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QCB Governor Qatar 2022 calls for studying diversifying Waqf proposition to stage investments '4 matches a day'

Wednesday 5 December 2018 | 27 Rabia I 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 23 | Number 7731 | 2 Riyals

2019

Amir visits Doha International Book Fair Amir condoles Amir, Malaysian with Kuwait Amir QNA PM to hold talks DOHA Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday a cable of condo- tomorrow lences to Amir of Kuwait H H Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al QNA This is the second Jaber Al Sabah on the death of KUALA LUMPUR Sheikha Bazza Mohammad Al visit of H H the Ali Al Malek Al Sabah. Deputy Qatar’s Ambassador to Malaysia Amir, and it is a Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Fahad bin Mohammed Kafood clear expression Hamad Al Thani and Prime said that the visit of Amir H H Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al of the depth of the H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Thani to the Kingdom of relationship between Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani Malaysia is of particular impor- the two countries, sent similar cable of condo- tance in the light of Qatar’s lences to the Amir of Kuwait. policy to expand its relations Qatar's Ambassador with sisterly and friendly coun- to Malaysia said. tries in all political, economic and cultural spheres. Amir gets verbal In a statement to Qatar News He said the visit will include message from Agency (QNA), he said that an in-depth official talks Qatar’s relationship with between H H the Amir and Algerian President Malaysia dates back to decades Malaysian Prime Minister and it is one of the distinguished Mahathir Mohamad tomorrow, QNA relations that have covered many which will be of great impor- DOHA sectors and witnessed exchange tance in laying solid founda- of visits at different levels. tions for enhancing bilateral Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin This is the second visit of relations in the framework of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani visited the 29th Doha International Book Fair at Doha Hamad Al Thani received a H H the Amir, and it is a clear seeking opportunities to Exhibition and Convention Center yesterday. H H the Amir toured the pavilions of the exhibition and verbal message from the expression of the depth of the develop political coordination was briefed on the participation of the various government organisations and cultural institutions, President of the People’s relationship between the two and cooperation and economic Arab, Qatari and international publishing houses and the latest publications, books and manuscripts Democratic Republic of countries. The relationship is relations between the two displayed in the exhibition. `P2 Algeria, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, based on the principles of countries. pertaining to bilateral rela- mutual respect for the sover- He added that the visit also tions and ways of developing eignty of states, non-inter- comes as part of meeting Malay- them. ference in internal affairs and sia’s new leadership, which took The message was con- the establishment of the best power after the last elections veyed by Vice-Minister for relations between them, he said. held in Malaysia in May 2018. Katara to unveil planetarium on Qatar National Day National Defence and Chief He expressed the hope that The Ambassador said the of Staff of the People’s this important visit will have visit includes the distribution RAYNALD C RIVERA National Army in Algeria positive repercussions on the of the awards of the third THE PENINSULA Village on December 18 as a high- events and activities for the annual Lieutenant General Ahmed excellent relations between the edition of the Sheikh Tamim bin light of Katara’s National Day festiv- celebration. The facility is set to Gaid Salah, when H H the two countries, which will Hamad Al Thani International The first-of-its-kind high-tech ities. This was revealed at a press witness another significant addition Amir met him and the accom- benefit the people of Qatar and Anti-Corruption Excellence planetarium in Qatar will be conference held yesterday at to Katara’s already rich offering to panying delegation at the Malaysia. Award of Friday. `P3 launched at the Katara Cultural Katara to announce the lineup of visitors and tourists. `P3 Amiri Diwan yesterday. `P3 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018

Committee reviews Media City draft law Amir visits Doha International Book Fair DOHA: The Information and Cultural Affairs Committee of the Shura Council held yesterday a meeting within the 47th regular session, headed by its rapporteur Mohamed bin Ali Al Maadid. The committee continued its review of the draft law on the Media City and decided to refer its recommendation to the Shura Council. The meeting was attended by a number of representatives from the Cabinet’s General Secretariat, where they explained the government’s point of view on the draft law. QNA Shura Council team for Morocco meet DOHA: A delegation from the Shura Council will take part in an international conference on the global compact for migration scheduled to be held in Marrakech, Morocco on December 6 and 7. Organised in partnership between the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the Parliament of the Kingdom of Morocco, the conference will discuss several parliamentary matters that will contribute to progress in terms of implementation of the global compact for migration, and identify the challenges and methods of addressing them. QNA Qatar attends Arab meet on health

CAIRO: Qatar participated in a joint meeting of Arab ministers of social affairs and health, with a delegation headed by Ambassador Ibrahim bin Abdulaziz Al Sahlawi, the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the Arab League. The meeting will discuss the development of an Arab strategy to promote the rights of older persons in the Arab countries and ensure decent Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani visited yesterday the 29th Doha International Book Fair, which is being held under the theme “Doha, A City of Knowledge living for them in recognition of and Conscience”, at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center. H H the Amir toured the pavilions of the exhibition where he was briefed on the participation of the their role in Arab societies. QNA various government organisations and cultural institutions, as well as Arab, Qatari and international publishing houses. H H the Amir was also briefed on the latest publications, books and manuscripts displayed in the exhibition. WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 03 Amir receives message from Algerian President Amir’s visit to boost Qatar-Malaysia ties

FROM PAGE 1 Qatar and Malaysia official visit and in conjunction Malaysia has been selected as hold strong and with the award in Putrajaya on a place to distribute the awards cooperative relations Friday. Malaysia is deeply hon- in recognition of the efforts of the in various political, oured to be chosen as the third Malaysian government that venue for the award after Vienna launched an extensive anti-cor- economic and trade and Geneva in 2016 and 2017. ruption campaign in the country fields for 44 years. The Ambassador said, “I since it took office. foresee that under the new Gov- The Ambassador added that ernment of Malaysia, there is a the Award will be given to four solidarity between Muslim strong political will on both sides people from different countries states. The bilateral relations to bring the existing relations to who have presented outstanding have witnessed many visits and a greater height. Currently, the work in the fields of Lifetime/ talks between state leaders, bilateral relations have been Outstanding Achievement, Inno- ministers, government and described as the best in history vation, Youth Creativity and private sector officials. The most following the recent official visit Engagement and Academic prominent was the visit of of Deputy Prime Minister and Research and Education. Father Amir H H Sheikh Hamad Minister of Women, Family and He said that the event will bin Khalifa Al Thani to Malaysia Community Development of be attended by H H the Amir and in 2009 and in 2011 the visit of Malaysia Dr Wan Azizah Wan Prime Minister of Malaysia, in Al-Wathiqu Billah Tuanku Ismail to Doha in November.” addition to a number of senior Mizan Zainal Abidin, the King of “I am also pleased to express Malaysian officials and repre- Malaysia at the time. Malaysia’s satisfaction on the sentatives of the UN. He said that The relations were them successful State visit to Malaysia the visit follows another by culminated by the visits of Amir by H H the Amir in October 2017. Deputy Prime Minister and Min- H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad I also believe that frequent ister of Women, Family and Al Thani to Malaysia in 2015 and exchanges of visits at all levels Community Development of 2017, which promoted the rela- should be maintained for further Malaysia Dr Wan Azizah Wan tions between both countries strengthen the bilateral relations Ismail to Doha in November and pushed it to a more strategic between the two countries,” he Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received a message from the President of the People’s 2018, which resulted in con- level. added. Democratic Republic of Algeria, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, pertaining to bilateral relations and ways of structive talks and constituted In a related statement, the “I wish to extend our appre- developing them. The message was conveyed by the Vice-Minister for National Defence and Chief an important step in promoting Ambassador of Kingdom of ciation on the opportunities and of Staff of the People’s National Army in Algeria, Lt. General Ahmed Gaid Salah, when H H the bilateral relations. Malaysia to the State of Qatar, confidence given by the Qatari Amir met him and the accompanying delegation at the Amiri Diwan yesterday. Lt. General Salah Qatar and Malaysia hold Ahmad Fadil bin Shamsuddin, government to a number of conveyed the greetings of the President to H H the Amir, wishing him good health and happiness strong and cooperative relations said the upcoming official visit Malaysian companies partici- and the State of Qatar continuous progress and prosperity. H H the Amir entrusted the Algerian in various political, economic of H H the Amir to Malaysia pating in various Qatari devel- official to convey his greetings to the Algerian President, wishing him good health and wellness and trade fields for 44 years. today will strengthen the opment projects. Malaysia hopes and the brotherly Algerian people more progress and development. The meeting also reviewed Since then the relations have standing relations between both to participate in more devel- the fraternal relations between Qatar and Algeria and means of supporting and developing them, been in continuous development countries. opment projects in Qatar. Both in addition to the latest developments in the region. and has deepened based on He said Malaysia is once countries should intensify many similarities in faith and again looking forward to wel- efforts to increase the volume shared visions on unity and coming H H the Amir for the of trade and investment.”

Katara to unveil QNBN opens Network Operations Center planetarium on

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH network if they wanted to move to very high Qatar National Day THE PENINSULA secure network. FROM PAGE 1 He said that the company was estab- Minister of Transport and Communications lished by a government initiative to establish Constructed on a 2,240sqm H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti inaugurated a government network to avoid duplication area, the planetarium will offer yesterday the Network Operations Center in telecommunication infrastructure and a rare experience to visitors (NOC) of Qatar National Broadband to provide the suitable prices for the oper- especially students, families Network (QNBN) at the headquarters of ators and under high standards of quality, and astronomy enthusiasts. QNBN. safety and continuity within Qatar National The hall will have a seating NOC aims at monitoring the fiber optic Vision 2030. capacity of 200 people, four networks to ensure uninterrupted high He added, the company has developed seats for the disabled and quality Internet services across the country the strategies to implement the initiative to another four for the elderly. It enabling a quick response to any disruption the fullest and reach the satisfaction of its will feature a gigantic screen in service in case of emergency . customers with high quality, continuity and measuring 22 metres. Another “QNBN laid high quality fiber optic sustainability. “In line with Qatar Vision distinct feature of will be a vast network stretching 3,000km covering min- 2030, our network directly supports the terrace overlooking the sea istries, governmental organisations, security health, education, government and security which will serve as a venue for agencies and other firms that joined the sectors as well as the telecommunications events and activities. network,” said Minister of Transport and sector in general, allowing high speeds of The planetarium will add Communications while speaking to media- service to allow the use of all current and more attractions in Katara persons on the sidelines of the inaugural future applications. As well as to reach the including 12 buildings which ceremony. goal of smart cities,” he added. will house a chain of restau- He said that the move is part of a major Al Sulaiti said that QNBN has achieved rants and cafes, libraries, exhi- Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti (centre) with project to provide a complete telecommu- savings in to the country’s budget by bition hall, cinema and several other officials at QNBN Headquarters yesterday.PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA nication infrastructure which was required avoiding duplication of networks, imple- cultural centres. Other ele- for Qatar smart city project. menting the unified Government network ments of the expansion “We are very proud of opening NOC “QNBN network coverage has reached requirements of different parties by con- strategy and optimizing the utilization of project are the Katara Plaza, which covered Qatar completely with fiber different regions of the country to cover 95 necting the fiber network to the required government resources and investments. which is a luxury mall set to optic network enabling a quick response to percent of the country’s area and 100 buildings within 48 hours. “In support to the national economy, host the first Evian Spa in the network disruption in any emergency sit- percent of the populated areas, increasing “We are supporting all strategic com- QNBN contributes to the growth of national Middle East and a children’s uation which was the main purpose behind the number of fiber optics to more than panies like petroleum companies and those income by 3 to 5 percent per annum, mall, as well as the Katara establishing QNBN,” said the Minister. He 3,000km,” said Dr Eng. Ahmed Al Sulaiti, with sensitive networks,” said Al Sulaiti, allowing all companies to benefit from the Hills featuring gardens and said that QNBN is owned by Qatar CEO of QNBN. He said that through this cov- adding that QNBN offers services at very infrastructure provided by QNBN,” he green meadows boasting Investment Authority. erage, the company was able to meet the affordable prices to the firms with private added. many recreational facilities. Sweden impressed with Qatar’s performance in last decades

SIDI MOHAMED benefit,” Ewa Polano, Ambassador of friendship between Qatar and Sweden in Sweden to their local context. THE PENINSULA Sweden to Qatar said. tonight. We are all impressed by Qatar’s She said: “According to old Swedish performance in the last decades in all The Embassy of Sweden in Doha hosted folklore belief, during the cold and dark areas, in line with the great ambitions a Midwinter Lucia celebrations December, we Swedes have a need to in Qatar National Vision 2030. Qatar is yesterday to celebrate the National Day recall the sun and light . Therefore, we a cultural and intellectual regional hub of Sweden in the presence of more than gather in our offices, at schools, with with all its universities and think tanks. 800 guests. family and friends to enjoy Lucia songs The beautiful capital Doha, with iconic The event was attended by Minister and eating saffron buns, symbolising the architecture and lovely corniche,” she of Transport and Communications H E sun, enjoyed with strongly spiced hot added. Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, Minister of drink to stay warm and to bring back The bilateral relations culminated Administrative Development, Labour hope for brighter and warmer days to earlier this year when Qatar Leadership and Social Affairs H E Yousef bin return.” Center’s Executive Leaders Program Mohammed Al Othman Fakhro, Ibrahim About Lucia, she said: “It is one of chose Sweden for their annual learning Yousif Abdullah Fakhroo, Director of the most beloved Swedish folklore tra- journey. During their trip, they visited Department of Protocol, and a number ditions. Swedes celebrate Lucia just the best of Swedish industry, research of dignitaries. before the winter solstice, in the cold institutions, and government, to “Sweden aims to create a sustainable and dark month of December, inspired benchmark the Swedish model and platform for long-standing partnerships by people’s yearning for light and an review best practices within high-skilled Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, Minister with Qatar, focused on the fact that ancient belief in recalling the sun.” production, financial technology, R&D, of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs H E Yousef bin Mohamed Sweden and Qatar are both small coun- “This Swedish magical midwinter academia and sustainable know-how. tries with great ambitions, leading to a setting is what we would like to share These 40 Executive Leaders are now Al Othman Fakhro, Swedish Ambassador Ewa Polano along with other dignitaries spirit of knowledge-sharing for mutual with you when celebrating the working on applying the lessons learned at the National Day celebrations, yesterday. 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 Qatar and Algeria discuss cooperation Katara to mark Qatar National Day with nine-day festivities

RAYNALD C RIVERA Fireworks display, will once again perform national THE PENINSULA opera and musical music during the celebrations in addition to the participation Katara Cultural Village is set to shows, parachuting, of the Amiri Air Force. celebrate Qatar National Day drone shows, cultural There will also be a cultural with nine-day festivities loaded shows and other bazaar by Bedaya Centre in the with varied events and activities fun-filled activities entire duration of the nine-day for its visitors, organizers festivities where a wide range announced yesterday. are among the 45 of native products such as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohamed Al Fireworks display, opera events and activities clothes, perfumes and tradi- Attiyah met yesterday with Deputy Minister of Defence and Chief of Staff of the Algerian People’s and musical shows, parachuting, tional cuisine will be available. National Army, Lieutenant General Ahmed Gaid Salah, and his accompanying delegation. The two lined up for this drone shows, cultural shows and year’s celebrations A documentary film high- sides held extensive discussions during which they discussed aspects of joint cooperation and other fun-filled activities are lighting the co-existence means of enhancing and developing them in various fields between the two brotherly countries. among the 45 events and activ- which will run from between different expatriate H E the Chief of Staff of Qatari Armed Forces, Lieutenant-General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Shaheen Al ities lined up for this year’s cel- December 11 to 19. communities in Qatar will be Ghanim and a number of senior officers of the Qatari Armed Forces attended the meeting. ebrations which will run from screened at the celebrations. December 11 to 19. The activities will also Speaking at a press con- and Katara Corniche. include art competitions and ference yesterday, Katara Leading Qatari artistes workshops for children, exhi- General Manager Dr Khalid bin Fahad Al Kubaisi and Anwaar bition of classic cars, art exhibi- Qatar takes part in UN climate conference Ibrahim Al Sulaiti said that will perform at a musical show tions, traditional Qatari dances Katara has prepared an during the celebrations. and cultural shows, among QNA excellent package of activities Special forces participating others. WARSAW to celebrate Qatar National Day, in the celebration will display Abdul Rahman bin Jassim Al matching Katara’s track record parachute jump on December Tamimi, head of the organizing The State of Qatar is participating in organizing major events and 17 and 19 from 4pm. committee, also addressed the in the 24th Conference of the festivals. Following the success of last press conference. Parties (COP) to the UN Framework “Through the National Day year’s drone air show, some 500 The Supreme Committee for Convention on Climate Change celebrations Katara strives to drones will participate in a Delivery and Legacy, Qatar (UNFCCC), being held in Katowice, promote the spirit of patriotism 10-minute fireworks show on Airways and Vodafone are Republic of Poland. among the citizens and acquaint December 17 and 19. among this year’s supporters of The Qatari delegation, the new generation with the rich The Police Training Institute Katara’s National Day chaired by Minister of Munici- history and traditions of our band at the Ministry of Interior celebrations. pality and Environment H E Eng. country,” said Al Sulaiti. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Subaie, A major highlight of the cel- will effectively participate in the ebrations is an opera titled “Cit- meetings with aim to strengthen izens and expats- we are one,” the coordination with other Minister of Municipality and Environment H E Eng. Abdullah bin to be staged on December 17 and countries during the negotiations Abdulaziz Al Subaie (right) at the event. December 19 at 7pm and 9pm. which Qatar is a member of, such Al Sulaiti said that the as the Arab group, Group 77 and and Environment held meetings the most important projects that special opera seeks to China, the group of states with with a number of ministers. The reflect the country’s efforts in strengthen the bond between similar thoughts. Qatari delegation will participate dealing with the issue of climate Qataris and expatriates on the On the sidelines of the con- in the side events of the conference, change, and affirm its commitment occasion of the National Day, ference, the Minister of Municipality which will include presentations of to addressing this phenomenon. considering the attachment of the expatriate communities to the host country and their val- uable contributions to its Invitation to attend GCC Summit on December 9 progress and development. The different activities, QNA that invites H H the Amir to attend the 39th Summit which will take place from 4pm Katara General Manager Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti (right) DOHA of the Supreme Council of the GCC that will be hosted to 10pm, have been distributed by the Kingdom on December 9. The message was to various venues including and Abdul Rahman bin Jassim Al Tamimi, Head of the organising Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani delivered by HE Secretary-General of the GCC Dr Katara beach, the Amphitheater committee, at a press conference yesterday at Katara Cultural Village. received yesterday a written message from Custodian Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, during a reception of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz yesterday by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H Al Saud of the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi. 85th anniversary of ‘Holodomor’ commemorated NMoQ gets LEED Gold, GSAS 4 Star Sustainability ratings

THE PENINSULA DOHA in the MENA region developed just in terms of its architectural for rating green buildings and beauty and immersive offering, In another milestone ahead of its infrastructure. The primary but also for its sustainability opening next year, the National objective of GSAS is to create a legacy which will impact gener- Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) became sustainably built environment, ations to come. We are proud to the first national museum in the considering the specific needs become the first national world to receive both a LEED Gold and context of the region. museum in the world to receive and a 4 Star GSAS (Global Sustain- Commenting on the this honour and look forward to ability Assessment System) announcement, Sheikha Amna future achievements that will put sustainability rating. bint Abdulaziz bin Jassim Al Qatar on the world’s cultural LEED (Leadership in Energy Thani, Director of the National map.” and Environmental Design) is Museum of Qatar, stated: “A Set to open in March next the most widely used green national museum is an integral year, NMoQ will celebrate building rating system in the part of a society. As such, it has Qatar’s past, present and future. Yevhen Mykytenko, Ambassador of Ukraine to Qatar, speaking at an event held at their embassy in world. Certifications from LEED a responsibility to protect the The iconic building embraces as Doha yesterday to commemorate the 85th anniversary of ‘Holodomor’, in which millions of people are globally recognized symbols environment in which it exists, its centerpiece the restored his- died of starvation. Several ambassadors and diplomats of different countries including Japan, Nigeria of sustainability achievements, which will ultimately impact the toric Palace of Sheikh Abdullah and Palestine were present at the event. Photos and a documentary on the Holodomor (meaning while the Global Sustainability world at large. The National bin Jassim Al Thani (1880-1957), death by hunger) were also showcased. Assessment System (GSAS) is the Museum of Qatar aspires to son of the founder of modern first performance-based system become a global benchmark, not Qatar.

