” said Galietti. “If Venice health crisis that hit hard at the including pollution and under- 1,000 crew but for this voyage 17 months, finally there is light for the city. is taken off the itineraries all the cruise industry and the wider water erosion in a city already will be sailing at only half at the end of the tunnel,” said The CLIA estimates that the Adriatic (Sea) will suffer the travel sector. in peril from rising sea waters. capacity due to COVID-19 social Alessandro Santi, chairman of cruise business represents more consequences ... it would be a “We are happy to be back... “The struggle is very long, I distancing rules. the Federlogistica business than 3 percent of Venice’s GDP. huge impact.” Putin warns US may regret using dollar as sanctions weapon Slovenia, Italy to jointly patrol BLOOMBERG — MOSCOW eventually will damage the US as the with US President Joe Biden in Geneva greenback’s dominance declines, Putin on June 16. While he praised Biden as common border President Vladimir Putin said Russia said. “Why do US political authorities do one of the world’s most experienced doesn’t want to stop using the dollar as this? They’re sawing the branch on leaders, Putin said he expects no break- for migrants he accused the US of exploiting the which they sit,” he said. through in relations with the US at the currency’s dominance for sanctions and Putin spoke a day after Russia talks. warned the policy may rebound on announced it will eliminate the dollar And he offered a warning at Friday’s AP — LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA Washington. from its oil fund to reduce vulnerability meeting for the US, based on what he Russia has to adopt other payment to sanctions, a largely symbolic move as said was his own experiences “as a Slovenia and Italy said on methods because the US “uses its the switch in holdings will take place former citizen of the former Soviet Friday that they will soon start national currency for various kinds of within the central bank’s reserves. Union.” joint police patrols along their sanctions,” Putin said late Friday in St. Russia has tried with limited success “The problem with empires is that common border, which lies on Petersburg at a videoconference with to shift away from the dollar for years they think they can afford small errors a route used by migrants trying representatives of international media amid international sanctions over Putin’s and mistakes,” which gradually accu- to reach Western Europe. organisations. “We don’t do this delib- 2014 annexation of Crimea and support mulate, Putin said. “There comes a time The patrols were erately, we are forced to do it.” for separatists in eastern Ukraine, as well when they can no longer be dealt with. announced after a meeting in Settlements in national currencies as for alleged cyber attacks, election And the United States, with a confident Slovenia between Interior with other countries in areas such as meddling and espionage operations. step, a confident gait, a firm step, is Minister Aleš Hojs and his defense sales and reductions in foreign- The Russian leader’s comments walking straight along the path of the Italian counterpart Luciana Russian President Vladimir Putin exchange reserves held in dollars came ahead of his first summit meeting Soviet Union.” Lamorgese, Slovenia’s STA news agency said. It was not immediately clear where the patrols will be Latvian woman charged in US deployed or how many officers will take part. Hojs said that with role in cybercrime group they could start within a month. AP — WASHINGTON Friday in federal court in Migrants enter Slovenia Cleveland, according to the from Croatia and then move A Latvian woman has been Justice Department. on toward Italy or Austria charged with developing mali- “These charges serve as a and other European Union cious software used by a cyber- warning to would-be cyber- countries. Thousands of crime organisation that criminals that the Department people fleeing war and infected computers worldwide of Justice, through the Ran- poverty in the Middle East, and looted bank accounts of somware and Digital Extortion Africa or Asia remain stuck millions of dollars, the Justice Task Force and alongside our in the Balkans while waiting Department said Friday. partners, will use all the tools for a chance to reach their Alla Witte is charged as part at our disposal to disrupt the destinations. of a 47-count indictment with cybercriminal ecosystem,” Hojs said that the future participating in an organisation Deputy Attorney General Lisa joint patrols will be equipped known as the Trickbot Group, Monaco said in a statement with modern technology and which authorities say operated issued Friday. use drones, the STA report in Russia and several other The indictment accuses said. The idea is to discover the countries. The group