published in QATAR since 1978

THURSDAY Vol. XXXXI No. 11471 February 27, 2020 Rajab 3, 1441 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Amir meets US treasury secretary Our Say Qatar Museums to open ‘M7’ creative centre By Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Editor-in-Chief next month 1,000 days O M7 is dedicated to innovation and entrepreneurship in of proud Qatar’s growing fashion and design industry atar Museums (QM) will inau- pointments with world-renowned achievements gurate next month a new fi ve- beauty artists such as Dr Barbara Sturm Qstorey, 29,000sq m (312,000sq at the Park Hyatt Hotel and Dr Georgia His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met at the Amiri Diwan yesterday with US Treasury Secretary Steven hat would a nation do if ft) facility known as M7, dedicated to Louise at the Mandarin Oriental; and Mnuchin and his accompanying delegation, who are currently visiting the country. During the meeting, they reviewed strategic its neighbours suddenly innovation and entrepreneurship in the the Qatar Africa Business Forum at the bilateral relations between the two friendly countries, in addition to discussing a number of issues of joint interest. Page 2 Wclose their borders one fi ne nation’s growing fashion and design Mandarin Oriental Hotel. morning and level unfounded charges industry. Yet another salient aspect of #Qa- as a pretext to launch a land, air and This was announced by QM Chair- tarCreates is the opening of six major sea blockade? And what would that person HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint QM exhibitions. A Falcon’s Eye: Trib- Amir to meet Pakistan PM today nation do if these neighbours are also Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani yesterday ute to Sheikh Saoud al-Thani at the brothers, members of an extended in a statement. Museum of Islamic Art will open to the His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani will meet today at the Amiri Diwan with the Prime Minister of the Arab family, who have lived in har- Located in the heart of Msheireb public from March 25, 2020 to January Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Imran Khan. The Amir and the Pakistan prime minister, who will arrive on an off icial visit to the mony until that opprobrious day - Downtown Doha, M7 is to be inaugu- 2, 2021. country, will discuss bilateral relations and ways to develop and strengthen them, in addition to several regional and international June 5, 2017? rated as part of the annual #QatarCre- Splendours of the Ancient East: issues of common concern. It is now about 1,000 days since ates celebration, to be held in Doha Antiquities from Al Sabah Collection Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emir- from March 24-27. at the National Museum of Qatar is to ates, Bahrain and Egypt severed dip- #QatarCreates will include: The open to the public from March 26 to Amir orders evacuation of Qataris and Kuwaitis from Iran lomatic relations with Qatar and presentation of the second annual July 1, 2020. Yto Barrada: My Very Ed- banned Qatari airplanes and ships Fashion Trust Arabia Prize; a benefi t ucated Mother Just Served Us Nougat; His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani Kuwait, who are currently in Iran, due to the outbreak of the from utilising their airspace and sea gala and fashion show hosted by Naomi Huguette Caland: Faces and Places; has issued directives to evacuate the citizens of Qatar and novel coronavirus (Covid-19). routes, along with Riyadh blocking Campbell at M7 and Msheireb’s central and Lived Forward: Art and Culture in the only land crossing. Travel be- square, the Baraha, in support of Fash- Doha from 1960-2020 at Mathaf: Arab tween the countries was banned and ion for Relief and Education Above All. Museum of Modern Art will open to Saudi, UAE and Bahraini nationals #QatarCreates is to witness the de- the public from March 25 to August 26. living in Qatar were asked to return, but in Msheireb of a suite of townhous- Picasso’s Studios at Doha Fire Station separating mothers and fathers from es created by design legends including is to open to the public from March 15 their children, spouses from each Diane von Furstenberg, Armani Casa, to July 1. other and cutting ties between rela- and India Mahdavi; the opportunity Additionally, a series of cultural tives of hundreds of “joint GCC fami- for members of the public to book ap- tours as well as fashion talks and panel lies”. discussions will be announced soon. That was the moment when Qatar, M7 is founded to: advance the ca- which is often described as a ‘tiny reers of Qataris in creative industries, Arab Gulf country’, realised it has to especially design and fashion; train as- prove its worth among the comity of piring entrepreneurs in creative fi elds; nations and create a niche for itself spark creativity in people of all ages that is noble and worthy to be proud and backgrounds through exhibitions, of. The country’s government under performances, fi lms, educational pro- the wise leadership of His Highness grammes, and public discussions; and the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad help connect Qatar’s innovators with al-Thani and the people of Qatar rose the world. to the occasion, and the rest is his- Envisioned to serve Qatar’s emerging tory. As HE the Deputy Prime Minis- creative industries, M7 is positioned ter and Minister of State for Defence as the cultural, educational, and en- Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al- trepreneurial centrepiece of Msheireb Attiyah said recently, Qatar was able Downtown Doha. M7 will feature train- to overcome the challenges of the M7 is located in the heart of Msheireb ing, workshop, and incubator spaces. blockade in just 72 hours. Downtown Doha. To Page 4 Some 1,000 days after the blockade was imposed, Qatar can look back and be proud of the stupendous achieve- ments it has recorded in all fi elds, overcoming all the obstacles. From a point where more than 80% of its ‘Travellers have to declare cash, food needs were either coming from or through the blockading coun- tries, Qatar has today reached self- valuables worth QR50,000’ suffi ciency in many food products, including dairy and poultry. Baladna, ravellers arriving in Qatar or Also, travellers need to declare pre- the country’s leading dairy fi rm, is departing will have to declare if cious metals such as gold, silver, plati- now looking to export its products to Tthey are carrying cash, jewel- num and others as well as precious countries in the region and beyond. lery or any fi nancial instruments worth stones such as diamond, pearl, emer- While the blockading countries QR50,000 or more, it has been an- ald, sapphire, etc if they are worth over wanted to isolate Qatar, there has nounced. QR50,000. been an outpouring of support for In a statement yesterday, the General The authority explained that a trav- Doha’s principled stance from all over Authority of Customs (GAC) said trav- eller has to voluntarily fi ll up the des- the world. To Page 4 ellers will have to fi ll up the declaration ignated form in case he/she is carrying form at the designated Customs offi ces QR50,000 or more, or its equivalent [email protected] located at all air, sea and land ports of in the form of the above-mentioned the country. items, besides submitting any related This is part of the enforcement of and additional information required by Law No 20 of 2019 on combating money the GAC offi cials. Today’s edition of Gulf laundering and terrorism fi nancing and Providing false information, not Times carries four Cabinet Decision No 41 of 2019 on the submitting a written declaration in special pages on the executive regulations of the same law. the fi rst place or refusing to supply the The GAC said the items that trav- necessary details required by the GAC, Proud Achievements of ellers are required to declare include such as the source of the money, would Qatar during the 1,000 currency notes, whether Qatari riyals entail jail sentences of up to three years or foreign currency, and fi nancial in- or fi nes ranging from QR100,000- days of the blockade struments that can be used for transac- 500,000 or double the sum of the value Pages 13, 14, 15, 16 tions such as a document in the name of the money in question, whichever is of the bearer. These include traveller’s higher, the statement noted. cheques, bank cheques, signed pay- In addition, the money found on the ment orders and bonds, among others. passenger would be seized. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, February 27, 2020 QATAR

PM meets US treasury secretary

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani yesterday met the US Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin and his accompanying delegation, who are currently visiting Qatar. During the meeting, they reviewed strategic bilateral relations, as well as ways to enhance and develop them, particularly in the fields of finance and investment.

Cabinet praises outcome of Amir’s 3-nation tour

QNA In addition, the discus- lic and private sectors. of Environment, Water and Doha sions opened up broad The Cabinet then re- Forests in Romania. prospects for further co- viewed topics on its meet- 4 – A draft memorandum operation in various fields ing’s agenda as follows: of understanding in the he Cabinet’s reg- for the benefit and welfare First – Approval of the fi eld of enhancing corrup- ular meeting, of the people and promot- draft decision of the Minis- tion prevention between the T chaired by HE the ed mutual understanding ter of Finance to establish a Administrative Control and Prime Minister and Min- on various regional and customs department in the Transparency Authority ister of Interior Sheikh international issues, in a general warehouse (Milaha in Qatar and French Anti- Khalid bin Khalifa bin way that contributes to Logistics City). Corruption Agency. Abdulaziz al-Thani, strengthening joint Arab Second – Approval of: The Cabinet then re- praised the outcome of action and preserving se- 1 – A draft air services viewed a draft law amend- His Highness the Amir curity, peace and stability agreement between the ing some provisions of Law Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad in the region. governments of Qatar and No 32 of 1995 regarding the al-Thani’s official tour to After the meeting, held East Timor. prohibition of damage to Jordan, Tunisia and Alge- at the Amiri Diwan, HE 2 – A draft agreement be- plant environment and its ria from February 23-25. the Minister of Justice and tween the governments of components, and taking the The Council affi rmed that Acting Minister of State Qatar and Cote d’Ivoire on appropriate decision ther- the Amir’s fruitful discus- for Cabinet Aff airs Dr Issa avoiding double taxation eon. sions with Jordan’s King Saad al Jafali al-Nuaimi, an- and preventing fi nancial The Cabinet discussed Abdullah, Tunisia’s Presi- nounced the following: evasion in relation to in- the main logistical and in- dent Kais Saied and Alge- HE the Prime Minister come taxes. dustrial projects for the rian President Abdelmadjid and the Minister of Inte- 3 – A draft memoran- Economic Zones Company Tebboune, and the positive rior instructed the minis- dum of understanding for (Manateq) and the Coun- results that resulted from ters to include the execu- co-operation in the fi eld of cil instructed the relevant them, have formed further tive plans of ministries and climate change and envi- authorities to develop the strengthened the brotherly other government agen- ronmental protection be- necessary plans to provide relations that exist between cies, public bodies and in- tween the Ministry of Mu- the needs based on a study Qatar and the three coun- stitutions and partnership nicipality and Environment of supply and demand for tries. projects between the pub- in Qatar and the Ministry lands. Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 3 QATAR

GCO says no coronavirus National Service Academy concludes Miqdam 3 tactical drill cases in Qatar The Government Communications Off ice said yesterday that there are no reported cases of coronavirus (Covid-19) in Qatar, adding that the risk to the public and individuals in Qatar is currently low. In a statement released yester- day, the off ice said that the gov- ernment is taking all measures to protect the public and plan for eventualities. It also said that the Ministry of Public Health is work- ing closely with all local entities, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other international bodies to monitor the situation and provide up-to-date guidance. “Given the rapidly changing situa- tion, it is important that the public refer regularly to off icial govern- ment communications on the matter. All off icial guidance and communications will be issued by the Ministry of Public Health and made available on their website”. The Government Communica- tions Off ice then said it encour- ages individuals to refer to off icial information and not to rely on or distribute unconfirmed or unof- The National Service Academy concluded yesterday the tactical exercise “Miqdam 3” with the participation of cadets of the Academy. The activities were held under the patronage and presence of HE the ficial information, noting that the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah and in the presence of HE the Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces Lieutenant General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Ministry of Public Health provides Shaheen al-Ghanem along with senior Armed Forces off icers. The ten-day drill included several individual and group exercises aimed at providing the trainees with military skills, and reaching the highest regular updates on its website levels of military readiness. www.moph.gov.qa. Katara hosts events to mark Huawei Mate 30 Pro 5G phone Qatar Environment Day available for Ooredoo customers oredoo has announced that its customers can get QNA Othe new Huawei Mate 30 Doha Pro 5G online and at selected re- tail shops in Doha. The all-new Huawei Mate Pro 5G atar, represented by the comes with ‘an incredible display, Ministry of Municipal- an awesome Leica Quad camera, an Qity and Environment upgraded battery, the facility to Su- (Environmental Aff airs Units), perCharge with or without a cable in co-operation with a number and enhanced security features,’ ac- of governmental, non-govern- cording to a statement. mental, and community mem- The device will be available bers, celebrated the Qatar Envi- for QR3,899 at the Ooredoo eS- ronment Day yesterday. hop and at Ooredoo retail shops every QR1 spent on the device. Qatar, said of the launch: “We are To mark the occasion the min- in Villaggio Mall, Mall of Qatar, Stocks are limited and sales of delighted to be able to off er the istry is holding a major event at Landmark, and The Pearl. the device will be on a fi rst come, latest Huawei smartphone model the Cultural Village Foundation Ooredoo customers purchas- fi rst served basis. and would urge customers to vis- – Katara until February 28. ing the new Huawei Mate 30 Pro Yousuf Abdulla al-Kubaisi, it our eShop or the selected retail The Qatar Environment Day 5G will get 1 Nojoom point for chief operating offi cer, Ooredoo shops as soon as possible.” activities in Katara will witness the participation of all depart- Several activities are being held to mark Qatar Environment Day. ments affi liated to the Environ- mental Aff airs Units, under the and Environment Abdullah bin “Let’s live together”, realising in the country; a project to pro- slogan “Let’s live together”, em- Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie the importance of biodiversity tect endangered plants such as Dusty conditions forecast phasising the interest in biodi- underlined that Qatar attaches in achieving environmental bal- Mesquites and Cordia myxa; a versity and sustainability in the great importance to the issue of ance and sustainability. project to rehabilitate the Qatari Qatari environment. the environment and its preser- Minister al-Subaie empha- mainland; endangered Hawks- The ministry also holds, in vation, in light of the wise lead- sised that the Ministry of Mu- bill turtle protection project; co-operation and partnership ership of His Highness the Amir nicipality and Environment the DNA project for the Arabian with a number of bodies, insti- Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- seeks to protect Qatar’s envi- Oryx; the establishment of Al tutions, and authorities in Qa- Thani. The state has put envi- ronment diversify and preserve Reem Reserve, which is included tar, cleaning campaigns at some ronmental development as one its resources in order to achieve in the Man and the Biosphere beaches, roads, and parks in dif- of the four main pillars of the sustainable development and Programme (Unesco). ferent regions of the country, in Qatar National Vision 2030, and work to protect the sustain- The ministry has also imple- addition to some aff orestation stressed that achieving this vi- ability of living and non-living mented several other projects and agricultural work. sion is a national responsibility. natural resources. such as the whale shark protec- The Environmental Aff airs The minister added that the The Environment minister tion project; the sea cows pro- Unit works hard to maintain the celebration of this occasion, pointed out that the ministry tection project; the production survival of vital systems, restore with the participation of gov- has implemented a number of and reproduction of Houbara balance, preserve the environ- ernment, private agencies and projects and programmes in this bustard in Rawdat Al Faras cen- ment, and develop and sustain various groups of society, aims fi eld, including a project to es- tre and the external reserves in a its resources, which are consid- to emphasise the importance of tablish a database of biodiversity number of countries. ered fortunes for future genera- the environment and its pres- tions, based on the ministry’s ervation and sustainability for Qur’anic Botanic Garden launches African garden responsibility towards the en- future generations, noting that vironment and achieving its vi- through the second national The Qur’anic Botanic Garden, members of the African sion, mission, and goals. development strategy and the a member of Qatar Founda- Women’s Diplomatic Group The Environmental Aff airs sustainable strategy of the Min- tion for Education, Science and senior Qatari dignitaries, Unit has implemented many pro- istry of Municipality and En- and Community Develop- as well as local community grammes that support the path of vironment (2018-2022), clear ment, launched yesterday the leaders. Windy and dusty conditions, along with a drop in visibility, are expected in Qatar again today, the development and environmental goals have been set to achieve African Women’s Diplomatic Launched in the QBG Pilot weather forecast shows. Doha and other places around the country experienced severe dusty conservation within the strategic the environmental sustainabil- Garden, in celebration of Qatar Garden at Education City, the conditions yesterday morning. Poor horizontal visibility was reported from most areas, dropping plan and international treaties ity of the country. Environment Day which falls African Women’s Diplomatic to 1,200m in Doha and less than that in other places, as a result of the strong northwesterly winds and agreements in this regard in The minister noted that Qa- on February 26 each year. Garden is part of QBGs Ghars and the ‘dust mass’ aff ecting the country, the Met department said in a tweet yesterday. Later in a manner that refl ects the aspi- tar shares the interest of the To mark the event, a tree- tree-planting campaign, and the evening, the Met department said strong northwesterly winds were expected to return on ration of the people of Qatar and world in preserving biodiver- planting ceremony was held in aims to highlight the impor- Thursday, leading to rising dust - especially in the open areas - and a decrease in visibility to less future generations. sity, and this year, the ministry the presence of ambassadors tance of green conservation than 2km. PICTURE: Jayaram Speaking on this occasion, celebrates the Qatar Environ- from 10 African countries, initiatives in Qatar. HE the Minister of Municipality ment Day with a national slogan

A better kind of home connectivity from Vodafone Qatar: No interruptions, no dead zones

Doha make the best of their smart ers can enjoy high-speed internet both at home and on the go. experience and enjoy the service technology sharing a single con- connection that enables Wi-Fi Vodafone Qatar currently has and then decide whether to con- nection wherever they are in the coverage in every corner of the an exciting new GigaHome special tinue without paying any monthly ome Internet connectiv- house, at the same time. home, and access to exclusive con- off er - ‘Don’t buy, just try’ - which rentals on their chosen plan. Cus- ity has come a long way Such connectivity eliminates ‘no tent on GigaTV, Vodafone’s unique lets anyone try GigaHome smart tomers can live chat with an agent Hfrom the early days when go’ areas in the home such as the TV service that off ers a wide range Wi-Fi and enjoy three months at to learn more at www.vodafone. using the Internet meant the en- kitchen or the balcony. Chances are of niche TV content tailored to en- no cost. Customers who sign up qa/try or visit any Vodafone Qatar tire family had to huddle around that most of us use our smart phone tertain every member of the fam- for the trial will have one month to retail store. their router to be within range or tablet all over the house and not in ily. Among the lifestyle benefi ts are of the Wi-Fi signal. We are now one place all of the time. Now there ‘Vodafone Entertainer’ and WAVO able to enjoy the kind of connec- is no need to be tied down to the liv- by OSN - that provides great fam- About Vodafone Qatar P.Q.S.C. tivity that can cover every corner ing room or wherever the signal is ily entertainment with an array of the home and capture each stronger or suff er from intermittent of live channels from around the Vodafone Qatar P.Q.S.C. (“Voda- country with fibre connectivity family member’s diff ering digital service interruptions. world, award-winning TV shows fone Qatar”) provides a compre- and 5G, along with an extensive demands. Vodafone Qatar currently of- and on-demand movies. hensive range of services includ- digital ecosystem, which will One of the best choices for fers a range of options to enjoy The kind of connectivity ing voice, messaging, data, fixed contribute to Qatar’s contin- households in Qatar today is the Samsung “mesh” devices, intel- Parents can catch up on news, this home connectivity, includ- which GigaHome off ers guaran- communications, IoT and ICT ued growth and prosperity. Vodafone GigaHome platform, ligently, seamlessly and safely entertainment or other video ing both fi bre and wireless home tees an enjoyable digital lifestyle, managed services in the State of Vodafone Qatar’s vision is deeply an innovative suite of home in- connects the entire family, mak- content on the smart TV in the services (on 4G or 5G Vodafone especially now when an internet Qatar, for both consumers and rooted in its mission to connect ternet services powered by Vo- ing GigaHome ideal for families living room; kids can stream the routers depending on the cus- connection has become as es- businesses alike. The Company today’s ideas with the technolo- dafone Qatar’s GigaNet network. who need to connect several de- latest audiobook on a laptop in tomer’s location). Since the sential as an electricity or a water commenced commercial opera- gies of tomorrow by pioneering Connectivity through Giga- vices to a single router. Enabling the bedroom upstairs, or enjoy a launch of Vodafone GigaHome connection in our homes. tions in 2009 and has 1.7 million digital innovation and becoming Home guarantees Wi-Fi in every Wi-Fi coverage in every room of competitive game on the Play- 5G, customers here in Qatar have Every family member can now customers as of 30 September people’s first choice in telecom room, whatever the size of the the home lets everyone do what Station, or catch up on YouTube become among the fi rst in the have their connectivity needs met 2019. Its state-of-the-art network and digital services. Please house, using a state-of-the art they want online with no inter- tutorials on their smart phones world to get high-speed 5G in- with Vodafone Qatar, an all round- infrastructure is expanding visit www.vodafone.qa for more Giga Wi-Fi Hub. ruptions – a better way to enjoy a for social media downstairs - ternet speed in their homes. ed digital solutions partner help- to cover key locations in the details. The technology, supported by smart digital lifestyle as a family. meaning the whole family can Vodafone Gigahome custom- ing to enhance our digital lifestyle; Gulf Times 4 Thursday, February 27, 2020 QATAR