Nespresso releases Limited QF’s national reading campaign Edition festive collection participates in DIBF THE PENINSULA including The Gallery at Sketch in London, Jean THE PENINSULA blueprint photographs of Khalifa DOHA François Piège in Paris and APT in New York, DOHA Al Obaidly, inspired by manu- her work is now synonymous with elegant scripts of the indigo trade Around the world, the festive period is a time design imbued with rich colour palettes. Artworks commissioned by between the Gulf and India, and that brings people together and is coloured by Treating each creation as though it is a Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Maryam Al Homaid’s illusion- treats of the season. It is a time of indulgence couture piece, Mahdavi’s influence on the Nes- National Reading Campaign that istic work with the endless rep- and opulence and no city better brings this to presso Variations is evident in the range’s pastel celebrate the journey and the joy etition of the word ‘imagination’. life than Paris. In partnership with renowned hues and playful designs. With two unique fla- of picking up a book have been Meanwhile, Khalifa Al-Marri has An item on display. interior designer, India Mahdavi, Nespresso voured coffees, one non-flavoured coffees and showcased at the 29th Doha created an abstract animation will celebrate this festive season with the a range of limited editions accessories, Mahdavi to touch via smell, with subtly sweet aromas. International Book Fair (DIBF). of the mental voyages a person launch of its Parisian Gourmandise inspired has created a collection fit for the most dis- I wanted to add a hint of reverie. Offering The community-focused QF takes while reading; Paul Val- Limited Edition festive collection, from deli- cerning of coffee and design aficionados. delight capsules for the eyes to relish and to campaign – designed to foster a entine has carved actual books; cious Variations coffees to a range of stunning Mahdavi on the collaboration: “I sought to then fly away in each and everyone’s love of literature among people and Sebastian Betancur- accessories. bring an oneiric dimension to Nespresso’s imagination.” of all ages in Qatar – invited local Montoya has performed a The Variations coffees centre on the tra- world in which these new capsules appear as This year’s Limited Edition Variations artists to produce works that journey in the middle of the sea ditional flavours of Parisian patisseries imaginary delights, floating like sweet clouds bring the quintessentially French flavours capture the essence of reading. while reading a book. including macarons and praline. No one more in the sky” says the architect who is infusing a to coffee lovers around the world, trans- The five commissioned pieces During DIBF, the National embodies this iconic, artistry than India touch of emotion and tenderness to the func- porting them to a Parisian Patisserie through are currently on display on DIBF, Reading Campaign has also Mahdavi who has designed the packaging of tional and urban universe of coffee. “These unique flavour creations. Each year festive one of the region’s largest inter- been encouraging members of the Variations range along with the Les Col- voluptuous forms, reminiscent of childhood, variations centre on flavours of the season national book fairs, which is the community to place their lections accessories, selected boutique display suggest a fantasised “gourmandise”. In dis- and for the first time, remaining true to taking place at Doha Exhibition favorite book on its ‘Com- windows and the communication campaign tancing itself from various graphic codes, Nes- French tradition, there is a Paris Black and Convention Center until munity Shelves’ and leave a overall. Based in Paris, Mahdavi has created presso speaks to the senses - celebrating espresso coffee that caters to those preferring December 8. note explaining why they like some of the world’s most iconic modern spaces taste under all its aspects, ranging from sight coffee in its pure taste. The works of art include the it for others to find. WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 05 Qatar’s first cancer awareness calendar launched

The calendar reflects the collaborative efforts of in our collaborative efforts to ease health partners towards achieving the vision of the burden of cancer on Qatar and the National Cancer Framework 2017-2022 and its people. This co-ordinated cal- provides an opportunity for uniting efforts by endar allows us to further develop our awareness drives and out- stakeholders within Qatar to join forces to raise reach initiatives to achieve the awareness of cancer and reduce the local maximum results and engage with cancer burden. a wider audience,” said Dr Shaikha Abu Shaikha, Cancer Program Manager, PHCC. FAZEENA SALEEM Corporation (HMC), Primary Dr Mohammed Ussama Al THE PENINSULA Health Care Corporation (PHCC) Homsi, Senior Consultant, and Qatar Cancer Society. Oncology Department at HMC’s The Ministry of Public Health The calendar identifies dedi- National Center for Cancer Care (MoPH) announced Qatar’s first cated cancer awareness months and Research (NCCCR), said, “Our annual cancer awareness based on evidence-based inci- approach is to work collabora- calendar yesterday, with an aim dence data published by the Qatar tively in an efficient and effective to reduce prevalence of the National Cancer Registry. It also manner with other healthcare The launch of cancer awareness calendar 2019 held at the Ministry of Public Health yesterday. Seen disease in the country. recognises international cancer stakeholders to minimise the inci- from left are Dr. Shaikha Abu Shaikha, PHCC; Sheikh Mohammed Hamad J. Al Thani, MoPH; Sheikh Dr. The calendar reflects the col- awareness days. This annual cal- dence of cancer for the population laborative efforts of health endar also highlight National Khalid bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman, Qatar Cancer Society; Dr. Mohammed Ussama Al Homsi, HMC; and in Qatar through research and partners towards achieving the Cancer Framework initiatives Catherine Gillespie, Director, National Cancer Programme. PIC: QASSIM RAHMATULLAH / THE PENINSULA education and to provide excellent vision of the National Cancer including cancer awareness treatment when cancer does Framework 2017-2022 and pro- ambassadors and the experiences recognizes that no individual Catherine Gillespie , National bowel cancer made up 10.23 occur.” vides an opportunity for uniting of patients living with cancer and service or organization can do Cancer Program Director at the percent. The National Health “Our activities are built on the efforts by stakeholders within cancer survivors. this alone. We must work MoPH. Strategy 2018-2022 aims to progress we have already made Qatar to join forces to raise the “The National Cancer together to ensure a clear vision Previous data for 2015 from reduce early deaths from cancer over the past few years to raise awareness of cancer and reduce Framework which was published for public awareness that will MoPH has indicated that among and other chronic diseases by 25 awareness amongst the public the local cancer burden. last year continues to encourage help us achieve our goal of the top malignant primary sites percent by 2025. about how they can take own- The collaboration includes work to raise awareness in the reducing the impact of cancer of cancer in Qatar, breast cancer Te launch of the calendar is ership of their health to reduce MoPH, Hamad Medical community about cancer and across the country,” said accounted for 17.5 percent, while another important step forward their risk of cancer,” he added. Qatar-Russia 2018 Year of Ooredoo’s 5G tests in full swing in desert THE PENINSULA Waleed Al Sayed, Chief manufacturers are working DOHA Executive Officer, Ooredoo closely together with Ooredoo Culture marked by QNL Qatar, said: “Camping is an to ensure the performance in Ooredoo announced yesterday important part of Qatar’s culture Qatar is seamless in various use- THE PENINSULA projects, and several digital doc- Russian Academy of Sciences. that customers will be able to and so ensuring that our network cases before being made DOHA uments from Qatar National During their meeting, she illus- enjoy the life changing speeds is 5G ready in popular areas of available to customers. Library’s collections were trated the progress in devel- of 5G across Qatar’s desert, as the desert is a priority for us. 5G To demonstrate the power As Qatar and Russia celebrate handed over to the Presidential oping Qatar’s library culture, soon as commercial devices are will enable our customers to of 5G, Ooredoo recently show- their bilateral relations, the 2018 Library to add to their Qatar col- and the Library’s approach to available in Qatar. download movies, stream VR cased real life 5G speeds Year of Culture between the two lection. Both institutions the digitization and preservation Ooredoo has deployed and gaming experiences, even when exceeding 2617 Mbps in a nations has been supported by recently signed an agreement of history. begun testing its newly upgraded surround by dunes, and most moving vehicle at The Pearl, as Qatar National Library through to collaborate on areas of IFLA Preservation and Con- 5G towers in desert areas such importantly give users peace of well as the use of an Aerial Taxi a series of activities. mutual interest in the future. servation (PAC) Center at Qatar as Sealine and will be offering mind of that they can always Drone powered by the com- Dr. Sohair Wastawy, Exec- “We are delighted to mark National Library and IFLA PAC trials to selected VIP customers stay connected when away from pany’s live 5G network. utive Director of Qatar National the Year of Culture, a historic Center in Russia organized a via 5G home broadband devices. home.” As well as announcing the Library, recently participated at occasion between both nations, learning exchange program to The company has invested 5G home broadband devices testing, Ooredoo has stated that the seventh Saint Petersburg and an opportunity for us to provide vocational training for heavily in the launch of the 5G work on both the Ooredoo 4G by end of the desert season in International Cultural Forum, expand our relationship with a member of the Library’s pres- desert project to ensure the best and 5G network and can achieve 2019, a host of the most popular and delivered a talk on the libraries in Russia. Our discus- ervation and conservation team. coverage during the camping speeds of up to 2 Gbps, 20 times desert locations will be con- importance of traditional sions with partner institutions Chanaka Perera, Conservation season for Qatar’s people when the speeds of Ooredoo’s nected with 5G Home Broadband libraries in the changing tech- in Russia will result in important Technician at Qatar National 5G devices become available. 100Mbps fibre. Hardware devices. nological landscape. historical research and cultural Library, participated in a week- In a visit to the Boris Yeltsin exchange programs,” said Dr. long training course and a con- Presidential Library, one of the Wastawy ference that took place in Russia. national libraries in Russia, Dr. Dr. Wastawy also met with In collaboration with the Wastawy met with its Acting Dr. Efim Rezvan, Deputy International Center for Music Director-General, Valentin Director, Peter the Great in Doha, the Library organized Sidorin. They discussed joint Museum of Anthropology and an evening of Russian music last cultural, scientific and technical Ethnography (Kunstkamera), week. BPS organises workshop for teachers and academic leaders

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Birla Public School organised a two-day workshop for teachers and academic leaders from December 1 to 2 at Abu Hamour Campus. First day workshop was on “Magical Classrooms”, in the words of Mr. A P Sharma, Prin- cipal. It was led by a prestigious Resource person, Mr. Ashok Kumar Pandey, Principal of Ahlcon International School, Teachers and academic leaders during the workshop. New Delhi and Governing Council Member of CBSE. He stressed that science teaching auditorium, by Ashok Pandey, Through a digital presen- should focus the problems of the Principal Ahlcon International tation, Mr. Pandey highlighted society. Teachers should look for School, New Delhi. He initiated fun the qualities of a tech-savvy a potential scientist hidden in activities to reveal the inner com- teacher who, used technology to every student. Teachers should plexities of management and create interest in the subject. He encourage and model the skills leadership. specified that smart boards of scientific inquiry as well as the Moreover, the sessions des- cannot replace teachers but curiosity openness to new ideas ignated clearly the various teachers need to be smart in and data and skepticism that aspects of leading a team, being at par with the fast devel- characterize science. As an aspiring for success, achieving oping tech world. activity a model lesson plan was fixed goals and bridging the gap Lifelong learning and positive prepared by the teachers in between idealism and reality. inquisitiveness keep the teacher groups. The spectrum of teaching Defining organisational success young and capable to meet the includes whom-where-how you as the incorporation of an indi- changing needs of the current and are teaching. He concluded the vidual into a working web of an future generation. Mission, vision second session by enforcing the enterprising team and deline- and values are the constant pillars role of a teacher as a ating specific steps towards it of pedagogy but they should be value-facilitator. was one of the highlights of the interestingly conveyed to the stu- Second day workshop was On sessions. He concluded the dents through inter-dependent Being A Leader ‘Inspire by Doing’, workshop with the message relationships. A student will learn became the mantra among senior that an organisation develops only if he likes the teacher, so leadership team, comprising of only when the individual skills healthy, conducive atmosphere Vice Principals, Headmistresses, of every worker is enhanced is a primary foundation for Heads of Departments, Academic and appreciated. The attendees magical classrooms. and Year Coordinators of Birla were highly gratified and moti- Ashok Pandey also con- Public School, after attending the vated through the concise ducted a seminar for Science workshop conducted on digital presentations and his teachers of grade I to grade XII. December 2, in the school keen wisdom. 06 HOME WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 Sasol names ambassadors for 2019 Accessible Qatar initiative

AMNA PERVAIZ RAO In a multi-activity one for people withlearning THE PENINSULA event, officials of difficulties. Sasol announced the Each workshop included a Sasol, the international inte- names of the three team-building exercise about grated chemicals and energy inclusion of people with disabil- company, marked the Interna- ambassadors for ities, highlighting the message of tional Day of Persons with Disa- its Accessible Qatar being differently but Definitely bilities yesterday at InterConti- initiative for 2019. Able, followed by a discussion of nental The City. the achievements of the outgoing In a multi-activity event, offi- Accessible Qatar ambassador Jack Saba, General Manager of Public Affairs at Sasol, and three newly-appointed ambassadors, cials of Sasol announced the raise awareness about the issue during the past year and future Faisal Al Kooheji, representing the blind community; Said Al Marri, representing the deaf community; names of the three ambassadors of disability in the local commu- requirements from 2019 for its Accessible Qatar initiative nities. Sasol will provide ambassadors. and Abdulrahman Qassim Al Yafei, representing the physically disabled community, pose for group for 2019. financial, media, and logistical The event also included a picture at the event. Faisal Al Kooheji, repre- support for such activities. stand-up comedy show by the senting the blind community; In partnership with the Qatar famous Qatari comedian Hamad potential and serve their com- people with disabilities in Qatar. of Public Affairs at Sasol, said: Said Al Marri, representing the Society for Rehabilitation of Al Amari and concluded by munities. We are proud of the We thank Sasol and Accessible “For a long time, we have been deaf community; and Abdul- Special Needs, The Qatar Social dinner. achievements of last year’s Qatar ambassadors 2018 and we working to empower the dis- rahman Qassim Al Yafei, repre- & Cultural Center for the Blind, Phinda Vilakazi, President Accessible Qatar ambassadors welcome 2019 ambassadors abled community through our senting the physically disabled and The Qatari Center of Social of GTL Ventures at Sasol, said : and look forward to what the wishing them the best of luck”, social initiatives. But we also community are the newly Cultural for the Deaf, the event “We in Sasol believe in the 2019 ambassadors will achieve.” Commenting on the workshops, believe in individual talents. The appointed ambassadors. included four simultaneous inclusive society and in the right “We have a great history of Ameer Al Mulla, Executive ambassadors were able to Each ambassador will start workshops, one for the blind of every citizen to play active successful collaboration with Director of the Qatar Society for achieve a lot thanks to their devising plans to be imple- community, one for the deaf roles in the development of his Sasol through its community ini- Rehabilitation of Special Needs knowledge of their communities mented in 2019 to serve their community, one for the physi- society. We work to empower tiatives and we are building on said. and their needs and respective communities and cally impaired community, and individuals to realize their this collaboration to further serve Jack Saba, General Manager requirements.”

Huge participation in UCMAS Qatar contest AZF announces first THE PENINSULA and to generate the genius DOHA within the kids.” winter camp for kids UCMAS is representing in 80 THE PENINSULA camp. In addition to field visits UCMAS Qatar hosted 4th countries around the world, any DOHA and informative courses in plan- National Abacus & Mental Arith- student from UCMAS Qatar can tation, reading, arts and crafts. metic’s competition 2018 on transfer to any other UCMAS Aspire Zone Foundation (AZF) Speaking on the Winter November 24, at Gulf English centres in this 80 countries and has announced that registration Camp, Al Anoud Almesnad, Head School. continue their study from the is open for its first Aspire Winter of Events at AZF, said; “This Over 200 students from level they finished Elsheikh Camp for kids. The event, which winter camp follows the tre- Qatar’s public and private Mohammed Aboidris said. will be held in Aspire Dome, mendous success we saw with schools enrolled in UCMAS Qatar At the end of the competition Ladies Sports Hall, and Aspire our Summer Camp. AZF will programme took part of the UCMAS Qatar management dis- Park, is open to kids aged from open its doors during the school’s competition. tributed the trophies to all 6-14 years and will be run on winter break to those who were UCMAS Qatar organised the winners, also UCMAS Qatar over a two weeks period from unable to participate in our competition as part of its efforts graduate 20 students who fin- 8:30am-1:30pm, starting from summer camp this year. We aim to realise it’s objectives of pro- The winners of the competition at the event. ished all UCMAS 10 levels in December 23 until January 3. to help increase the kids’ passion moting and establishing the three years. Elsheikh Aspire Winter Camp has in sports and encourage them to principles of children’s early Mohammed Aboidris thanked all been launched to provide a follow a healthy and active life- education and to fulfil full Drain Elsheikh Mohammed number of Qatar’s children’s the sponsor companies and the platform to develop children’s style from the earliest age.” developments and to improve Aboidris, UCMAS Qatar Man- participating in the national parents and guests, and he physical and cognitive skills Age categories will be math skills and mental ability to aging Director said “UCMAS is competition, as UCMAS is full wished UCMAS Qatar team who through a number of fun, edu- divided into three groups per all students as well to increase advanced programme that brain development program will represent Qatar in the 23rd cational and sportive activities. each gender, from 6-8, 9-11 and the enhancement of role played enhance the development of using Abacus as a tools and both UCMAS International Abacus Football, taekwondo, gym- 12-14 years old. The pro- by private education sectors in children’s abilities and faster hands to enhance the left brain and Mental arithmetic 2018 nastics, aerobics, and other rec- grammes for each age group will realising social development in their thinking efficiency, I am and right brain to work together which will be held in Malaysia reational games are just few of be carefully tailored to their Qatar. pleased to see such a large to perform high performance on December 9 and 10. the sports practiced during the respective age. malomatia: Leadership in digital transformation