is accused Witte of participating in a most active people smugglers of infecting millions of com- scheme to steal millions of and prevent illegal border puters worldwide with dollars from entities across the crossings in trucks and other malware that targeted hos- world by infecting computers vehicles, the Slovenia minister pitals, schools, governments, with malware that captured added. businesses and other entities. personal information — such Migration toward wealthy Witte, who authorities say as credit card numbers and EU nations normally picks up previously lived in Suriname, passwords — and gave TrickBot pace in the summer, when People queue outside a vaccination centre for young people and students at the Hunter Street Health was arrested in Miami in Feb- members access to the victims’ weather conditions are more Centre, amid the coronavirus disease outbreak, in London, yesterday. ruary. She was arraigned networks. clement. France requires vaccination for UK, US travellers Italy detains German migrant rescue ship REUTERS — PARIS classified orange, Beaune said test to enter the country, even if on RTL radio. they were arriving from counties AP — ROME on board. boats carrying migrants who People travelling to France Entry requirements are classified as red or orange. “In essence, the argument hope to find work or family from countries where the lower for countries which A migrant rescue ship operated is always the same,’’ Sea-Eye members in Europe. COVID-19 risk is rated France classifies as “green”, by a German charity has been Chairman Gorden Isler said in Sea-Eye 4 was scrutinised “orange”, such as Britain and which includes all European Britain reports 13 detained in Sicily by the Italian a statement. ”German rescue on Friday because more than the United States, will have to Union member states plus a deaths; 5,765 new Coast Guard, which found the ships would regularly save too 10 months had passed since the be vaccinated and show a number of countries where the vessel in alleged violation of many people from drowning vessel’s last inspection and recent negative test result, virus is considered to be under coronavirus cases safety rules and environmental and not have the right certifi- because it had taken on a large European Affairs Minister control, notably Australia, regulations. cation for such a humanitarian number of rescued passengers, Clement Beaune said. South Korea, Israel, Japan, AGENCIES — LONDON A Coast Guard statement purpose.” the Italian Coast Guard said. Under new rules set to take Lebanon, New Zealand and yesterday said inspectors iden- He blasted such reasoning “The inspection turned up effect from June 9, people Singapore. Britain reported 5,765 new tified 23 “irregularities,” as “grotesque.” various irregularities of tech- coming from orange countries “If you come from a green cases of COVID-19 yesterday including some serious enough “Our captain carried out the nical nature, such as to com- who have not been vaccinated country and you are vaccinated, and 13 more deaths within 28 to warrant the the Sea-Eye 4’s duty of sea rescue in an exem- promise not only the safety of will need to prove they have an you are welcome to come and days of a positive test. detention in Palermo’s port plary manner,’’ Isler said, the crew members, but also of imperative reason to travel to enjoy France. If you are not Government data also until the cited problems are referring to the recent rescue the very persons that have been France — such a a legal case or vaccinated, you will need a showed 40,124,229 had now corrected. of 408 people, including 150 and could be, in the future, child care — and will also have recent negative test to enter received their first vacci- Last month, the ship disem- children. ”He witnessed cases recovered on board, in the to show a recent negative French territory, he said. nation shot and 27,160,635 barked at another Sicilian port of distress at sea and carried out course of assistance carried out,’’ COVID-19 test, Beaune said. People from countries clas- had received two doses. more than 400 passengers who a safe rescue. The EU states the Coast Guard statement said. Countries classified as sified as red, including South Virus infections are rising had been rescued from smug- could learn from it.’’ It also cited alleged viola- orange in terms of COVID-19 Africa, Argentina, Brazil, India across much of the UK, piling glers’ unseaworthy boats in the Sea-Eye and similar tions of environmental pro- risk are countries where the and Turkey, can only come to pressure on Prime Minister Mediterranean. humanitarian rescue organisa- tection rules. rate of virus circulation remains France with an imperative Boris Johnson as he weighs The Coast Guard contended tions say they take to the sea Isler alleged that inspections high or which have a high level reason, whether they are vac- whether to delay plans to that Sea-Eye 4 didn’t have because European Union of charity-operated ships are of new virus variants, such as cinated or not. unlock the economy this enough rescue equipment to nations don’t adequately ply the essentially being used to prevent the UK. Any country not clas- Beaune said that French res- month. safely evacuate more than 27 waters off Libya, where human further missions by nongovern- sified as green or red is idents would only have to take a people in case of an emergency traffickers launch overcrowded mental maritime rescue groups. 12 AMERICAS SUNDAY 6 JUNE 2021 Biden turns to Obama to help boost health care enrollment