Amir sends FM meets US treasury secretary Al-Mahmoud meets Turkey’s envoy message to Albanian leader His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani yesterday sent a written message to the President of Albania Ilir Meta, pertaining to bilateral ties and the means to enhance them. The message was delivered by Qatar’s ambassador to Albania Ali bin Hamad al-Marri, during a meeting yesterday in Tirana with President Ilir Meta. ACTA chief meets Jordanian off icial HE the President of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) Hamad bin Nasser al-Misnad met the Chairman of the Jordan Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission (JIACC) Muhannad HE the Speaker of the Shura Council Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud yesterday met Hijazi, on the occasion of his visit the outgoing ambassador of Turkey to Qatar Fikret Ozer. During the meeting, they reviewed to Qatar. During the meeting, HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman parliamentary relations and the means of supporting and developing them. HE al-Mahmoud wished they reviewed the areas of co- al-Thani yesterday met the US Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin, who is currently visiting the ambassador success in his future assignment, and relations between Qatar and Turkey further operation between Qatar and Qatar. During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral relations, in addition to issues of joint interest. development and growth. Jordan in the field of integrity, transparency and anti-corruption. Siege countries MoCI conducts surprise inspection restore postal campaign targeting street vendors he Ministry of Com- ed business activities with- the various commercial ac- merce and Industry out obtaining a commercial tivities. T(MoCI), in co-operation licence. The violators were The MoCI has stressed services to Qatar with the Ministry of Interior, referred to the competent that it will not tolerate any has carried out a surprise in- authorities for legal proceed- violations of Consumer Pro- spection campaign targeting ings. tection Law No 5 of 2015 and QNA items to the blockading countries or street vendors in the Najma Within the framework of its Ministerial Decision No 243 Doha even to receive and send postal items to area of Doha. eff orts to regulate the busi- of 2016, and would intensify other countries through the blockading The campaign was con- its inspection campaigns to countries. This situation has aff ected ducted in a bid to monitor the Campaign results in crack down on violations. he Communications Regulato- many citizens and residents in Qatar compliance of suppliers with 93 penalties by street Further, the ministry has ry Authority (CRA) announced who use the postal services in com- their obligations under Law No vendors who conducted said it will refer any party in Tthat the blockading countries mercial services, or to communicate 5 of 2015 relating to industrial business activities without violation of laws and minis- (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Bah- with their relatives and friends in these and commercial shops, pub- obtaining a commercial terial decisions to the com- rain) have restored the provision of countries or through them. lic stores and street vendors, licence petent authorities, who will, postal services to Qatar. The CRA noted that Qatar Postal as well as their commitment in turn, take appropriate ac- This resumption is the outcome of Services Company (Q-Post) is ready to ministerial Decision No 243 ness environment and cre- tion against the violators in the meeting that was especially or- to resume the postal services with the of 2016 in line with licensing ate a stimulating investment order to protect consumer ACCEPTING ganised and attended by all the coun- blockading countries, to protect the regulations and requirements environment for both private rights. tries concerned on January 29, 2020 rights of postal consumers in Qatar. for street vendors, the ministry sector and entrepreneurs, the The MoCI has urged all citi- at the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Meanwhile, the CRA underlined said in a statement yesterday. MoCI had earlier launched an zens and residents to report headquarters in Berne, Switzerland, that it is also working with the enti- The inspection campaign initiative to regulate the work violations regarding registra- BROKERS the CRA said in a statement. ties concerned to proceed with the comes within the framework of of street vendors by specifying tion and commercial licences This means that the blockading complaint lodged by Qatar based on the MoCI’s eff orts to monitor permitted activities, as well as through the call centre: 16001, countries will resume postal services the UPU Rules, which relates to the compliance with laws and reg- the requirements, standards e-mail: [email protected], to Qatar this month through a specifi ed blockading countries suspending ulations governing commercial and conditions for issuing a li- Twitter: @MOCIQATAR, In- third country (Oman), hence, ending postal traffi c to Qatar. The matter activities in order to uncover cence. stagram: MOCIQATAR, and the suspension of postal traffi c which shall be discussed during the meeting and crack down on violations, The initiative aims to im- the ministry’s application on 5,200 SQM. they put in place since the beginning of the UPUs council of administra- the statement notes. prove the quality of services iPhone and Android devices: of the blockade in June 2017, where tion which is currently ongoing and The campaign resulted in offered to the public and en- MOCIQATAR postal services companies in Qatar attended by a high-level Qatari del- 93 penalties for violations by sure compliance with laws LAND FOR SALE were not able to receive or send postal egation. street vendors who conduct- and regulations governing Qatar-Eswatini FOR CHEMICAL AND INDUSTRIAL GASES ties reviewed With approved drawings for Minister of Foreign Aff airs GF+1F+2F ideal for warehousing, of Eswatini Thulisile Dladla, 1,000 days of proud achievements met with Charge d’Aff airs at the embassy of Qatar Ahmed bin Tajir Mohamed From Page 1 mad International Airport and the tic growth. Qatar is one of the saf- 2010, Qatar has overseen signifi- al-Sada. Hamad Port have won several glo- est places on earth and the country cant infrastructure development, During the meeting, they The “soft” power that Qatar bal accolades and created records ranks high in international rankings including the completion of two Contact us: reviewed bilateral relations, wields was evident in its diplomatic for passenger transport and cargo in the ease of doing business. stadiums: Khalifa International 30322838 - 70002575 - 44449942 in addition to discussing feats that saw the country strength- delivery. For every destination lost In the meantime, Qatar has and Al Janoub. Three more stadi- issues of joint interest. ening ties with nations around the to the blockade, Qatar Airways emerged as a trustworthy mediator ums – Education City, Al Rayyan world. Calling the bluff of the bul- has added many more to its ever- which can create a platform for dia- and Al Bayt – will be inaugurated lying nations, Qatar stood its le- expanding global network. Multi- logue that brings together oppos- during 2020, with the remaining gitimate ground, only to fi nd wide billion dollar developments like the ing parties. The latest feather in its three set to be launched well in backing for its policies globally and Lusail City, Mshreib Downtown peacemaker cap would be the agree- advance of the tournament. massive local development. Doha, most modern roads, the Free ment that is expected to be signed According to FIFA President Gi- It will take too much space to Zones, the Logistics area, five-star between the United States and the anni Infantino “with 1,000 days to list Qatar’s achievements dur- hotels and modern amenities are Taliban movement in Doha on Sat- go, Qatar stands where no other host ing the past 1,000 days. On every among the notable achievements urday. did before. Qatar wants to amaze the front Qatar has scored, much to during the period. As Qatar marked on February world and is on track to achieve it.” the dismay of its opponents. Dur- Qatar can also be proud of a 25 the 1,000-day countdown to Looking forward, it is more op- ing the period Qatar has hosted healthcare system, that is among the 22nd edition of the Football portune to talk about the 1,000 days scores of international conferenc- the best in the world, and prestig- World Cup, which will kick off to Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup than es, dozens of international tourna- ious educational institutions. The on 21 November 2022, FIFA has the thousand days of the ignomini- ments, implemented hundreds of people of the country enjoy a very praised the significant progress ous blockade. development projects including a high standard of living, freedom of Qatar’s preparations. Since state-of-the-art metro. The Ha- of speech and avenues for holis- winning the hosting rights in [email protected]

Qatar Museums to open ‘M7’ HBKU holds lecture creative centre next month on education system

From Page 1 collaboration with Association line,” HE Sheikha Al Mayassa said. QNA Azzedine Alaïa and curated by Ol- “We are grateful to Qatar Doha The name M7 acknowledges ivier Saillard. The title is taken from Foundation, headed by its Chair- the seven goals that guided the one of Alaïa’s famous quotes: “I am person Her Highness Sheikha creation of this new creative not a designer, I am a couturier.” Moza bint Nasser, for initiating he College of Public Policy (CPP) at Ha- resource: accelerate (support The exhibition features more than the Msheireb Downtown Doha mad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has the development of the coun- three dozen iconic dresses from project, for our M7 partners Vir- Torganised a lecture on the educational try’s design community), con- Alaïa’s collections spanning the ginia Commonwealth University system in Qatar and the role of school leaders nect (link creative people and course of 25 years. The exhibition Qatar and Qatar Development in educational reform, with the participation industry), inspire (spark ex- comes as part of the Qatar-France Bank and of course, the contri- of a number of education policymakers, aca- citement through exhibitions), 2020 Year of Culture. butions of the private sector,” demics, leaders and practitioners. complement (provide material Msheireb Downtown Doha, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa added. “Leading Change and School Improve- support to designers), equip the mixed-use development Clustered in the dense, mid-rise ment: What to Do and Where to Start” lec- (provide training, infrastruc- that is reviving Doha’s historic Msheireb Downtown Doha - one of ture discussed Qatar’s past and present edu- ture, and mentoring), promote core as a sustainable new live- the world’s largest concentrations cation systems to reflect on the importance (put design at the centre of life work neighbourhood, has been of LEED-certifi ed buildings - are of school leadership amidst improvement in Msheireb Downtown Doha), developed by Qatar Foundation. residences, shops, restaurants, of- and change processes. and empower (promote sus- “Because the future of Qatar fi ces, government buildings, and Discussions began with a refl ection on the tainable business practices). depends on cultivating the crea- the Jalmood Mosque, plus parks, successes and challenges posed by the Educa- M7 will inaugurate its ground- tive potential of all its citizens, Qa- plazas, a medical centre, and an in- tion for a New Era, particularly from an educa- fl oor gallery with the special tar Museums has developed M7 to ternational school. tional leadership perspective. exhibition Azzedine Alaïa “Je raise public awareness of the vast In addition to M7, cultural The case was then made for additional poli- suis couturier”, a tribute to the infl uence of fashion and design as facilities include four historic cies that provide professional development for achievements of the renowned an industry and to provide much- heritage house museums, which Qatar’s school leaders and teachers. Tunisian-born French designer needed support for Qatar’s own stand just off the canopied Ba- Proceedings closed with questions and an- Azzedine Alaïa (1935-2017). burgeoning creative sector, from rahat Al-Nouq, the largest shel- swers and additional interventions from the The exhibition is organised in concept design to the production tered public square in the region. audience.

Al-Attiya Motors and Trading, leading auto dealers in Qatar All-New Kia Seltos makes headway with the Qatar market

he new KIA Seltos brings design details, such as its long hood, a strong, GT-Line badges on the front grille and tailgate, Practicality and packaging Technologies and sophistication, class-leading space character line on the front bumper, and sharp and a metallic rear valance, enhancing the and cutting-edge technology and lines pressed into the bodywork. It also sports a dynamic image of the new Seltos. Class-leading cabin and trunk features safety features to the global compact wide ‘tiger nose grille’, making the car instantly space with a focus on passenger Market and world-first features TSUV segment. Following its unveiling earlier recognizable as a KIA, but with a new diamond- Interior design comfort in its segment this year, the new Seltos has gone on sale in the pattern surface. Its robust shoulder line and Middle East with the advent of 2020. glasshouse shape, which tapers towards the rear A forward-looking interior The Seltos features the largest cabin and trunk The Seltos is a technologically advanced and of the car, lends the car an air of understated characterized by futuristic and of any B-segment SUV currently on sale, aided refined compact SUV equipped with a range of The Seltos is characterized by design details sportiness. The rear bumper with a metallic high-quality materials by the car’s subtly larger exterior dimensions market and world-first features. These aren’t that lend it an air of understated sportiness. muffler effect accentuates the dynamic and long wheelbase. This also contributes to just designed to make driving safer and less The eye-catching interior of the Seltos is Smaller than its Sportage sibling, the Seltos appearance. the passenger cabin offering more legroom stressful, but also more enjoyable. designed with high-quality materials and packs a lot into its compact footprint, with than rivals; the high, straight roofline, greater futuristic in-car technology. Developed to meet more space for passengers and luggage than The Seltos is available with intricate and sharply headroom. At the heart of the dashboard, and providing any competitor in its segment. designed full LED headlights and taillights, the needs of youthful, tech-savvy buyers, the total ease of operation, is the car’s infotainment affording a commanding and confident refined and advanced cabin is characterized by Cup holders in the doors and center console, system. The system provides Apple Mr. James (Kyung Hyeon) Kim, President presence on the road. Delicate strips of white broad, sweeping shapes and highly technical as well as a storage tray at the base of the CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. details. of KIA Motors Middle East and Africa light span the front, while the car’s optional dashboard, provide plenty of spaces in which The infotainment systems are available Headquarters, commented: “The Seltos is LED headlamps provide a light signature which to store items when driving. The center console for different specifications and markets, The focal point is a sweeping instrument panel playing a central role in KIA’s continued sits above distinctive 3D multi-layer indicators also provides another storage option, with an including a 3.8-inch audio display system and with an asymmetric layout, creating a cockpit- growth in the Middle East. Global sales of and ‘heartbeat’ positioning lamps. For driving armrest cushion that can be moved 60 mm KIA’s 8.0-inch touchscreen system, which style environment for the driver, and an open, compact SUVs are forecast to expand from in foggy conditions, the car is also available with forwards or backwards, ensuring front seat welcoming space for passengers. At the center also offers Apple and Android compatibility 6.5 million vehicles in 2018 to more than 8.2 ‘ice cube’-style LED fog lights. Rear LED lamps occupants of any height always have somewhere of the dashboard is an infotainment system, one and Bluetooth multi-connection for multiple million by the end of 2022, and the Middle East echo the light signatures found at the front, to rest their elbows. devices. represents an important growth market in this lending the car a highly technical appearance, of several features that maximize convenience, connectivity and ease of use. Standing proud of sector. day and night. The rear of the Seltos’s cabin is the most The driver can also benefit from two new the instrument panel, the infotainment system accommodating in the class, and the center features to maximize clarify of information. “The Seltos fills a gap in our portfolio and is positioned in such a way as to maximize ease While the Seltos is only subtly larger on the console features vents in the rear for ventilation The first of these innovations is the optional offers KIA’s traditional strengths in design, of use and visibility for drivers. outside than other B-segment SUVs, its long and air conditioning, as well as a USB charger new 8.0-inch Head-Up Display system, quality and technology. The car has been wheelbase and fine proportions result in for rear occupants’ mobile devices and a small which projects unobtrusively relevant driving designed to fulfil the needs of youthful, significantly more space in the cabin and trunk Beneath, physical dials control the car’s heating, tray to hold them. The backs of the front seats information on to a small glass panel behind tech-savvy customers in the Middle East, ventilation and air conditioning, providing a than any other rival. also feature a smartphone pocket, giving rear- with a striking design inside and out, and a highly-ergonomic and tactile way to control the the steering wheel –vehicle speed information. seat occupants a safe place to store their mobile range of cutting-edge technology and safety The KIA Seltos sits on a choice of 16-inch steel cabin environment. An optional 7.0-inch fully-digital instrument equipment.” or aluminum alloy wheels or 17-inch crystal- device when on-the-move. cluster is designed to deliver key driving cut aluminum alloy wheels, which complement The ergonomics of the cabin allow the driver The trunk provides 433 liters of space (VDA), As proof of its integral status to KIA’s global the dimensions of the car, giving it a powerful to sit comfortably with a commanding view, information as clearly as possible. With a high- offering greater luggage capacity than plans, the Seltos established all sorts of sales stance. The Seltos also has a ground clearance helping to maintain focus on the road ahead and definition display, the digital cluster replaces competing models. Should owners need to records during its launch in India such as of 190 mm giving it much needed versatility and naturally reduce fatigue. Within the lounge-like the conventional speedometer and tachometer transport larger items, the 60:40-split rear more than 6,000 pre-booking commitment stability for a variety of road conditions. and spacious interior, the Seltos also houses dials found in the brand’s other passenger on the 1st day, leading to around 32,000 pre- an available 8.0-inch Head-Up Display system seats fold down completely flat. cars. Its single, seamless display incorporates launch bookings all in all. Also the very first A colorful character, the Seltos is available in a which projects unobtrusively relevant driving pin-sharp digital dials for vehicle and engine KIA model sold in India, Seltos was able to choice of up to eight distinctive exterior paint information on to a small glass panel behind the Performance and driving speeds, and subtly changes the information deliver 6,200 units in its first month of sales finishes: Clear White, Glacier White Pearl, steering wheel. Highly efficient petrol engine and graphics presented depending on different alone. With this promising start, the wave has Steel Silver, Gravity Gray, Aurora Black Pearl, drive modes. reached the shores of Doha as the Seltos has Intelligence Blue, Punchy Orange and Intense The cabin is trimmed in a choice of single- The sporty, stylish exterior is matched with started sales already through its distributor, Red. Certain variants will also be available with tone black or two-tone beige and black cloth, strong on-road performance, engaging A multi-function display between the digital Al-Attiya Motors and Trading Co. (AMTC). up to eight further body color options, with with modern, geometric patterns stitched into dynamics, and a comfortable ride for occupants. dials communicates audio information, a series of two-tone combinations to enable the upholstery. The dashboard can be finished The new model is equipped with a range of phone calls and contacts, and in-depth trip Exterior design further customization. The roof is available in a high-quality gloss black or metal-effect newly developed powertrains for high efficiency information, as well as vehicle diagnostics in Aurora Black Pearl, Clear White or Punchy and powerful performance. alerts. It replaces the physical dials available A sporty and sophisticated panel, or an optional soft-touch dashboard with Orange, to contrast with certain paint finishes ambient lighting elements. with different specifications. compact SUV for the rest of the body. The Seltos is available with a choice of two The Seltos stands apart from its rivals thanks GT-Line models add a greater air of sportiness to gasoline engines, depending on market. The Additional features that maximize the The Seltos is also available in Qatar in GT- to a sophisticated, sporty design and the space the interior, with black upholstery contrasting 1.6-liter MPI (multi-point injection) engine cabin’s utility and comfort include a wireless Line specification, inspired by KIA’s ‘GT’ and capabilities of a larger SUV. with red stitching on the seats, steering wheel is available with a choice of six-speed manual smartphone charger at the base of the performance models such as the Stinger. This and gearstick covering, as well as a sporty or automatic transmissions, and produces 123 dashboard, as well as a power-adjustable With its bold and dynamic profile, the Seltos adds sporty red exterior highlights to the car’s D-shaped steering wheel and high-grip metallic PS and 151 Nm torque, enabling 0-to-100 kph driver’s seat, front seat ventilation, and fully- brings with it a series of distinctive exterior front bumpers, doors and wheels, special red pedals. acceleration in 12.2 seconds. automatic climate control. Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 7 QATAR

Assistant Foreign Minister meets UN officials

HE the Assistant Foreign Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs Lolwah bint Rashid AlKhater held separate meetings yesterday with the Director-General of the United Nations Off ice at Geneva Tatiana Valovaya, President of the Human Rights Council in Geneva Elisabeth Tichy-Fisslberger, and UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Nada al-Nashif, at the UN headquarters in Geneva. The meetings discussed the implications of the blockade imposed on Qatar, in addition to human rights issues and enhancing prospects of co-operation and joint work to promote the Sustainable Development Goals and youth empowerment, as well as the role of sports in development and other topics of common concern.

Global Judicial Integrity Network meeting issues Doha Declaration

QNA a professional and independent various countries around the International tablish a Doha-based UN centre bal Judicial Integrity Network Doha institutional judiciary. world. Judicial Day for for research and training related and the support provided by The Doha Declaration focused HE noted that Doha meet- Women launched to judicial integrity, noting that Qatar to the Network, which on enhancing judicial integrity ing offered an opportunity the centre will work to benefi t was one of the outputs of the he second high-level and calling for global partner- to complete the foundation The second day of the Global all judges and provide a real ad- “Doha Declaration” issued by meeting of the Global Ju- ships in this fi eld, while stressing building of the Global Judicial Judicial Integrity Network meet- dition in various areas of the ju- the 13th United Nations Con- Tdicial Integrity Network, the importance of training, re- Integrity Network, which is ing yesterday witnessed the diciary. gress on Crime Prevention and which was hosted by the Su- search and studies programmes the first initiative of its kind launch of a pioneering initiative He added that the Supreme Ju- Criminal Justice, hosted by Qa- preme Judiciary Council, con- that would enhance the work of in the history of international to allocate an International diciary Council signed a number tar in 2015. cluded yesterday evening, is- judges so that the Network is the judicial work. Judicial Day for Women to be of bilateral agreements between Addressing the closing ses- suing a global document called common link that leads initia- He added that the meeting celebrated worldwide under the Arab and international judicial sion, Acehera said that Doha “Doha Declaration of Judicial tives to advance the principles of also represented an opportunity umbrella of the United Nations. bodies and institutions with the meeting was another new sta- Integrity”. judicial integrity. to exchange experiences and ex- President of International aim of exchanging experiences tion to move forward towards The Doha Declaration of Ju- In speech at the closing ses- pertise and review the devel- Association of Women Judges and expertise in all fi elds related strengthening the work of the dicial Integrity represents a HE Dr Hassan Lahdan Saqr sion, HE the President of the opments in the fi eld of judicial Vanessa Ruiz, announced the to the judicial work. Network, as the recommenda- global reference document that al-Mohannadi addressing the Supreme Judiciary Council and integrity and judicial work, es- initiative, saying that this aims For his part, Representative tions issued by the Doha Decla- complements the journey of the closing session of the Global President of the Court of Cas- pecially with the participation of to strengthen the presence of of the UN Office on Drugs and ration will be taken into account Bangalore Principles for Judicial Judicial Integrity Network sation Dr Hassan Lahdan Saqr a large number of heads of courts women judges. Crime and Project Director of in developing the work and ad- Conduct 2003 and enriches it meeting. al-Mohannadi praised the out- and judicial bodies and institu- the Global Network for Judi- vancing the activities and pro- with new indicative components comes of the meeting and the tions around the world, which cial Integrity Marco Acehera grammes of the global network that are the fi rst of the kind in to the right to a fair and equitable discussions held over two days gave the meeting great momen- He pointed to the declaration praised the Supreme Judiciary in a way that benefi ts all stake- the process of fi nding a unifi ed trial within the framework of a with the participation of an elite tum and resulted in important of intent signed between Qatar Council for hosting the second holders in the issue of judicial international perspective related clear and dominant role of law in of judges and legal experts from results. and the United Nations to es- high-level meeting of the Glo- integrity. Gulf Times 8 Thursday, February 27, 2020 QATAR