THE PENINSULA these technologies represent vast malomatia as a preferred partner in the DOHA potential for the future of business. development, delivery and support of “In Malomatia- We will focus in the mission-critical systems. malomatia malomatia is a solution-independent IT disruptive technology that impact offers some of these world-class solu- service and solution provider, with a business and government in Qatar. We tions and services in collaboration with vision to enable governments and busi- have clear plan and will be working with international technology leaders, based nesses to excel. Since establishment in the stakeholders to bring “Autonomous on global industry best practices which 2008, malomatia has contributed to Things”, “CHATBOT” to our Call center are customised to meet local successfully plan, develop, implement, and . . many more. Finally, Let me thank requirements. commercialise and manage some of our stakeholders- thank you for your malomatia has been instrumental Qatar’s leading projects. The company trust, thank you for believing in local in implementing many key government has delivered over 500 IT projects in talent.” IT initiatives and strategic projects in Qatar during the past 10 years. “Malomatia Staff- I am confident Qatar including eGovernment Trans- malomatia is driven by Qatar’s that we have the talent, expertise and formation projects and eHealth trans- National Vision 2030 of economic trans- ambition at malomatia to continue formation capabilities. By working formation to create a sustainable Dr. Hessa Sultan AI Jaber, Chairperson, Yousef Al Naama, Managing Director, assisting organizations to successfully closely with clients to design, develop, knowledge-based economy. To meet malomatia malomatia transform, not only for the next ten implement and manage flexible solu- Qatar’s future IT requirements, malo- years, but also far beyond. If I have one tions that address the unique needs of matia has aligned its goals to support transformation of many government malomatia is driven by message for our malomatia staff here a client’s specific business and industry, national objectives in delivering inte- departments, helping to make almost Qatar’s National Vision today, it is this; be ready for what malomatia enables customers to succeed grated IT services and solutions. all government transactions seamless, is around the corner, be prepared in meeting their strategic goals, run their In a speech, Dr. Hessa Sultan AI Jaber, paperless and online, which improves 2030 of economic for how the world of information tech- organisations and businesses efficiently Chairperson, malomatia, said, “ Firstly, the lives of our citizens and the effi- transformation to create nology may surprise you, and always be and more cost effectively, and exceed let me say that I am very proud to be here ciency of our public administration, and a sustainable knowledge- one step ahead of the next question you customer expectations. today to celebrate 10 years of malomatia playing a key role in achieving the Qatar based economy. To are asked,” she added. Over the past years, malomatia and its significant contribution to the leT National Vision 2030. malomatia’s objectives are- market market share has reached 10 percent of landscape of Qatar. We established malo- She said economic diversification is meet Qatar’s future IT leadership as a commercial enterprise the Qatari market with a compound matia in 2008 with only ten employees key to the ongoing success of any requirements, malomatia that supports national efforts of devel- average growth rate of 15 percent, which and today malomatia has grown to more economy, but it is only viable through has aligned its goals to oping a strong and sustainable IT sector have had a great impact of the company than 900 employees with revenue over technology. As we diversify our economy, support national objectives in Qatar; valuation that has reached 8 time the QR300m, and I am proud to say that we need to provide it with the digital delivering high-value IT services and initial capital employed. With offshore Malomatia has become the industry ref- drivers that will allow it to grow, both in delivering integrated IT solutions that are relevant to segments resource hubs in Oman and India sup- erence in providing high quality tech- vertically and geographically. I would like services and solutions. of national and social strategic impor- porting malomatia’s centralised oper- nology solutions to both public and to extend my thanks and appreciation to tance; building and sustaining local and ations in the State of Qatar, the com- private entities across the country.” H E the Prime Minister and Interior Min- regional IT delivery and domain pany’s 900 IT professional and experts She said, “Here in Qatar, under the ister, H E the Minister of Transport and will continue to be one of the leading expertise in Government, Healthcare mainly located in Qatar, the company leadership of H H the Amir, the last ten Communications and the government system integrator in Qatar and the and Education; malomatia delivers high- has successfully position itself to be a years has seen a digital transformation for their commitment to a coherent and region. We will continue to develop value IT services and solutions that are strategic Local trusted partner in that has revolutionized the way public wide-ranging digital transformation expertise in areas such as SOA, cloud Increasing the contribution of IT to Security Operations Center (SOC) and and private services are delivered to our policy that has created a vibrant local leT computing, convergence infrastructure, Qatar’s GDP growth. Cyber Security Services as well as a citizens and residents. No sector has delivery ecosystem in which malomatia security and mobile computing. Second- Clients benefit from the deployment leader in Managed Services & Strategic been left untouched by this transfor- plays a committed role. We know that we are working and living of the best talent and business practices, Outsourcing in addition to managing mation; education, healthcare, transport, Qatar has become a regional leader in a time of unparalleled technology with multinational subject matter Qatar’s Largest Contact Center. construction, logistics ... all have wit- in digital innovation and has created an innovation and invention.” expertise aligned to specific industries. With such performance and nessed significant digital disruption that environment that is at the forefront of She added, this disruptive tech- The company is committed to building achievement, the company and its cus- has stimulated growth and diversified developing the markets of the future and nology revolution is marked by a series local sustainable IT capability and has tomers have won various local and our economy, and malomatia has been digital sector in Qatar is now one of the of technological advances such as Block- established a reputation for excellence regional IT awards. In 2016 malomatia active in many of those sectors.” main drivers of economic growth. chain, artificial intel ligence, quantum across the range of service offerings. was crowned the Best Service Provider She added, in fact, malomatia has “As I look to the next ten years, computing, augmented analytics, auton- In-depth domain knowledge and and in 2018 it was named The Best been at the heart of the digital where I see Malomata? First- Malomatia omous things and more. We know that unique technical capabilities position System integrator of the year. WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 07 08 HOME WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Yemeni rebels head to Sweden for key talks

AFP The departure of the — a key rebel precondition for SANA’A Houthi insurgents on a the talks. A previous UN-brokered A rebel delegation flew out of the Kuwaiti plane followed attempt to bring the Houthis and Yemeni capital yesterday accom- a prisoner swap deal the Saudi-backed government panied by a UN peace envoy, and the evacuation of to the negotiating table collapsed heading for high-stakes talks in 50 wounded rebels for in Switzerland in September. Sweden with the government The United Arab Emirates aimed at ending the country’s treatment in Oman in (UAE), another key backer of the devastating war. a major boost to peace government, said the planned The departure of the Houthi efforts. talks offered a “critical oppor- insurgents on a Kuwaiti plane tunity” to end nearly four years followed a prisoner swap deal of war. and the evacuation of 50 ground”. Although no date has Yemeni government official wounded rebels for treatment in been announced for the start of Hadi Haig said that between Oman in a major boost to peace the talks, Yemeni government 1,500 and 2,000 members of efforts. sources say they could get under pro-government forces and The delegation for the first way tomorrow. between 1,000 and 1,500 rebels peace talks since 2016 was The agreement to exchange would be released in the prisoner accompanied by UN envoy hundreds of detainees was wel- swap. Martin Griffiths, an airport comed by the International Com- On the government side, they source said. mittee of the Red Cross, which include former defence minister A government team, headed will oversee the swap after the Mahmoud Al Subaihi, who has by Foreign Minister Khaled Al first round of planned peace talks been held by the rebels ever Yamani, was expected in Sweden in Sweden. since they overran the capital in The members of a Yemeni rebel delegation prepare to fly accompanied by a UN peace envoy, heading today. Mohammed Abdelsalam, “This is one step in the right late 2014, and President Abe- for high-stakes talks in Sweden with the government aimed at ending the country’s devastating war, heading the 12-member rebel direction towards the building drabbo Mansour Hadi’s brother team, tweeted that the Houthis of mutual trust among Yemeni Nasser, a general and former in Sana’a yesterday. “will spare no effort to make a communities,” ICRC spokes- senior intelligence official. success of the talks to restore woman Mirella Hodeib said. Rebel official Abdel Kader Al the grinding war of attrition that crisis, already the world’s worst, Yemen — roughly 75 percent of peace and end the aggression”. The deal was struck by Grif- Murtadha confirmed the deal, has devastated Yemen at a cost will deteriorate in 2019, the UN the population — will need At the same time he called fiths, who was in the rebel-held adding that he hoped it would be of around 10,000 lives since the said yesterday, warning that the humanitarian assistance in 2019, on rebel fighters to remain “vig- capital Sana’a for meetings “implemented without problem”. Saudi-led military intervention number of people needing food UN humanitarian chief Mark ilant against any attempt at a already buoyed by the evacu- Thousands of prisoners have launched in March 2015. aid is set to jump by four million. Lowcock told reporters in military escalation on the ation of the wounded insurgents been captured by both sides in The resulting humanitarian Overall, 24 million people in Geneva.

Palestinian Israel launches operation to dead in West destroy Hezbollah tunnels Bank clash Palestinian officials say Israeli AFP called the tunnels a violation of they would be destroyed. Later troops have killed a Pales- JERUSALEM a UN resolution aimed at ending the military specified it had tinian man during a military a 2006 war between Israel and located one such tunnel dug operation in the West Bank Israel’s army said yesterday it Shiah militant group from a home in the area of Kafr city of Tulkarem. has discovered Hezbollah Hezbollah. Kela in southern Lebanon that Tulkarem governor Isam tunnels infiltrating its territory US President Donald crossed into its territory and was Abu Baker said yesterday that from Lebanon and launched an Trump’s White House gave its working to “neutralise” it. 22-year-old Mohammed operation to destroy them, a full backing to the operation, The tunnel stretched some Habali was shot in the head move likely to raise tensions with with National Security Adviser 200 metres, at a depth of around “without posing any threat to Israeli soldiers stand at a security checkpoint along a road near the Iran-backed group. John Bolton saying “we call on 25 metres, Conricus said. The the soldiers.” Hundreds the northern Israeli town of Metula near the border with Lebanon The surprise announcement Iran and all of its agents to stop area around the Israeli town of attended Habali’s funeral in came hours after Israeli Prime their regional aggression and Metula has been declared a yesterday. Tulkarem. Minister Benjamin Netanyahu provocation.” closed military zone, with the The Israeli military said it met with US Secretary of State Israeli army spokesman army distributing images of of a response from Hezbollah. A closely, while Hezbollah had not could not comment on any Mike Pompeo in Brussels over Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan heavy machinery digging into UN peacekeeping force which reacted. According to Conricus, Palestinian casualties, but regional dangers, with both Conricus said the “attack the ground. Israel labelled the monitors the border region said the tunnels were part of a Hez- confirmed that troops con- having repeatedly warned about tunnels” were not yet opera- operation “Northern Shield” and it had increased patrols but bollah plan to “shift the battle- ducted an operation in the activities of Iran. tional. He declined to say how said all activities would take noted the area remained calm. field to Israel” and “conquer the Tulkarem in which dozens of Netanyahu said he discussed many were detected, when they place within Israeli territory, Lebanon’s army also said it Galilee” in a future conflict by Palestinians threw stones at the operation with Pompeo and reached Israeli territory and how though they still raised the risk was monitoring the situation infiltrating its territory. soldiers. The military says soldiers used tear gas and live fire to disperse the stone throwers. ‘Zero doubt Saudi South Africa names first female top prosecutor Russia agrees AFP deal. It was in the dying days of on Syria summit JOHANNESBURG his tenure that Abrahams prince directed decided to reinstate the graft with Turkey President Cyril Ramaphosa charges which Zuma is now named a respected female seeking to have dropped. Russian, Turkish, German lawyer yesterday to head South Abrahams was forced out leaders agreed to hold a new Khashoggi murder’ Africa’s prosecuting authority after a court ruled that his initial quadrilateral summit on Syria which had been accused of appointment to the job was if need be, a Kremlin AFP briefing. He minced no words improperly protecting former invalid. “As we address matters spokesman said yesterday. WASHINGTON afterwards, saying he believes president Jacob Zuma. that South Africans are most Russian presidential aide Crown Prince Mohammed bin His appointment of Shamila concerned about — such as state Yury Ushakov said: “We Two key US Republican Salman is “a wrecking ball” Batohi (pictured) further dis- capture, corruption and wide- agreed both with Turkish senators said yesterday after a who is “complicit in the murder tances him from Zuma’s spread crime — our country President Recep Tayyip briefing by the CIA’s director of Mr. Khashoggi to the highest scandal-tainted rule during needs a National Prosecuting Erdogan and German Chan- that they have “zero” doubt level possible.” “There’s not a which several top jobs, including and proper person,” Ramaphosa Authority that is above cellor Angela] Merkel that Saudi Arabia’s crown prince smoking gun but a smoking head of the National Prosecuting told reporters in Pretoria. reproach,” added Ramaphosa. when it is necessary, one directed the murder of the jour- saw,” Graham added. Authority (NPA), were filled with Batohi’s predecessor Shaun Batohi, the first female to more forum can be convened nalist Jamal Khashoggi. After reports that the CIA loyalists. Abrahams was dubbed “Shaun occupy the role, is a former with the participation of The explosive new decla- concluded that the crown “I am confident that the the sheep” for his slavish loyalty prosecutions chief in KwaZulu- Vladimir Putin, Erdogan, rations by members of Pres- prince ordered Khashoggi’s advocate possesses all the to Zuma and repeatedly Natal province and has served Merkel and Emmanuel ident Donald Trump’s party run assassination in the Istanbul attributes of a capable National manoeuvred to protect him as senior adviser to the prose- Macron.” The place of a new counter to the White House consulate on October 2, Trump Director of Public Prosecutions... from facing a slew of corruption cutor at the International meeting will be defined when narrative downplaying possible issued a statement saying US- she has shown herself to be a fit charges linked to a 1990s arms Criminal Court (ICC) since 2009. the date is set. links between Crown Prince Saudi relations and oil market Mohammed bin Salman and the stability were too important to October killing of journalist and rock over the scandal. palace critic Khashoggi at the Last week, under mounting kingdom’s Istanbul consulate. pressure from lawmakers on Iraqi MPs disrupt session to vote on govt “I have zero question in my both sides of the political aisle mind that the crown prince who wanted action against directed the murder and was Riyadh, Secretary of State Mike REUTERS Haider Al Abadi, one lawmaker Al Amiri, who lead the two vote on. Sadr and Abadi’s blocs kept appraised of the situation Pompeo and Pentagon chief Jim BAGHDAD said, showing Reuters a video of biggest blocs in parliament after refused to attend the session in all the way through it,” Senate Mattis held a closed-door all- the session taken on his mobile a general election in May, has response but stormed in halfway Foreign Relations Committee senators briefing where they Angry Iraqi lawmakers disrupted phone. Abdul Mahdi and the prevented the formation of a full through, charging that the Chairman Bob Corker told said there was no direct evi- a parliamentary session meant ministers he was seeking to government, which currently session did not have a quorum reporters after CIA director dence linking the crown prince to include a vote on the appoint left parliament shortly has 14 out of 22 ministers. to take place. Gina Haspel briefed a small to the murder. remainder of Prime Minister after and the vote was post- Sadr says candidates not The deadlock over forming group of senators. Yesterday, Graham swatted Adel Abdul Mahdi’s cabinet poned. The incident vividly affiliated with political sides a cabinet has raised the prospect “If MBS were in front of a their assessment aside. yesterday, banging tables and showed the depth of disa- must be presented. Amiri wants of further unrest as the country jury he’d be convicted in less “You have to be willfully shouting “illegitimate” in oppo- greement over who should fill his ally Falih Al Fayyadh, former struggles to rebuild and recover than 30 minutes.” Fellow blind not to come to the con- sition to his proposed candi- the remaining eight posts in gov- head of an Iran-backed paramil- after three years of war with Republican Senator Lindsey clusion that this was orches- dates. ernment, including the hotly itary force, for the position of Islamic State. Sadr has Graham, who has urged Trump trated and organised by people The MPs were mostly from contested interior and defence interior minister. Abdel Mahdi threatened to withdraw support to take a far tougher stance under command of MBS, and the grouping led by populist ministries. said in a statement he would for the government if it is not against Riyadh over the killing, that he was intricately involved cleric Moqtada Al Sadr and allies A rivalry between Sadr and present Fayyadh as his candidate formed soon and whip up also attended the hour-long in the demise of Mr. Khashoggi.” on the list of former premier Iran-backed militia leader Hadi for the interior for parliament to popular protests. 10 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 Qatar and Malaysia: Shared visions ESTABLISHED IN 1996 and strong economic partnerships