AP — WASHINGTON Biden used his weekly address for a brief where subsidized private plans by simplifying the application therefore the law should fail. Zoom chat with Obama to draw attention to are offered. An additional 14.8 process and increasing Those defending the law say President Joe Biden turned to million are covered through awareness. He also pointed to that even if the Supreme Court his old boss, former President the six-month expanded enrollment period expanded Medicaid, the report the establishment of com- strikes down the coverage Barack Obama, yesterday to that closes on August 15. Meanwhile, the adds. All but a dozen states munity-based navigators tasked requirement there’s no reason help him encourage Americans government released a report that claims have accepted the law’s Med- with helping newly eligible find to tamper with the rest of the to sign up for “Obamacare” icaid expansion, which mainly coverage and conducting out- law. The White House says 1.2 health care coverage during an that nearly 31 million Americans — a record serves low-income working reach to those who were million people have now signed expanded special enrollment — now have health coverage through the adults. And 1 million are already eligible but didn’t nec- up for health insurance through period in the pandemic. Affordable Care Act. covered by so-called basic essarily know it. the government marketplace Biden used his weekly health plans, an option created “It didn’t require a sweeping during the special enrollment address for a brief Zoom chat by the law and offered in a law like the ACA to get people period that began in February. with Obama to draw attention limited number of states. who were already eligible for That number includes people to the six-month expanded established, we could then build considerably higher than the That accounts for Medicaid enrolled, but the pro- who would have qualified for a enrollment period that closes on it.” The White House effort more than 20 million estimate enrollment of about 27 million visions of the ACA did help to sign-up opportunity even on August 15. Meanwhile, the to spotlight the expanded that’s commonly cited. people. But the Biden admin- get these millions of people without Biden’s special government released a report enrollment period and claim The Biden administration istration is also claiming credit covered,” Leavitt said. enrollment period. that claims that nearly 31 strong numbers for the health has launched a special sign-up for four million people who The Supreme Court is soon A life change such as losing million Americans — a record law as the political world and period during the pandemic, would have been eligible for expected to rule on a challenge workplace coverage or getting — now have health coverage the health care system await a and Congress passed a big boost Medicaid without Obama’s to the health law from Texas and married is considered a “qual- through the Affordable Care Act. Supreme Court ruling on the in subsidies for private health law. other GOP-led states. They argue ifying life event” that allows “We did this together,” said law’s constitutionality. plans sold under the law. But Larry Leavitt, executive that because Congress has elim- people to sign up any time Obama, whose administration The Health and Human that alone doesn’t explain the vice-president for health policy inated the law’s penalty for being during the year. Last year about established the health insurance Services Department said in a increased coverage. at the Kaiser Family Foun- uninsured, a now-toothless ACA 390,000 people signed up marketplace. “We always talked report that nearly 31 million The report says 11.3 million dation, said the law broke down requirement that almost all because of life changes from about how, if we could get the have obtained coverage in 2021 people are covered through barriers to enrollment among Americans must have health February 15 to April 30, the gov- principle of universal coverage as a result of the law. That’s the health law’s marketplaces, those who were already eligible insurance is unconstitutional and ernment said.