Ooredoo supports NBK launches new off er Cancer Day event

on Mercedes-Benz GLE oredoo will be the Com- fi ght against cancer, according to munications Partner for a statement. asser Bin Khaled Au- taking a hand from the leather- OQatar Cancer Society’s Speaking of the latest sponsor- tomobiles, the author- wrapped steering wheel. upcoming World Cancer Day ship, Yousuf Abdulla al-Kubaisi, Nised general distribu- Crosswind Assist applies the event tomorrow at Aspire Park, chief operating offi cer, Ooredoo Qa- tor of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar, brakes to keep the vehicle safely being held from 4pm-8pm. tar, said: “As always, we’re delighted launched a new off er on Mer- on track if a gust of wind comes There will be a host of activi- and proud to be working with Qatar cedes-Benz GLE. The premium from the side. The DYNAMIC ties aimed at raising awareness Cancer Society and especially on an SUV is available at NBK Auto- SELECT Controller allows per- of cancer, sharing information event so valuable for our communi- mobiles Mercedes-Benz show- fect adjustment of the handling and enabling early detection. ty. We are committed to supporting room on Salwa Road, at a special characteristics to suit the cur- Visitors can expect sports and initiatives that promote health and price. rent terrain - with “Off -road” other entertainment activities well-being as part of our corporate Sheikh Faleh bin Nawaf al- for sand and light terrain or “Of- for all the family, as well as com- social responsibility strategy, and Thani, operations director - froad+” for diffi cult terrain. petitions and prizes and a series we believe education and awareness Auto at NBK Group said: “Mer- The Active Parking Assist of educational activities. are both key to progress in the ongo- cedes-Benz refl ects the ethos of with PARKTRONIC makes it The leading telecommunica- ing battle against this disease. The ultimate luxury, performance easier to fi nd a parking space tions operator has a longstand- more we can do to spread the word and reliability. NBK Automo- and also to enter or leave parking ing partnership with Qatar Can- among our communities the better, biles is pleased to continue its spaces. The intuitively control- cer Society, supporting its many and we hope to see as many Qatari off ers on Mercedes-Benz vehi- led touchpad with multitouch community initiatives as it sup- citizens and residents at Aspire Park cles”. sensor system recognises simple ports Qatari communities in the as possible.” Ihab El Feky, chief operations gestures, handwriting and even offi cer, said: “The GLE takes the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 4MATIC: ultimate luxury, performance and reliability letters and numbers, making it SUV sector into the next level. ideal for using the COMAND This luxurious sporty and family car’s dynamic character. body level and the “Off road+” driver to vary individual settings Online control and display sys- SUV is the ideal choice for sport The interior off ers a generous mode are just two of its greatest to suit their taste. tem to easily control navigation, cars and for the families alike feeling of space with its high- strengths giving the best possi- Power, refi nement and effi - telephone, audio, video, Inter- Jeweller unveils gold thanks to its spaciousness and quality appointments and mate- ble traction at all times. ciency - the GLE 450 4MATIC net and many other functions seven-seat occupancy”. rials. The elegance of GLE is re- Depending on model, up to six with an output of 270kW (367hp) while on the move. Information The new GLE is distinguished fl ected in every last detail, from DYNAMIC SELECT modes can and a torque of 500Nm masters is shown in high-resolution and rate protection plan with its dynamism, assertive- soft Nappa leather to the warm be called up using the Controller all three disciplines. To further in colour on the 20.3cm Media ness, confi dent styling, striking grain of the fi ne wood trim. Vari- on the centre console. “Com- reduce both fuel consumption Display. The touchpad is part of oyalukkas has announced a proportions and dramatic body able seats allow the use of rear fort” mode allows particularly and emissions, the engines are the optional COMAND Online Gold Rate Protection Plan to style. The front section is partic- space as required. balanced and effi cient driving. equipped with ECO technology system. Jsecure shoppers from rising ularly eye-catching with its dra- The 4MATIC permanent all- In conjunction with the AIR- packages. The 7-speed automat- The EASY-PACK tailgate can gold prices. advantage of our Gold Rate Pro- matic air intakes, twin-louvre wheel drive and the optional MATIC package, “Sport” mode ic transmission features an elec- be opened and closed at the During the off er period, cus- tection Plan and shop for your grille, and wraparound full LED Off -Road Engineering package off ers a more agile and dynamic tronic selector and sporty pad- touch of a button for more con- tomers can opt to pay 5% in ad- favourite jewellery at your con- headlamps. Power domes on the ensure optimum performance in confi guration of the suspension. dle shifters allowing complete venient loading and unloading of vance and safeguard their pur- venience with peace of mind and bonnet further emphasises the any terrain. The variable vehicle “Individual” mode allows the control of gear changes without the boot. chases from any future price assured price protection.” hikes. The off er is valid at all Joy- According to the Gold Rate alukkas showrooms across the Protection Plan, customers pay GCC region until April 26. 5% advance and book their jew- Joy Alukkas, chairman and ellery with a lock-in period of managing director, Joyalukkas up to two months, until April Awqaf ministry calls for respecting rules inside mosques Group, said in a statement: “We 26. During the two months, cus- are weathering testing times tomers can make their purchase with gold prices being highly un- at the booked rate if the market he Ministry of Awqaf and place copies of “unlicensed” Holy accordance with legally established tional chart for the Ministry of Qatar, and it is also entitled to predictable. In such times, we are price is higher. However, they Islamic Aff airs (Awqaf) has Qur’ans in the country, or promote procedure in that regard. Awqaf and Islamic Aff airs, the take all legal measures in con- constantly innovating with ways will enjoy the lower price if the Tcalled for respecting the charitable activities or fundraising In accordance with the Article ministry has the full legal right nection with any violations that to encourage shopping without market price is lower, giving a regulations applied in mosques, unless approval has been granted 13 from Item 1 of Amiri Decree to withdraw the unlicensed Holy occur during the prayer time or compromising customers’ inter- double advantage to plan their specifi cally not to hang posters or from the designated authorities in No 23 of 2014 on the organisa- Qur’ans according to the laws of inside the mosques. est. I welcome everyone to take purchase, the statement added. Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 9 QATAR Girard-Perregaux showcases ‘Quasar’ at DJWE 2020

wiss high-end watch manufactur- collections united under a single theme: second is the skeleton work hand-fi n- er Girard-Perregaux is showcasing ‘Earth to Sky’. Just a year ago, Girard- ished in the workshops of La Chaux-de- Sits exceptional timepiece, ‘Qua- Perregaux introduced the Neo-Tourbil- Fonds. The third is the 2015 birthof the sar’, at the 17th edition of Doha Jewel- lon with Three Bridges Skeleton. Neo-Tourbillon with Three Bridges. lery & Watches Exhibition. Named after Based on the ‘Earth to Sky’ theme, The latter were neither straight nor the most brilliant of astronomical enti- this complication model is named after made of gold, but instead arched, skel- ties, quasar, this tourbillon embodies the most brilliant of astronomical enti- etonised and black. The fourth is the use a natural application of the four prin- ties, the quasar. Thus illuminated, this of sapphire serving a function that is ciples governing the Girard-Perregaux tourbillon with its contemporary spirit more technical than that of mere watch universe. enters the light spectrum with a case glasses. Girard-Perregaux traces its The intricate inner workings the new entirely made of transparent sapphire origins back to 1791. The history of the Neo-Tourbillon with Three bridges crystal. brand is marked by legendary watches movement are fully revealed through Through these crystalline walls, that combine sharp design with innova- a case entirely made of sapphire crys- CalibreGP9400-1035 reveals its open tive technology. tal – a fi rst for Girard-Perregaux. The worked construction much like a star Aesthete of the invisible, in 2019 the architecture is literally bursting with viewed with a telescope. This Haute Maison is exploring the Cosmos, the brightness. Like its well-chosen name, Horlogerie movement draws the eye like essence of time, by introducing a new a quasar is an ultra-luminous region at a black hole and explodes with light, il- universe of innovative materials and un- the centre of a galaxy accreting around luminating the gap between its compo- expected complications within the fun- a blackhole. A strange pairing of light nents. damental collections, united by a single and darkness that ‘Quasar’ expresses Devoid of any opacity, ‘Quasar’ allows theme: ‘Earth to Sky’. The intricate inner workings the new through the Girard-Perregauxart of photons to play freely across its matt Girard-Perregaux is part of the Kering Neo-Tourbillon with Three bridges watchmaking surfaces and taut curves. Group, a world leader in apparel and ac- movement are fully revealed through a Girard-Perregaux, aesthete of the facture is introducing a new universe, The fi rst is the 1884 patent for three cessories, which develops an ensemble case entirely made of sapphire crystal – invisible, explores the Cosmos, the es- innovative materials and unexpected gold bridges visible on the dial side, the of powerful Luxury and Sport & Life- a first for Girard-Perregaux. sence of time. The Swiss watch Manu- complications within its fundamental unique signature of the Maison. The style brands. Picchiotti sparkles with global appeal

By Joey Aguilar Qataris’ penchant for fine, larger pieces of creations makes Staff Reporter the country a special market for high-end Italian jewellery

ataris’ penchant for fi ne and large pieces of crea- Qtions makes the country a special market for high-end Italian jewellery, according to Italian jeweller Filippo Picchi- otti. “The Qatari market is very specifi c because the taste of the locals, the ladies (in particular) is diff erent from Europeans, and the Americans (for example),” he told Gulf Times on the side- lines of the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition 2020. Filippo is one of the sons of Giuseppe, founder of the Pic- chiotti Fine Jewellery, a family- owned company and a major jeweller in Italy since 1967. While some (Qataris) like very refi ned and high-quality gems, Filippo said many are looking for larger items such as big necklaces and large long earrings. Picchiotti Fine Jewellery is showcasing two diff erent col- Fine jewellery from the Stephen Webster’s collections. lections at the exhibition: one focuses on high-end and one- of-a-kind pieces; and another one, called ‘The Xpandable’, uses innovative – and invis- ible – technology to expand and Stephen Webster satisfi es high contract. “We have a special mecha- nism that allows rings and bracelets to stretch so it can demand for strong, bold designs be worn in diff erent fi ngers or wrists, and this is a very suc- cessful collection all over the By Joey Aguilar ern architecture and marrying occasion for a brand like Stephen world. We are presenting a very Staff Reporter modern design innovation to Webster to introduce its pieces to wide collection of these Xpand- technical fi neness, Vertigo col- the Qatari market. able line as well,” Filippo said. lection combines strong angular Stephen Webster’s booth is The classically inspired Exquisite collection from Picchiotti. ritish Fine Jewellery lines and extreme perspective to located at the Alfardan pavilion, pieces by Picchiotti feature su- Stephen Webster has twist reality and create illusions which also houses several other perlative gemstones set with world-shattering introduction but in terms of sales it is a very and meet directly the consum- Bbrought to Doha its latest of depth and dimension. renowned jewellery and watches the fl awless workmanship for in the industry of fi ne jewellery.” important market, the level of ers through the retailers. “It addition to the ‘Altered Perspec- The collection has already at- brands. Founded upon 40 vibrant which the brand is well known The endless research for ex- wealth of the people here is very is quite a unique concept in tive’ trilogy, the Vertigo col- tracted a lot of attention on the years of impeccable craftsman- around the globe. The continu- cellence and the continued high so I think it can be a point the jewellery fairs around the lection, responding to the high fi rst day of the show,” the British ship, innovative design, fear- al renewal and reinvigoration of improvement of the technol- of reference to other markets world.” demand for strong and bold de- jewellery designer said. less creativity and responsible classic themes, a deep love for ogy have prompted Picchiotti in the jewellery fi eld for sure,” About the company, he noted signs, and the use of innovative “We are also showing some sourcing, Stephen Webster won coloured gemstones, and a dy- to constantly develop sophis- Filippo said. that Picchiotti Fine Jewellery materials in the Qatar market. great Men’s pieces having met industry-wide recognition. namic drive towards innovation ticated designs that refl ect the With a long history about de- “has always been specialised The founder, Stephen Web- more requests over the past year,” “Coveted by icons and idols, have prompted new Picchiotti celebrated jewellery house’s signs, architecture, and jewel- in very fi ne jewellery, very high ster, told Gulf Times that there he added. the brand is celebrated for creat- Classics all infused with a pow- architectural-inspired style lery, he noted that Italian brands end so the collections are very is also a constant search for new About the annual event, Web- ing bold and glamorous fi ne jew- erful Italian ingenuity coupled with unique coloured have remained to be appealing unique and limited.” He said the and unusual pieces in the Qatar ster said the 17th edition of the ellery collections that not only Meanwhile, the world-re- gemstones, as well as lively to many, including Qataris. Italian-based company is now market and “we feel that Stephen Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhi- stand out but stand for some- nowned Xpandable collection, fashion-forward creations to About the exhibition, Filippo wholesaling jewellery pieces Webster jewellery can satisfy bition, taking place at the Doha thing, and we defi nitely feel that which was awarded a rare and stack and combine by colour said the DJWE is a very inter- all over the world, especially in these requirements.” Exhibition and Convention Cen- we have a perfect audience in meaningful 20-year US patent and style. esting concept since it allows Europe, the US, Japan and the “Inspired by radically mod- tre until February 29, is a unique Qataris,” Webster said. last year, was described as “a “The market here is not big brands to showcase their pieces Middle East. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha showcases Phantom at DJWE

onnoisseurs of luxury attend- of the rare jewels in the automotive world the purest expression of Rolls-Royce and ing this month’s Doha Jewellery - the Rolls-Royce Phantom - on all six a true automotive icon - the Phantom.” C& Watches Exhibition (DJWE) days of the exhibition, a press statement Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha is dis- 2020 will be able to admire a true gem in notes. Nasr Jairoudi, general manager playing a Rolls-Royce Phantom in An- the Rolls-Royce collection — the Rolls- of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha, said: thracite grey with Mandarin orange in- Royce Phantom. “Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition terior. The exhibition is featuring the elite of shares the same values as Rolls-Royce The quietest Rolls-Royce ever cre- jewellery and watch afi cionados at the Motor Cars Doha. We believe in achiev- ated can be customised according to the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre ing the absolute pinnacle of luxury, de- customer’s personal preferences, ensur- until February 29. More than 500 inter- sign and exquisite craftsmanship. ing no two are ever the same. Highlights national luxury brands from around the “As one of the most prominent jewel- include the exquisitely crafted Phan- world are joined by talented emerging lery exhibitions in the world, the event is tom Suite, featuring the world’s fi nest local designers showcasing their fi nest the ideal venue to make contact with dis- A-Grade leather, lambswool fl oormats, work, special editions and unique pieces. cerning clientele who embrace a lifestyle hand-crafted wood veneers, and the As an esteemed event partner, Rolls- of luxury and prestigious social environ- celestial canopy of Phantom’s Starlight The Rolls-Royce Phantom. Royce Motor Cars Doha is displaying one ments. What better car to showcase than Headliner. Gulf Times 10 Thursday, February 27, 2020 QATAR Fifty One East showcases elegant international brands

Fifty One East is showcasing some of the latest collections from many globally renowned jewellery and watch makers at the ongoing Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition. Fifty One East’s new pavilion, with a bigger layout, is off ering a wide array of high- class watches and jewellery brands. The pavilion features a warm palette of colours, six entrances, a new reception area and six VIP rooms. Leading brands such as Rolex, Chanel and Boucheron have their own dedicated booths within the pavilion and Tudor, for the first time, has its own space to present its latest releases. The pavilion also includes trendy names such as Âme - a brand by Fifty One East, Akillis, Chantecler, Christian Bernard, Claude Bernard, David Yurman, Edox, Falamank by Tarfa Itani, Ginette NY, JM Gems, leBebé, Pamela Love, Pandora, Wolf and Yvan Tufenkjian.

Another collection from Âme.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 42

An elegant piece from Âme. Bangle collection from Yvan Tufenkjian. DJWE 2020 off ers visitors educational

Qatar Watch Club is organising a series of panel discussions and educational workshops for the public. Pictured are dignitaries and off icials in workshops the Qatar Watch Club segment at DJWE. he Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition T(DJWE) not only presents the latest trends and collections in luxury jewellery, but is also one of a few exhibitions of its scale that allows consumers to purchase the precious gems and timepieces on display as well as take advantage of classes and workshops led by industry ex- perts, the Qatar National Tour- ism Council (QNTC) has said. Returning for its second year, Qatar Watch Club is organising a series of panel discussions and educational workshops for the public. The club will host two ses- sions daily, from 5pm-7pm, and one class on Friday and Saturday between 6pm and 7pm. Lead- ing watch brands Ulysse Nar- din, Chanel, Greubel Forsey, Tag Heuer, HYT, Moser, Chopard and Nomos will also participate in these sessions. “We are pleased with our par- ticipation in DJWE,” said Qatar Watch Club chairman Jassem al- Sayed. “The exhibition is in line DJWE allows consumers to take advantage of classes and workshops led by industry experts. with our strategy of organising educational events on watches, ebrate the beauty and rarity of and this year we co-operated with natural diamonds, as well as the Salon Des Horlogers to showcase exclusivity and cachet they pro- unique watches that will be seen vide to owners,” said Rachel Sa- in Qatar for the fi rst time.” har, gemologist. Independent Swiss watch “Through colours, property brand Salon des Horlogers brings and uniqueness, a diamond can three luminaries of the inde- express the personality of its pendent watchmaking scene – wearer. As lovers of diamond and Romain Gauthier, Ludovic Bal- jewellery, the Qatari public is louard and Laurent Ferrier – to quite knowledgeable, and those DJWE for the fi rst time. Visitors who are not are eager to learn.” will have the rare opportunity to Prestigious French watchmaker meet these master watchmak- Objective Horlogerie is off ering ers and get hands-on experience 10 workshops every day between with their timepieces, according 12noon and 10pm and six work- to a press statement by QNTC. shops on Friday from 4pm-10pm. Diamond trading platform The workshops aim to educate UNI, in co-operation with De watch enthusiasts about the me- Beers Group Institute of Dia- chanical movement of timepieces, monds, is presenting workshops and watch care workshops are be- titled ‘The Art of Rarity’, led by ing organised by the group for the international diamond expert fi rst time in the Middle East. Rachel Sahar. Three workshops As part of the “exhibition’s and panels will be held daily commitment to creating an in- throughout the exhibition, cov- clusive event”, the organisers ering topics such as coloured have partnered with Mada Cen- natural diamonds, unique dia- tre to make the show accessi- ed in attending any of the DJWE and Convention Centre, DJWE 10pm on Friday, February 28. and collections by the most fa- tion of 129 exhibitors from 14 mond properties, buyers’ confi - ble for visitors with functional workshops can register through will run until the end of February, The exhibition is an ideal plat- mous brands from Qatar and the countries displaying products dence and assessing quality. limitations and disabilities, the www.djwe.qa. welcoming visitors daily from form for luxury afi cionados to world. This year’s edition is the by 500 local and international “We off er workshops to cel- statement notes. Those interest- Held at the Doha Exhibition 12 noon-10pm, and from 4pm- learn about the latest releases largest ever, with the participa- brands on an area of 33,000sq m. Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 11 QATAR

Radisson Blu Doha attempts ‘world’s largest serving of fried chicken’ record

adisson Blu Hotel, Doha, prepared with the intent to where it will be weighed. The to the visitors on a fi rst come, set by the Karafesu Project team spirit. It’s amazing to see this eff ort will not be possible,” will challenge the current break the current record for the cooking process will be done fi rst serve basis. Qatar was the Council in Nakatsu, Oita. the positive impact we can make said executive chef Kulvinder Rworld record on the larg- “World’s largest serving of fried under strict supervision and in fi rst to hold this world title in “This year, Qatar will re- when we all come together” he Chandhok. est serving of fried chicken on chicken,” according to a state- compliance with the highest 2008 when Kentucky Fried gain the world title record” added. The team will come to know February 29 at the Giwana Ball- ment. standards of hygiene and Haz- Chicken (KFC) Doha in Villa- said Radisson Blu Doha general “I am grateful to our partners the result in the weeks to follow room, Radisson Blu Hotel from Approximately 2,600 whole ard Analysis and Critical Control gio Mall succeeded in achieving manager, Gordon MacKenzie. Sadia, Ola, Rayyan, Integral after Guinness World Record ad- 2pm-6pm. chickens will be cut into pieces Point (HACCP). the Guinness World Record at “Mobilising my teams across Uniforms, Spirit Events and Ra- equately reviews the submitted A leap year special will see and fried by a team of chefs cul- After the event, the fried 336kg. Last year, Japan bagged every department in setting a dio Olive for helping us realising evidence of the record attempt, over 2,000kg of fried chicken minating on a special platter chicken will be distributed free the world record at 1667.301kg new world record reinforces our this challenge; without them, the statement added. Doha tops GCC region in traffi c congestion improvement: Qmic