CHAIRMAN QNA SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI ithin Qatar’s unique and effective role in the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF global scene, Amir H H DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI Sheikh Tamim bin WHamad Al Thani will honour the [email protected] winners of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani International Anti-Corruption ACTING MANAGING EDITOR Excellence Award, during the cer- MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED emony that will take place on Friday [email protected] December 7 in Malaysia, in cooper- ation with the United Nations. The cer- emony will be attended by H E the DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR Prime Minister of Malaysia Dr. MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI Mahathir Mohamad where H H the [email protected] Amir and the Malaysian Prime Min- ister will honour the winners of the four awards which are Lifetime/Out- standing Achievement, Innovation, Youth Creativity and Engagement and A file photo of Qatar-Malaysia Economic Forum held in Kuala Lumpur in October Academic Research and Education. last year. The award is presented annually, EDITORIAL in line with the International Anti- opened its embassy in Doha in 2004 Thani to Malaysia in October last year, Corruption Day which falls on and months later Qatar opened its the Qatari-Malaysian Economic December 9, to honour those who embassy in Kuala Lumpur. Forum was held in Kuala Lumpur with contribute to the international cam- Since then the relations between aim to enhance the trade, economic Qatar is well ahead paign against corruption. The award Doha and Kuala Lumpur have been in and investment relations between honours individuals and institutions continuous development and has Qatar and Malaysia and to provide an atar is committed to the development of health and that have dedicated themselves to deepened based on many similarities in opportunity to establish solid partner- well-being of its population. The country provides fight corruption, according to certain faith and shared visions on unity and ships in all areas between the private Qthe best healthcare facilities available in the world standards. solidarity between Muslim states. The sector of both sides. to its people, both citizens and expatriates. The award’s mission is to highlight bilateral relations witness many visits The forum attended by 300 Not only Qatar is extending outstanding healthcare exemplary models that are worthy of and talks between state leaders, min- leading businessmen, investors, gov- services, but also in the forefront of research and innova- recognition and the good global prac- isters, government and private sector ernment officials from both countries, tions in the field. The country’s various health sector author- tices. In addition to honouring models officials. The most prominent was the heads of companies, economic bodies ities such as the Ministry of Public Health, Qatar Foun- for combating corruption from around visit of the Father Amir H H Sheikh and experts to explore investment dation, Hamad Medical Corporation, Primary Health Care the world and promoting, collecting Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani to Malaysia opportunities in various sectors, espe- Corporation, and World Innovation Summit for Health and in 2009 and in 2011 the visit of Al cially the trade, agriculture, tourism, (WISH) jointly push all possible efforts to improve the spreading it, Wathiqu Billah Tuanku Mizan Zainal energy and other economic fields. It healthcare facilities and researches in the country. Regu- as well as Abidin, the King of Malaysia, at the also witnessed bilateral meetings larly these various organisations conduct and facilitate increasing time. The Qatari-Malaysian relations between businessmen from both sides, practitioners with latest and up to date and important awareness to were them culminated by the visits of during which the investment opportu- research findings on several health streams. They conduct encourage Amir nities available in the State of Qatar symposiums, conferences, workshops and other major Qatar and similar initia- H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al and Malaysia were reviewed. health related events to educate the professionals and Malaysia hold tives for a Thani to Malaysia in 2015 and 2017, Malaysia is an important people about its benefits to lead a better healthy life. Almost strong and society free which promoted the relations between investment destination for Qatar, and every month, these organisations conduct workshops and cooperative of corruption. both countries and pushed it to a more its 20th commercial partner. The seminars to highlight preventive interventions, improving The strategic level, especially in economic, volume of trade exchange between the the quality of care and help people modify lifestyle and relations in award not trade exchange, investment opportu- two countries is estimated at more reduce risk factors of chronic various political, only hopes to nities and human and social devel- than QR 3 billion. Many Malaysian diseases. economic and promote the opment, which benefits both countries companies are active in the Qatari It’s also very significant that trade fields for image of and their people. market, including 29 Qatari-Malaysian connecting global insight and those who Both countries have signed to a joint ventures, 9 Malaysian companies research advancements into the 44 years. Since fight cor- group of agreements and memo- with 100% capital. They are active in local healthcare system for the then the relations ruption, but randa of understanding that regulate various fields including engineering, betterment of health and well- have been in also to cele- their relations in many areas construction, oil and gas services, dec- Not only Qatar being of people. The collabo- brate them including and agreement on the oration, exhibitions, conferences, is extending rative approach with other continuous around the avoidance of double taxation and technology and others. outstanding major healthcare organisations development and world. It also prevention of financial evasion; an The Kingdom of Malaysia has a healthcare in the world will strengthen has deepened hopes to economic, technical, cultural and population of about 30 million and an primary healthcare in the most based on many motivate media cooperation agreement; an area of more than 320,000 square kil- services, but also inclusive and efficient manner. governments, agreement on establishing joint ometers. It is a modern industrialized in the forefront A recent survey suggests similarities in educational Qatari-Malaysian committee and an country that pursues a free economy of research and how well the people accept the faith and shared institutions, agreement between Qatar News policy, in which the State plays an innovations in the health care system in the visions on unity media and Agency and Malaysia News Agency. important role in strategic planning country. The survey was done and solidarity civil society In addition to a number of memo- and in following up the implemen- segment. to assess patient experience and to adopt the randa of understanding on cooper- tation of economic programs. satisfaction. Among the 7,373 between Muslim principles of ating in the field of training dip- The Malaysian economy ranks participants who took part in states. the UN Con- lomats, cooperation in the higher third among Southeast Asia countries the survey, a majority of over 95 vention education field and legal cooperation after Indonesia and Thailand, and 29th percent of patients have expressed satisfaction over the against Cor- activities and judicial cooperation. in the world. In the 1970s, Malaysia healthcare services. The focus is not only on treatment, but ruption, On the political track, Qatar and began to imitate the four Asian tiger also on prevention and engaging people to make lifestyle understand them and cooperate to Malaysia share identical views, which economies and committed itself to changes and it is the cornerstone of the healthcare system. implement them. is confirmed by the convergence of moving from being dependent on Research is very important in enhancing care and During the visit, H H the Amir is views on various regional and interna- mining and agriculture to a more services. So investment and engagement in research are expected to hold discussions with the tional issues and the joint determi- industrialized economy. important elements. This year was especially an important Malaysian Prime Minister on ways to nation to enhance their cooperation in With foreign investments, a one for the sector in Qatar. The nation has undertaken promote bilateral relations and a international forums and to contribute booming heavy industries has large expansion plans for healthcare facilities, which number of regional and international to the efforts of the international com- developed within years, and their included the opening of various primary healthcare centres issues of common interest. munity to maintain international exports became the main growth in different parts of the country. These measures are meant Qatar and Malaysia hold strong peace and security, combat terrorism engine. The electronics and electrical to ensure that all residents receive high-quality care closer and cooperative relations in various and protect human rights, and resolve appliances industry has become of the to their place of residence. political, economic and trade fields for disputes through dialogue and leading industries, contributed about Qatar’s health sector has undergone enormous 44 years. The diplomatic relations peaceful means in accordance with 24.5 percent of the country’s GDP, and expansion in recent years and provides a full range of high- between both countries started in 1974 the provisions of international law and has consistently achieved a GDP rate quality healthcare services to the people. Qatar has also with non-resident ambassadors then legitimacy. During the visit of Amir of more than 7 percent with low launched a set of healthcare guides aimed at helping the the Kingdom of Malaysia officially H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al inflation. public choose the right services. Three specified manuals provide guidelines on what services to be sought by people according to the healthcare need of children, adult popu- lation and the elderly. These positive measures show that Yemen peace talks are worth pursuing Qatar is well ahead of other nations in this regard. BLOOMBERG exercises. may try again early in 2019, when the Regrettably, the Trump adminis- Democrats will have a House majority. he prospect of peace talks tration seems less interested in ending Until then, the Senate should over war-ravaged Yemen is the hostilities than in blaming Iran, maintain pressure on the Trump welcome, even if the chances which backs the Houthi rebels in administration to press the Saudis QUOTE OF THE DAY of a permanent end to hostil- control of much of the country. To be and their allies to stop their campaign itiesT aren’t good. The meetings in sure, Iran is in the wrong, but the and let relief reach the starving The French who have Sweden should mean a cease-fire and administration’s position - and its Yemenis. Hearings that draw donned yellow vests international aid to halt a famine that unquestioning support of the Saudi- attention to the humanitarian crisis want taxes to drop, and threatens to kill millions. They would led coalition - won’t help to end the would help, as would investigations work to pay. That’s also also allow time for the governments fighting. The administration has gone of the war crimes alleged by human- what we want. If I didn’t beyond the region to pressure the so far as to block a resolution in the rights groups. manage to explain it, if combatants to find common ground. UN Security Council calling for a The coalition responded to a pre- That effort would be more prom- cease-fire and the resumption of vious halfhearted US call for a cease- the ruling majority didn’t ising if it were led by the US, which has humanitarian assistance. fire by halting its assault on the port manage to convince the the most leverage over the combatants The US Senate is attempting to fill of Hodeidah, a crucial entry point for French, then something with the greatest firepower: the coa- the vacuum created by the White aid - but only for a few days. After must change. lition of Arab nations led by Saudi House’s inability to lead on this issue. more than three years of trying, Arabia. The US also has long-standing It has advanced a bill to end all Saudis believe they might yet win relationships with many Yemeni American military assistance to the decisively; and Iran, which has been Edouard Philippe groups, developed over years of pro- Arab coalition. The measure has little shipping arms to the Houthis, benefits French Prime Minister viding economic assistance and con- chance of passing in the House of Rep- from keeping its Arab adversaries tied ducting joint counterterrorism resentatives this year, but the Senate in endless conflict. WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 OPINION 11 New US-China talks must bring end to futile trade war

THE JAPAN NEWS / YOMIURI SHIMBUN indicate his intention to monitor how negotiations, are acts by China that China will respond to the matter later. have been regarded as problematic serious conflict between the Since this summer, the United not only by the United States, but by United States and China States and China have continued to Japan and European countries as would endanger global pros- slap high tariffs on imports from each well. Both the US and perity and stability. They other, for the purpose of mutual sanc- These are not issues that China, Chinese leaders mustA have even more positive dia- tions and retaliations. which has grown to be a major eco- confirmed that they logue, thereby putting an end to their China is already undergoing a nomic power, can leave unaddressed. would continue exchange of futile sanctions and slowdown in its growth rate, and its By facing up to criticism from the retaliation. economy is beginning to slow. In the international community, China striving toward US President Donald Trump and United States, too, harmful effects of should redress this situation on its denuclearisation of his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, the trade friction are surfacing, such own initiative. the Korean Peninsula. have held talks. They agreed that for as an increase in the prices of imports Needless to say, it is also a big While US-North Korea the time being the United States will and instability in stock prices. problem that the Trump adminis- not increase, as initially scheduled The two leaders must firmly take tration, while taking no heed of his talks on Pyongyang’s for January, the rate of punitive it to heart that there are no winners in country’s import-dependent eco- nuclear issue are tariffs imposed on China, on the con- a futile trade war. nomic circumstances, insists on stagnant, it is more dition that new trade talks would be In the new talks, it is necessary to reducing its trade deficit. opened. promote constructive discussions and Unilaterally implementing than a little significant There were concerns that if the look for concessions from a broader punitive measures disregards interna- for both leaders to talks broke down, it would dampen perspective. It is important for the tional rules. If the United States turns have compared and sentiment in markets and corpora- United States and China to realize its back on the free trade system, adjusted their policies. tions, causing great turmoil in the their responsibility as major powers which the United States itself has world economy. The latest talks ulti- and contribute to sustaining the taken the lead in building up, the mately averted the worst outcome world’s growth. strength of the US economy could also sphere of diplomacy and national possible - that is, an all-out The latest agreement is nothing be impaired. security. It cannot be overlooked showdown between the two nations. but a temporary halt in the conflict Even if Washington can make a that China is trying to overturn the According to a statement issued that postponed additional sanctions. trading partner give in through its US-led order, through its militari- by the US government after the talks, It is too hasty to presume that the national power, it would be rational zation of the South China Sea and its the new round of negotiations will US-China relationship will move for any trade issue to be solved not expanded leverage with its “Belt and discuss such issues as violations of toward an improvement with no through intimidation but only Road” initiative, a scheme to create intellectual property rights and the changes. through dialogue in accordance with a huge economic zone. compulsory transfer of technology Industrial development measures rules. The Trump administration, with The latest agreement from foreign corporations. If no good using digital technology as a key com- At a summit meeting of the Group a growing sense of crisis, has is nothing but a results are gained from the new talks ponent constitute the basis of China’s of 20 advanced and emerging econ- clearly shown its resolve to contain temporary halt in the within 90 days, measures will be national strategy. Discussions in the omies (G20) held prior to the US- the challenge posed by China. The conflict that postponed implemented to increase the punitive new talks over intellectual property China talks, the leaders were unable US administration should not easily tariff rate. rights and technology transfer could to include in a declaration wording make concessions in the field of additional sanctions. Furthermore, the statement said decide the future of that strategy. expressing their resolve “to fight pro- security, using them as a bargaining It is too hasty to China would increase agricultural and Concessions from the Chinese side tectionism,” a description that had chip to advance the trade negotia- presume that the energy imports from the United States will likely not come easily. been stipulated in previous declara- tions in its favour. to reduce US trade deficits. Making significant progress within tions. The omission was primarily It is crucial for the United States US-China relationship The talks were “an amazing and such a short period as 90 days will be due to objections from the United and China to avoid an escalation in will move toward an productive meeting with unlimited extremely difficult. States. their rivalry for supremacy and any improvement with no possibilities for both the United States Forced technology transfers and The United States should not again accidental clash, but instead to changes. and China,” Trump commented in the cyber-attacks, which are to be dis- make light of multinational frame- strive to stabilise the Asia-Pacific statement. His remark seems to cussed during the new round of works and threaten international region. cooperation. The issues that the leaders should take up for discussion are not limited to trade issues alone. There are a host of other important items on the agenda, such as those related to security and the global envi- ronment. A state of affairs should be avoided in which the G20 member D-RING ROAD countries tumble into disarray POST BOX: 3488 because of the United States’ self- DOHA - QATAR centered behaviour, thus having [email protected] their efforts to tackle these issues fall behind. Both the US and Chinese leaders EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE confirmed that they would continue TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 striving toward denuclearisation of FAX: +974 4455 7758 the Korean Peninsula. While US- North Korea talks on Pyongyang’s MANAGING EDITOR TEL: nuclear issue are stagnant, it is more 4462 7505 than a little significant for both leaders to have compared and DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR TEL: adjusted their policies. 4455 7769 To also achieve concrete results on denuclearization at the next US- LOCAL NEWS SECTION TEL: North Korea summit talks, China, 4455 7743 which holds the lifeline of the economy of North Korea, needs to BUSINESS NEWS SECTION TEL: maintain sanctions on Pyongyang. 4462 7535 US President Donald Trump, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, US President Donald Trump’s national security adviser The discord between the United SPORT NEWS SECTION John Bolton and Chinese President Xi Jinping at a working dinner after the G20 leaders summit in Buenos Aires. States and China even extends into the TEL: 4455 7745

ONLINE SECTION TEL: 4462 7501 [email protected] the Russian protests following a no reason to foment a revolution. It all started with the govern- rigged parliamentary election. PUBLIC RELATIONS ment’s decision to raise taxes by 7.6 Facebook played a central role in TEL: 4455 7613 organizing them. The emerging cents per liter on diesel and 3.9 cents [email protected] France faces a typical pattern - leaderless protest networks per liter on gasoline. This isn’t a major developing on US-owned platforms; outrage. For someone filling a 50-liter ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT meme-like narratives fueling popular tank with diesel every week, the hike Facebook revolution TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 indignation; nebulous, quickly radi- means 15.2 euros ($17.3) a month in FAX: 4455 7870 calizing, demands fuelled by lots of extra costs, less than two McDonald’s [email protected] underlying anger - led Russian Pres- meals. BLOOMBERG ident Vladimir Putin to suspect the US But the protests, set off in mid- CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT of organizing action in different parts October by a viral Facebook rant by TEL: 4455 7857 of the world according to the same accordion player Jacline Mouraud [email protected] he liberating role social net- playbook. He was as naive as the about the government’s anti-car works played during the Arab observers who thought Facebook’s policy, have escalated until they pro- SUBSCRIPTION & As in previous TSpring and the Russian protests role in these popular uprisings had duced the country’s worst urban riot DISTRIBUTION protests, these of 2011 and 2012 was widely lauded. anything to do with freedom or in more than a decade. Over the TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 Little of that enthusiasm is on display democracy. weekend, 133 people were injured, disturbances are FAX: 44557819 today amid the violent “yellow vest” Soon after the countries that including 23 police officers. [email protected] largely leaderless; protests in France - even though underwent Arab Spring revolutions As in previous protests, these dis- they don’t need Facebook is still doing what it does began reverting to authoritarianism turbances are largely leaderless; they France’s political or best: let people channel their rage. or plunging into chaos, concerns don’t need France’s political or media In a 2011 paean to “the Facebook emerged about the ability of social infrastructure to develop. They have, media infrastructure All thoughts and views revolution,” Chris Taylor of the tech networks to shape democratic transi- however, thrown up some unlikely expressed in these columns to develop. They have, news website Mashable wrote that tions. But Facebook and other plat- opinion leaders, whom protesters however, thrown Facebook was “democracy in action.” forms were never any good at that: follow and whose views get endlessly are those of the writers, Philip Howard of the University of What they did was help get people get amplified through “yellow vest” not of the newspaper. up some unlikely Washington, who researched the more and more excited about things Facebook groups. One of them is opinion leaders, whom social network’s role in the Arab that bothered them. By amplifying Maxime Nicolle, also known as Fly All correspondence protesters follow Spring, said the same year that social messages and inflating opinion Rider, a 31-year-old Brittany native regarding Views and and whose views get media “carried a cascade of messages bubbles, they whipped up a frenzy who has regularly done Facebook about freedom and democracy across where there had been mere Live webcasts from the increasingly Opinion pages should be endlessly amplified North Africa and the Middle East and grumbling. violent protests. He has emerged as send to editor-in-chief through “yellow vest” helped raise expectations for the It’s happening again in France, a one of the amorphous movement’s office or mailed to the Facebook groups. success of political uprising.” country impossible to describe as an eight spokespeople empowered to At the end of 2011, I took part in autocracy and one where the US has negotiate with the government. [email protected] 12 ASIA WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 Minority reservation an act of treason: Modi IANS Hitting out at Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Pres- HYDERABAD the Telangana ident and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Prime Minister Narendra Modi government for its had their apprenticeship in the yesterday said attempts to move to increase Congress and this made them provide reservation to minor- reservation for natural friends. ities are betrayal with the nation minorities to 12 He described dynasty pol- and an insult to the framers of itics as a threat to the the Indian Constitution. percent, Modi said he democracy. He pointed out that Addressing an election rally was surprised how barring the BJP, all major parties of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the power-hungry in fray in the Telangana elec- he called for defeating any such were pushing for tions were parties with dynasty move to protect the country’s politics and family rule. unity. religion-based quota He said the Congress, TRS, Hitting out at the Telangana for the sake of their Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Rashtra Samithi (TRS) gov- family the Majlis-e-Ittehadul Mus- ernment for its move to increase limeen (MIM) all were family- reservation for minorities to 12 ruled parties. “All these parties percent, Modi said he was sur- Modi for the delay in imple- are becoming threat to In support of communal harmony prised how the power-hungry menting its poll promise made democracy,” he remarked. were pushing for religion-based in 2014. Modi said Telangana had People shout slogans as they attend a rally organised by the West Bengal State Jamiat-e-Ulama, quota for the sake of their family Modi also came down wasted its five years of welfare an Islamic organisation, to support communal harmony, in Kolkata, yesterday. and to save their seats of power. heavily on TRS, saying it due to the arrogance of one Stating that the issue of destroyed Telangana the way family. He alleged that the KCR religion-based reservation was Congress destroyed the nation. family exploited emotions of discussed in the Constituent Countering Congress Pres- Telangana movement for itself. Assembly, the Prime Minister ident Rahul Gandhi’s allegation Stating that Telangana had huge said the great personalities that TRS is ‘B’ team of BJP, Modi potential, he said the state could Congress accuses BJP of EVM framing the Constitution said TRS and the Congress had not progress because of the kind decided against it in the interest common nature, character, of rulers it got. of the country’s unity. thinking and policies. “Why people of Telangana tampering in MP, seeks EC probe Modi wondered from where The Prime Minister recalled demanded a separate state? Why the reservation for minorities that during the Karnataka they suffered so long for separate IANS evidence of the four incidents, voting ended in the state, the would come when the Supreme Assembly elections, Rahul Telangana. Why so many youth NEW DELHI that occurred respectively in Congress demanded a probe into Court had already fixed the Gandhi used to dub Janata Dal- sacrificed their lives? They did it Sagar, Bhopal, Satna and Shajapur all the EVMs to ascertain which upper limit of total reservation Secular (JD-S) as the ‘B’ team of for a bright future of Telangana. Alleging the BJP in “collusion with districts. authority directed the transport at 50 per cent. BJP, but after the elections One family was not to be given the local administration” was “A number of incidents in of the EVMs and whether any “They will take away the formed the government with the the right to loot Telangana.” “attempting to tamper/replace” various districts of MP have been “foreign chip or any external rights of Dalits, STs and OBCs same party to keep the BJP out Referring to the TDP’s alliance EVMs during the November 28 reported demonstrating the device or component has been from backdoor. Will you allow of power. with the Congress, Modi recalled Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, ruling BJP in collusion with local attached to the EVMs”. this crime?” he asked the par- Branding the TRS and the that N.T. Rama Rao had formed the Congress yesterday sought an administration tried to tamper/ It also demanded a probe into ticipants in the rally held at L.B. Congress as the two sides of the the TDP for the self-respect of EC probe into four such incidents, replace the EVMs used in the dis- an EVM strongroom facing Stadium. same coin, he alleged that they Telugu people after former Prime including where EVMs were being tricts of Sagar, Bhopal, Satna, blackout in Bhopal on November Telangana Assembly had have already started planning Minister Rajiv Gandhi had transported to a collection centre Shajapur and districts,” the Con- 30 with CCTVs not working during last year passed a resolution to backdoor entry to prevent BJP insulted them. in Sagar after 48 hours of polling. gress said in the memorandum. the blackout. The EC had earlier increase reservation for minor- from coming to power in He alleged that TDP pres- A Congress delegation led by Citing the incident in Sagar admitted that that CCTV cameras ities in jobs and education from Telangana. ident N. Chandrababu Naidu for former Union Ministers Kapil where EVMs were transported and an LED display installed outside current four percent to 12 Modi said both TRS pres- the sake of power and vested Sibal and Kamal Nath submitted in a vehicle without a registration the strongroom did not function percent and the same was sent ident and Telangana Chief Min- interests put the entire party into a memorandum to the Election number and reaching the col- from 8.19am to 9.35am on to the Centre. TRS had blamed ister K Chandrashekhar Rao and the lap of Rahul Gandhi. Commission, including video lection centre 48 hours after the November 30.