US Justice Dept US judge overturns will no longer seize reporters’ records California's ban on in leak probes assault weapons REUTERS — WASHINGTON The Department of Justice said REUTERS — CALIFORNIA he had granted a 30-day stay yesterday that it would no of the ruling at the request of longer seek source infor- A US federal judge overturned California Attorney General mation from reporters in leak California’s 32-year-old ban on Rob Bonta, a move that would investigations after recent assault weapons on Friday, allow Bonta to appeal it. revelations that former Pres- describing it as a “failed exper- “Today’s decision is funda- ident Donald Trump’s admin- iment” and prompting scathing mentally flawed, and we will istration had secretly obtained criticism from the state’s be appealing it,” Bonta said in phone and email records from governor and attorney-general. a statement. a number of journalists. California has prohibited Seven states, including Cal- CNN and the Washington the sale of assault weapons ifornia, and the District of Post have said the Trump admin- since 1989. The ban was chal- Columbia have enacted laws istration had secretly tried to lenged in a 2019 lawsuit banning assault weapons, obtain the phone records of some against California’s attorney according to the Giffords Law of their reporters over work they general by plaintiffs including Center, a gun-control group. did in 2017. The New York Times A man speaks with a healthcare worker before being tested for COVID-19, in Buenos Aires, on Friday. James Miller, a state resident, Gun control is a politically reported that the Justice and the San Diego County Gun divisive subject in the United Department under presidents Owners, a political action States, which has experienced Trump and Joe Biden waged “a committee. a significant number of deadly With over 80,000 dead, Argentines secret legal battle to obtain the “This case is about what mass shootings at schools and email logs of four New York should be a muscular constitu- other public venues for Times reporters,” and imposed a tional right and whether a state decades. struggle under weight of COVID-19 gag order on executives. can force a gun policy choice California Governor Gavin Last month, Biden said he that impinges on that right with Newsom described Friday’s REUTERS — BUENOS AIRES third-highest in the world for straight years of recession. would not allow his Justice a 30-year-old failed exper- overturning of the ban on average daily cases, with more Diego Peralta said he had Department to seize the phone iment,” judge Roger Benitez of assault weapons as a direct For lawyer Lidia Alverisi, Argen- total recorded per capita cases voted for Argentina´s leftist Pres- or email records of reporters, the US District Court for the threat to public safety and tina’s COVID-19 pandemic has than regional giant Brazil. The ident Alberto Fernandez but had saying any such move would Southern District of California called it a “disgusting slap” in taken an almost unbearable toll. government has struggled to find lost faith because of the extended be “simply wrong”. “DOJ has wrote in the court order filed the face to those who have lost “We have all lost someone, a balance between lockdowns lockdowns. “I feel bad for my now completed a review to late on Friday. loved ones to gun violence. someone we knew well,” she and keeping the economy going, fellow citizens going through a determine all instances in which “Government is not free to “The fact that this judge said. “In my case, it’s been friends as well as driving a vaccine cam- bad time, but COVID-19 is sec- the Department had pending impose its own new policy compared the AR-15 — a I’ve known for 40 years who paign that was slow to start and ondary when there’s no food to compulsory requests from choices on American citizens weapon of war that’s used on were gone in just 10 days.” medics say won’t manage to give your child,” he said. reporters in leak investigations,” where Constitutional rights are the battlefield — to a Swiss The South American drive down infection rates for Argentina is inoculating its Justice Department spokesman concerned,” the order added. army knife completely under- country is engulfed in a second several months. citizens against COVID-19 with Anthony Coley said. “It is declared that these mines the credibility of this wave of the virus that started “I think deaths could have Russia’s Sputnik V vaccines, the “Going forward, consistent statutes unconstitutionally decision,” the governor said in in mid-February and is pushing been avoided if the government AstraZeneca jab developed with with the President’s direction, infringe the Second Amendment a statement. hospitals close to saturation had focused more on vaccines Oxford University and Chinese- this Department of Justice — in rights of California citizens,” the “Like the Swiss army knife, point and its citizens to despair. and if people had respected the made Sinopharm. Since the a change to its longstanding court filing concluded. the popular AR-15 rifle is a By late on Friday, Argentina lockdowns more,” said student campaign started December 24 