By Joseph Varghese form-MasarakTM- and utilising Staff Reporter its unique and rich bank of traffi c data in Qatar. “Thanks to QMIC’s expand- oha has shown the most ing and unique multi-source Master of Laws programme was launched at AFG College. improvement (6.5%) in data collection network, we col- Dtraffi c congestion among lected over 1.5bn records of data the major GCC cities in 2019 throughout the year. We expect with the economic cost of con- to collect four to six billion data gestion reduced by QR300mn, this year. In its fourth edition, compared to the previous year, our report looks in depth at the AFG College launches new says a report by Qatar Mobility conditions and status of traffi c Innovations Centre ( Qmic). in Qatar during 2019 and com- “Time wasted per commuter plies all key noteworthy details reduced from 98 hours in 2018 regarding traffi c congestion into master of laws programme to 92 hours in 2019, a signifi cant measurable outputs. The report improvement in traffi c condi- focuses on benchmarking this tions. This has resulted in reduc- year’s outcomes against results he AFG College with initiatives that help develop fu- having the ability to off er their tion of economic cost by QR300 from previous years and editions the University of Ab- ture leaders and scholars.” respective organisations advice mn” revealed Dr Adnan Abu- in order to highlight the changes Terdeen held the offi cial The programme aims to and support in the company’s Dayya, the executive director and study the variations over the launch of its new Master of equip students with a detailed international commercial ac- (CEO) of Qmic while presenting years,” he highlighted Laws (LLM) programme in In- understanding of the legal tivities. the fi ndings of the study ‘ An- The offi cial thanked the part- ternational Commercial Law functions to operate within Prof Gordon said, “In an nual Qatar Traffi c Report’ for the ners who supported Qmic’s ef- recently. the rapidly changing domestic increasingly interconnected year 2019 at a press conference Dr Adnan Abu-Dayya and Dr Fethi Filali at the press conference. fort directly and indirectly es- The event was held at the and international business en- world, it is more important yesterday. pecially Ashghal, Ministry of Sharq Village Spa & Resort in vironment. Students will gain than ever to have a sound Dr Abu-Dayya was accom- ghal in 2019 had a positive im- 2019 saved around QR300mn,” Municipality and Environment, Doha, with a number of digni- an insight into specifi c areas knowledge of legal rules gov- panied by Dr Fethi Filali, head pact on traffi c fl ow. Additionally, he noted. January, February, and Qatar Rail. taries, academic staff and ap- of business law, which include erning the international sale of technology development and the opening of the Doha Metro March 2019 were the most con- “Qmic is continuously work- plicants in attendance. the regulation of fi nancial and of goods, international dispute applied research, Qmic. most likely has contributed pos- gested months in the year with a ing towards expanding its data The launch was jointly host- commercial activities within resolution processes and the Dr Abu-Dayya said that Doha itively to the traffi c conditions Congestion Index of 27.7% . The collection network in order to ed by AFG College principal, an organisation, as well as in- law and practice surrounding tops the GCC countries in bet- late in the year by reducing the highest congestion period dur- further enhance the accuracy, Brian Buckley and the Univer- ternational perspectives in the governance of multination- tering the traffi c congestion fi g- number of car trips,” explained ing the workdays is the morn- coverage, and abilities of its traf- sity of Aberdeen’s Head of Law, company law. al companies. The University of ures compared to the previous Dr Abu-Dayya. According to the ing peak (around 7-8am) where fi c information platform. We Prof Greg Gordon. The event The University’s Law School Aberdeen is proud to partner year. While Qmic fi gures have CEO, the economic cost (lost the average congestion index expect to increase the amount was also attended by Sheikha has an unbroken lineage dat- with our colleagues at AFG to been used to measure Doha traf- productivity) of congestion in is 30.1% . In the morning peak of our collected data by 300% Mariam bint Nawaf al-Thani, ing back to 1495; the date of make this programme available fi c, other agency fi gures have 2019 is estimated to be QR6.4bn, hours of workdays, Sunday had during 2020 thanks to newer who represented AFG Col- the formation of the University. to students in Qatar”. been taken into consideration 4.5% less than 2018, translating the highest congestion index of technologies used in its sens- lege Chairperson & Founder Throughout its history, the Law “I am extremely proud that for other GCC cities. to a loss of about 0.9% of the 29% and Thursdays had the low- ing network, increased number Sheikha Dr Aisha bint Faleh al- School has sought to empower we are able to add such an in- “The fi gures show marked GDP in 2019. “This is equivalent est congestion index of 28%. of Telematics users, and the ex- Thani. their students by equipping novative and industry-rele- improvement in the last quarter to the level of economic losses Dr Abu-Dayya also pointed pected growth in active users of Faisal bin Rashid al-Sahouti, them with the necessary skills vant addition to our expand- of 2019 about 12% better than observed in other countries. On out that Qmic collected all the Wain, a navigation application, Qatar International Court CEO, and knowledge to operate pro- ing portfolio of programmes. those in 2018. This indicates that the other hand, this indicates data using its Advanced Traffi c Qmic has developed,” added the discussed the role of the Inter- fi ciently within the complex The Master of Laws is our fi rst road projects completed by Ash- that the projects completed in Monitoring & Analytics Plat- Qmic CEO. national Court and the impor- business arena. expansion into non-business tance Qatar attaches to the rule On successful completion related disciplines, as we con- of law. Al-Sahouti said, “I am of this specialist Master of tinue to enhance our off erings Al Diwan Intersection conversion on extremely happy to have been Laws, students will have en- to fulfi l a growing demand and Al Rayyan Road into temporary roundabout invited to the launch of the new gaged with peers from a diverse play our role in the develop- LLM. This programme will fur- range of fi elds including law, ment of the Qatar National Vi- he Public Works Au- of Traffic, is to enable the in- ther enhance the knowledge of business and fi nance, and will sion 2030, in helping to build thority (Ashghal) has stallation of new traffic lights the student body here in Qa- have developed a deep under- a knowledge-based economy,” Tannounced the con- on Al Diwan Intersection as tar and I am supportive of any standing of this specialist area, Buckley, added. version of Al Diwan Intersec- part of the A-Ring Road De- tion on Al Rayyan Road into a velopment Project. temporary roundabout while Ashghal will install road Partial closure for 12 hours at Faleh Bin Nasser Intersection keeping two lanes available for signs advising motorists of traffi c in all directions from to- the temporary change and he Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has morrow (Friday) until April 5. has requested road users announced a partial closure for 12 hours at The conversion, imple- to abide by the speed limit TFaleh Bin Nasser Intersection with traffi c mented in co-ordination and follow the road signs to right turns, to and from Haloul Intersection on with the General Directorate ensure safety. Salwa Road and U-turns opening from tomorrow (Friday) 1am-1pm. The closure in co-ordination with the General Directorate of Traffi c is to continue works of the cable-stayed bridge as part of Sabah Al Ahmed Corridor. Road users coming from Haloul Intersection on Sabah Al Ahmed Corridor towards the Al Waab Closure at Al Wukair can take a right turn at Faleh Bin Nasser Intersec- tion, then U-turn at Al Asiri Intersection, con- tinue through Salwa Road and take a right turn Interchange announced onto Ahmed bin Taymiya Street to reach Al Waab. Road users coming from Bu Samra on Salwa Road towards Al Waab can continue through he Public Works Authority Al Wakra will be shifted onto a Faleh Bin Nasser Intersection underpass, then (Ashghal) has announced parallel route to enable gantry in- U-turn at Al Asiri Intersection and then take turn at Al Ghariya Street to reach Salwa Road Tan eight-hour closure at Al stallation.The closure will be im- a right turn onto Ahmed bin Taymiya Street to and their destinations. Wukair Interchange on Southern plemented in co-ordination with reach Al Waab. Ashghal will install road signs advising mo- Doha Expressway for a distance of the General Directorate of Traffi c. Road users coming from Al Waab through torists of the temporary change and has re- 150m from 11pm today until 7am Ashghal will install road signs Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor towards Bu Samra or quested road users to abide by the speed limit on Friday. advising motorists of the tempo- Hamad International Airport can take a right and follow the road signs to ensure safety. Traffi c from Al Wukair towards rary change. Baywalk Tower of Assets offi cially certifi ed as completed

ssets Real Estate Devel- completing the project. Qatar,” al-Khayyat said. ings completion in The Pearl- dential masterpiece that sheds opment has announced “Baywalk Tower was com- Baywalk is only a five- Qatar. a new light on the beachside of Athat Baywalk Tower in pleted on time. It took us 25 minute walking distance to Ramez al-Khayyat, Assets The Pearl-Qatar with each unit the Viva Bahriya district of The months as planned. We lived up Medina Centrale and a short vice chairman, also extended offering comfort and quality. It Pearl-Qatar has been offi cially to our commitments, and now drive to the waterfront and his invitation to interested features 243 apartments that certifi ed as completed. we are satisfi ed with the effi cient road networks leading to all investors to come and visit come in one, two, or three- The real estate company, a service of the property manage- areas of Qatar. It was designed the luxurious state-of-the- bedrooms, along with eight subsidiary of Power internation- ment. and developed following inter- art residential tower with its beach front chalets concept. al Holding Group (PIH), stated “We extend the invitation to national sustainability criteria amenities. The apartment building, that the 23-storey residential interested people to come and that minimises ecological im- “Baywalk is the newest jewel with modern accommodation, tower is fully-operational, and preview the high-end fi nishes, pact. at The Pearl-Qatar. It is the has a gym and spa, swimming several customers had already the modern furniture, and the Assets Real Estate Develop- outcome of teamwork per- pool, kids play area, meeting moved into their apartments in cozy amenities. With its prime ment expressed its satisfaction formance and the unique value and reception lobby, multi- the eco-friendly building. location, Baywalk provides its on the building completion of Assets – building communi- function room, in addition to Moutaz al-Khayyat, chairman residents with splendid views certified by UDC, the delegated ties. Excellence is what we do 302 private parking spaces. The 23-storey residential tower is fully-operational, and several of Assets, extended his appreci- on the bay, the Arabian Gulf, and official authority to check and at our group,” he said. Highly-trained security is pro- customers have already moved into their apartments in the ation to all those who worked in the beautiful city of The Pearl- confirm the standards of build- The tower is a modern resi- vided around the clock. eco-friendly building. Gulf Times 12 Thursday, February 27, 2020 HOL STIC Wellbeing Got milk?

detail, I will make it brief and diary products, you can tell that simple. To start, let’s go back to there definitely is a reason for It’s time to make the the basics. We all know that milk the high consumption of milk is produced by female mammals and it’s by-products and that to feed their newborns; so it is they provide an abundance of zoo a thing of the past a fact that newborns, including natural nutrients that the body human babies, need human does require. Simultaneously, milk. Do humans (even animals) when you look at the chemical Earth on Netflix shows you all the really need or require milk to make-up of milk, lactose (milk animals you could ask for in their survive? No. In that case, should sugar) is really high and may be natural habitat, with added drama we still drink milk and consume harmful in big amounts. When and narrative information. Zoos dairy products? In the end, it comes to the high amounts of do not play a significant role in the there are numerous studies and sugar, I agree that minimising conservation of wildlife, their claims By Reem Abdulrahman Jassim professional reads that argue your direct intake of milk is to educate are exaggerated and al-Muftah that there are pros and cons to beneficial as is with all other their research is compromised. having dairy, but this further high-sugar products, especially Recently, Al Khor Park, one of goes to show, there is no wrong when it comes to children. Here the oldest in Qatar, reopened t’s so funny seeing all these or right answer, only you have is where I will step in and get a after having been closed for the studies and articles bash- the answer. Milk has so many bit more direct, children do not last six years while undergoing Iing certain food groups and I benefi ts but can also be harmful need to be drinking milk after comfortably consume certain If you stop or really reduce your renovations. The website boasts “a will never understand that strat- for some people, such as those being breastfed or after fully products; one can still gain milk intake, make sure to get By Ghanim al-Sulaiti small zoo with oryx, emu, zebras egy, but when it comes to me, that are lactose intolerant or passing that critical newborn the benefi ts of the essential enough vitamin D because the and exotic birds, among others” I do not base my diet decisions those who feel some sort of stage. I am not saying they nutrients found in dairy with beauty of natural animal milk is — animals that should be looked on trends, I base it on research. discomfort after consuming shouldn’t have it, I’m saying almost no lactose, therefore, less that it has the perfect practicality There are so many things in life after in a sanctuary, such as the I do not appreciate or respect dairy. Personally, the fact that that since it’s really high in sugar and more probiotics. of including calcium but also once considered ‘normal’ that today Oryx, and others that should be those who hate on certain food we have lactose tolerant and sugar, that one could easily So what’s my motto when helps you absorb the calcium would have no place in our society. free in the wild, or looked after groups and do not consider all intolerant people makes me feel decrease the consumption it comes to milk and dairy simultaneously due to the Vitamin Seatbelts in cars, safety helmets appropriately by conservationists, other angles in the situation or more confi dent that milk is not and substitute it with other products? I try not to include D found naturally in it too. Also when skiing, or high-visibility not by those using the animals for all other comparisons within the bad, but not the best fi t for some plant-based milk alternatives milk in my diet due to the high be ware of the food products that lights on a bicycle. Decades ago, human entertainment. same context. People discussing people. The same goes with the or by focusing on other highly sugar content, but I do not inhibit calcium absorption such each were not an important, nor There are so many other, eff ective food groups and certain products case in intolerance associated beneficial dairy products. mind it here and there in small as spinach, sweet potato, beans, significant consideration…but now ways to educate young people on should provide hard facts, exam- to dairy, the intolerance to the Fermented milk products amounts. When it comes to high fi ber foods such as whole we wouldn’t dream of purchasing animals. Our very own National ples and general advice for both protein found in milk, not the are cultured and have great other dairy products, I make sure wheat and high sodium foods. a car that didn’t have seatbelts, or Museum of Qatar does an excellent sides of the story and then justify sugar (lactose). So we have benefi ts. Milk is not that high in to get my dosage of essential When stopping milk, you can get skiing down a mountain without job at being a world-class, standard- their personal take on it, not just established that some people probiotics as are the fermented nutrients through yogurt, your calcium from other foods head protection. That’s because setting learning space through attack the products and explain cannot tolerate certain dairy derivates of milk, such as yogurt, laban, labnah or some cheeses but make sure your getting your we, as humans, learn over time. innovative displays, interaction areas their biased views. So I’m choos- products and this is a no-go for kefi r and some cheeses. The an average of once a day. This critical dosage of Vitamin D which Through habit, research, and and exhibits. ing to briefl y discuss dairy this them as their body rejects them. process of fermentation also is because I am able to tolerate is mainly found in milk, eggs, fatty mistakes — our society is constantly You’re able to explore the geology week and the rationale behind In this case, there is a biological helps break down the lactose small amounts of dairy and fi sh, butter, man-made fortifi ed adapting and recategorising to of Qatar, its natural environment, those products, so let’s get real reason why someone cannot and usually signifi cantly reduces want to make sure I am eating foods or supplements. ensure that we aren’t often making and archaeological evidence of early with the facts. have dairy, and that is clear. the amount of lactose to even a a well-balanced diet full of the same mistakes twice. life through various artefacts, 3D Because this is a short article Looking at all the studies that bare minimum where lactose- calcium, protein, vitamin D and „ The author is a wellness advocate It’s time to not continue the sculptures, recorded testimonials, and I cannot get into too much show the benefits of milk and intolerant people can actually probiotics. and infl uencer @keys2balance. mistake of accepting the Zoo as an films and poetry. It’s visually acceptable attraction, and instead fascinating, informative, and doesn’t work towards ensuring these exploit animals. animals being held in a prison (zoo) If we do nothing, we are teaching could be able to have a better life. the next generation to regard zoos Elder abuse is a neglected social issue Zoos have become a slippery divide as a completely acceptable part of between exploitation and education our society — which they are not. — and they’ve slipped deeper into It’s 2020 and the world has realised a very vital role in his or her life and the exploitation side as the world like it never has done before of the ensures a healthy lifestyle for him has evolved. importance of allowing animals to or her. The problem of adjusting to Animals are routinely treated badly, lead the life they want to live, to co- a new lifestyle or accommodating they’re suff ering, and daily they exist with us humans, to be free and in a multigenerational household are there purely to provide some live the life they are destined to live. is a common family stressor. Elder form of entertainment to visitors. Look no further than the current people generally have limited Zoos are doing their best to deliver coronavirus outbreak spreading physical and cognitive skills in what the public wants…but it’s at across the world to realise how relation to the other generations the expense of the animals welfare. bad things get when humans mess in the family and this may cause The argument that zoos have with wild animals that were never stress which would lead to educational merit might have once supposed to end up on a plate. abuse. The stress can also be seemed convincing, but there is less triggered by financial burdens of reason to see animals in captivity „ The author is an expert in vegan multigenerational households, than ever before. Just a quick look wellbeing and health. Instagram By Sanah Thakur especially when the adult child has at David Attenborough’s Planet handle: @Ghanim92  no financial resources except those of his/her parents. Social isolation A growing concern in today’s within a family can also be seen as world is the abuse of the elder and a risk factor for elder abuse. Social it is a major issue especially in the isolation can be seen as a strategy United States. The older generation and a consequence; as a strategy it has become more active and can used to keep the abuse a secret independent with every passing year and as a consequence it makes Dependency, mostly financially can in both developed and developing abuse as a social problem. and today a larger percentage of dealing with the stresses of taking prove to be a contributing factor countries and with the number of Another important aspect that older people live longer and in better care of a loved elder person diff icult. to abuse. For example, a caregiver elder people increasing year by year, needs to be given attention is the health. However, even though an By isolating oneself from everyone who is financially dependent on the elder abuse is becoming a more societal attitudes that influence improvement can be seen in the state outside the family, the adult child older person may exploit him/her. significant problem. By 2050 seniors the way families live and the of older people today, the concealed is blocking out all support and help Generally when a caregiver feels will outnumber the children in the intergenerational relationships. issue of elder abuse, neglect and from friends and concerned others. there is no escape from the stress he/ world, which increases the risk for Children shouldn’t assume that exploitation has become a pervasive Sometimes a family isn’t able to she experiences, abuse may occur. elder abuse. taking care of their parents is solely problem which is often neglected. cope up when the needs of the older Societal attitudes play an important Providing support to the victim their job. They should be more Elder abuse can be defined as an adult increase beyond the help they role in shaping the image of an is one of the major ways in which open to the idea of old age homes, intentional, negligent or knowing typically provide. In such a case, the older person and the relationship elder abuse can be dealt with. The residential care facilities etc. so act by a caregiver or any other family members will unintentionally the caregiver has with that person. confidence of a victim needs to that they don’t impose the burden person that causes either harm or fail to provide proper care and Older people are often regarded increase and this can be done by of caregiving on themselves. With a considerable risk of harm to a support which will later turn into as insignificant and therefore ensuring the victim that he/she increased awareness of such facilities vulnerable human being. The word unintentional neglect or abuse. many people fail to understand has enough resources to tackle and social services, people will start Wellness Meal Plan ‘vulnerable’ can be interpreted as The nature of the relationship the importance of providing the problem. Awareness about the accepting them and the burden on all those older individuals who are between the caregiver and the a nonabusive and supportive existence of old age homes, NGOs the families will reduce. lonely, depressed, and weak as older adult is the basis of eff ective environment for the old person. and helplines should increase so that With an expected rise in the well as those who have a mental or caregiving and support. The act Certain cultural value and beliefs the elder people are more aware of population of older people in the physical disease. Half of all reported of caregiving however is a diff icult may also influence the way a them. world, there is a considerable public cases are due to neglect which and taxing task which requires a family functions, intergenerational The number of social services concern for this social issue, but no involves the failure or refusal to lot of sacrifices. Sometimes the relationships, and how people define for the ageing should increase considerable action by the people. fulfill one’s obligations as a caretaker caregiving creates stresses that their roles and responsibilities. Some so that victims are provided with Abuse takes place, people are aware to the elder. Abandonment is an aff ect both the caregiver and the people may face language barriers, legal, psychological, medical and but, in most cases, neither the extreme type of abuse where the older adult. These stresses lead to financial or emotional dependence financial help. This can only be victim nor the observer says or does caregiver leaves an elder alone and potentially dangerous behaviour or even might be embarrassed to done if the government passes anything. Elder abuse has all the stops providing care. which may leave the adult at risk. reveal or report abuse. While defining more laws that sanction funds for characteristics of a social issue but it There is no one explanation for elder To be an eff ective caregiver one abuse, there are diff erences across the development of social services is still neglected in most developing abuse as it is a complex problem and needs to know how to balance the cultures, religions, and ethnic groups. for the aged. With the help of countries; this needs to change and can stem from a multitude of factors needs of the elder person with their Since many cases of elder abuse go public education and awareness soon. like family and caregiving stressors own needs and when this balance unreported one would expect a lack campaigns, the elder people along and societal and cultural issues. isn’t maintained it can lead to of public concern for this issue which with the youth of the country „ The author can be contacted on The family of an elder person plays stress which in turn triggers abuse. is not the case. Elder abuse exists should raise awareness about elder Instagram @sincerelysanah

Gone too soon

much, don’t go. If this world is too painful, stop and rest. It’s okay to stop and rest. If you need a break, it’s okay to say you need a break. Date and almonds coff ee This life – it’s not a contest, not squares Method: a race, not a performance, not a Mix the almond butter, the coco- thing that you win. It’s okay to slow Ingredients: nut butter and the almond flour down. You are here for more than together in a food processor to grades, more than a job, more than 150g dark chocolate (I used 74%) make the base. a promotion, more than keeping 1/2 a cup of crushed almonds Now flatten the base or form them up, more than getting by. This life 1/2 a cup of mixed seeds (I used into cookies if you prefer, sprinkle is not about status or opinion or flax and chia. You can even add the seed mix on top. Melt your choc- By Shefa Ali appearance. You don’t have to fake dry fruits to the mix) olate and pour on top of the seeds. it. You do not have to fake it. Other 1 cup of almond butter Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes. people feel this way too. If your 2 cup of almond flour Cut into 4-5 inch bars and enjoy In all honesty, this week I am at a loss heart is broken, it’s okay to say your 1 tbs of coconut butter the taste of eating right! for words, I am grieving the loss of heart is broken. If you feel stuck, it’s for love to find you. It’s not too late. those things. Screw the stigma that ways. I hope you know you can be a loved one. Nothing makes sense okay to say you feel stuck. If you You’re not alone. It’s okay – whatever says otherwise. Break the silence honest. I hope you know that you right now, all I feel is a profound can’t let go, it’s okay to say you can’t you need and however long it and break the cycle, for you are can ask for help. Did you catch that? sense of sadness and I just wanted let go. You are not alone in these takes- its okay. It’s okay. If you feel more than just your pain. You are It is absolutely positively okay to to share this words from a beautiful places. Other people feel how you too much, there’s still a place for you not alone. And people need other ask for help. It simply means you’re book called If You Feel Too Much: feel. You are more than just your here. If you feel too much, don’t go. people.” “More than anything, my human. Help is real and it is possible; Thoughts on Things Found and pain. You are more than wounds and There is still some time.” “We’re all in wish for you is this: That when your people find it every day. Lost and Hoped For by Jamie silence. There is still some time to be this together. It’s okay to be honest. awful darkest days come, you will Tworkowski. surprised. There is still some time to It’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to know you’re not alone. Pain will tell „ The author is a consultant and “If you feel too much, there’s still a ask for help. There is still some time say you’re haunted or that you can’t you to keep quiet, but that’s a lie. Life coach. Instagram handle: @miss_ place for you here. If you feel too to start again. There is still some time begin to let go. We can all relate to is fragile and we all break in diff erent shefa, Website: missshefa.com Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 13 QATAR — 1,000 DAYS OF PROUD ACHIEVEMENTSACHIEVEMENTS