Polling concludes peacefully for 7th AgustaWestland middleman Michel to be extradited phase of panchayat IANS The action comes after the middlemen being probed in the was issued against Michel by the said that bribes to Michel were polls in Kashmir DUBAI Court of Cassation here had in case by the Central Bureau of Interpol on a request by the CBI. paid through a web of companies November upheld a lower court Investigation (CBI) and the RCNs were also issued against two located abroad and in India on the IANS Christian James Michel, a British order which said that Michel Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Italians involved in the scam — pretext of payment for consul- JAMMU/SRINAGAR, national and a middleman, has could be extradited to India. connection with the scam. Carlo Gerosa and Guido Haschke. tancy work. Michel also used his been extradited to India, a devel- According to the report, In January, the ED had According to Indian investi- Dubai-based firm Global Services Polling for the 7th phase of opment that comes as a boost to Michel was kept under detention lodged a request with the UAE gative agencies, Michel had FZE as a conduit for money. Panchayat polls ended peace- Indian agencies investigating the at the Dubai Police’s Criminal authorities for extraditing received at least Rs235 crore for In its chargesheet, the CBI had fully in Jammu and Kashmir Rs3,600 crore AgustaWestland Investigation Department (CID) Michel. Both the ED and the CBI ensuring that the chopper contract named former Indian Air Force yesterday under tight security VVIP chopper deal case. as per the Indian government’s had filed charge-sheets in went to AgustaWestland. He was chief S.P. Tyagi, his cousin arrangements. A Gulf daily reported that he request. The extradition is bribery cases in Indian courts a frequent visitor to India, having Sanjeev Tyagi alias Julie, then IAF Voters were seen queuing had been taken to the Dubai undertaken in coordination with and non-bailable warrants had undertaken 300 trips to this Vice Chief J.S. Gujral and advocate outside polling stations in International Airport for taking the Interpol and the CID. been issued against the accused. country between 1997 and 2013. Gautam Khaitan as the four both Jammu and the Kashmir a flight to Delhi. Michel is one of three Last year, a Red Corner notice The ED officials earlier had Indians involved in the scam. valley despite the morning chill. Polling started at 8am and ended at 2pm. An overall 75.8 percent voter turnout was registered Four people arrested for in the state for yesterday’s poll. In the Jammu division, 84.5 percent voters exercised Bulandshahr violence franchise and 86.5 percent voters turned out in the IANS the incident and police is con- Poonch district. LUCKNOW/BULANDSHAHR fident of identifying them with In Kashmir division, 30.3 the video evidence,” he said. per voters came out to vote Four people have been arrested The official parried ques- and 44.9 percent cast their in connection with the killing tions about the political links of votes in Kupwara district. of Inspector Subodh Kumar the three key accused who are Voting for this phase was Singh and a young man in also said to include an activist held at 2,714 polling stations violence in Bulandshahr in each from the BJP and the — 576 in Kashmir and 2,138 Uttar Pradesh after cow vigi- Vishwa Hindu Parishad. in Jammu. lantes went on a rampage, “Yes, Yogesh Raj is the main At least 892 polling stations police said yesterday. conspirator,” he said, adding had been categorised as hyper- The police, however, main- that he was yet to be arrested. sensitive in this phase — 428 tained it would be too early to He said six teams have been in Kashmir and 464 in Jammu. conclude about the involvement formed to probe the incident A total of 5,575 candidates Fire engulfs Sanjay Gandhi National Park of any organisation in the vio- and an SIT has been constituted were in the fray for 341 Sarpanch lence although local officials to investigate the matter. A fire rages on in a portion of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai. The 4km-wide bushfire, and 1,798 Panch seats, while 85 linked the mayhem to rightwing On allegations that which threatened nearby residential areas, was brought under control with no casualties reported Sarpanchs and 912 Panchs have Hindu groups. policemen fled the spot leaving already been elected unopposed thus far, local reports said citing fire department officials. The police said the main the slain Inspector alone, in this phase. conspirator behind Monday’s Kumar said the circumstances mob violence was Yogesh Raj, in which police personnel left who is on the run and is said to the place would be analysed be a Bajrang Dal activist. and till then no action would be Additional Director General taken against anyone. Investigative agencies must remain faceless: Jaitley (Law and Order) Anand Kumar He said the Inspector was said those arrested were first injured by a stone. IANS gative agencies are supposed DRI officials on its 61st Foun- convictions. Chaman, Devendra, Ashish “He fell unconscious and NEW DELHI to be faceless. dation Day. “That is the real test of an Chouhan and Satish, who have was taken in a vehicle which Investigative agencies “But they must as profes- investigative agency. It has be been named in the FIR, while the was attacked by a mob with Commending the Directorate should resist the temptation sionals concentrate on strength- faceless. The lesser it is in the prime suspect was Yogesh Raj. stones and gunfire,” he added. of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) of going to the media “making ening the investigative processes media controversy or the “Those arrested have been Videos which went viral for remaining free from any a lot of song and dance” when and the investigative evidences, news, the better it is for it,” the found to be leading the crowd showed the Inspector dead with major controversy, Finance the initial investigation starts and therefore have to ensure that Minister said, adding the DRI after being identified in a video. a bullet wound near the vehicle Minister Arun Jaitley and when some haul takes what is being investigated ulti- has to endeavour to become a About 40-50 others who are and several activists running yesterday said the investi- place, Jaitley said addressing mately results in penalties and near-perfect organisation. unidentified were involved in around in circles. WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 ASIA 13 Imran orders Secretariat for south Punjab by 2019

INTERNEWS Imran also sought government prepared the pres- representatives of south Punjab south Punjab, Punjab Police Provincial Development LAHORE measures for entation on south Punjab, which termed creation of adminis- headquarters south Punjab and Working Party for South Punjab allocation of extra was presented by the Federal trative secretariat for south office of ACS for supervision, and South Punjab Public Service Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Minister for Planning, Devel- Punjab a transition towards Naya implementation and Commission should also be Khan has instructed the Punjab resources to end opment and Reforms. Pakistan. coordination. established by July 1, 2019. chief minister to establish and disparity in the However, the issue of It was further proposed that It is proposed that fully The funds should be allo- make operational the Adminis- region and a sense of required number of votes in both Prime Minister Imran Khan powered special secretaries cated 50 percent each from the trative Secretariat for south houses of the parliament — should announce a special devel- would be appointed to the Annual Development Pro- Punjab by 2019. deprivation among the National Assembly and Senate opment package to initiate administrative secretariat of gramme of Punjab and Public Imran also sought measures area people. — was also discussed in the equalisation of south Punjab with south Punjab including Planning Sector Development Programme for allocation of extra resources meeting for which the PTI will north Punjab for five years. and Development, finance, (PSDP) of the federal to end disparity in the region and Finance Minister Makhdoom require support from other Similarly, key administrative home, agriculture, local gov- government. a sense of deprivation among the Jawan Bakhat Hashim, the three political parties. departments and special institu- ernment and community devel- Additionally, the prime min- area people. empowered elected represent- The federal minister pointed tions are to be relocated to south opment, Board of Revenue, ister should also announce sector The instructions were issued atives of south Punjab. out in the presentation that the Punjab from July 1, 2019. Addi- school education, and higher specific interventions for health, by the prime minister at a The briefing was delayed as government would require two- tionally, increase in job quota for education, primary health, spe- education, transport, production briefing given by the Federal the Punjab leadership was thirds majority in the National south Punjab to 35 per cent at cialised health, forest, livestock sectors and other sectors of south Minister for Planning, Devel- unable to complete work on Assembly, Senate and Provincial provincial level for all positions and dairy development, commu- Punjab. They also suggested to opment and Reforms, south Punjab province due to Assembly of Punjab for passage was proposed. nication and works, irrigation give special incentives to the Makhdoom Khusro Bakhtiar, which it was not announced in of constitutional amendment bill The proposed plan of the and housing urban development government officials posted to along with Punjab Chief Minister the first 100-day accomplish- for the creation of the new administrative set-up is creation and public health engineering south Punjab, based on key per- Usman Buzdar and Provincial ments of the PTI. The Punjab province. The elected of administrative secretariat in departments. Besides, a formance indicators (KPIs). Afghan President PML-N emerges as the richest party orders probe into INTERNEWS abuse of female athletes ISLAMABAD The Election Commission of AP he met with officials from the Pakistan issued details of the KABUL Afghan National Olympic Com- assets of the parliamentarians mittee, sportsmen and sports- for the year 2016-17 and also Afghan President Ashraf Ghani women, and pledged author- revealed the richest political yesterday ordered an investi- ities would “conduct a thorough party. The Pakistan Muslim gation after the Guardian investigation into this.” League-Nawaz has been found reported that members of the Attorney General Farid Hamedi to have the most assets. national women’s soccer team promised a transparent probe. The ECP released asset were physically abused by men “I would like to assert in details of senators, MNAs and from the country’s football front of our athletes, the pres- MPAs. federation. ident and people of Afghanistan According to details, Prime The report in the British that we will proceed with this Minister Imran Khan has assets newspaper on Friday cited investigation transparently, worth more than Rs30.86m. senior figures associated with justly and comprehensively,” Imran has Rs20.94m in his bank the team as saying the abuse said Hamedi. account, while in his foreign took place at the federation’s Sayed Alireza Aqazada, accounts he has $379.78 and headquarters in Kabul and at a AFF’s Secretary-General, seven pounds, respectively. training camp in Jordan last denied the allegations in the Opposition Leader in the February. Guardian report, saying they National Assembly Shehbaz Deposed former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif (centre) leaves the Supreme Court building The Guardian also cited were “all baseless and untrue.” Sharif’s assets are worth after a hearing in the shrine land case hearing in Islamabad yesterday. Khalida Popal, a former head Hafizullah Wali Rahimi, Rs270.34m. of women’s soccer in the President of Afghanistan’s Opposition Leader in the Afghanistan Football Feder- Olympic Committee, told local Punjab Assembly Hamza Farogh Naseem Rs170m and has assets worth Rs870.488m. with Rs110.64m, PPP third with ation who was forced to flee the media that such allegations Shehbaz has assets worth State Minister for Interior She- PPP leader Senator Sherry Rs160.52m, PPPP Rs70.92m, country in 2016 and seek were not new and that there Rs410.154m, including non-agri- hryar Afridi Rs10.59m. Rehman has assets worth more PML-Q Rs50.81m, Sheikh asylum in Denmark, as saying had been similar complaints in cultural land worth Rs130.64m PML-N Chairman Raja than Rs770m, Raza Rabbani Rashid’s AML Rs288,268, Pak that her own investigation the past. and agricultural land worth Zafarul Haq has assets worth Rs100m, while ANP leader Sarzameen Party Rs3.56m. uncovered physical abuse and “Even if mere allegations (of more than Rs30m. He has Rs40m, Mushahidullah Khan Ghulam Ahmed Bilour has assets TLP has assets worth death threats. Ghani described abuse) cause our people to stop Rs4.73m in his bank account. Rs30m and Birjees Tahir worth Rs200.97m. Rs30,250, ANP Rs40.17m, JUI-F the report as “shocking to all sending their sons and Senate Deputy Chairman Rs2.78m. PML-N is the richest political Rs20.82m, JI Rs10.16m and Afghans,” the presidential daughters to sports, we need to Saleem Mandviwala owns assets The son in-law of former PM party with assets worth over Pakistan Awami Tehreek palace said. On Monday night, act immediately,” said Ghani. worth Rs30m, Law Minister Nawaz Sharif Capt (retd) Safdar Rs220.21m, PTI comes in second Rs1.91m.

Trial begins in Afghans pessimistic ahead of 2019 elections: Survey Bangladesh REUTERS by the economy and jobs, poor country was moving in the right 2018, according to UN data, a government had delivered some KABUL governance and endemic cor- direction, the same proportion slight decline on the previous improvement in their living cafe attack ruption, along with irregular as last year, the survey said. year but underscoring the con- conditions. Afghans are pessimistic about electricity and water supply. The level of optimism tinued violence in Afghanistan. Support for the government AP their country’s direction ahead The survey of some 15,000 reflected ethnic and local differ- The United States has of President Ashraf Ghani, who DHAKA of elections next year, Afghani- adults, the largest annual poll of ences, with the highest confi- opened direct contacts with is expected to seek a second term stan’s largest annual opinion its kind in Afghanistan, showed dence levels in mainly Pashtun Taliban representatives to try to in elections set for April 20, rose A special tribunal has begun survey said, citing concerns a mood of continuing gloom and areas of the east and the lowest agree on the basis for peace to 59.6 percent among those sur- the trial of eight suspected about security, lack of jobs and uncertainty ahead of presidential in the capital Kabul, the centre talks, but heavy fighting drags veyed, from 56.2 percent in 2017. Islamic militants in an attack corruption. elections in April and moves to and the north, areas where many on. The survey said 61.4 percent At the start of the year, Ghani on a restaurant in Bangla- Insecurity was the top reason open peace talks with the ethnic Tajiks and Hazaras live. of respondents were satisfied offered to hold peace talks with desh’s capital in which 22 for pessimism in the Asia Foun- Taliban. Some 2,798 civilians have with democracy — slightly the Taliban but the insurgents people were killed, including dation survey, cited by 72.5 Only a third of those sur- been killed and 5,252 wounded higher than the previous poll — have so far only agreed to talk 17 foreigners. percent of participants, followed veyed — 32.8 percent — said the during the first nine months of and more than half said the with US officials. Twenty hostages, including 17 from Japan, Italy and India, were killed when five militants attacked the Holey Artisan Bakery on July 1, 2016. The militants were Sri Lanka’s ousted premier killed by commandoes inside the cafe during a 12-hour standoff. Two security offi- demands to be reinstated cials died later in a hospital. The trial began Monday AFP constitution... We are not going legitimacy and that of his gov- with testimony by a police COLOMBO to allow him to do that.” Pres- ernment. Sirisena, a former official, Ripon Kumar Das, ident Maithripala Sirisena opponent of Rajapakse, told a who described events as he Sri Lanka’s toppled premier sacked Wickremesinghe and group of legislators on Monday and other officials responded likened the president to Hitler replaced him with Mahinda that he would not reinstate when five young men yesterday as he demanded to be Rajapakse, the larger-than-life Wickremesinghe even if the stormed the cafe and held the reinstated, almost six weeks into former president credited with latter had the support of all 225 diners hostage. a paralysing political crisis in the ending Sri Lanka’s bloody civil members of the legislature. Defence lawyers were to Indian Ocean nation. war with Tamil separatists in Rajapakse’s lawyers yes- cross examine Das yesterday. Ranil Wickremesinghe 2009. However with Wick- terday filed an appeal with the The suspects face various made the comments — his remesinghe’s supporters still Court of Appeal, but it was not charges, including murder, strongest yet directed at the controlling a majority in par- immediately taken up for and if convicted could receive head of state — at the prime liament — which has witnessed hearing. Rajapakse urged his capital punishment. minister’s official residence, brawls between MPs in recent supporters on Monday night to The cafe attack followed which he has refused to vacate weeks — Rajapakse has lost two remain calm and join his several years of smaller since his dismissal in October. votes of confidence. struggle to press for a general attacks targeting scores of “The president has to On Monday the Court of election nearly two years ahead individuals deemed by appoint me prime minister as I Appeal denied Rajapakse the of schedule. The Supreme Court Architectural beauty extremists to be enemies of command a majority in par- authority to act as prime min- this week is also expected to rule radical Islam, including sec- liament,” he said. “I am telling ister and stripped his cabinet of on whether Sirisena’s decision The Lotus Tower built with Chinese funding is seen in commercial ularists, writers, religious the president not to act like their powers, giving Rajapakse to dissolve parliament was heart of capital Colombo, Sri Lanka, yesterday. minorities, foreigners and Hitler who bypassed the until December 12 to prove his constitutional. activists. 14 ASIA WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018

North Korea FM Moon still says his country and Syria face same ‘enemy’ hopes to host AP DAMASCUS

North Korea’s Foreign Minister says his country and Kim this year Syria face the same “enemy” and called for increased cooperation between them. AFP leader’s visit to South Korea will Syria’s President Bashar AUCKLAND definitely accelerate the denu- Assad received Minister Ri clearisation process in the Yong Ho yesterday. Assad North Korean leader Kim Jong Korean peninsula.” Moon said a responded by identifying the Un could still visit Seoul for the visit by Kim to the South would United States as a hostile first time in the next few weeks, also improve US-North Korea country to Syria and North South Korean President Moon relations as Kim and President Korea. Syria state news Jae-in said yesterday, describing Donald Trump look to follow up agency SANA carried the the possible trip as a major boost their June summit in Singapore. comments. in efforts to make the peninsula “I believe that our efforts will The Korean minister con- South Korean President Moon Jae-in walks with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to a nuclear-free. definitely give a positive impetus gratulated Syria on recent a media conference in Auckland, New Zealand, yesterday. Moon and Kim have met to the second US-North Korea victories against armed three times in 2018 amid summit meeting,” he said. groups, saying military and warming ties between the two “President Trump and I share political successes will make Koreas, with South Korea hoping a view in that regard.” Moon New Zealand to allow smooth for a “solid base” for to host a first-ever visit by Kim emphasised the impact Kim’s reconstruction. to Seoul before year’s end. presence in South Korea would This summer, North But prospects of another have on the two nations. “This border access to South Koreans Korea reported that Assad meeting in coming weeks have will be the first time that the plans to visit. dimmed as denuclearisation North Korean leader will visit AP New Zealand Ardern said she discussed a Syria and North Korea are WELLINGTON talks have stalled, prompting Seoul since Korea was divided discussed a wide wide range of issues with Moon, longtime allies. They have Moon to say that the planned into two countries,” he said. including global efforts to denu- been accused of cooperating visit’s timing should not over- “Although there’s no time- New Zealand Prime Minister range of issues with clearise North Korea and on chemical weapons, a shadow its historic nature. frame set, that’s still very mean- Jacinda Ardern says her country South Korea, including regional cooperation in the charge they both deny. “There is a possibility that ingful. We can improve South will soon allow smoother immi- global efforts to Pacific. Chairman Kim Jong Un’s visit to and North Korean relations as gration procedures for visitors denuclearise North Ardern said that beginning Seoul may be made within this well as attain permanent peace from South Korea and plans to next year, New Zealand will Indonesia rescues year, but there’s more important on the Korean peninsula and improve pension portability Korea and regional allow South Korean passport things than the timing,” he said denuclearisation.” North and between the two countries. cooperation in the holders to enter through auto- 20 Rohingya in translated remarks during a South Korea have begun to Ardern made the Pacific. mated “eGate” immigration visit to New Zealand. remove landmines and destroy announcement yesterday after lanes. She said New Zealand adrift off Aceh “Whether it’s this year or not some military bunkers along meeting with South Korean hopes to soon sign off on a new isn’t that important, what’s their common border as part of President Moon Jae-in Kim Jung-sook, arrived in New social security agreement with AP important is that the North Korea the detente. Auckland. Moon and his wife, Zealand late Sunday for a visit. South Korea. KUALA IDI