practice — will not seek com- The Second Amendment of perfect combination of home had confirmed 80,411 deaths Martina Dawin, 17. Others last year, the country has pulsory legal process in leak the United States Constitution defense weapon and homeland among its 45 million citizens however, think the government’s carried out 13.4 million inocu- investigations to obtain source guarantees citizens the right to defense equipment,” the judge from the disease, with a total priority should have been lations, though only around 3 information from members of bear arms. had said in the order filed on 3.9 million cases. shielding people from more eco- million people have received the news media doing their The federal judge said that Friday. At present it ranks the nomic hardship after three the full double dose. jobs,” Coley added. Peru’s Castillo El Salvador ends anti-corruption falls in public opinion polls accord with OAS, dismaying US

REUTERS — LIMA REUTERS — SAN SALVADOR adviser to his office, without Not long after, Salvadoran giving details. police said it had arrested Muy- Peruvian socialist presidential El Salvador on Friday pulled out Muyshondt, a member of shondt on charges linked to mis- candidate Pedro Castillo of an anti-corruption accord the right-wing ARENA party, appropriation of tax revenues. slipped further in public with the Organization of and vocal critic of President Muyshondt, who had pre- opinion polls on Friday, setting American States (OAS) in Nayib Bukele, is under investi- viously denied wrongdoing on up what appeared to be a dead protest at an OAS decision to gation by prosecutors over the tax charges too, said on heat against right-wing Keiko take on as an adviser an oppo- accusations that he made a deal Twitter he was now a “political Fujimori ahead of today's sition politician under investi- benefiting gangs in exchange prisoner” of a “dictatorial and runoff election. gation, and also ordered his for votes in the 2014 presi- authoritarian regime” he had In a poll by Ipsos, Castillo arrest. dential elections. stood up to. Bukele said he led by 0.9 percentage point, The announcement was the Attorney-General Rodolfo would not work with the OAS while a poll by CPI, had Fujimori latest in a series of moves on Delgado said he was breaking to fight graft but would find ahead by 0.2 percentage point, anti-corruption efforts in with the International Com- some other international the first time the right-wing Central America that have mission against Impunity in El organization instead. candidate has led her leftist caused dismay inside the US Salvador (CICIES), which was “Something that, seeing rival. The highly polarized government, which is created under Bukele in how the waters are moving in election pits Fujimori, the attempting to get leaders in the agreement with the OAS in Sep- the international community, daughter of jailed former Pres- region to redouble efforts to tember 2019, slamming Muys- and seeing all the rubbish and ident Alberto Fujimori, against root out graft. hondt’s OAS role. rot that’s behind these institu- Castillo, a little-known ele- US officials see corruption The President followed tions, will definitely be difficult, mentary school teacher and as one of the root causes of suit. “We’ve decided the pres- but we’ll manage it,” said the union leader who has cam- undocumented immigration, idency is also going to break 39-year-old Bukele. paigned on a socialist platform. along with poverty and gang our agreement with the OAS The US embassy in El Sal- Polls have shown Fujimori violence, and want to make CICIES because it’s nonsense vador expressed regret over the catching up to the current sta- sure some $4bn in aid pledged for us trying to fight impunity decision after Delgado’s initial tistical tie with Castillo, who for the region does not fall prey with the very people who are announcement. has been the favourite since to graft. promoting impunity in El Sal- “The fight against cor- the first round vote in April. But some Central American vador,” Bukele told a news ruption is essential and funda- The Ipsos poll had a 2.8% leaders have been pushing back conference. mental. We will continue to error margin while the CPI poll on the Biden administration’s Muyshondt has denied the look for ways to reduce and had 2.5%. It is illegal within Peru anti-corruption strategy. allegations. On Friday combat corruption and to publish polls during the last On Thursday, OAS Sec- afternoon, during a hearing impunity,” it said on its Twitter week before a presidential retary-General Luis Almagro attended by Muyshondt, a judge account. Washington donated Peru’s socialist presidential candidate Pedro Castillo addresses election, although those surveys said that Ernesto Muyshondt, ordered him to be put under $2m to CICIES in April. supporters before a run-off election against right-wing candidate can still be carried out as long as mayor of San Salvador between house arrest over the gangs The OAS office in El Sal- local media do not publish them. Keiko Fujimori today, in Lima recently. 2018 and 2021, is to become an case, authorities said. vador declined to comment.