Haloul Interchange Umm Lekhba Interchange Ashghal beats unjust siege, paves the way to success By Shafeeq Alingal Ashghal did its part for the Ashghal started upgrading of a home to a variety of birds. Staff Reporter 2022 FIFA World Cup prepara- sewage pumping stations at New Infrastructure development tions by opening ahead of sched- Salata, Al Mansoura, Al Mes- in the health sector in Qatar also ule the Al Khor Road and Orbital sila, and Al Rayyan as part of ef- witnessed remarkable achieve- he unjust blockade of Highway which provide a direct forts to increase the capacity of ments in the post-blockade 1,000 days has not ham- link with a number of stadiums the pumping stations by 62% to period. Ashghal signed six new Tpered the Public Works such as Al Rayyan Stadium, Al 211% in order to accommodate health projects with a total cost Authority’s (Ashghal) spirit to Khor Stadium, Lusail Stadium both current and future sewage of about QR1bn. The projects in- achieve its goals. and other sports facilities. fl ows. cluded health centres at Al Khor, Ashghal continues racing to- Interchanges at Simaisma, The Al Wakra and Al Wu- Al Wakra South, Al Sadd, Al wards conquering new heights Bani Hajer, Pearl, Onaiza and Al kair Sewage Treatment Plant Mashaf, and Ain Khalid to serve in the infrastructure develop- Khaleej Al Gharbi were also de- project that will be implement- around 3,500 visitors per day. ment sector. Ashghal, as per the veloped and works for the Me- ed through a public-private Ashghal has signed a contract to available data, added numerous saimeer outfall tunnel started. partnership contract was also build the National Health Labo- projects to its credit by setting Ashghal opened a two-way launched. Ashghal has complet- ratories building. up expressways, roads, sewerage tunnel on Al Rayyan Road Project ed works of the western branch Besides, Ashghal completed networks projects and buildings. along with a new bridge and tun- of the main trunk sewer for the construction of the new trauma A slew of innovative projects nel on the Al Rayyan Road linking Doha South Sewage Infrastruc- and emergency department at were launched even as Qatar wit- Al Furousiya Street with Al Huwar ture Project. the Hamad General Hospital. nessed the completion of pres- Street. A new tunnel at Al Gassar In February 2019, excavation Ashghal is an active member tigious projects since the siege interchange and two tunnels at of the 10km long outfall tun- of the Qatar Beautifi cation and was enforced on June 5, 2017. Pearl Interchange as part of Lusail nel of the Mesaimeer Pump- Our Kids Planting Trees Project The post-blockade period Expressway were also opened. ing Station and Outfall Project that will develop the country’s witnessed the total length of the Ashghal also inaugurated was started. The outfall tunnel green space by 240% by 2022. highway network in the country the underpass beneath F Ring is a signifi cant part of the Me- Five major tasks including the expanding to more than 750km. Road and Mesaimeer Road and saimeer Tunnel that will accom- construction of central public Impressive developments were Al Rayyan interchange fl yover. modate surface and stormwa- parks, provision of dedicated carried out on the prestigious Works are underway for the fi rst ter received from the drainage lanes for pedestrians and bicy- Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor while cable-stayed bridge in Qatar, networks of Doha. Ashghal also cles, development of the Doha the Al Watiyyat Interchange and Cable-stayed bridge. a part of the Sabah Al Ahmed completed the Al Karaana La- Corniche, development of Cen- new bridges at Makkah Al Mu- Corridor, which also include goon Reclamation and Rehabili- tral Doha and increasing aff or- karramah and Umm Lekhba in- fl ow at Al Luqta, Al Gharrafa, Al Expressway, Lusail Expressway, Wukair Road, Mesaieed Road, the largest intersection, longest tation Project that helped the estation and greenery areas are tersections were opened. These Waab and Al Rayyan areas. Sev- Al Khor Expressway, Al Majd Hamad Port Road and Al Rayyan bridge, deepest and longest bi- area transform into a healthy being carried out as part of the led to improvement in traffi c eral roads including the Doha Road, Al Wakra Main Road, Al Road were developed. directional tunnel. natural environment making it project. Qatar makes huge progress in healthcare

By Joseph Varghese The new specialist facility Staff Reporter will provide round-the-clock care to elderly Qatari patients who no longer need to be in atar’s healthcare sector hospital but require long-term, has made huge strides inpatient medical care. Qin the recent years, of- The facility will also treat fering world-class services to some patients in need of short- the citizens and residents de- term respite care. spite the blockade against Qatar The new facility will accom- completing 1,000 days. modate 68 patients and provide The healthcare sector contin- occupational therapy, recrea- ues to fl ourish like never before. tional therapy, physiotherapy, From being named one of the and medical and nursing care, best in the world to launching all in a comfortable, home-like new hospitals and world-class environment. medical services, the country’s healthcare sector saw several Last year, Legatum developments in the last two- Institute, a London-based and-half years. think-tank declared Qatar’s Last year, Legatum Institute, healthcare system the best a London-based think-tank de- in Middle East and the fi ft h clared Qatar’s healthcare sys- best in the world. Qatar tem the best in Middle East and is the only country in the the fi fth best in the world. region to feature on the Qatar is the only country in top 5 list of the Legatum the region to feature on the top Prosperity Index, behind 5 list of the Legatum Prosperity Singapore, Luxembourg, Index, behind Singapore, Lux- Japan and Switzerland embourg, Japan and Switzer- HMC Medical City hospitals. land. The Daam Specialised Care In 2018, Qatar was ranked Center joins HMC’s existing Commission International (JCI) The new Medical City hos- sessment and treatment. Al Waab and Qatar University. and implementation started 13th in the world. Enaya Specialised Care Centers, by achieving the “Gold Seal” of pitals represented the biggest The last quarter of 2018 In addition, PHCC has con- including the Qatar National The Hamad Medical Corpo- which have been caring for pa- approval in recognition of their expansion of healthcare facili- saw the opening of the Hazm tinued to expand its Bowel and Health Strategy 2018-2022, ration (HMC), the state health- tients since 2010. quality of care. Of the 13 facili- ties in the history of Qatar and Mebaireek General Hospital, Cancer Screening suites. Qatar National Dementia Plan care provider, has moved from Last year it also opened the ties, eight, including the Hamad were a central part of the coun- bringing care closer to the In- PHCC continued to off er its 2018-22, Qatar National Mental strength to strength opening new Trauma and Emergency Dental Center and the Mental try’s commitment to providing dustrial Area community. services and rolled out the fam- Health Strategy 2018-2022 and several hospitals and other fa- Centre, providing a number of Health Service, received the ac- patients with the safest, most In December 2018, new Cen- ily medicine concept all across PHCC Corporate Strategy Plan cilities during this period. services to patients with some creditation for the fi rst time. eff ective and most compassion- tral Clinical Laboratories at the the health centres. 2019-2023, among others. Very recently, HMC also an- of them being unique in the The Trauma System has also ate care. Qatar Rehabilitation Institute The unjust siege also failed to Sidra Medicine, part of Qa- nounced that 50% of renovation country and the region. been successfully reaccredited In June 2018, HMC inaugu- were inaugurated. make any impact in the phar- tar Foundation and an ultra- and upgrade works at the Surgi- Once fully operational, the by Accreditation Canada Inter- rated two new services, includ- In mid-February, HMC maceuticals sector as well. high tech speciality hospital cal Specialty Center, located in new centre — one of the larg- national (ACI) and awarded the ing a state-of-the-art Cardiac opened phase two of Hamad Despite having its traditional for women, young and children the former Women’s Hospital, est in the region — will lead to a Trauma Distinction Award of MRI Suite at Heart Hospital and General Hospital’s state-of- sources of supply from some became fully operational with has been completed and it was signifi cant expansion of trauma Excellence. a new chemotherapy robotic the-art surgical services expan- blockading countries before its offi cial opening in November aiming to make it fully opera- and emergency services in Qa- In 2017, the year when the pharmacy at the National Centre sion, which was part of HMC’s the blockade, HMC suff ered no 2018. tional by early 2021. tar, ranging from trauma, ur- blockade began, state-of-the- for Cancer Care and Research. busiest expansion programme shortage of any medicine. HMC The hospital recently Once completed, several sur- gent and critical care, to short art facilities opened at the Med- Shortly afterwards, HMC of- in more than a decade. was successful in fi nding alter- launched a number of new gical services will be relocated stay and ‘See and Treat’ walk-in ical City complex. fi cially opened its Stroke Serv- It included 16 rooms to re- native supply sources, by strik- services for women and chil- to the new facility, including services. They included the Qatar Re- ice Unit, which is part of the ceive patients from wards, 30 ing deals with bigger pharma dren, providing several unique orthopaedic surgery, vascu- Last year started on a high habilitation Institute, the Am- new Neuroscience Institute at recovery rooms, a dedicated companies outside GCC. They services for the citizens and lar surgery, urology, and organ note as HMC’s new Tobacco bulatory Care Centre and Wom- Hamad General Hospital. The nurse’s station, conference were willing to export high- residents of the country. Some transplantation. Control Center opened in Janu- en’s Wellness and Research facility features a Rapid Ac- room and enhanced staff areas. quality medicines to Qatar at of the services at Sidra are There are also plans to relo- ary, playing an important role in Centre, providing patients with cess Stroke Unit and a Second- Besides, the Primary Health cheaper rates than those sup- available for the fi rst time in the cate bariatric surgery services the fi ght to curb smoking in the access to an unprecedented lev- ary Stroke Prevention Clinic, Care Corporation (PHCC) plied by companies in the block- country and the region. to the new facility. community. el of care by increasing bed ca- which combined to provide an opened a number of new health ading countries. The hospital has also con- In January this year, the Daam In May, last year, 13 HMC pacity, improving services and innovative and comprehensive centres across Qatar. Within the two-and-half ducted a number of complicated Specialised Care Center was of- facilities and services were ac- granting faster access to spe- approach to stroke care through Last year, PHCC opened new years of the blockade, a number surgeries and procedures very fi cially opened. credited by the US-based Joint cialised treatment. early diagnosis and faster as- centres in Muaither, Al Wajba, of strategies have been launched successfully. Gulf Times 14 Thursday, February 27, 2020 QATAR — 1,000 DAYS OF PROUD ACHIEVEMENTSACHIEVEMENTS

Qatar Airways flying high with network expansion, new aircraft deliveries

By Pratap John These include Boeing 777s, 787-9, some MAXs still The HIA announced its multi-phased airport awarded HIA expansion projects include the joint Business Editor on order, Airbus 350s, A321neos, freighters and 33 expansion plan in 2019. Phase A is set to comprise venture of Midmac Contracting, TAV Tepe Akfen corporate jets. “Nearly 80% of these are for fleet a central concourse linking concourses D and E, Investment Construction and Taisei Corporation replacement,” al-Baker said. and will increase the airport’s capacity to more than (MTT), the joint venture of Consolidated Contrac- Qatar Airways, the country’s national carrier and The national airline has already made known its 53mn passengers annually by 2022. tors Company (CCC) and Teyseer Contracting flag-bearer, continues to fly high after a success- plans to purchase a 49% stake in Rwanda’s national The airport served a record 38,786,422 passengers Company (TCC) and the joint venture of Urbacon ful year of strong network expansion, new aircraft carrier. Also, it plans to take a majority holding in 2019, the most since its start of operations in Trading & Contracting, Bahadir Construction deliveries and the unique achievement as the only in Rwanda’s new Bugesera International Airport, 2014. and Tedeschia Construction Enterprises (UBT) as airline to win the Skytrax Award for the World’s Best which is located south of the country’s capital Eight new passenger destinations were added to well as Beumer Doha and Al Jaber Engineering Airline for a fifth time in 2019. Kigali. the HIA’s global network in 2019: Davao, the Philip- Company. The Five-star Hamad International Airport (HIA), This year, al-Baker said, Qatar Airways will add 11 pines; Rabat, Morocco; Izmir, Turkey; Gaborone, The Western Taxiway & Stand Development Works home to Qatar Airways, has undertaken an expan- new destinations: Osaka (Japan), Santorini (Greece), Qatar Airways, the country’s national Botswana; Langkawi, Malaysia; Mogadishu, Soma- contract, Package-0012, was awarded in October sion to meet the growing demand for air travel, Dubrovnik (Croatia) Almaty and Nur-Sultan (Kaza- carrier and fl ag-bearer, continues to fl y lia; Malta; and Lisbon, Portugal. 2019 to the joint venture of UBT. enhance its position as the preferred gateway for khstan), Accra (Ghana), Cebu (Philippines), Lyon high aft er a successful year of strong Three new cargo destinations were also added to The Passenger Terminal Expansion Works and travel and transit and to accommodate the growth (France), Trabzon (Turkey), Siem Reap (Cambodia) network expansion, new aircraft the network: Istanbul, New York and Almaty. Central Concourse Building and Early Works of the national carrier. and Luanda (Angola). deliveries and the unique achievement Some 15 airlines operating at the HIA increased (PTEW) were awarded to the joint venture of The national airline continued its strategy of invest- This week, Qatar Airways signed a significant code- as the only airline to win the Skytrax their weekly flight frequencies, including Kuwait Midmac Contracting, TAV Tepe Akfen Investment ing in the world’s most technologically advanced share agreement with American Airlines in a move Award for the World’s Best Airline for a Airways, Salam Air, Philippine Airlines, Oman Air Construction and Taisei Corporation. The contract, aircraft to drive its ambitious route network growth. that will increase commercial co-operation, bolster fi ft h time in 2019 and Air India Express. The airport also welcomed Package-0013, was awarded in November 2019 and Through the course of 2019, some 32 aircraft were connectivity and create hundreds of new travel two new airline partners, namely Air India and commenced shortly after. delivered to its Doha headquarters, including its options for millions of customers. can Airlines to operate flights between the US and Tarco Aviation. This led to the HIA handling a total The project will include an additional 140,000 sq m 250th, an Airbus A350-900 in March. By end-2019, The new agreement will establish a partnership at Qatar, along with a number of joint commercial and of 232,917 aircraft movements in 2019, which was terminal building, located airside, adjoining the ex- the total combined fleet size of passenger, cargo a global level between two of the world’s most con- operational initiatives to further strengthen this 5.57% more than the previous year. isting terminal building through Concourse C with and Qatar Executive (QE) was 259 with more than nected airlines, linking some of the largest airport renewed partnership. Last week, the Qatar Company for Airports Opera- an axis that will culminate into a central garden. 170 destinations worldwide. hubs in the US to the HIA in Doha, voted the Middle The HIA is focused on increasing its operational ca- tion and Management – MATAR – announced the It will include a new transfer area which will help Qatar Airways has more than 290 aircraft on order, East’s best hub and holder of a place in the world’s pacity through its major expansion project, which HIA’s multi-phased expansion project plans and the shorten passengers’ connection time and will im- which are currently worth over $82bn, group chief top five airports for the last three years. is a vital part of the airport’s rapid growth and the contracting companies and multiple joint ventures, prove their overall transfer experience at the HIA. executive HE Akbar al-Baker told Gulf Times in Following the reactivation of the codeshare, both country’s preparations to host the 2022 World Cup which have been awarded expansion projects. This will also contribute to servicing the continued Doha recently. airlines will also explore the opportunity for Ameri- and beyond. The five contracting companies and joint ventures growth of Qatar Airways.

QFC makes great Qatar set to help global strides in attracting FDI into Qatar

By Santhosh V Perumal Qatar and in the wider region, Business Reporter at a time when the country has green fuel initiatives been successfully countering the economic and trade block- By Pratap John he Qatar Financial Center ade since June 2017. Business Editor (QFC) platform has made Qatar is already an attractive Tsubstantial progress in global hub, with 20 business attracting foreign direct invest- councils registered on the QFC’s ydrocarbon resource-rich Qatar is well set to ment (FDI) into Qatar and pro- platform from countries around make a huge positive impact on global initiatives moting economic diversifi ca- the world such as Canada, Ni- Hthat seek alternatives to polluting and carbon- tion, negating the 1,000 days of geria, Singapore, Spain, India intensive fuels. blockade. among many others. Qatar is moving forward with implementing its mega Notwithstanding the block- With more than $129bn Is- projects that will see the country’s liquefi ed natural gas ade, the global corporate sector lamic fi nancial assets under its (LNG) production rise from 77mn tonnes per year to has evinced increased interests kitty, the QFC has also taken the 126mn tonnes per year by 2027. in establishing their presence in lead in reaching out to Malaysia This will not only enhance Qatar’s ability and fl exibil- the fast growing Qatar. Accord- and Turkey as part of its strat- ity to meet additional demand but also help the shift to ingly, the QFC made “remarka- egy to be the dominant players less carbon-intensive energy in many parts of the world. ble” international partnerships, in the global Shariah fi nancial In parallel, Qatar remains focused on achieving the global engagement and business landscape. highest environmental standards in its LNG industry growth over the course of the Under the proposed plan, to signifi cantly reduce emissions by applying the best last year, according to QFC chief Turkey would cover Islamic fi - available industry technology and carbon dioxide (CO2) executive Yousuf Mohamed al- nance needs in Europe, Qatar sequestration. This file photo taken on February 6, 2017 shows a part of the Ras Laff an Industrial City, Qatar’s principal site for Jaida. would serve the greater Middle The huge production boost by 64% (on the current production of liquefied natural gas and gas-to-liquids, some 80km north of Doha. Qatar is moving forward with Zurich-based fi ntech Insti- East and North Africa and Ma- 77mn tpy) will have a multiplier eff ect on the national implementing its mega projects that will see the country’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) production rise from 77mn match Global, a leading net- laysia will continue to serve the economy over the coming decades and help Qatar con- tonnes per year to 126mn tonnes per year by 2027. work for institutional money Asian markets. solidate its position as the world’s top transhipper and market trading, is the latest With less than 1,000 days producer of liquefi ed natural gas. fl exible, economic and clean. More and more countries es) was 50 years of production at Qatar Fertiliser Com- entrant in the QFC. The other to go for Qatar to host the FIFA Qatar and four other producing countries will lead are moving away from burning coal and nuclear and are pany (Qafco). recent entries were The In- World Cup, the QFC has already the growth in liquefi ed natural gas (LNG) export capac- building infrastructure for cleaner alternatives includ- Qafco, which celebrated its golden jubilee in 2019, has vestment Promotion Agency of stepped up eff orts this year to ity over the next three decades during which $9.7tn has ing natural gas. a total production capacity of 3.8mn tonnes of ammonia Qatar and QPay, both of which attract sport consultancy and been earmarked for investment in the gas sector. “I am often asked about renewables and whether we and 5.6mn tonnes of urea annually. The fertiliser major have already made their pres- advisory, sport legal advisory, Eff ectively, Qatar’s LNG production capacity will see them as a threat to gas. The answer is ‘no’. We believe has become the largest single-site producer of ammonia ence felt. sport fi nancing and contracting, exceed 142mn tpy annually (by 2027), when the output that natural gas and renewables are complementary. As and urea in the world through six export-oriented inte- With a favourable macroeco- sport event management and from the Golden Pass LNG export facility located in the cleanest fossil fuel, natural gas comes in handy when grated production lines. nomic environment, excellent promotion, sport technology Sabine Pass, Texas, is also accounted for. the sun is not shining. And when the wind is not blow- The company was the “fi rst building block” of Me- business infrastructure and ac- companies and sport educa- The Golden Pass LNG export project, which is owned ing. saieed Industrial City, the fi rst Qatari petrochemical cess to a $2.1tn regional mar- tion, in view of more than $20bn by the Golden Pass Products, is a joint venture of QP “Energy from natural gas can be dispatched quickly manufacturer to export its products from Mesaieed ket, Qatar off ers fi ntech fi rms a opportunities in the sector. A (70%) and ExxonMobil (30%). in a cost effi cient and eff ective manner. I fi rmly believe ports to the world, and the fi rst company to train and lucrative market to grow their start-up Bootcamp is already a Overall, Qatar’s hydrocarbon production will account the combination of natural gas and renewables off er a develop Qatari capabilities to work in and lead the pet- business and expand in the re- QFC client of sport marketing for nearly 6.7mn barrels oil equivalent per day with the reliable, fl exible and cost-eff ective pathway for a lower rochemical sector. gion. and commercialisation. LNG production capacity boost to 142mn tpy. energy emission system.” Qafco was also the “cornerstone” of the establish- Recognising the value of fi n- “Investing in the sports sec- The expansion of Qatar’s LNG facilities is considered Natural gas will be the only form of hydrocarbons to ment of Industries Qatar, the largest listed company on tech in the growth and sustain- tor is one of the pillars of our the world’s largest and one of the energy sector’s most increase its share during the next 30 years, while fossil the Qatar Stock Exchange. This listing has benefi ted the ability of the fi nancial sector, strategy at Aspire Zone Founda- lucrative projects. fuels will continue to dominate the global energy mix national economy. Qatar has already developed a tion. The QFC’s focus on sports The country may also maintain its position as the during the period, he said. Early this year, Qatar Petroleum announced the im- National Fintech Strategy to es- and other important sectors un- holder of the largest non-associated gas reserves in the “Today, the share of natural gas in the global energy plementation of the ‘In-Country Value Policy’ in the tablish it as a regional leader in derscores the growth potential world for the foreseeable future by establishing con- mix stands at about 22%. By 2050, this is expected to energy sector through ‘Tawteen’, the localisation pro- this technological evolution. of these industries in Qatar and fi rmed gas reserves of 1,760tn cu ft at the North Field. rise to 27%, according to the outlook, which is being gramme for services and industries in the energy sector. Importantly, the QFC entered internationally,” according to Ali This is in addition to more than 70bn barrels of con- launched today,” al-Kaabi said. The ICV Policy will impact the tendering and award- into a pact with Microsoft to al-Mutawaa, chief of Enterprise densates, and massive quantities of LPG, ethane, and A few months ago, Qatargas, which is the world’s top ing process, where suppliers and contractors, who are facilitate strategic co-opera- and Development Offi cer, As- helium, a huge quantity by any standard. LNG producer and exporter, achieved the “best-in- contributing the most to the local economy, will acquire tion across business activities, pire Zone Foundation. New studies have revealed that the North Field’s pro- class” reliability performance of 98.8%. The company’s a commercial advantage. aimed at attracting internation- With over 800 companies ductive layers extend well into Qatari land in Ras Laff an, production was also on target in 2019. Launched in February, Tawteen received hundreds of al digital and IT businesses and now registered on the plat- paving the way for a new LNG production project in the Qatargas maintained a “strong environmental and applications through its investor portal from local in- fi rms to Qatar. form, QFC’s eff orts in devel- north of Qatar. safety performance” as it achieved a fl aring rate of 0.38 vestors and leading global suppliers for about 100 new It’s New Emerging Belt Ini- oping relations with local and Recently, HE the Minister of State for Energy Aff airs against a target of 0.44 this year, thanks to a success- investment opportunities it off ers in various elds,fi in- tiative (NEBI) – a new economic international stakeholders and Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi highlighted the key role nat- ful fl are reduction project whereas the greenhouse gas cluding engineering services, maintenance, repair and corridor focusing on Kuwait, key markets continue to bolster ural gas has to play in addressing the global concerns on (GHG) emission rate showed 0.35 against a target of overhaul (MRO), digital technologies, subsurface opera- Oman, India, Pakistan and Tur- investor confi dence in Qatar, environmental pollution and climate change. 0.42. tions, chemicals and metals, as well as light equipment, key – is to strategically position shaping the nation as the gate- At an event in Doha organised by the Gas Export- Another major stride made by Qatar last year in the business services and other services across the energy Doha as the most promising hub way of choice to the Middle East ing Countries Forum, he said, “Natural gas is versatile, industrial segment (using its vast hydrocarbon resourc- sector supply chain. for fi rms wishing to operate in and beyond.