Indonesian fishermen rescued a wooden boat carrying 20 hungry, weak Indonesia probes reports of workers shot dead in Papua Rohingya Muslims after it was found adrift off Indonesia’s northernmost province of AFP far-flung region on the western the alleged killings happened. Aceh, an official said. WAMENA half of New Guinea island, just “Some media are saying 31 The group of men and north of Australia. workers are dead, some 24, so boys was discovered on the An Indonesian soldier was killed Police and military teams we really need to check our- rickety boat about 3km off the while investigating reports that were sent to the area on Monday selves,” said Papua military coast, said Syahrial, the head more than two dozen when they came under rebel spokesman Muhammad Aidi. of East Aceh’s local disaster construction workers were shot gunfire with one soldier killed A team of about 150 per- mitigation office. dead by separatist rebels in and another wounded in the fire- sonnel would delay its operation Syahrial, who goes by a restive Papua province, officials fight, authorities said. until today, fearing a confron- single name, said it wasn’t said yesterday. The employees of state- tation with rebels at night, the clear where the group had If confirmed, the killings owned contractor Istaka Karya military said later Tuesday. traveled from or where they would mark the deadliest bout were building bridges and roads “We think they’ll be were heading. of violence in years to hit a as part of efforts to boost infra- expecting us,” local military chief An outbreak of violence region wracked for decades by structure in the impoverished Jonathan Binsar Sianipar said. that began in 2012 prompted a low-level independence region. All construction work in A group of workers thousands of Rohingya to flee insurgency. the area would be temporarily reportedly managed to escape Myanmar by sea to Thailand, Citing local police, Indo- suspended, the public works the shootings, which were Malaysia and Indonesia. A Indonesia’s Minister of Public Works and Public Housing, Basuki nesian media reported late ministry said. allegedly sparked by separatists fresh crisis last year sent hun- Hadimuljono, talks during a news conference after at least 24 Monday that the workers were More than a dozen coffins angry at some workers taking dreds of thousands of construction workers in Papua province were killed by a suspected shot dead on Sunday in Nduga, were being readied in Wamena, pictures of pro-Papua inde- Rohingya fleeing by land to separatist group, in Jakarta, yesterday. a district in the centre of the the nearest major town to where pendence activities. Bangladesh. Malaysia wants airspace NZ ramps up diplomatic presence in Pacific REUTERS region. The additional staff will initiative, which dominated a Peters said. The jobs will be control amid dispute WELLINGTON be based in Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, recent Asia Pacific Economic Co- advertised by the end of this year Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, operation summit hosted by and the new posts expected to be New Zealand will send 14 new Solomon Islands, Kiribati, and the Papua New Guinea. filled by the middle of 2019. REUTERS phases, with the first expected diplomats to the Pacific region US state of Hawaii, Peters said in “These new positions are a New Zealand is also sending KUALA LUMPUR/SINGAPORE around the end of 2019 and the next year, Foreign Minister a statement. first step in demonstrating New four additional diplomats to next phase in 2023. Winston Peters said yesterday, The move comes amid Zealand is committed to the Japan, the United States, the Malaysia has told Singapore it “We feel that it is now the the latest move by Western growing Western concerns about Pacific to help it be... safer and European Union and China to intends to take back control of time that we regained the control governments to counter China’s China’s influence in the South more prosperous and enhancing coordinate policy on the Pacific airspace that the city-state has of our very own airspace because growing influence in the strategic Pacific through its Belt and Road New Zealand’s voice in a region,” region, Peters said. managed since 1974 amid a over the years, we have also dispute over a flight path to a upgraded our air traffic control secondary airport in Singapore, and we think we are capable of Malaysia’s transport minister said doing so,” he said. “So we want Three dead in yesterday. to begin the process of negotia- Singapore has put in place a tions with our Singapore coun- Malaysia shopping new instrument landing system terpart.” Loke did not provide at its small Seletar airport to be details of what airspace Malaysia mall explosion used by turboprops and business intended to regain in each phase. jets that involves a flight path The Singapore transport AFP over Malaysian airspace without ministry said in a statement in KUALA LUMPUR its permission, Malaysian response to Loke’s comments Transport Minister Anthony Loke that Singapore “respects Malay- Three people were killed and 24 told parliament. sia’s sovereignty”. injured yesterday when a He said the flight path would “Airspace in this region is one powerful explosion rocked a lead to height limits on building of the most complex in the shopping mall in the Malaysian development and affect shipping world… The benefits to both our state of Sarawak, but a fire official operations in the state of Johor economies and our people have said it was not caused by a bomb. on the south of the Malaysian been tremendous…. Hence, any The official Bernama news peninsula that borders the rela- proposed changes will impact agency said the blast could have tively tiny island of Singapore. many stakeholders,” it added. been caused by a leaking gas Malaysia refused to approve Singapore’s far larger and tank. the flight path on November 28 newer Changi Airport, one of the Wan Abdul Mubin, head of and 29, Loke said, and on biggest hubs in Asia, uses a the fire rescue department in the November 29 informed Sin- portion of that airspace for state capital Kuching, said his gapore it planned to take back departures and approaches and office received an emergency call airspace over Johor, that it had would not want to be reliant on at around 0737 GMT. “We are Malaysian security personnel inspect the site after an explosion at the City One Megamall in Kuching, delegated for management by Malaysian management of it, said investigating the cause of the the capital city of Sarawak state, yesterday. the city-state since 1974, in an industry source. explosion,” he said. WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 EUROPE 15 May found in contempt over Brexit legal advice

REUTERS We need to deliver a Brexit does not happen. LONDON Brexit that respects Anxious to prevent a “no- the decision of the deal” Brexit, a group of mainly British Prime Minister Theresa British people. This pro-EU lawmakers from May’s May suffered embarrassing Conservative Party won a vote blows yesterday at the start of argument has gone to make sure parliament gets five days of debate over her plans on long enough. It is more power to dictate any next to leave the European Union that corrosive to our politics steps the government takes if her could determine the future of and life depends on exit plan fails. Brexit and the fate of her For them, there may be government. compromise: Theresa another way out. The formal May wants to secure parlia- May advice from a European Court of ment’s approval for her deal to Justice advocate general — not keep close ties with the EU after binding but usually heeded by leaving in March, but opposition planned on March 29, in the the court - suggested to some is fierce, with Brexit supporters country’s biggest shift in foreign lawmakers that revoking the Members of the Parliament during the announcement of the outcome of a vote on an amendment to and opponents alike wanting if and trade policy in more than 40 “Article 50” divorce notice was the timetabling motion for the Brexit deal debate in the House of Commons, in London, yesterday. not to derail, then to thwart her years. an option. plan. Her plans are vulnerable to “It’s a false choice to say it’s chaos for Britain’s economy and had predicted. Her own nominal allies in the That opposition was writ more change over the days of the PM’s deal or chaos,” said businesses, and put May under But the government lost the Northern Irish DUP have also large at the beginning of the debate, and advice from a senior Conservative lawmaker Sam fierce pressure to resign. later vote on handing parliament said they will vote against her debate, before the main vote on EU legal aide that Britain had the Gyimah, who quit as a minister Bank of England Governor more power by a bigger margin, deal. December 11, when her gov- right to withdraw its Brexit notice on Friday over May’s deal. “We Mark Carney denied accusations 321 votes to 299, a move some But yesterday DUP deputy ernment was found in contempt opened yet another front in should look at all the options and of scaremongering after the bank Brexit campaigners said held leader Nigel Dodds said that, of parliament and then a group May’s battle to win the approval not be boxed in by our own red said last week that, under a little weight as it would not bind despite voting against the gov- of her own Conservative Party of parliament. lines.” worst-case Brexit, Britain could the government to take any pro- ernment on the contempt issue, lawmakers won a challenge to So far, May is standing firm. But May’s spokesman said: suffer greater damage to its posed action. his party’s agreement to support hand more power to the House “We need to deliver a Brexit “It does nothing in any event to economy than during the May, 62, has toured Britain, May’s government remained in of Commons if her deal is voted that respects the decision of the change the clear position of the financial crisis of 2008. spent hours being grilled in par- place. down. British people,” she told law- government that Article 50 is not Defeat for May could also liament and invited lawmakers “We signed up to the confi- That could reduce the risk of makers after suffering the going to be revoked.” make it more likely that Britain to her Downing Street residence dence and supply agreement to Britain leaving the EU without defeats. “This argument has gone If, against the odds, May wins will hold a second referendum to try to win over her many support the government on any deal, prompting sterling to on long enough. It is corrosive to the crucial December 11 vote, on exiting the EU - which would critics. Brexit on the basis of shared pri- recover some of its losses after our politics and life depends on Britain will leave the EU on almost certainly require it at least But the deal has united critics orities. We haven’t broken that,” the vote on contempt drove it compromise.” March 29 on the terms she nego- to defer its departure - three at both ends of the spectrum: he said. down to levels not seen since If lawmakers do not back tiated with Brussels. years after voting narrowly to eurosceptics say it will make “Theresa May unfortunately June last year. her deal, May says, they could If she loses, May could call leave. Britain a vassal state while EU seems to be going down a road The debates and final vote on open the door either to Britain for a second vote on the deal. But The vote against the gov- supporters take a similar line, of delivering neither Brexit in its December 11 are crucial in deter- falling out of the EU without defeat would increase the ernment over contempt pro- saying it will have to obey the true form or keeping the United mining how, and possibly even measures to soften the tran- chances of a “no-deal” exit, ceedings, won by 311 against 293, rules of membership while fore- Kingdom together economically if, Britain leaves the EU as sition, or to the possibility that which could mean was a smaller margin than some going the benefits. and politically.”

British Library to New online game highlights migrants’ hardship display da Vinci’s REUTERS Sections of the fence first experience “the game” because notebooks LJUBLJANA went up in 2015, when hundreds it has many traps and obstacles. of thousands of people fleeing They have to travel at night, they AP The new online game “Razor war and poverty in the Middle have to avoid the police, they are LONDON Wire” has three fiendishly tricky East, Africa and other regions often robbed or their documents levels to it: First, escape war in passed through the Balkans and are taken away by the police, and The British Library has your home country. Then, dodge Slovenia on their way to wealthier often or regularly they are sent announced plans for a major police as they raze your migrant Western European states. back to refugee camps,” she said. exhibition based on Renais- camp, and lastly, cross a river The Balkan route was sealed There is no happy ending to sance master Leonardo da while avoiding the corpses of off in 2016 and the number of Razor Wire: when the player Vinci’s notebooks. those who never made it. illegal crossings into Slovenia has manages to cross the Kolpa river The “Leonardo da Vinci: You only get one life. decreased sharply. But the fence and finally reaches the Slovenian A Mind in Motion” exhibit will But winning is not the is still standing and now covers border, he is greeted by a sign include notes and drawings objective of Razor Wire, nor is about 179km of the 670km long depicting razor wire and cannot from three of his most its rudimentary, top-down border with Croatia. go any further. revered scientific and artistic design complete with chunky Anti-immigration sentiment “Many of them have tried notebooks, the Codex pixels intended to please lovers Project manager Maja Cimerman of the “Today is a new day” has been on the rise in Slovenia “the game” 10 times or more and Arundel, the Codex Forster of retro computer games. institute playing a video game, in Ljubljana, yesterday. since the 2015 migrant crisis. In they continue trying till they and the Codex Leicester. Instead, Razor Wire is the June, the anti-immigrant SDS enter Europe,” she said. The library said that it project of a Slovenian human years and it seems like we Nine migrants drowned party scored a landslide victory Cimerman said refugees will mark the first time rights group which hopes to raise stopped caring, it seems like we while trying to cross the Kolpa in a parliamentary election but were a useful scapegoat for the selections from the three awareness of the hardship and have accepted it as a given river last year, she added, a was forced into the opposition government. will be displayed together in despair migrants face and help reality,” said Maja Cimerman, a figure confirmed by a police after failing to form a coalition “It’s easier for the gov- Britain. its campaign for the government project manager at the NGO spokeswoman. Those killed may government. ernment to deal with migrants Curator Andrea Clarke to dismantle a wire fence on the “Today is a New Day”. not have known how to swim or Inspiration for the game and to create a sense that ref- said da Vinci’s notebooks Slovenian-Croatian border. “The “It has not made crossings were surprised by deep water or came from the migrants them- ugees are a threat to us than “show him to be an extraor- wire fence has been standing on impossible ... but more dan- strong currents, the spokes- selves, Cimerman said. actually dealing with real dinarily dynamic thinker who the Slovenian border for three gerous,” Cimerman said. woman said. “Many refugees... call their problems,” she said. was able to make connections between multiple phenomena and disciplines.” The da Vinci exhibit will run from June until Sep- Italy probes Egyptian Slovakia frees Greenpeace activists tember next year.

AFP largest and oldest brown coal Novaky, central Slovakia. officials for kidnapping BRATISLAVA mine. Their detention and bail The campaigners from rejection sparked a protest in Royal protection REUTERS have been placed under inves- Slovakia’s prosecutor general Belgium, Czech Republic, the capital Bratislava on ROME tigation for allegedly kid- said yesterday he had ordered Finland, Germany and Slovakia Monday and criticism from Slo- officer accused napping Regeni. No one has yet the release of 12 Greenpeace were detained without bail last vakia’s top politicians including of messaging teen Italian prosecutors have placed been named in connection with activists who had been held week after hoisting a banner the president and prime five members of Egypt’s the killing itself. “unlawfully” for staging a saying “End coal age!” on the minister. AP security forces under official Under Italian law, being protest at the EU country’s tower of a lignite mine in Greenpeace had also called LONDON investigation for their alleged placed under official investi- for their immediate involvement in the disap- gation does not imply guilt and release. A police officer assigned to pearance of student Giulio does not automatically lead to “Today, I issued an protect Britain’s royal family Regeni, a judicial source said. a trial. order to release all 12 is not contesting allegations Regeni, a 28-year-old post- Regeni disappeared on people,” Slovakia’s prose- that he acted improperly by graduate student at Cambridge January 25, 2016 — the fifth cutor general Jaromir sending suggestive text University, vanished in Cairo in anniversary of the start of the Ciznar said yesterday, messages to a teenage girl January 2016. His body was 2011 uprising that ended the adding that “these people visiting a Buckingham Palace found almost a week later and 30-year rule of Hosni Mubarak. are detained unlawfully”. event. a post mortem examination Intelligence and security He added that the dis- Royal protection officer showed he had been tortured sources has said in 2016 that trict court, which had Andrew Daly is accused of before his death. police had arrested Regeni ordered their detention asking a 16-year-old girl There was no immediate outside a Cairo metro station without bail on Sunday, outside a garden party hosted comment from authorities in and then transferred him to a had “improperly” defined by Queen Elizabeth II in May Egypt. Egyptian officials have compound run by Homeland their actions. 2016 for her phone number repeatedly denied any Security. Slovakia’s liberal and then sending her inap- involvement in Regeni’s killing. Italian and Egyptian inves- President Andrej Kiska propriate texts. The five suspects are all tigators have been working said in a statement on Daly did not attend a members of the National together to try to solve the Monday that he did not police misconduct hearing Security Agency and include a crime and have held regular A demonstrator participates in a protest to express solidarity with the “understand how we can yesterday. general, two colonels and a meetings in Rome and Cairo to 12 Greenpeace activists held in custody in Bratislava. push activists into the role The girl has not been major, the source said. They pool their information. of criminals”. identified. 16 EUROPE WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018

Two pilots dead Russia urged to comply with INF Treaty after Armenian warplane crashes BLOOMBERG released yesterday in Brussels. That stance was echoed by BRUSSELS “It is now up to Russia to pre- three American Democratic sen- AP serve the INF Treaty.” ators who said on Monday that YEREVAN The North Atlantic Treaty Organ- The planned US withdrawal quitting the agreement unilat- ization signaled Russia must Nato foreign ministers said Russia is jeopardising has created the kind of trans- erally would be a “political and The Armenian military said comply soon with a landmark the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty Atlantic rift that followed Trump’s geostrategic gift to Russia.” that one of its combat jets has arms-control agreement or face by deploying ground-launched missiles that fall abandonment of landmark inter- US National Security Adviser crashed, killing both pilots. the deal’s demise, papering over national agreements to curb John Bolton has called the INF Defense Ministry internal differences about a US within the banned range of 500km to 5,500km. Iran’s nuclear programme and to accord outdated, saying it spokesman Artsrun Hovhan- threat to withdraw from the pact. fight climate change. doesn’t address the rising nisyan said that a Su-25 two- Nato foreign ministers said dominates, said the Kremlin The announcement sparked In the case of the INF accord, Chinese military threat. seat aircraft crashed during Russia is jeopardising the Inter- needs to show compliance concerns in Europe and still however, Europe sought to find a While Pompeo was on his a regular training mission mediate-Range Nuclear Forces “urgently.” needs to be notified to trigger a last-minute degree of common way to Brussels for the Nato yesterday. (INF) Treaty by deploying US President Donald Trump six-month expiry period. ground by arguing that any uni- meeting, a senior State It said the plane took off ground-launched missiles that pledged in October to abandon “We call on Russia to return lateral US withdrawal without Department official said the US from Gyumri and crashed in fall within the banned range of the 31-year-old INF accord as a urgently to full and verifiable giving Russia a final chance to wanted to “stay in sync” with the mountains near Maralik 500km to 5,500km. The result of alleged Russian compliance,” the Nato foreign show goodwill would let the allies over how to address Rus- in Armenia’s northwest. 29-nation alliance, which the US violations. ministers said in a statement Kremlin point the finger at Trump. sia’s non-compliance. The Su-25 is a twin- engine ground attack aircraft designed in the Soviet Union in the 1970s.