QCB commits to modern regulatory environment to support market stability, innovation

By Pratap John alternatives in banking. Preparations are 85% of the total domestic assets of the In detail, from June to September 2019, Business Editor underway to launch digital banks, or what banks. the aggregated total assets of the eight is known as new banks, which provide Private sector credit registered a listed banks grew QR39bn (5.63% increase banking services through mobile applica- more than 20% year-on-year expan- compared to the FY 2018 results) to hit Understanding the importance of financial tions and other channels, he said. sion to QR635.19bn, or 66%, of the QR1.57tn, while the aggregated loans and technology in the development of Qatar’s “The future banking industry is also total domestic credit at the end of advances grew QR30bn (5.76% increase banking and financial sector, the Qatar heading towards a new historical turning December last year; while public sector compared to the FY 2018 results) to reach Central Bank is now gearing up to an- point, where the extent of banks’ ability credit witnessed a marginal 0.37% dip to QR1.08tn, PwC said. nounce a fintech strategy. to benefit from advanced technology QR17.48bn. It said the growth of the aggregated total The QCB plans to realise this in co- is studied in order to employ them in Higher margins, continued cost control, assets of the eight listed banks from June operation with financial institutions and financial services, for example artificial and a clear focus on risk have enabled to September 2019 was proportionally financial technology companies. intelligence, and blockchain technology. Qatar’s listed banks to report, on average, mirrored by the increase of customer The QCB is determined to contribute to These developments will extend to a wide a 5.5% profit increase year-on-year in 2019, deposits (+ QR18bn). the creation of a modern regulatory en- range of financial services,” he noted. a recent KPMG analysis has shown. The PwC analysis also shows a solid vironment that supports innovation and Sheikh Abdulla stressed the need for regu- Strong private sector credit helped Qatar’s commercial banks clock During the year, Qatar’s listed banks saw a growth over the past three years; results market stability, stressed its Governor HE latory and supervisory bodies around the a robust double-digit growth in domestic assets, which totalled 9.3% growth in assets as well, it said. indicate the total assets of these banks Sheikh Abdulla bin Saoud al-Thani. world to quickly cope with the new chal- QR1.55tn in end-2019 The growth of the aggregated total loans increased by 22.7% (CAGR of 7.1%), At an event in Doha in December, Sheikh lenges in order to reduce regulatory gaps and advances of the eight listed Qatari demonstrating that the “growth of the Abdulla explained that the global financial and maintain financial stability, in light of commercial banks clock a robust double- growth trajectory, especially in the case of banks from June to September 2019 (in Qatari financial industry remains solid and sector was rapidly developing, supported recent developments in the financial and digit growth in domestic assets, which credit, securities portfolio, credit on banks excess of QR30bn) was “mainly driven by resilient over time”. by electronic innovations and systems, banking sector. totalled QR1.55tn in end-2019. and cash and precious metals. a combination of growth in equity, due to The total profit of the eight listed com- where the provision of financial serv- Meanwhile, Qatar’s banking sector wit- Domestic assets constituted 85% of the Total credit of the commercial banks grew banks and customer deposits,” PwC said mercial banks increased by 5.6% com- ices has become mainly dependent on nessed overall growth in 2019, driven by total, according to the QCB. about 11% to QR1.04tn. Their domestic in its latest “Qatar Banking Sector” report. pared to Q3, 2018, reaching QR19.2bn technology. This is because of its greater the rapid deployment of modern banking Domestic assets witnessed about a 12% credit facilities shot up more than 12% Customer deposits recorded a “fast” for the period that ended on September role in transforming the banking sector technology. year-on-year expansion to QR1.32tn at year-on-year to QR964.19bn at the end growth (QR +18bn, or 2.9%) in Q3, 2019 30, 2019 (QR18.2bn in September 2018), from its conventional channels to digital Strong private sector credit helped Qatar’s the end of December 31, 2019 on a robust of review period. They constituted about compared to H1 2019, PwC said. PwC said. Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 15 QATAR — 1,000 DAYS OF PROUD ACHIEVEMENTSACHIEVEMENTS Impact of blockade pales over Qatar’s growth Qatar stays By Peter Alagos Business Reporter a robust Rather than put a dent on Qatar’s economic growth, the ongoing economic blockade imposed on Qatar has failed to stop the continuous momentum witnessed by the country’s private sector, according economy to industry leaders and stakeholders. In just 72 hours after the blockade was announced on June 5, 2017, the State was able to call on government ministries and agencies, including diff erent private and despite semi-private organisations to mobilise resources, thus shielding the economy from the impact of the “unjust siege” against Qatar, Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani earlier blockade, said. Since the past 1,000 days after four of Sheikh Khalifa and al-Kuwari: Continuous momentum in the private sector. Qatar’s neighbours called for a sea, land, and air blockade, the country has only the expo had even noted that because supported eff orts to instil the culture of instead of the regional market. Locally seen “a positive transformation” and a of increased demand for locally- business continuity and resilience, as well sourced and Qatar-made products are not says offi cial revival of its investment climate, as well as manufactured products, business as risk management systems. only making rounds in the country but an enhanced private sector contribution operations of domestic companies QBA board member Saud O al-Mana had in foreign markets, as well, according to to the state’s economic growth, reiterated “improved further” because of the earlier said that many small and medium- Qatar Chamber, which recently concluded By Peter Alagos tricity and obtaining credit wit- Qatar Chamber first vice-chairman blockade. sized enterprises (SMEs) “were dependent a successful edition of the “Made in Qatar” Business Reporter nessed a signifi cant increase. Mohamed bin Towar al-Kuwari. As with other local firms operating in on regional markets, and were at the exhibition in Kuwait. In a forum organised last It can be recalled that only a few days Qatar, he said, the blockade “made the receiving end of the impact” caused by the Sheikh Khalifa said the expo is a testament Monday by the Ministry of after the blockade, agencies like Qatar company stronger” amid the government’s economic blockade. to Qatar’s economic resiliency, and ore than two and a half Commerce and Industry (MoCI), Development Bank (QDB) organised assurance and eff orts to promote the local He said larger companies in Qatar highlighted the progress achieved in years in an economic Nasser al-Taweel, adviser to the events, such as the “Buy Local Products” manufacturing industry, thus encouraging managed to adjust quickly to the crisis, but Qatar’s industry since the blockade. From Mblockade, Qatar has Minister of Finance, delivered expo, which opened a wide range of other businesses to expand their assured that the QBA wanted to make sure 2017, he said the number of factories in been able to maintain its leading a presentation on “Doing Busi- opportunities for local companies, operations. that SMEs had overcome the challenges Qatar increased to 800, while projects that position among global rankings ness in Qatar 2020”, which dis- suppliers, and manufacturing firms. Also, organisations like the Qatari of the economic blockade, and for them to started production have now reached 116, and economic competitiveness cussed reforms the country has An off icial of a participating company at Businessmen Association (QBA) have depend 100% on the international market he added. reports. witnessed and the facilities it Despite the June 2017 block- granted to business owners to ade, Qatar has been successful attract more direct investments in establishing itself as “one of and support the private sector. the strongest” regional econo- On the index of obtaining mies, according to Khamis al- credit as one of the indicators Mohannadi, the chairman of of facilitating the business en- the Technical Committee for the vironment, al-Taweel said a Motivation and Participation of new law would allow compa- the Private Sector in Economic nies to mortgage their trans- Development Projects. ferred assets, which would Qatar is ‘stronger and Speaking at a forum held in enable them, especially small December 2019, al-Mohannadi had also emphasised that Qatar Despite the June 2017 was also able to position itself blockade, Qatar has as “among the most promising” been successful in economies in the world in terms establishing itself as “one of competitiveness and growth. of the strongest” regional self-suffi cient’ since In the next fi ve years, Qatar is economies also seeking to be among the top 20 countries in the World Bank’s and medium-sized enterprises Doing Business Report (DB), (SMEs), to obtain financing said al-Mohannadi, who is also from banks, and work to cre- chairman of the Ease of Doing ate an electronic record based Business Committee for World on electronic notices, managed blockade: QFZA chair Bank Indicators. by the Qatar Central Securities During the forum, al-Mohan- Depository. By Peter Alagos nadi said the government has Al-Taweel said the system also Business Reporter undertaken several legal reforms depends on international best and policies to streamline pro- practices and will enable the cedures and regulations to en- current person to register mort- atar has emerged as a robust and sure further ease of doing busi- gages online without the need to self-suffi cient economy despite ness in Qatar. visit the company concerned. Qthe land, air, and sea blockade im- Citing the 2020 World Bank The system will also be available posed on the country by four of its Arab report in the ease of doing busi- to the public for research. neighbours more than two and a half years ness, al-Mohannadi said Qatar He also discussed the index of ago, according to HE the Minister of State ranked 77th globally. He said obtaining electricity for compa- Ahmad bin Mohamed al-Sayed. Qatar rose in a number of key nies and facilities witnessed by Similarly, al-Sayed, who is also chair- indicators, ranking fi rst globally this sector, such as reducing the man of Qatar Free Zones Authority in the property registration in- number of procedures to only (QFZA), had pointed out earlier that many dex, and third in the world in the one procedure instead of four Qatar-based companies and manufactur- tax payment index, and 13th in and other reforms in this regard ing facilities in the country had strived to the building permits index. The so that the investor can obtain expand their operations to meet the needs state’s index on obtaining elec- the service in a short time. of the local market. Despite the blockade, al-Sayed said, Qatar remains an attractive investment destination to many major international companies. On the sidelines of the Doha Forum held in December 2019, seven lead- ing fi rms signed their licences with QFZA. During the event, al-Sayed witnessed the signing of licences of Wasco Coatings, HE al-Sayed and HE Sheikh Faisal: Qatar has emerged a robust economy despite the blockade. PICTURES: Ram Chand Volkswagen, China Harbor, Unistrong, Inventus Power, Gaussin, and Thales ment marks the end of a very successful business…the country is ready to wel- In a statement, Sheikh Faisal said, Group. These companies, the QFZA said year for us,” al-Sayed said. come international investments,” al- “Since its inception, the QBA has been in a statement, will contribute signifi - After the QFZA signing ceremony, a Sayed stressed. seeking to strengthen its partnership with cantly to the strength of the free zones panel discussion that followed highlight- Just last week, al-Sayed also signed a the public sector to serve the national and in turn to the growth and develop- ed that because of Qatar’s focus on new memorandum of understanding (MoU) economy by supporting the State in its ment of Qatar’s economy. technologies, connectivity, and ensuring with the Qatari Businessmen Associa- eff orts to diversify sources of income and The companies joined a diversifi ed the transformation of various industries, tion (QBA) chairman HE Sheikh Faisal bin achieve sustainable comprehensive de- group of more than 50 fi rms establish- the country has become a leading knowl- Qassim al-Thani to help achieve Qatar’s velopment by 2030, and attracting foreign ing operations in Qatar Free Zones, edge partner for business transformations economic and diversifi cation goals. investment and advanced technology, lo- which have invested a total of more than and for many international companies. The MoU is also geared to benefi t from calising highly-competitive industries, QR1.5bn, the QFZA statement continued. “From a business standpoint, Qatar the services provided by the two eco- and benefi ting from the privileges provid- “We have been working closely with is teaming up with global and national nomic institutions to the local and exter- ed by the government as the investment Nasser al-Taweel, adviser to the Minister of Finance (left) and Khamis companies around the world to demon- champions…the country also has the nal investor to enhance investments and climate is very appropriate and great op- al-Mohannadi, the chairman of the Technical Committee for the strate all that Qatar, and Qatar Free Zones wealth and investment platform, so we support the economic development of the portunities are available to turn the coun- Motivation and Participation of the Private Sector in Economic specifi cally, has to off er; this announce- can help you to open new doors for your country. try into a real workshop.” Development Projects.

Qatar bolsters maritime infrastructure to support economic expansion

By Santhosh V Perumal global maritime sector. Qetaifan Projects, The annual turnover of Hamad Port is one of material in the approach channel been Business Reporter a company owned by Katara Hospitality, of the highest compared to neighbouring cleared and an extra berthing has to ac- is set to construct and operate 16 floating ports. It is also the second largest port in commodate more than one giant cruise hotels on the shores of Qetaifan Island the region in terms of capacity at a rate of ship. The 1,000-day air and sea blockade has North to provide accommodation within 7.5mn containers annually. “Transforming Doha Port into a main rather fastened Doha’s eff orts to gear up its the fan villages during the FIFA World Cup An about 10-fold growth in the con- hub for cruise ships in the region will maritime infrastructure and allied sectors 2022. tainer traff ic through Hamad Port, which generate significant economic returns to in order to provide extra cushioning for Hamad Port, which has in a short period recently set a new Guinness World Record several key industries in Qatar like hotels, its economy, where import substitution is occupied a distinguished position among as the deepest artificial basin ever made restaurants, retail and service sectors. catching up, an indicator of growing self- the ports of the region in the volume of on Earth, helped Qatar register a robust Additionally, it’s going to be one of Qatar’s suff iciency in some underlying sectors. container and cargo handling, entered expansion in net tonnage in November key landmarks during the FIFA World Cup QNB, the country’s leading public sector into a pact with a global giant MSC or 2019. 2022, “said Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalid al- bank, recently said Qatar’s plans to raise Mediterranean Shipping Company. The total number of vessels calling on Thani, Director of Technical Aff airs, MoTC. the liquefied natural gas production to Through this tie up, MSC will use Hamad Qatar ports stood at 491 and Hamad Port, Qatar, already a brand in itself in the clean 126mn tonnes per annum by 2027 will Port as its regional hub to manage trans- which has seen the world’s largest ship- gas market, is carving out its niche in the lead to a major boom in the maritime shipments for up to 150,000 containers ping companies seek entry and growth in global maritime sector when its terminals transport and logistics services industry per year, growing to 1mn by 2023. the Qatari and regional markets, berthed company made a foray into Black Sea in the country Asserting that the plan is to transform 137 vessels, as per the latest data of the region. Apart from inviting mega cruise and Qatar into a vibrant regional trading hub Planning and Statistics Authority. QTerminals, a joint venture between freight liners as well as opening floating in the region, HE the Minster of Transport Hamad Port’s strategic geographical loca- Milaha and Mwani Qatar, recently won hotels, Qatar also launched vessel moni- and Communication Jassim Seif Ahmed tion off ers opportunities to create cargo concession to develop, manage and toring project to enhance maritime secu- al-Sulaiti said the agreement with MSC movement towards the upper Gulf, sup- operate Olvia port, which represents an rity and preserve marine environment. “contributes to the optimal utilisation of porting countries such as Kuwait and Iraq, exceptional opportunity on developing The 1,000-day air and sea blockade has fastened Doha’s eff orts to gear Also it forayed into the Black Sea region the capabilities of Hamad Port and will and south towards Oman, QTerminals and operating world ports. It will invest up its maritime infrastructure and allied sectors in order to provide to manage and operate a Ukrainian port, enhance the import and export opera- chief executive Neville Bissett had said. some $120mn in the Ukrainian port dur- extra cushioning for its economy indicating Doha’s long-term vision in the tions through it.” Doha Port saw up to 3.5mn cubic metres ing the concession term of 35 years. Gulf Times 16 Thursday, February 27, 2020 QATAR — 1,000 DAYS OF PROUD ACHIEVEMENTSACHIEVEMENTS

Mutaz Barshim celebrates after winning the high jump gold during the IAAF World Athletics Championships in Doha on October 4, 2019. You block, we soar – Qatar’s success makes mockery of unjust siege

By Mikhil Bhat to win it,” Barshim had said after count. Tosin Ogunode and Yaser got closer, Samba suff ered an Doha winning his fi rst world title. Bagharab won silvers in the 100m injury putting in doubt his par- Five days earlier, compatriot and 3000m steeplechase event, ticipation, even as Barshim won Abdalelah Haroun had opened while Abubaker Haydar Abdalla a few minor events in prepara- n the June of 2018, this Qatar’s account on the medals stepped on the third step on the tion for the big day at the Khalifa newspaper published a crea- table racing to a commendable podium in the 800m competition. International Stadium in Doha. Itive visual of the country’s bronze in the men’s 400m. But 2019 was the big year for Samba’s sub-47second time star high-jumper Mutaz Essa A month earlier in July that year, Team Qatar athletes; the IAAF had spurred Norwegian Karsten Barshim in his all-maroon ‘Qa- Arab Athletics Championships World Championships were Warholm and American Rai tar’ outfi t clearing a bar called saw Team Qatar win two golds coming home and for the fi rst Benjamin to dip under the bar- ‘Blockade’. with Ahmed Amgad Seifi and Mo- time to the region at large. rier too, and that only fi lled the It had been a year since an hamed Ibrahim Kida topping the It was going to be a slow start competition with anticipation. unjust blockade was imposed hammer throw and javelin throw to the year for Barshim after he When Samba did race to a on Qatar, and the visual was as competitions respectively. suff ered an ankle injury midway bronze behind the two, given his strong in its message as it was As Qatari offi cials and athletes through 2018 when he attempted return from a huge injury, he reck- nuanced in its use of sport to asserted that the nation was a world record jump of 2.46m at oned it was “just like gold” for him. convey the same. “not going to mix sports with the Gyulai Memorial in Hungary, Four days later, the stadium It was as much about the re- politics”, on track and fi eld the and while he returned to the track was fi lled to its capacity and silience of Qatar as a country to country’s stars were bringing in for training sessions ahead of the Barshim soared over 2.37m to overcome the immediate hurdles glory and adulation. Asian Athletics Championships, become the only high jumper to that the blockade caused, as it The year closed with two more a competitive return had to wait. successfully defend his title. was about the country’s ability golds at the Asian Indoor and The Asian Athletics Cham- “I was not 100 percent ready to fl y higher. Martial Arts Games in Ashgabat, In this June 30, 2018, picture, Qatar’s Abderrahman Samba (right) is on his way to become only the second pionships in April was to be the but when I came here and see all Just as the country, Qatar’s including Haroun (400m) and man to run the 400m hurdles in under 47 seconds, ahead of British Virgin Islands’ Kyron McMaster and test event for the Worlds in Sep- those people cheering for me, athletes too have soared higher Jamal Hairane (800m), even as Norway’s Karsten Warholm (left) in Paris. (Reuters) tember-October. even if I was dying, if they take and raced faster. Barshim was adjudged the 2017 Abdalla ran a world leading me from the wheelchair or am- A little more than two months Athlete of the Year by the IAAF, hurdler. While Barshim and world record holder Kevin Young topped the 400m fl at at London time of 1:44.33 to win the men’s bulance I would do everything I after the Gulf was plunged into in the presence of Qatar Olympic Samba sent the Qatar Sports of the US to dip under 47 seconds Diamond League. 800m gold, while Samba blitzed can,” he had said after the victory crisis, Barshim won his fi rst Committee President HE Sheikh Club stadium into an applause in the 400m hurdles event, when At the 2018 Asian Games in to a championship record 47.51 on October 4 last year. world championship medal at a Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani. winning the high jump and the he blitzed to 46.98 seconds in Paris Indonesia, Haroun and Samba for his 400m hurdles win. El Sei- It’s that resilience that has packed London Stadium, much In the March of the 2018, 400m hurdles competition Diamond League that year. In all both won gold in their respective fy won the hammer throw silver, kept Qatar, its people and its to the delight of those in attend- Barshim jumped to a silver at the at the Doha Diamond League Samba won six Diamond League events, while the Qatar 4x400m Hairane, Adam Ali Mousab and athletes in good stead during ance and millions at home. World Indoors in Birmingham, UK. event, the latter was unstoppa- event and was unbeaten. men’s relay team and hammer- the men’s 4x400m relay team the 1,000 days that have passed “My fi rst big World Champion- However, it was the year of ble on the track. Barshim went on to win in thrower Ashraf Amgad El Seify won a bronze each. since the unjust blockade was ships gold and I was so determined Abderrahman Samba, the star He became the fi rst athlete since Eugene and Oslo, while Haroun too added the yellow metal to the As the World Championships imposed on Qatar. The joy of winning for Qatar

By Sahan Bidappa Doha

t’s been 1,000 days since a senseless blockade on Qatar Iwas initiated by Saudi Arabia and its allies. While many thought it would have a negative impact on Qatari sport, it has turned out to be the exact opposite. The best example of it came when the Qatar football team defi ed the odds to clinch their maiden Asian Cup title last year, overcoming hostile environ- ment in the United Arab Emir- ates, where the tournament was played. While the local specta- tors hurled shoes and other ob- jects onto the fi eld in frustration at their own team’s failure as the Qatar’s three-time Dakar Rally champion Nasser al-Attiyah lifts his trophy during a welcome ceremony on Al Annabi were cruising past the The victorious Qatar team celebrate with the Asian Cup trophy last year. his arrival at Hamad International Airport in this January, 2019 file pic. hosts in the semi-fi nals, Qatar’s players and offi cials steered clear football team were given a royal tears of joy while singing the na- the players heading into the circumstances we went to the Qatar players also achieve “It’s a special victory because of distracting controversies as welcome, with His Highness the tional anthem. semi-fi nal against hosts UAE, Emirates, we just wanted to show major individual honours at the Qatar is currently facing block- they adhered to their policy of Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad The architect of Qatar’s vic- Sanchez had said: “The game we are a good team who can com- Asian level. Al Sadd defender ade by its neighbours. We have not mixing politics with sport. al-Thani receiving them at airport. tory, head coach Felix Sanchez, against the UAE and the reaction pete,” Ali Salat said. Abdelkarim Hassan was declared always shown we are strong and In the end, it turned out to be The Al Annabi came back to later revealed that the dirty poli- to that showed that the players Even now for captain Hassan the AFC Player of the Year in His Highness the Amir Sheikh Qatar’s watershed moment in euphoric crowds, eager to catch tics the Qatar players were sub- were very focused on their work al-Haydos it all still feels sur- 2018, with his teammate and star Tamim has always given us eve- the sporting world, while their a glimpse of the players that have jected to in the UAE had served and at the end of the day they real. “It was one of the greatest forward Akram Afi f scooping the rything to be strong in sports, regional rivals were left to re- captured the country’s imagina- as a motivation for the players. showed professional behaviour. moments of my life, especially prestigious award last year. this why this victory is very fl ect on what went wrong for tion. The players, support staff “I think the situation gave us ex- They focused on the fi eld and not with the Amir waiting for you at Before the Asian Cup triumph special. Yes I felt more pressure their teams. Qatar’s 4-0 victory and Qatar Football Associations tra motivation, there were things on what was happening around.” the airport, along with the fans was achieved, Qatar’s sporting this time because it was a diffi - over the UAE in the semi-fi nals were given a red carpet reception which were not fair and equal for National team media offi cer Ali on the Corniche. I was really, re- icon Nasser al-Attiyah recorded cult place to race. This was by no and then the crowning glory as the His Highness the Amir everyone and I think the players Salat too said the ‘circumstances’ ally proud. Believe me, I am still his third triumph in the Dakar means easy so I am quite pleased when they beat Japan in the fi nal hugged each one of them before this gave the players extra moti- had inspired the Qatar team. “I thinking about these moments, Rally. And al-Attiyah dedicated to win after getting all the sup- have few parallels as far as Asia’s placing garlands of roses around vation,” Sanchez had said, when didn’t think we would progress it’s a dream for me. I am really his latest title to the nation, say- port from the country,” al-At- sporting history is concerned. the players’ necks. Many of the asked about the impact of play- that far. Being in the semi-fi nal proud of what we as a team and ing the victory tastes extra spe- tiyah, who had earlier won the The victory had meant so much players and offi cials, clearly ing the tournament in the UAE. would have been an achievement as a country achieved,” the Al cial as it came in the midst of a world’s most gruelling endur- to Qatar and it’s people that the overcome by the occasion, wept On the mental pressure of with this young team. With the Sadd midfi elder says. blockade by its neighbours. ance race in 2011 and 2015, said. Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 17 REGION/ARAB WORLD/AFRICA UN-hosted talks on Libya clouded in uncertainty

AFP said they were staying away. that the political talks — part UN was trying to “impose” rep- sions”. The High State Council, uprising in 2011 overthrew and fi ghting has left more than 1,000 Geneva The talks are meant to be be- of a UN-backed process — had resentatives. the equivalent of a senate which killed dictator Muammar Gadd- people dead, according to the tween representatives of the “kicked off ” in Geneva yester- “There is no precondition. backs the Tripoli-based unity afi .Haftar’s forces launched an UN. A joint military commission UN-recognised government in day. What we want is that all the government, on Tuesday had off ensive against Tripoli, seat of with fi ve members from each N-hosted talks between Tripoli and the eastern-based But Abdulhadi Lahweej, for- people in the negotiations table said it too would not participate the UN-recognised Government side wound up talks in Geneva the warring sides in Lib- parliament backed by military eign minister of the eastern gov- must be representative of the in the talks until progress was of National Accord (GNA), last on Sunday with a “draft cease- Uya that were supposed to commander Khalifa Haftar. ernment, said yesterday that his Libyan people,” he told reporters made in military negotiations. April. fi re agreement” to be fi nalised start yesterday were clouded in UN Support Mission in Lib- side’s participation “for the mo- in Geneva, adding that his side Libya has been rocked by His fi ghters have since stalled in March, according to the UN uncertainty after participants ya spokesman Jean Alam said ment is suspended”. He said the was willing to make “conces- violence since a Nato-backed on the edges of the capital, but mission. Turkey ‘will Virus-hit Iran slaps curbs repel regime on travel, pilgrimage visits forces from Idlib

Agencies Tehran posts this week’

ranian authorities yesterday Reuters back behind a line of Turkish announced domestic travel Ankara observation posts by end-Feb- Irestrictions for people with ruary, or Turkey would drive confi rmed or suspected cases of them back. the novel coronavirus, which has urkey plans to push Syr- Turkey set up 12 observa- claimed 19 lives in the country — ian government forces tion posts up around a “de- the highest tally outside China Taway from its military escalation zone” in Idlib under where the disease originated. observation posts in northwest a 2017 agreement with Russia The authorities also slapped Syria’s Idlib region this week, and Iran, but several now fi nd curbs on visits to major pilgrim- President Tayyip Erdogan said themselves behind Syrian gov- age sites, AFP reported. yesterday, despite continued ernment front lines. “Instead of quarantining cit- advances by Damascus’s Rus- Syrian insurgents backed ies, we are going to implement sian-backed military. by the Turkish military seized movement restrictions for those Nearly a million Syrians the town of Nairab in Idlib this suspected of infection or those have been displaced in the last week, according to rebel and infected,” Health Minister Saeed three months by fi ghting be- Turkish sources, the fi rst area Namaki said at a news confer- tween Turkish-backed rebels to be taken back from advanc- ence. and Syrian forces trying to re- ing Syrian government forces. He said teams of inspectors capture the last major insur- Ankara is increasingly con- had already been placed at the gent-held region in Syria after cerned about the build-up of entrance of cities “that see a lot nine years of war. displaced people south of its of movement”, without naming Ankara has sent thousands frontier with Syria. them. of troops and truckloads of Turkey, which has already The teams will take people’s equipment into the region, in taken in 3.6mn Syrian refu- temperatures and stop those Syria’s northwest corner bor- gees, says it cannot handle an- who are infected or suspected of dering Turkey, to support the other infl ux and has closed the infection, who will be quaran- rebels and Erdogan has vowed border. tined for 14 days. to push back Syrian President Syrian government forces Namaki said access to several Bashar al-Assad’s forces. are advancing closer to the holy sites would be restricted, “We are planning to liberate camps for uprooted people including the Imam Reza shrine our observation posts from the near the Turkish border, where in Mashhad and the Fatima Mas- surrounding (Syrian govern- the migrants fear being en- umeh shrine in Qom. ment forces) by the end of this gulfed in the fi ghting. Iran last week announced its A Tehran Municipality worker cleans a metro train to avoid the spread of Covid-19, yesterday. month, one way or another,” Turkish and Russian offi cials fi rst two deaths from the coro- Erdogan told his party’s law- began a third round of talks in navirus in Qom, a centre for celled and teams of sanitary and received warnings, Vahid The health ministry’s spokes- tal said 12 people were in quaran- makers in a speech. Ankara yesterday aimed at re- religious studies and pilgrims workers deployed to disinfect Majid said, cited by semi-offi cial man, Jahanpour, appeared op- tine and two had tested positive. But Assad’s forces made ducing tensions in the region. from abroad. According to offi - buses, trains and public spaces. news agency ISNA. timistic about the situation in CLASSES SUSPENDED fresh gains in southern Idlib Turkey’s state-owned Ana- cial fi gures, the virus has killed a International health experts The arrests were carried out the worst-hit province of Qom, FOR TWO WEEKS province where they took a dolu news agency said the talks further 17 people out of 139 con- have expressed concern about after the establishment of a spe- south of Tehran. Meanwhile, classes will be number of villages yesterday, would continue today. fi rmed cases of infection. Iran’s handling of the outbreak. cial unit to “combat rumour- “Every 24 hours, at least 10% suspended for two weeks at according to the Syrian Ob- Two previous rounds in An- Visitors to the shrines will Such worries mounted on mongers regarding the ‘spread of of those hospitalised or suspect schools and universities in servatory for Human Rights, kara and Moscow have failed to be allowed to visit on condition Tuesday when the head of the coronavirus in the country’”, he cases are discharged with good throughout Kuwait starting on a war monitor, and a military yield any tangible progress. they are provided “with hand- taskforce combatting the vi- was quoted as saying. general health,” the offi cial said. March 1 due to the novel corona- news outlet run by Assad’s Russia’s Foreign Minis- washing liquids, proper (health) rus, Deputy Health Minister Iraj Going on the off ensive, Ira- But in Gilan, “things are virus, QNA reported. Lebanese ally Hezbollah. try expected positive results, information, masks”, the minis- Harirchi, admitted he himself nian President Hassan Rouhani slightly concerning”, he added. Head of the Kuwait’s Center The pro-government forces’ RIA news agency cited Dep- ter said. had been infected. accused Iran’s arch foe the Unit- Lebanon confi rmed its second for Government Communica- immediate objective is to reach uty Foreign Minister Mikhail They must “not gather to- But health ministry spokes- ed States of trying to use propa- case of coronavirus yesterday tion (CGC) and government the town of Kafar Aweed, the Bogdanov as saying, but a gether in groups but just pray man Kianoush Jahanpour said ganda about the virus to instil and said the patient was quar- spokesman Tareq Al Merzem capture of which would force Turkish offi cial was not opti- and leave”, he said. Wednesday that the situation “fear” against his country. antined in a Beirut hospital after said that the decision was made rebels to withdraw from a wid- mistic. “At the moment, solely In aff ected areas, school clo- was “improving”, even as he an- The Americans “themselves returning from a religious trip to at the cabinet meeting yesterday er tract of territory including military diplomacy is being sures will be extended for three nounced four more deaths and are struggling with coronavirus”, Iran, Reuters reported. due to the extraordinary cir- their last remaining foothold carried out and it is not possi- days, and universities for anoth- 44 new infections including in Rouhani said in a weekly cabinet The woman showed symp- cumstances the country is going in Hama province, Observa- ble to solve the problem on the er week starting from Saturday, six previously unaff ected prov- meeting. toms on Monday after arriving through due to the coronavirus, tory Director Rami Abdulrah- ground like this,” the Turkish he said. inces. He added that “16,000 people last week on the same fl ight as Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) man said. offi cial told Reuters. Also in these regions, weekly The head of a newly estab- have died of infl uenza there but the fi rst person to be infected reported. The Syrian army said it had He said clear results were Friday prayers will be suspend- lished cyber police unit, mean- they don’t talk about their own with the coronavirus in Leba- The suspension includes stu- seized numerous villages and unlikely until a planned Tur- ed, Namaki said. while, announced the arrest (dead)”. non, the health ministry said in dents and members of the teach- towns in the last few days in key-Russia-Iran summit on “All of these decisions are of 24 people accused of online The ministry added that a statement. ing staff , he added. the south of Idlib province, de- March 6. temporary and if the situation rumour-mongering about the Markazi, Kermanshah, Ardebil, Their plane had carried The Kuwaiti Ministry of scribing the captured territory A summit a day earlier be- changes, we might intensify or spread of the virus. Mazandaran and Semnan prov- around 150 passengers and any- Health yesterday reported six as an important crossroads tween Russia, Turkey, France ease them,” Namaki added. They were handed over to the inces each had one new case. body showing symptoms would new coronavirus (Covid-19) between rebel-held territories. and Germany had been pro- Apart from school closures, judiciary, while 118 other inter- Newly hit regions included be tested, Health Minister Ha- cases, taking the country’s total Erdogan fi rst demanded on posed, but Moscow has not sporting events have been can- net users were briefl y detained Khuzestan in the southwest. mad Hassan has said.The hospi- infections up to 18. Feb 5 that Assad’s forces pull sounded receptive to the idea.

US military kills militant leader behind Bugatti At least 22 ‘criminals’ Palestinian property vandalised Kenya base attack A senior Al Shebaab leader who seized in killed in clash with in suspected ‘price tag’ attack is believed to have helped mas- termind the terrorist group’s deadly attack on a Kenyan mili- Zambia Burundi police AFP tary base in January has been Yasuf killed in an air strike, the US military’s Africa Command (Af- DPA AFP presidential elections. ricom) said late Tuesday. Three Lusaka Nairobi The appearance of the sraeli police said they were Americans — two contractors armed group sparked a wave investigating yesterday af- and a soldier — were killed dur- of arrests of 23 of its local Iter vandals damaged cars ing the January 5 attack on the Bugatti sports car that t least 22 “armed leaders last week, the CNL and daubed racist graffi ti in a Manda Bay base, which is used made waves on social me- criminals” and two said. “We denounce this Palestinian village in the occu- by US and Kenyan soldiers. Adia after being imported Apolice offi cers were harassment orchestrated pied West Bank, in a suspected The man killed in the February into poverty-stricken Zambia killed in clashes between by the government ahead “price tag” attack. 22 airstrike was “in charge of has been seized by the southern Burundi security forces and of the May 2020 elections,” Tyres were slashed of more planning and directing terrorist African country’s Drug Enforce- an unnamed armed group at party spokesman Therence than a dozen cars and graffi ti operations on the Kenya border ment Commission. the weekend, police said late Manirambona said on Sat- in Hebrew was daubed on walls region, including the recent An investigation is being Tuesday. urday. in Yasuf, near the town of Nab- attack on Manda Bay,” Africom conducted to ensure that the Police spokesman Pierre The fi ghting broke out 30 lus. Among the slogans was the said in a statement. His wife purchase of the Bugatti Veyron Nkurikiye said an armed kilometres east of Bujumbu- phrase “there will be a war over was also killed in the air strike, “is not in breach of any money- group appeared in the hills ra, the country’s economic Judea and Samaria”, the Israeli which was carried out near the laundering laws,” commission of western Bujumbura-Rural capital, in a rural area with name for the West Bank. town of Saakow by Africom in spokeswoman Theresa Katongo province last week and en- few roads, communications Khaled Abeya, head of the co-ordination with the Somali said in a statement yesterday. gaged in several clashes with or electricity. village council, said the per- government.She was a “witting The car is worth more than police. CNL leader Agathon petrators had entered the area and active member of Al She- $1.5mn, according to a source On Sunday police “dis- Rwasa is considered the before dawn. baab responsible for facilitating close to the owner, a business- mantled” the group “with a main challenger to the rul- “They slashed 14 cars and A man checks his slashed tyre in the occupied West Bank village of a wide range of terrorist activi- man who has not been offi cially toll of 22 armed criminals... ing CNDD-FDD’s Evariste wrote a number of very serious Yasuf near Nablus, yesterday. ties,” according to Africom. “This identifi ed. and two policemen killed, Ndayishimiye in the May slogans,” he said. strike demonstrates that we will It arrived on Monday at Ken- and six criminals arrested.” election. Abeya said the village was number of vehicles and graffi ti nationalistic attacks against continue to relentlessly pursue neth Kaunda International On Monday a local offi - President Pierre Nkurun- close to a number of Israeli set- was found on a building”. Israelis. those responsible for Manda Airport and pictures of the car cial said 13 people had been ziza, in power since 2005, tlements and he suspected set- The attack bore the hall- In December, more than 160 Bay and those wishing to do spread on social media soon af- killed. shocked the country by an- tlers were responsible. “No one marks of a “price tag” attack, cars were vandalised in the harm to Americans and our ter. The commission said “mem- Burundi’s main oppo- nouncing he would not seek saw them,” however. a euphemism for nationalist- Palestinian neighbourhood of African partners,” said Africom’s bers of the public” expressed sition party, the National re-election after a constitu- Israeli police said they would motivated hate crimes that Shuafat in annexed east Jeru- commander, General Stephen concern over the expensive Freedom Council (CNL), said tional change allowed him to investigate the incident in generally target Palestinian or salem with anti-Arab slogans Townsend. vehicle. it saw a link with the May 20 do so. which “damage was caused to a Arab property in revenge for scrawled nearby. Gulf Times 18 Thursday, February 27, 2020 AMERICAS

POLITICS GREEN LIGHT AUDIT SAFETY STATISTICS GOP to drop spying on SpaceX can start building Tesla, regulators under fire Fire ‘confined’ at refinery Americans ramp up new domestic phones, texts Mars spaceship at LA port for role of Autopilot in crash in California, supply cut home buying in January