Germany seeks EU Two more jailed cooperation on AI Catalan separatists begin hunger strike REUTERS summit, referring to the 1970 NUREMBERG launch of the European plane- AP maker that went on to make MADRID Germany called yesterday for half of the world’s airliners. European cooperation on Germany plans to invest Two imprisoned members of developing artificial intelli- more than $3.4bn by 2025 to the Catalonia region’s previous gence (AI) to close the gap on beef up its AI capabilities. government have joined two leaders China and the United But the federal government secessionist colleagues in a States. would spend only 356 million hunger strike to protest what Economy Minister Peter euros on AI next year, according they say is unfair treatment by Altmaier made the call after to a reply to a parliamentary Spanish courts. Berlin’s AI strategy was faulted question reported by Han- Former Catalan infra- by researchers, entrepreneurs delsblatt newspaper. structure minister Josep Rull and investors for lacking the “Artificial intelligence can’t and Joaquim Forn, the ex- vision and cash to sustain replace genuine political interior minister, said in a Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko (centre) holding Ukrainian Navy Flag during his meeting with German industrial prowess. action,” said Konstantin von statement that Spain’s Consti- relatives of the sailors arrested after the seizure of their navy vessels by Russia. Critics say that US and Notz of the opposition Green tutional Court has blocked Chinese tech companies are party. their appeals of being held in leading the way in deploying AI Altmaier also urged the pre-trial custody for more Ukraine President vows to bring to automate office tasks, German auto industry to team than year. They said that has support autonomous driving, up in creating a mobility prevented them taking their or talk to a digital voice platform that would gather case to the European Court of home sailors detained by Russia assistant. vehicle data that could be used Human Rights, which can “We need a kind of Airbus to train AI systems used in only happen when all Spanish AFP Strait from the Black Sea to the waters illegally and insisted that for AI,” Altmaier told a digital transportation. appeals are exhausted. KIEV Sea of Azov. Moscow will not release the The 24 Ukrainian crew sailors as part of an exchange. Ukrainian President Petro Poro- members, three of whom were The seamen have joined a shenko met yesterday with wounded, were detained. long list of Ukrainians held in families of Ukrainian sailors The incident was the most Russia including filmmaker Oleg Kosovo govt plans to form army captured by Moscow, vowing to dangerous in years between the Sentsov, who refused food for do everything in his power to ex-Soviet neighbours, which 145 days in his Arctic penal bring them home. have been locked in a confron- colony earlier this year. BLOOMBERG there since a bombing campaign The push for a military has “For me there’s nothing tation since 2014 when Russia Kremlin critics have said PRISTINA drove out Serb troops in 1999. raised tensions with Serbia, more important than getting annexed Crimea and supported Russia is preparing a show trial While ethnic-Serb lawmakers which refuses to recognise them out,” Poroshenko told rel- an insurgency in eastern of the sailors. Kosovo will adopt laws next have blocked attempts to Kosovo as a country. Backed by atives of some of the 24 seamen Ukraine. The Ukrainians, charged week to open the way to turning change the charter and allow a Russia and China, Belgrade has taken by Russia last month. More than 10,000 people with illegally crossing Russia’s its lightly armed security force military, the ethnic-Albanian blocked its neighbour’s efforts “All of Ukraine is now proud have been killed in the borders, face up to six years in into an army, its parliament dominated government is now to gain acknowledgement in of your loved ones,” he said conflict. prison, Nikolai Polozov, one of speaker said, drawing condem- trying to push through changes international bodies, though during the emotional meeting Despite international calls the defence lawyers in the case, nation from its neighbour with ordinary laws. both sides need to mend ties for in his office, hugging the cap- for their release, the Ukrainians said. Serbia. “We will officially have the possible European Union tives’ family members, some were sentenced to two months He said it remains unclear Kosovo’s constitution, Kosovo Army,” Speaker Kadri membership. teary-eyed. detention and are now held in who is in charge of the criminal drawn up in 2008 when it Veseli said on Facebook. The US Last week, Kosovo slapped Late last month Russia Moscow. case. Calls to the Investigative declared independence from has backed Kosovo’s shift toward 100 percent tariffs on all Serbian opened fire on and seized three Russian President Vladimir Committee and the FSB security Serbia, doesn’t allow for an an army despite Serbia’s objec- imports after it was blocked Ukranian navy vessels as they Putin has said that the Ukrainian service went unanswered army, and peacekeepers led by tions, saying that the transition from joining Interpol, the inter- tried to pass through the Kerch vessels crossed into Russian yesterday. the Nato have been stationed will take considerable time. national policing body. Michelle Obama on book tour New mafia boss, 45 others arrested in Sicily encourages girls in London AFP ROME AFP fronting teachers who “under- LONDON estimated me at every step”. Italian police yesterday arrested “I was told: ‘I don’t think new Mafia boss Settimino Mineo Michelle Obama returned to a you are Princeton material’. My and dozens of other suspects in London school she had visited dreams were too high.” a major swoop against a as US first lady encouraging But she graduated from the resurgent Cosa Nostra. students to “practice select Ivy League university and Police arrested jeweller sisterhood” as she presented a went on to Harvard Law School Mineo, 80, and at least 45 others new memoir of her life. before joining a Chicago law in Sicily just before he was due Obama is in the British firm where she met her husband to be officially anointed at a capital to promote her hotly and president Barack Obama. reconvened Mafia Commission anticipated book, “Becoming”, She urged the London stu- or Cupola, the police said. which has already sold more dents to find strength in each The suspects are accused of copies than any other book other as they overcome their extortion, illegal gun possession, published in the US this year. own doubters and naysayers. arson, Mafia association and She told some 300 students “Practice that kind of sis- other crimes, investigators said. — mostly girls aged between 11 terhood,” Obama said. “There The Sicilian Mafia managed and 18 — at a north London are enough obstacles around.” to rebuild the Cupola after it had school that her past visit there Later at the capital’s not met for years, Italian media as first lady in 2009 had Southbank Centre, where she reported. Settimino Mineo (centre), jeweller and new head of the Sicilian mafia, is escorted by carabinieri as inspired her to work for better discussed her book with author The Cupola met in May for he exits a police station after his arrest, in Palermo, in Sicily, yesterday.. education. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the first time since 1993 and was “I was moved, touched and she was asked what message due to appoint Mineo official heir one of the senior arrested had been “rules”. despite being heads of families, inspired as I always am by she wanted to give to young to notorious Mafia boss Toto members, Francesco Colletti. “The need to reestablish were kept outside because only young people I meet around the black women. Riina who died in prison last He reportedly told his driver certain rules that Cosa Nostra regional bosses could take part.” world,” said the 54-year-old “What happens to black year. about details of the May 29 Cupola had lost along the way, they It is not known where the mother of two and first African women, you become a cari- Police also arrested three meeting, describing it as “a beau- were applied less because of the Cupola meeting took place, but American first lady. cature ... the size of her hips, her other Cupola members in the tiful meeting, very serious, with organisation’s overall disorgan- Colletti’s conversation with his “You reminded me of me, style... We are demonised,” she swoop. The four senior Mafia country people, old people.” isation,” Lo Voi said. driver implicated Mineo and all the fears, the challenges you said. “We are angry, too loud, leaders had all recently served Palermo prosecutor “We deduced that it was a others. face. You guys gave me a sense too everything. My advice: start prison time for their activities. Francesco Lo Voi said that the Cupola meeting because Colletti reportedly rejoiced of comfort.” by getting those out of your Italian media reported that Cupola meeting was identified important Cosa Nostra in the resurrected Cupola, which Obama confessed to facing head and tell yourself ‘I’m good police obtained crucial infor- thanks to phone taps and that members... were not allowed to was to be an improvement on numerous hurdles and con- enough’.” mation by tapping the phone of the main topic at the meeting take part,” he said. “These people, Riina’s “tyranny”. WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 AMERICAS 17 More tributes pour in for George H W Bush

AFP Since Monday evening, House — the president’s guest WASHINGTON Americans have been house — while they are in Wash- quietly filing past the ington for events surrounding to The remains of George H W Bush flag-draped coffin in his funeral. lay in state yesterday at the US Bush was a decorated World Capitol amid a groundswell of the Capitol rotunda to War II fighter pilot, onetime tributes honoring the 41st US pay their respects to ambassador to China, former president. Bush, who died Friday head of the Central Intelligence Since Monday evening, aged 94 at his home Agency, and vice president to Americans have been quietly Ronald Reagan before winning filing past the flag-draped coffin in Houston. the White House. in the Capitol rotunda to pay Military pallbearers carried their respects to Bush, who died the White House up to Capitol the flag-draped casket into the Friday aged 94 at his home in Hill. rotunda as a fiery sunset bathed Houston. With first lady Melania at his Washington in a glow. His passing has led Amer- side, Trump saluted, and they The somber ceremony was icans to reflect on his life of duty stood at Bush’s casket for about attended by his son George W US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump pay their respects as former president and service to country as a leader a minute. They exited the Bush — the nation’s 43rd pres- George H W Bush lies in state at the US Capitol rotunda, in Washington, yesterday. of the so-called “Greatest rotunda with little fanfare. ident — and other relatives, dig- Generation.” Bush never warmed to nitaries and more than 100 the presidential Boeing 747 — the Capitol late Monday to pay has declared a national day of Only the second president to Trump, and he had let it be members of the House and made available at Trump’s their final respects. mourning. see his son follow him to the Oval known that he did not vote for Senate. direction — from Houston to Joint Among them was Kim Bill Clinton will be among the Office, the Republican stalwart him in 2016. Trump himself has Senate Majority Leader Base Andrews, in Maryland. Frinzell, a government employee living US presidents to attend, is being honored with four days criticized the elder Bush on the Mitch McConnell lauded Bush — In Houston, relatives who did not vote for Bush but along with dozens of foreign of commemorations and services campaign trail. who occupied the White House including his presidential son grew to respect his accomplish- leaders including Germany’s in Washington and in Texas, But on Monday, Trump wrote from 1989 to 1993 — as a patriot stood with hands on their hearts ments, including signing the 1990 Angela Merkel. where he will be buried members of Congress to hail who steered the country as as the casket was carried to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Former Canadian prime Thursday. Bush as a man who “led a life that straight as he had piloted his aircraft. “The fact that he could cross minister Brian Mulroney said he President Donald Trump is exemplified what is truly great World War II airplane. Bush is the 12th US president party lines, and did that so grace- would deliver one of several scheduled to attend a state about America.” “He kept us flying high and to lie in state in the rotunda. Just fully, especially after his presi- eulogies, at Bush’s request. funeral today at Washington “President Bush worked self- challenged us to fly higher still. three months earlier, the honor dency, to me is really inspiring Tomorrow, Bush will be National Cathedral — the first lessly throughout his long life to And he did it with modesty and was accorded to senator John and a lesson that our current interred at the George H W Bush presidential funeral since Gerald bring about a world of justice and kindness that would have been McCain, a former Republican administration can learn from,” Presidential Library Center in Ford died in 2006. lasting peace,” he wrote. surprising in someone one tenth presidential nominee who died Frinzell, 56, said. College Station, Texas, next to his Late Monday, after Bush rel- The White House also as tough and accomplished as he of brain cancer. Bush will be honored at a wife Barbara, who died in April, atives and dignitaries had gone, extended an invitation to Bush’s was,” he said. Hundreds of members of the state funeral service at the and their daughter Robin who the president was driven from family to stay at Blair Bush was transported on oard public began quietly filing in to cathedral today, which Trump died of leukaemia at age three.

Congress to postpone govt shutdown deadline

BLOOMBERG House plans no roll call votes young undocumented immi- repeatedly in the past over the WASHINGTON this week, the aides said. Pres- grants from deportation. border wall and backed down. ident Donald Trump has said “We would save Billionwws “We are in a very strong Congress is planning to pass a he’s open to signing a two-week of Dollars if the Democrats position,” said Representative two-week stopgap spending bill extension. would give us the votes to build Nita Lowey, a New York Dem- this week to keep the US House Democrats are likely the Wall,” Trump tweeted on ocrat who’s in line to chair the government funded through to support the two-week delay Monday. “Either way, people will House Appropriations Com- December 21, according to two even though they had pushed for NOT be allowed into our Country mittee beginning in January. congressional aides. a one-week bill in an effort to illegally!” In the House, more liberal Lawmakers are postponing complete negotiations on gov- Congressional Republicans Democrats are urging Pelosi not the political fight over spending ernment spending well before have attempted to persuade to compromise on the wall after to pay their respects at this the holidays. Democrats to compromise by the party won control of the week’s memorial services for The stopgap means Demo- providing $2.5bn in wall funding chamber in November midterm President George H W Bush, who crats and Trump will risk a gov- in the coming year, and another elections. She’ll need those law- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during an event at the Concert died Friday evening. Without a ernment shutdown just days $2.5bn the year after. But so far, makers’ votes in her bid to return Noble, in Brussels, yesterday. new bill, a partial shutdown before Christmas as they battle Democrats have refused. as speaker when Democrats take would occur after December 7. over Trump’s request for $5bn Senate Minority Leader over in January. “In light of President Bush’s to fund a southern border wall. Chuck Schumer of New York Lawmakers seeking to avoid Trump is building a new death and the need to delay Trump has repeatedly said on the Senate floor last a messy holiday-season things, it is appropriate to give threatened to veto a bill week that the $1.6bn for border showdown said they hope us time to get our work done,’ extending the expiring funding security agreed to by Republican Schumer and Trump are taking liberal order: Pompeo said Senator John Barrasso of if he doesn’t get the $5 billion he and Democratic senators in a the lead in negotiations. The two REUTERS sometimes say we’re not acting Wyoming, a member of the wants for the wall on the US- draft bill is “our position” and attempted to craft a large-scale BRUSSELS in the free world’s interest. This Senate Republican leadership. Mexico border. Democrats, any shutdown will be Trump’s immigration deal in February, is just plain wrong.” The two-week spending whose votes are needed to enact fault. which failed after Trump was US President Donald Trump is “We are acting to preserve, measure would need the consent spending bills, have refused to Democrats said they have pressured by conservatives into building a new world order protect, and advance an open, of all Republicans and Demo- supply that level of funding the upper hand because Trump seeking additional changes to upheld by American leadership just, transparent and free world crats in the House because the unless Trump agrees to shield has threatened a shutdown legal immigration. and democracy, his secretary of sovereign states. This project of state told diplomats at an will require actual, not pretend, event in Brussels yesterday, restoration of the liberal order blaming Iran and China for among nations. It will require One dead after instability in the world. an assertive America and lead- Bolsonaro’s chief of staff faces probe “In the finest traditions of ership from not only my our great democracy, we are ral- country, but of democracies REUTERS federal congressman, took A spokesman for Onyx did tornadoes hit lying the noble nations to build around the world.” BRASILIA illegal campaign donations from not respond to requests for a new liberal order that prevents Pompeo said the US was the world’s largest meatpacker comment. central Illinois war and achieves greater pros- pushing the World Bank and the Brazil’s Supreme Court said JBS SA. Sweetheart contracts with perity,” Mike Pompeo said in a International Monetary Fund yesterday it had authorized a Executives of JBS said they governments and state loans AP foreign policy speech. to reduce funding to countries federal investigation into alle- made $52,290 worth of such helped fuel growth at J&F over TAYLORVILLE “Under President Trump, such as China, saying they gations that the incoming chief payments to Onyx between 2012 the past decade, enabling it to we are not abandoning inter- already had access to financial of staff for far-right President- and 2014. They made the accu- assert control of JBS while Central Illinois residents national leadership or our markets to raise capital. elect Jair Bolsonaro had taken sation in plea-bargain tes- expanding into fashion, dairy assessed the damage friends in the international Pompeo is in Brussels for illegal campaign donations. timony, part of a deal with pros- production, pulp processing and yesterday after rare December system,” he said. talks among foreign ministers Brazil’s Prosecutor General ecutors that saw J&F Investi- banking. tornadoes, including one that Pompeo criticised Iran and at Nato, where Trump has Raquel Dodge asked the top mentos SA, the holding that The investigation is the was a half-mile-wide and China in his speech, rejecting accused European members of court to allow an investigation controls JBS, pay a record 10.3 second graft allegation made injured at least 20 people. suggestions that Washington failing to spend enough on their into whether Onyx Lorenzoni, billions reais fine for bribing against a top member of the The severe weather in was acting unilaterally. own defence and relying too who will serve as Bolsonaro’s over 1,800 politicians at all president-elect’s incoming Illinois was part of a line of “Even our European friends much on Washington. chief of staff and longtime levels in Brazil in recent years. government. thunderstorms that raked areas of the central US late Friday and into Saturday, killing one person in Missouri. The National Weather Service Number of dead, missing in wildfire drops confirmed tornadoes in Illinois, Missouri and Oklahoma. REUTERS Sheriff Kory Honea said late Monday department. At least three tornadoes SACRAMENTO in a televised press conference. The so-called Camp Fire, which were confirmed in northwest Of the remains of the dead found, started November 8, has all but oblit- and southwest Arkansas. The death toll in California’s dead- 43 people have been positively iden- erated the mountain community of Peak months for tor- liest wildfire was revised downward tified, the sheriff’s department said Paradise, home to more than 27,000 nadoes in much of the to 85 and the number of people in a release. people about 175 miles north of San Midwest are April and June, believed missing dropped again to No new human remains have Francisco. according to the weather 11, down from a high of more than been found since last week, Honea The fire was fully contained service. But at least 23 tornado 1,200 about two weeks ago, officials said, but the search for remains is Novemebr 25, but the cause is still touchdowns on Saturday have said. expected to continue Tuesday, he being investigated. The electric utility been confirmed in Illinois, said The number of dead was revised said. PG&E Corp reported equipment Dan Smith, a meteorologist A file photo of people attempting to evacuate the area from 88 after DNA tests on remains If residents find remains, they problems near the origin of the fire with the weather service’s which is threatened by wildfires, in Paradise. by the coroner’s office, Butte County are asked to call the sheriff’s around the time it began. Lincoln, Illinois, office. 18 AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018

NY police unveil UN seeks $738m to help Venezuelan migrants fleet of drones

REUTERS There is one crisis for country,” UN emergency relief President Nicolas Maduro the government of Venezuela AP GENEVA which we for the first coordinator Mark Lowcock told blames the country’s economic is that we should strengthen NEW YORK time have a response a Geneva news briefing. problems on US financial sanc- our collaborative work and The United Nations said plan, which is to In Caracas, Venezuela’s tions and an “economic war” led support for example in area of The New York Police yesterday it was seeking $738m Information Ministry did not by political adversaries. health services and nutrition,” Department has shown off its in 2019 to help neighbouring help the countries respond to a request for The exodus, driven by vio- he said. first fleet of drones. countries cope with the inflow neighbouring comment. lence, hyperinflation and major David Beasley, executive The department said that of millions of Venezuelan Venezuela deal with The majority of Venezuelans shortages of food and medicine, director of the World Food Pro- potential uses for its 14 drones refugees and migrants, who have the consequences who have left have gone to 16 led to a UN emergency appeal of gramme (WFP), told a separate include search and rescue, “no prospect for return in the countries in Latin America and $9m announced last week for briefing: “This is a story hard-to-reach crime scenes, short to medium term”. of large numbers of the Caribbean, led by Brazil, health and nutrition projects unfolding, we have yet to be hostage situations, and haz- It was the first time that the Venezuelans leaving Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. inside Venezuela. allowed access inside ardous material incidents. crisis was included in the UN the country: UN official “In 2019, an estimated 3.6 Lowcock, asked about Ven- Venezuela.” It said that drones can annual global humanitarian million people will be in need of ezuelan government acceptance The WFP has urged the reduce risk to officers and appeal which is $21.9bn for 2019 assistance and protection, with of aid inside the country, said: United States and other donors bystanders during a response without Syria. “There is one crisis for which no prospects for return in the “I think there is a shared to help it reach Venezuelans in to dangerous situations. Three million Venezuelans we for the first time have a short to medium term,” the UN agreement that more UN help in surrounding countries with They’ll be operated by have fled the political and eco- response plan, which is to help appeal said. those sorts of areas would be a rations, he said, “because many officers who are specially nomic crisis in the Andean the countries neighbouring Ven- Colombia, which has taken very helpful thing in reducing the of the people, if they can just trained and licensed. country, most since 2015, ezuela deal with the conse- in one million Venezuelans, is suffering of people inside get food, they will at least stay The NYPD says the drones according to the UN refugee quences of large numbers of “bearing the biggest burden of Venezuela. in their home area, in that won’t be used for routine agency UNHCR. Venezuelans leaving the all”, Lowcock said. “What we have agreed with region.” patrol or traffic enforcement. NRCC reports ‘cyber intrusion’ during midterm campaign

AP offer no further comment on the technology-based stuff to try WASHINGTON incident.” and make sure that we know The FBI had no comment. what’s out there - which is hard, The National Republican The severity and circumstances too - and then we try to defend Congressional Committee of the hacking weren’t made against it the best we can.” (NRCC) said that it was hit with clear. Politically motivated cyber In August, Microsoft alerted a “cyber intrusion” during the espionage is commonplace the public to attempts by gov- 2018 midterm campaigns and across the world, but Americans ernment-backed Russian has reported the breach to the have become particularly alert hackers to target US conserva- FBI. to the possibility of digital inter- tives’ email by creating fake The committee provided ference following the 2016 websites that appeared to few details about the incident, election. That hack is still fresh belong a pair of think tanks, the but said the intrusion was con- in the minds of many political Hudson Institute and Interna- ducted by an “unknown entity.” operatives. tional Republican Institute. It “The cybersecurity of the In March 2018, NRCC also confirmed an attempt sim- committee’s data is paramount, Chairman Steve Stivers said the ilarly attributed to Russian and upon learning of the committee hired multiple cyber- hackers to infiltrate the Senate Plane accident in Mexico intrusion, the NRCC immedi- security staffers to work with its computer network of Sen. Claire ately launched an internal candidates and promised to do McCaskill,. A Cessna-type plane collapsed on a house is seen in the neighborhood of Rincon Real, in Culiacan, investigation and notified the more. Google later confirmed in State of Sinaloa, Mexico, yesterday. A Cessna plane crashed over a house in a residential area of FBI, which is now investigating “We’re starting to advise September that the personal the northern Mexican city of Culiacan, an accident that cost the lives of its four crew members and the matter,” spokesman Ian campaigns, but we’re not ready Gmail accounts of multiple sen- left two women injured on the ground, local authorities said. Prior said in a statement. “To to roll the whole thing out. We’re ators and staffers had recently protect the integrity of that working on it,” Stivers said at the been targeted by foreign investigation, the NRCC will time. “We’re working on the hackers. WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 19 Woqod hosts open Induction Day Ooredoo announces sponsorship of Clement The purpose of the event was to attract Qatari graduates Fencing Academy to provide training THE PENINSULA developed short fencing educa- and development DOHA tional programmes to initiate opportunities, and to and encourage the use of French engage in the work of Ooredoo has announced it is in Qatari schools. a fuel company. now the official sponsor of the Manar Khalifa Al Muraikhi, Doha-based Clement Fencing Director Communications and Academy. PR at Ooredoo, said: “Sup- THE PENINSULA Affiliated to the Qatar Fencing porting the community in DOHA Federation and the French Qatar is of paramount impor- Fencing Federation, the Clement tance to Ooredoo and we are As part of its Qatarization Fencing Academy currently has grateful for opportunities such program, Qatar Fuel Company more than 200 members repre- as these to work with local (Woqod) hosted an open senting 42 nationalities partici- associations that benefit our induction day yesterday, at the pating in fencing at its two loca- community and our people. We Ritz-Carlton Hotel. The tions in Doha. The Academy hosts recognise the importance of induction was scheduled in two cross-training programmes staying fit and healthy, and we phases – morning and evening inviting national athletes to welcome any opportunity to to receive applications for voca- compete and train with members promote this within our com- tional training and development of the club, as well as running munity. We are confident our program as well as offer an easy Open Induction Day in progress at the Ritz- Carlton Hotel. after-school and physical edu- partnership with Clement access to students for the cation classes for Doha students Fencing Academy will help induction program. vision 2030 in the development Hamad Al Thani, through The opportunity to meet with the aged 6 to 16 years. young people get involved in The purpose of the event of human capital and the Qatar National Vision 2030, graduate students and showcase The Academy also offers this wonderful sport and learn was to attract Qatari graduates enhancement of national com- Woqod is committed to partic- them the tremendous oppor- wheelchair fencing training for valuable life lessons.” to provide training and devel- petencies, through this ipate in developing the Qatari tunity that Woqod beholds. As both wheelchair users and the Ooredoo is delighted to opment opportunities, and to program. Human Capital with well skilled part of Woqod’s responsibility fully able, in order to promote have cemented this relationship engage in the work of a fuel On this occasion, Eng. Saad and qualified Qatari men and towards the community, we will opportunity for all and full inte- with the Clement Fencing company. The motive also Rashid Al-Muhannadi, Chief women to have the best oppor- train and develop the Qatari gration for every sector of Academy and looks forward to commensurate with the level Executive Officer at Woqod, said: tunities to join Woqod workforce competencies across the various society. And, as the CFA teaches a long and fruitful partnership of performance and support the “Under the leadership of with different backgrounds. This technical fields of the fencing in both French and in support of health and fitness achievement of Qatar National Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin endeavor offered us an organization.” English, the Academy has for the community in Qatar.

Jeep Grand CPH hosts second Pharmacy Patient Counselling Competition Cherokee THE PENINSULA During the 2018 model DOHA competition, students have five minutes to recalled To help prepare students to provide optimal pharmaceutical review a prescription THE PENINSULA care and advance healthcare and provide optimal DOHA outcomes, the College of counselling on the Pharmacy (CPH) at Qatar use of the prescribed The Ministry of Commerce and University (QU) recently Industry, in collaboration with organised their second Pharmacy medication and the United Cars Almana ( after Patient Counseling Competition, associated medical sales), dealer of Jeep vehicles which helps provide students with condition for a in Qatar, has announced the incentive to excel. standardized patient. recall of Jeep Grand Cherokee During the competition, stu- model of 2018 because the fuel dents have five minutes to review consumption’s label on some a prescription and provide including language skills, commu- vehicles is not in line with GCC optimal counselling on the use of nication skills, professional com- specifications. the prescribed medication and the petencies and clinical knowledge. The Ministry said the recall associated medical condition for The panel of judges included campaign comes within the a standardized patient. The first Pharmacy Director of Qatar Officials and participants at the Second “Pharmacy Patient Counselling Competition”. framework of its ongoing round focuses on obesity man- Armed Forces Dr. Amal Jalham, efforts to protect consumers agement and the three best per- CPH Associate Professor Dr. courses. I am really grateful for through attending conferences, contribute as a judge in the second and ensure that car dealers forming students from this round Maguy El Hajj, CPH Assistant Pro- such an opportunity and I do workshops and competitions like patient counseling pharmacy follow up on vehicle defects move into the final round, which fessor Dr. Zachariah Nazar and invite students to get involved in this one. We highly believe in the competition organized by the and repairs. The Ministry said focuses on acne and is otretinoin Clinical Lecturer Dr. Ziad Nasr. such activities as it a great way to importance of pharmacist coun- College of Pharmacy. The that it will coordinate with the medication counselling. Ikram Zoukh won first place explore what is really like to be a seling in increasing medication pharmacy profession has dealer to follow up on the The three contestants selected for the English version of the com- pharmacist.” adherence as well as increasing undergone dramatic changes over maintenance and repair works for the final round of the Arabic petition. Hend Al-Naimi won the In his remarks, Assistant Pro- a patients understanding of their the last decade and has shifted its and will communicate with category are: Hend Al-Naimi, Arabic. She says of the victory, “I fessor and Dean of CPH, Dr. medical condition and improving focus from being product oriented customers to ensure that the Aicha Ahmed and Meral am glad to be announced as a Mohammad Diab says, “Believing patient outcomes. Congratulations to patient oriented. The compe- necessary repairs are carried Abdulselam. The English category first-place winner, for sure, it is in Qatar University’s mission to to all the students who have par- tition reflects the changing role of out. The Ministry urges all cus- finalists are: Ikram Zoukh, Nour an unforgettable moment that be regionally recognized for dis- ticipated in this competition. Our the pharmacist and encourages tomers to report any violations Fakhr and Abier Elboshra. gave me a huge push to proceed. tinctive excellence in education college is very proud of you.’’ future young pharmacists to to its Consumer Protection and A panel of four judges eval- This all reflects the knowledge and research, the CPH exerts a lot Chair of Clinical Pharmacy promote their profession and to Anti-Commercial Fraud uated the participating students and skills that our instructors of efforts in bestowing a growing and Practice Section, Dr. Maguy become role model healthcare Department based on different criteria helped us on throughout our environment for its students El Hajj said, “I was very happy to providers and educators.”

Al Aziziyah QRCS launches QR14m Warm Boutique Hotel Winter campaign for the needy launches Friday THE PENINSULA Picnic Brunch DOHA Qatar Red Crescent Society THE PENINSULA (QRCS) has launched its Warm DOHA Winter campaign, which seeks to distribute QR14m winter aid Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel, one for more than 225,000 benefi- of the most beautiful hotels in ciaries in nine countries. Qatar, introduces a new brunch Under the theme of ‘Journey in town, the Friday Picnic of Giving’, this is the 13th edition Brunch. Picnic Blue Brunch. of the annual campaign, which It’s that time of year when has over the past few years Officials announcing the launch of Warm Winter campaign. you’re going outside for every- cakes, panna cottas and ice seasonal ingredients, we created reached out to millions of thing. Can you think of a better cream. This is a brunch for the an extensive menu. Picnic affected populations across Asia homeless people to withstand support, thanks to the support place than the spacious back seriously hungry and the ones Brunch will showcase live sta- and Africa. the heavy-handed winter”. from donors to QRCS’s winter- terrace of Blue restaurant, that need some quality time, tions of signature dishes, to be The new drive was “Let’s show the best in ization programs planned in directly linked to Aspire Park? well-spent with friends and changed every week, so there is announced in a press con- humanity and bring happiness nine countries: Lebanon, Imagine checkered tablecloths, family. no better way to spend a relaxing ference attended by Ibrahim into the hearts of kids, women, Turkey, Yemen, Syria, Jordan, relaxing bean bags and large Priced at QR185 per person afternoon with the whole family Abdullah Al Maliki, Executive and elderly people desperate for Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyr- picnic tables; endless greenery, (kids 6-12 QR70) Picnic brunch and all of your friends”. Director, Dr. Mohamed Salah warmth and food in the coldest gyzstan, and Bangladesh. Under extensive food kiosks with live is available from 12:30pm - A spacious outdoor terrace, Ibrahim, Executive Director of months of the year. It is an inal- these programs, the benefici- stations. Rustic breads, flaky 4:00pm. Join the feast for with spectacular views of Aspire Relief and International Devel- ienable right for those deprived aries will get diverse shelter, pastries, colorful salads and unlimited fun for the little ones Park’s greenery, set the tone for opment, and Abdullah Hamed of warmth and security or heating, food, and nonfood aid”. fresh-from-the-oven pizzas with inflatables, colorful games an extraordinary dining expe- Al Mulla, Director of afflicted by lack of food and Then, Al Mullah gave an compete for your attention to and crafts! rience, casual style. For inquiries, Communication. shelter. We are there for them, overview of the means of kick start this brunch. For mains, Cluster Executive Chef, additional details and reserva- Al Maliki welcomed the inspired heart and soul by our donation to this charitable cam- you’re presented with seafood, Krishnalall Beeharee, said: “We tions you are kindly requested guests and said, “The winter of central value of “saving lives and paign through phone number of meat cuts, sushi and many more, are very happy to introduce to contact Al Aziziyah Boutique 2019 is here, and we are geared preserving dignity,” he added. headquarters (44027777), Hot- all of excellent quality. And then Picnic Brunch at Blue. The Hotel at +974 4445 5555 or res- up for giving! This is a tradition Dr. Ibrahim said: “This year, lines (66666364 – 66644822 – it’s back to the buffet for some outside terrace is ideal for such ervation@alaziziyahboutique. that seeks to help more and some 225,000 needy people are 16002) and donation locations decadent desserts, including a concept and with fresh, com more poor, displaced, and bound to find succor and points at malls & public venues. 20 MORNING BREAK WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2018

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04. 44 AM The Peninsula books generate interest at DIBF SHOROOK 06. 05 AM The two special ZUHR 11. 24 AM MAGHRIB 04. 46 PM publications about the ASR 02. 24 PM ISHA 06. 16 PM siege on Qatar, published by The Peninsula, are WEATHER TODAY garnering a lot of interest among the visitors.

THE PENINSULA DOHA

The Peninsula newspaper is present with two publications at the 29th edition of the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) being held at the Doha Exhi- The cover of ‘A Year of Determination and Triumph’ and “365 Days of Dignity and Pride”. bition and Convention Center (DECC). The two special publications about the siege on Qatar, published by The quartet. The book, a compilation of in The Peninsula in the last one year as authentic information and brief write- Peninsula, are garnering a lot of interest articles and interviews of Dr. Al-Shafi, well as excerpts from his talks at Qatar ups, the book merits itself to be a good among the visitors. is actually a treatise showing author’s TV prime time talk show Al Haqiqa (The read. ‘A Year of Determination and love with his country, leadership and Truth). The exclusive interviews of The beginning chapters of the book Triumph’, written by Dr. Khalid bin nation at the one hand and on the other Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim carry three speeches of Amir H H Mubarak Al-Shafi, Editor-in-Chief of a written record of Qatar’s resolution and Turkish Economy Minister Nihat Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani The Peninsula, and a 126-page col- and steadfastness in the face of chal- Zeybekci which Dr. Al-Shafi conducted delivered on July 21, 2017 in his address lection of articles about the unjust siege lenges posed by the blockade in the last in Turkey last year are also part of the to the nation, at the UN General titled “365 Days of Dignity and Pride” one year. Through his articles published book. Assembly session on September 19, 2017 are showcased inside the Dar Al Sharq in The Peninsula, Dr. Al-Shafi has been To mark one year of unjust siege, and at the opening session of the group booth. The Peninsula is a part of continuously questioning the hidden The Peninsula newspaper had pub- Advisory Council on November 14, 2017. Dar Al Sharq Group. objectives of the blockading countries lished a special 126-page book “365 “Inspiring the nation: A diplomatic The 10-day book fair, which started attached with the imposition of siege Days of Dignity and Pride”, which success” is the chapter covering tours o o on November 29 is open from 9am to against Qatar. Dr. Al-Shafi, through his shows with the help of facts and figures, and diplomatic contacts of H H the Amir 20 C 26 C 9pm except on Friday from 4pm to pen, exposed harms of the blockade on how Qatar has defeated the blockade with various world leaders in post siege Minimum Maximum 10pm, while on Thursday from 9am to the whole Gulf society and through and shattered hopes of architects of scenario and the success of Qatar’s 10pm. regular appearance on Qatar TV as an crisis. diplomacy in international arena. Misty to foggy at places by early morning ‘A Year of Determination and analyst he always defended his Divided into 35 chapters, the book The book bears a meticulously- becomes mild daytime with some clouds, Triumph’ is the title of the book homeland in the time of crisis as a deals with various subjects and throws arranged timeline of all major hap- relatively cold by night. authored by Dr. Khalid bin Mubarak patriot from the core of his heart. lights on different sectors like economy, penings, developments and events

HIGH TIDE 4:15 – 14:45 LOW TIDE 10:15 – 21:30 Al-Shafi to mark a year of unjust siege The bilingual (English and Arabic) diplomacy, sports, health, education etc. occurred since June 5, 2017 till the com- Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department imposed against Qatar by Saudi-led book includes his 29 columns appeared With hundreds of colourful pictures, pletion of one year of siege. HMC urges people to get tested for HIV status on World Aids Day

THE PENINSULA intercourse with a HIV-infected DOHA person. “We have seen an increase in the Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) number of new infections this year and Communicable Disease Center (CDC) this is mainly amongst young people. is marking World Aids Day 2018 by Each year in Qatar between 15 and 25 urging people to ‘know their status’ and new HIV cases are diagnosed. This The officials of HMC inaugurate the event to mark World Aids Day. get tested for the virus and other means we need to enhance our efforts sexually transmitted infections (STIs). to educate the community about risks, World Aids Day is marked annually how the virus is transmitted, and how comprehensive care to affected indi- at risk of HIV infection can protect on December 1 and this week HMC they can be tested. The earlier HIV is viduals living in the country. themselves by taking preventive holds a range of educational events diagnosed, the better the outcome of “Under the national program, treatment which is available at the across the organisation, as well as in the treatment. Through education and anyone living in Qatar who is diag- Communicable Disease Center,” said the community, to raise awareness awareness we can help end the epi- nosed with HIV is given the appro- Dr Al Khal. about the HIV infection, its prevention, demic,” said Dr Al Khal. priate counseling and the most For more information about STIs, and how to get tested. Dr Al Khal says Qatar has put in advanced treatment available. They visit the CDC website at www.hamad. HMC’s Head of Infectious Diseases place a National Aids Program through are also assured of confidentiality and qa. For specific information and and Aids Program Manager, Dr Abdul- the Ministry of Public Health that is support. People who are receiving support for HIV/Aids , please call the latif Al Khal, said the main method of focused on raising awareness of the treatment are very unlikely to transmit dedicated confidential hotline: 4025 HIV transmission is through sexual virus as well as providing the virus. In addition, those who are 4025. Doha Burger Festival offers Qatari twist Syria’s last shadow RAYNALD C RIVERA puppeteer hopes THE PENINSULA

The classic American burger is given a Qatari twist at an expanded version of the annual to save his art Doha Burger Festival which kicked off yesterday at Katara Cultural Village. REUTERS last puppeteer. When he took With the success of its inaugural edition DAMASCUS it up in his late teens in 1993, last year along with the aim to support local traditional shadow puppetry brands engaged in the food and beverage The last shadow puppeteer in was already all but forgotten sector, the second edition has been organised Damascus lost most of his and his family worried he could this time in a bigger space with even bigger equipment to war and endured never make it his living. participation, said organisers. life as a refugee in Lebanon, but He revived the art from old “More than 35,000 people attended the he now believes the old Syrian stories and history books, and first edition of the festival which was held art form might survive after the made the puppets himself. They at the Hotel Park last year with 40 partici- United Nations said it needed are crafted from camel, cow or pants. This year, we have 72 participants, to be saved. donkey hide and each character majority of which are Qatari companies. We Traditional shadow theatre represents a particular social Hussein Al Baker (right), Katara’s Services Department Manager, and Omar Shamiyeh want to support Qatari businesses, who use was historically a staple of trait. (second right), CEO of Cosette Solutions, tour various stalls during the launch of the second their own local spices and ingredients on the Damascus cafe life, as story At a recent performance, classic American burger,” Omar Shamiyeh, Doha Burger Festival yesterday at Katara. tellers used dyed animal-skin Hallaq used a translucent CEO of Cosette Solutions, organiser of the puppets to entertain their screen, painted to resemble an festival, told The Peninsula yesterday. international brands, we have created this games section with competitions with a total audience with tall tales, satire, alleyway in the Old City of Although the festival witnesses the festival as a platform to let people know of of more than QR30,000 in prizes at stake,” songs and verse. Damascus, to tell a story about presence of several international franchises, these new homegrown companies and said Shamiyeh. Last week the UN’s cultural unscrupulous traders using the the participants are mainly local set to sur- sample new tastes.” This year’s festival have Katara’s Services Department Manager agency Unesco added Syrian traditional two main characters prise foodies by putting their own spin on also almost four times doubled the exhibition Hussein Al Baker, led the inauguration of the shadow puppetry to its list of — naive Karakoz and the wise, the burger, which has been one of the more space-from 4,000sqm last year to the festival on behalf of Katara General Manager intangible heritage in urgent wily Aywaz. popular food in the country. present 15,000sqm, said Shamiyeh, adding Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti. need of saving, noting its long He fled the fighting, “In general, fast food, which includes they are expecting the number of visitors to “Katara has been keen to host such a fes- decline in the face of modern crossing the border into burgers, is the most popular meal in Qatar increase to 75,000 from last year’s 35,000. tival to introduce visitors to the different fla- forms of entertainment and the Lebanon, where he worked for after local cuisine. With the growing demand, The festival also includes six food trucks vours and choices of burgers available in the displacement caused by war. two years as a labourer. Now there are more than 280 burger restaurants with local concepts and a vegetarian section market and to get updated with the latest “Until three or five days back in Damascus, he will start in Qatar and today more than 70 of them are for the health conscious. There are also fast food options,” said Al Baker. ago, it was an art that didn’t teaching a group of prospective here,” said Shamiyeh. several stalls offering non-food products. Running for five days, the festival located provide bread. Now we are puppeteers in about six months He added: “With the demand and in “We also have the biggest bouncy castle in Katara’s southern area is open to the thinking of buying bread and to ensure the art survives, said support of the love and passion of local busi- in the world, a kid’s area, a stage where public from 12 noon till midnight until eating bread... I hope for the Rasha Barhoum, a Syrian cul- nesses who are trying to compete with shows will be held daily, and an electronic Saturday. better,” said Shadi Al Hallaq, the tural official.