US Senate Republicans on Tuesday reacted SpaceX’s roadmap to Mars now includes the Port The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) A fire in a cooling tower, following an explosion, New US homes continued to sell at a brisk pace sceptically to the Trump administration’s request of Los Angeles. The Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday sharply criticised Tesla Inc’s lack at Marathon Petroleum Corp’s Carson refinery in January, with sales hitting the highest level to continue a controversial but inactive domestic approved a permit Tuesday that allows the Elon of system safeguards in a fatal 2018 Autopilot in California on Tuesday, has been “confined and since July 2007 as builders struggled to keep surveillance programme that collects data on Musk-led company to use a site at the Port of LA crash in California and called US regulators’ supply has been shut off ,” the Los Angeles County pace, according to government data released US phone calls and text messages. US Attorney to build aerospace parts. With this vote, SpaceX is approach in overseeing the driver assistance Fire Department said yesterday on Twitter. It was yesterday. The better-than-expected results in William Barr, appearing at a luncheon with Senate now cleared to start work at the site — last week, the systems “misguided.” NTSB board members not immediately clear whether supply had been the Census Bureau report showed the jump in Republicans, urged lawmakers to support a renewal LA Board of Harbor Commissioners green-lighted questioned Tesla’s design of its semi-automated cut off to the aff ected portion of the plant, or new home sales that began last year had not of the National Security Agency programme, along the permit. SpaceX representatives told LA City driving assistance system and condemned the the entire refinery. Residual fuel is burning off at tapered off in the first month of 2020. Sales of with less controversial measures due to expire next Councilman Joe Buscaino’s off ice that the company National Highway Traff ic Safety Administration the plant, the fire department added. “Marathon single-family homes jumped in to an annual rate month as part of the USA Freedom Act, according was interested in the port site because it needed (NHTSA) for a “hands-off approach” to regulating personnel (are) keeping flames in check via of 764,000, seasonally adjusted, an increase to Republicans who attended the event. The NSA additional manufacturing capacity for its Starship the increasingly popular systems. NHTSA has fixed ground monitors while they work to of 7.9% from December 2019, according to the has shut the programme down. “That’ll be a tough spaceship and rocket booster. The company is “taken a nonregulatory approach to automated depressurise the system. LACOFD assisting.” the report. In the Midwest, sales jumped 30.3%, and sell if you don’t use it,” Senate Judiciary Committee building prototypes of the Starship system at its vehicle safety” and should “complete a further fire department tweeted. No injuries have been rose by 23.5% in the West. The sole exception chairman Lindsey Graham said after the meeting. facility near Boca Chica Beach in south Texas. evaluation,” NTSB said. reported at this time, a Fox News aff iliate reported. was the South, which saw a decline of 4.4%. Trump claims media making virus look ‘as bad as possible’ Supporters of the indigenous Wet’suwet’en Nation’s hereditary chiefs march as part of protests against British Columbia’s Coastal GasLink pipeline in Montreal, Quebec, on Tuesday. Reuters yesterday by about 1% after suf- It is also considering expand- Washington fering their worst four-day per- ing airport screenings to target centage fall in more than a year. passengers from countries that Trump has been increasingly have seen recent spikes in cases resident Donald Trump alarmed by the drop in the stock such as Italy and South Korea, Canada hit by new barricades over pipeline yesterday accused two market, which he considers a NBC News reported. Pcable TV channels of pre- barometer of the health of the Trump is seeking $2.5bn from Reuters left by about 5pm on Tuesday, police said. and shorter life expectancies than the na- senting the danger from the economy and sees as key to his Congress to boost its virus re- Ottawa Hamilton police spokeswoman Jackie tional average. Many Canadians are growing coronavirus in as bad a light as re-election. sponse. Penman said offi cers were inspecting the frustrated, and that is giving a boost to Tru- possible and upsetting fi nancial During his recent trip to India, Democrats have warned that area, adding it was up to rail fi rms to decide deau’s Conservative rivals, whose support is markets, as public health offi cials Trump praised US health offi cials amount falls far short of what is rotesters in Canada blocked train when services would resume. at 36% compared with 33% for the Liberals, warned Americans to prepare for while downplaying virus’ poten- needed and have also urged the lines, Vancouver’s port entrance and The blockade closed four stations on according to a Nanos poll completed on Feb- a likely outbreak. tial impact on the United States. White House to appoint a “czar” Pat least one highway on Tuesday in re- Metrolinx’s GO Transit passenger line to ruary 21 and published on Tuesday. Trump wrote yesterday on US Health and Human Serv- who could co-ordinate a national sponse to the arrest of 10 indigenous activ- Toronto from Hamilton. British Columbia police said they arrested Twitter that CNN and MSNBC, ices Secretary Alex Azar said response. ists when police dismantled a rail barricade Earlier in the day, Public Safety Minister 14 people overnight who were blocking a rail both of which frequently criticise yesterday the United States has Senate Democratic Leader in southern Ontario a day earlier. Bill Blair said the impact of the blockades line west of New Hazelton, and a separate him, “are doing everything pos- 59 coronavirus cases, including Chuck Schumer yesterday called On Monday, police arrested some of the was unacceptable. The standoff between group has barricaded a major intersection sible to make (the coronavirus) 42 American passengers repatri- for $8.5bn to prepare. Tyendinaga Mohawk campaigners who had authorities and the Wet’suwet’en hereditary near the Port of Vancouver’s main entrance. look as bad as possible, includ- ated from the Diamond Princess White House spokesman Judd shut down the line in solidarity with the chiefs, who have been battling the gas line Kanesatake Mohawk stopped traffi c on ing panicking markets,” adding: cruise ship docked in Japan. Deere denied reports it was con- Wet’suwet’en from British Columbia, who for a decade, has grown increasingly tense Highway 344 in Quebec, and Kahnawake “USA in great shape!” There have been just two sidering a coronavirus czar and seek to stop construction of a gas pipeline as aboriginal bands and climate activists Mohawk blocked a Canadian Pacifi c Railway Trump, who is stepping up his reported cases of person-to- said Trump was pleased with over their land. across Canada take up their cause. Ltd rail line south of Montreal. re-election campaign ahead of person transmission within the Azar’s leadership. Demonstrators mounted a new rail block- The protests are testing Liberal Prime That barricade “has severed vital rail con- the November presidential elec- United States, both infected by Meanwhile, Facebook Inc ade late on Monday night at a junction of Minister Justin Trudeau’s pledge to recon- nections and severely impacted CP’s opera- tion, did not specify what he did people who had been to China. said yesterday it would ban three busy Canadian National Railway lines cile Canada with its indigenous groups, who tions, customers and the broader economy,” not like about the coverage. Dr Anthony Fauci, head of the advertisements for products near Hamilton, southwest of Toronto, but face higher levels of poverty and violence the company said in a statement. Offi cials at the US Centers for US National Institute of Allergy offering any cures or preven- Disease Control and Prevention and Infections Diseases who tion around the coronavirus (CDC) said on Tuesday the virus’ will brief Trump, said while the outbreak, and those that create global march had raised concern virus was contained in the Unit- a sense of urgency around the about its spread in the United ed States, Americans must get situation. Trump can withhold funds from ‘sanctuary’ jurisdictions: court States, even as it remained un- ready for a potential outbreak as The announcement by the so- clear when that might happen, or transmissions spread outside of cial-media giant comes as it fac- how severe it might be. China. es increasing regulatory scrutiny Reuters The unanimous decision by a three-judge The states and city sued over a 2017 policy Global stock markets have “If we have a pandemic, then over the type of content posted New York panel of the 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals conditioning receipt of the funds by state and slumped in recent days due to almost certainly we are going to on its platform, specifi cally items in Manhattan was a victory for Trump in his local governments on their giving federal im- worries over a prolonged disrup- get impacted,” Fauci told CNN. refl ecting extreme ideologies and years-long fi ght with so-called sanctuary migration offi cials access to their jails, and ad- tion to supply chains and econo- The CDC has advised Ameri- fake news. resident Donald Trump’s administra- jurisdictions. vance notice when immigrants in the country mies from the disease, which has cans to not visit China and South Ads with claims like ‘face tion can withhold millions of dollars It overturned a lower court ruling direct- illegally are being released from custody. infected about 80,000 people Korea, and yesterday stepped up masks are 100% guaranteed to Pin law enforcement funds from states ing the release of federal funds to New York Yesterday’s decision sets up a possible and killed nearly 3,000, mostly travel warnings for Iran, Italy and prevent the spread of the virus’ and cities that refuse to co-operate with City and the states of New York, Connecti- appeal to the US Supreme Court, which of- in China. Mongolia over the risks of the will not be allowed, a company federal immigration authorities, a US ap- cut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Is- ten resolves legal disputes that divide lower Wall Street’s main indexes rose disease. spokesperson said. peals court ruled yesterday. land, Virginia and Washington. courts. Sanders roughed up, hits back in feisty Democratic debate

AFP unscathed from the previous de- bound from a disastrous per- Charleston bate. formance last week in his fi rst But he acknowledged he was debate and prove he is a credible, now in the fi ring line, with ri- moderate alternative to the leftist emocratic White House vals seeking to derail his push for Sanders. hopefuls rounded on left- the nomination following two But the 78-year-old found Dist frontrunner Bernie straight victories, in New Hamp- himself under assault too, in- Sanders at a feisty debate on shire and then Nevada. cluding by Warren who called Tuesday, attacking him as too “I’m hearing my name men- him “the riskiest candidate” on extreme for American voters and tioned a little bit tonight,” he said stage. a fl awed challenger to President to laughter. “I wonder why.” “I don’t care how much money Donald Trump. Piling on, Klobuchar ham- mayor Bloomberg has. The core Joe Biden, who needs a vic- mered Sanders’s plans as “bro- of the Democratic Party will nev- tory in South Carolina’s crucial ken promises that sound good on er trust him,” Warren said. primary on Saturday to keep his bumper stickers,” while billion- “He has not earned their trust. campaign alive, hit Sanders as aire activist Tom Steyer accused I will.” soft on gun control, while bil- him of planning “a government Bloomberg jumped late into lionaire tycoon Michael Bloomb- takeover of large parts of the the race, and has not been on erg claimed Russia was working economy.” the ballot in the four early states, to help Sanders win the nomina- Like Buttigieg, Bloomberg opting instead to make a splash tion — betting he would be de- sought to cast a Sanders nomina- on Super Tuesday. feated in November. tion as a sure path to losing. He has now spent more than And Sanders’ rivals joined “Vladimir Putin thinks that $500mn on campaign advertis- in savaging the self-described Donald Trump should be presi- ing. democratic socialist as too radi- dent of the United States, and Rival centrist Biden desperate- cal to appeal to a broad swathe of that’s why Russia is helping you ly needs a win after dismal show- Americans. get elected so you’ll lose to him,” ings in Iowa and New Hampshire, Fellow progressive Elizabeth (From left) Democratic presidential hopefuls former New York City mayor Mike Bloomberg, former South Bend mayor Pete Buttigieg, Senator the former New York mayor told and a disappointing result in Ne- Warren and centrists Pete Butti- Elizabeth Warren, Senator Bernie Sanders, former vice president Joe Biden, Senator Amy Klobuchar and Tom Steyer walk on stage prior to the Sanders in a heated opening ex- vada where he won 20.2%, well gieg and Amy Klobuchar, all Democratic presidential primary debate at the Charleston Gaillard Center in Charleston on Tuesday night. change. behind Sanders’ 46.8%. desperate to halt Sanders’ mo- “I’m the one choice that makes Biden has been counting on mentum before it is too late, laid more years of Donald Trump.” “radical,” insisting such ideas often contentious exchanges, the “I’m not going to be quiet any- some sense,” said Bloomberg, strong support among black vot- into his ability to deliver on costly Sanders is in pole position in “exist in countries all over the seven candidates aggressively more, OK?” touting his experience running ers in South Carolina to recharge programmes such as universal South Carolina, the last step be- world,” including the notion that vied for attention, locking horns The former vice president America’s largest city for 12 years his fl agging campaign — earn- healthcare and tuition-free col- fore “Super Tuesday” on March 3 health care is a human right. on everything from housing to aimed a sharp attack at Sanders — a point hammered home in ing cheers at one point when he lege. when 14 states vote and a whop- “The way we beat Trump, China policy, and whether or not over gun control, an issue largely lavish televised ads during mul- promised to put a female black Buttigieg, a 38-year-old mili- ping third of all delegates — the which is what everybody up here to move the US embassy from Je- absent from previous debates, tiple commercial breaks. justice on the Supreme Court if tary veteran presenting himself representatives who pick the wants, is we need a campaign of rusalem back to Tel Aviv. and a signifi cant weakness for Trump, meanwhile, also sug- elected. as a unifi er, warned a Sanders nominee at the Democratic Par- energy and excitement,” Sanders Seeking to prove he is still in the Vermont senator who voted gested Sanders has Moscow’s Pressed on whether he would fi ght against Trump would spell ty’s July convention — are up for said. “We need to bring working the fi ght, the 77-year-old Biden against legislation that would backing, tweeting after the de- throw in the towel if he falls short “chaos” and divide the nation. grabs. people back into the Democratic put in a spirited performance and have allowed lawsuits against bate: “Russia wants him to win!” on Saturday, Biden stood defi ant, “I tell you what it adds up to,” The 78-year-old hit back at Party.” snapped back at moderators who gun manufacturers. The president did not elaborate. saying: “I will win South Caro- Buttigieg said, “it ends up as four the charge his policies were too Talking over one another in tried to cut him off , telling them: Sanders had emerged largely Bloomberg is seeking to re- lina.” Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 19 ASIA/AUSTRALASIA Beijing orders quarantine for foreign arrivals from virus-hit areas

AFP ordered people returning to the and Dalian in the northeast an- ter landing at Weihai in eastern Tuesday morning and were dis- Yesterday Chinese state media number of cases outside China Beijing capital to go into self-quarantine nounced similar measures. Sep- Shandong province Tuesday and covered to have symptoms af- reported a case of “imported” is in South Korea, which has re- following the Lunar New Year arately, the foreign ministry said were immediately sent to a hos- ter customs personnel boarded coronavirus in the northwestern corded 12 deaths and more than holiday but exempted those ar- China was “exploring the pos- pital for treatment and observa- the aircraft on landing to screen Ningxia region in a patient who 1,200 infections. eijing announced yester- riving from abroad. sibility” of adopting “scientifi c, tion, state media said. passengers. travelled from Iran. Japan has reported at least 165 day that people landing in With the deadly virus now appropriate, and targeted pre- The remaining 158 pas- The three were immediately The People’s Daily newspaper infections, in addition to an out- Bthe Chinese capital from hitting countries in Europe, the vention and control measures” sengers on the Jeju Air fl ight, sent by ambulance to a hospital said the patient travelled from break on the Diamond Princess countries hit by the new coro- Middle East and Asia, Beijing’s for people arriving from abroad. which included South Korean, for isolation and testing, while Tehran to the city of Zhong- cruise ship that was quarantined navirus epidemic will have to go health commission spokes- Beijing has criticised coun- US, Ukrainian and Chinese na- 94 passengers were sent to a wei via Moscow, Shanghai and for weeks off Japan before 970 into 14-day self-quarantine. man Gao Xiaojun told reporters tries for imposing bans on ar- tionals, were taken to a hotel hotel to be quarantined, CCTV Lanzhou, in neighbouring Gan- people were allowed to disem- A day earlier, more than 250 yesterday that people arriving rivals from China over the epi- for medical observation, CCTV said. su province. bark last week. people arriving in eastern China “from areas with severe epi- demic, which has killed more said, without specifying the None of the three people with The report listed all the forms Mongolia, which has closed from South Korea were placed demic situations abroad ... must than 2,700 people and infected nationality of the fi ve patients. fevers on the fl ight to Nanjing of transport the patient had tak- its borders with China, an- in isolation after passengers on accept home or concentrated 78,000. Five people travelling Another three travellers with had any history of travel to Wu- en and urged anyone who took nounced it was banning fl ights two fl ights were discovered to medical observation for 14 days”. from Incheon in South Korea fevers, all Chinese, arrived in han, the central Chinese city the same vehicles to get in touch to and from Japan and South Ko- have fevers. Beijing had already The eastern city of Qingdao were found to have fevers af- the eastern city of Nanjing on where the outbreak originated. with authorities. The largest rea until March 11. Malaysia in turmoil as Mahathir, Anwar compete for power

AFP Kuala Lumpur

alaysia was plunged into Anwar Ibrahim waves as he leaves after a press conference at the People’s Justice Party HQ in Petaling Jaya, a bitter power struggle on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur, yesterday. Myesterday as Mahathir Mohamed sought to form a unity yesterday and rumours swirled on Tuesday evening aimed at re- James Chin, a Malaysia expert government following his shock Anwar had garnered enough viving the coalition, but after he from the University of Tasmania, resignation, but old foe Anwar support from MPs for the top job, failed to show they decided to put said he believed Mahathir, who Ibrahim also pushed to become fuelling expectations that Ma- him forward as their candidate. had a fi rst stint as premier from premier. hathir might fi nally cede power. “Since the attempt to top- 1981 to 2003, would likely prevail The developments deepened a The elderly leader, however, an- ple the government last week we in the power struggle. “The best crisis that began when the ruling nounced in a televised address to have remained steadfast in de- thing is to hold a general election, coalition — which included both the nation that he wished to es- fending the mandate of the Ma- but both sides don’t want it — men when it stormed to a historic tablish a unity government, and laysian people,” he said. they are afraid people will punish poll victory in 2018 — fell apart was willing to return as premier. After reading a statement, he them,” he added. after a failed bid to establish a “Party politics must be put aside added: “We leave it to the palace The victory of the “Pact of new government without Anwar. for now,” said Mahathir. to decide”. Offi cially the king ap- Hope” alliance in 2018 was ini- Anwar was Mahathir’s des- “If allowed, I will try to form points the prime minister, and tially greeted with euphoria as it ignated successor, but he would an inclusive government, not he has been interviewing all the ended the six-decade rule of the likely have been pushed out and siding with any political parties.” country’s MPs since Monday to notoriously corrupt Barisan Na- blocked from becoming leader if “If I still have the support I work out who they support. sional coalition and prime min- the weekend bid had succeeded. will return. If not I will accept A candidate must have the ister Najib. Their notoriously stormy rela- whoever is chosen,” he added. backing of at least 112 MPs – but Najib was accused of involve- tionship has shaped Malaysian Moments later at a press con- it was not clear whether Anwar ment in stealing billions of dol- politics ever since Mahathir — A reporter watches Malaysian Interim Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamed news conference in Petaling Jaya, ference at his party headquar- or Mahathir would achieve that, lars from state fund 1MDB, and during a fi rst stint in offi ce in Malaysia. ters, Anwar said he had received and there are likely to be days of is now on trial. But the alliance’s the 1990s — sacked Anwar as backing from three parties in the political horse-trading ahead. popularity quickly fell amid bit- his deputy, and he was jailed on plagued coalition led by Najib war. Mahathir quit Monday as least gave it his blessing. He has “Pact of Hope” coalition — the Reports say that Mahathir had ter infi ghting over who would dubious sexual off ences and cor- Razak, but many were sceptical premier but it remains unclear been named interim leader and grouping in power until Mahathir already proposed a unity govern- succeed Mahathir, and it faced ruption charges. Mahathir — at 94, the world’s whether he had a hand in the initially appeared to have strong quit — to become premier. An- ment to leaders across the politi- accusations of failing to protect They reconciled ahead of the oldest leader — would stick to plot to topple the government, support to remain as premier. war, 72, said the coalition had cal spectrum Tuesday, but they the rights of the multi-ethnic 2018 polls to oust a corruption- a vow to hand power to An- although analysts suspect he at But backing fell away early invited Mahathir to a meeting rejected the idea. country’s Muslim majority. South Korea starts virus checks Australia to close schools, cancel on 200,000-plus sect members sports in event of virus outbreak Reuters Australia has Hunt told reporters in Can- Sydney since Feb 1 barred berra. “If it’s in several cities AFP or states, you do it according to Seoul entry to anyone the local needs at the time.” ustralia will close The US Centers for Dis- schools and cancel arriving directly ease Control and Prevention ore than 200,000 mem- Asporting events in the from mainland warned Americans to prepare bers of a religious sect event of an uncontained coro- for the spread of coronavirus in Mwere being checked for navirus outbreak, Minister for China the United States, signalling a coronavirus symptoms by South Health Greg Hunt said yester- change in tone for the Atlanta- Korean authorities yesterday, as day, as the government accel- ters tally. Australia has had 23 based US health agency. US commanders reported the erates plans to cope with a pos- cases of the coronavirus but Preparations to cope with fi rst case among American forces sible pandemic. has managed to head off wide- the virus come as sports-mad in the country. Believed to have originated spread transmission. Australia is looking forward to Most of South Korea’s novel from wildlife in China’s Wuhan That may change and Hunt the start of the National Rug- coronavirus are linked to the city late last year, the fl u-like met top state and territory of- by League and the Australian Shincheonji Church of Jesus. disease has infected 80,000 fi cials on Tuesday to discuss Football League seasons. Hunt After days of mounting public people and killed nearly 3,000 plans if it does.” said some games could be can- anger, the secretive Shincheon- in China. If you had an outbreak in a celled, though that would be a ji group handed over a list of It has jumped to about 30 particular city or state ... you “last resort”. 212,000 members, the govern- countries and territories, with might close the schools or Australia has since Feb 1 ment said. some three dozen deaths out- change the confi guration of barred entry to anyone arriving Local authorities across the side China, according to a Reu- the hospitals to deal with that,” directly from mainland China. country — which has more coro- navirus cases than anywhere else outside China — will check if they have symptoms of fever or respiratory disease and put them in quarantine at home if so, said Bangladesh rethinks plan vice health minister Kim Gang- lip. A 61-year-old female member developed a fever on February 10, to move refugees to island but attended at least four church services in Daegu — the coun- A US soldier checks a vehicle at the main gate of US Army Camp Carroll in Chilgok, about 30km north of try’s fourth-largest city and the Daegu, yesterday. Reuters some rights experts had warned outcome,” Rahman said. Camps epicentre of the outbreak — be- Dhaka it could spark a fresh humani- near the border town of Cox’s fore being diagnosed. The Korea roll 30km north of Daegu tested largely deserted for days, apart of the K-league football season tarian crisis. Bazar are home to more than Centers for Disease Control and positive for the virus, command- from long queues at the few and the World Team Table Tennis A United Nations investiga- 1mn Rohingya Muslims who Prevention (KCDC) reported 284 ers said, the fi rst infection among shops with masks for sale. Au- championships, while museums angladesh is reconsid- tor who visited last year ex- have fl ed neighbouring Myan- new infections yesterday — its the 28,500 troops Washington thorities have urged the public to and other public venues have ering a plan to relocate pressed doubts whether the mar following a military-led largest daily increase to date — stations in the South to defend exercise extra caution, advising closed. BRohingya refugees to island was even habitable. “We crackdown since August 2017. taking the overall national tally it against the nuclear-armed citizens to stay home if they have In Daegu, Prime Minister a fl ood-prone island located have not taken a fi nal decision The Hague-based Interna- to 1,261, with the death toll rising North. a fever or respiratory symptoms. Chung Sye-kyun told a meeting hours by boat from its coast, yet, but we’re no longer inter- tional Court of Justice ordered to 12. The 23-year-old serviceman But they say they are not the government would “mobilise junior minister for disaster ested in moving them there,” Myanmar last month to protect The vast majority — more had been put in self-quarantine considering putting the city in all resources and means” to try to management and relief Enamur Rahman said. the Rohingya against further than 80% — of yesterday’s new at his home, US Forces Korea lockdown the way China did for control the outbreak. Rahman told Reuters yesterday. Dhaka was instead “focus- atrocities and preserve evi- infections were in Daegu and the said, adding it was conducting Wuhan, where the virus fi rst South Korea has an advanced The proposal to move ing instead on a safe, dignifi ed dence of alleged crimes, after neighbouring province of North “contact tracing” to determine emerged. Scores of events have medical system, a free press and a 100,000 people to Bhasan Char and sustainable repatriation”, Gambia launched a lawsuit ac- Gyeongsang, which between whether other soldiers had been been cancelled or postponed as strong culture of public account- in the Bay of Bengal to ease he added, saying China was cusing the country of genocide. them account for the bulk of exposed. the outbreak has spread in the ability, and observers say that its overcrowding at camps near actively engaged in talks with Densely populated Bang- the national total. An American The streets of Daegu — popu- world’s 12th-largest economy, health statistics can be treated the Myanmar border had been Myanmar to expedite this proc- ladesh has struggled with the soldier stationed at Camp Car- lation of 2.5mn — have been from K-pop concerts to the start with confi dence. opposed by many refugees, and ess. “We’re hopeful of a positive growing number of refugees. Gulf Times 20 Thursday, February 27, 2020 BRITAIN Random virus testing begins as part of early warning plan

Reuters/Daily Mail Paul Cosford, told BBC radio yes- we do get to the position of more shut its sixth form. ple will take a judgement, par- coronavirus on the number of cautions which do go beyond those London terday. widespread infection across the Another 15 schools had already ticularly if someone has an un- people travelling through Europe’s recommendations (from Public Britain has so far had 13 cases of country, then it will give us early sent pupils and teachers home to derlying health condition. If they busiest airport but it is taking pre- Health England) just to make sure coronavirus. warning that that’s happening,” he self-isolate if they had been on ski are older or had other reasons to cautions which go beyond offi cial people stay safe and are reassured,” andom tests for corona- Random tests for the virus will said. trips to northern Italy in the past be more concerned about their guidance to reassure passengers he said. virus on fl u patients have be carried out at 11 hospitals and Earlier staff and pupils at 18 two weeks. health they might want to think British Airways and Virgin At- “Deep cleaning across the air- Rstarted in order to have an 100 general medical offi ces on schools were sent home amid fears They include private and state about this. lantic have cancelled their fl ights port where people might be touch- early warning system in place in people who have fl u symptoms in- they have picked up coronavirus schools in areas including Dagen- “But we’re not recommending between London’s Heathrow and ing handrails, making sure that case the outbreak becomes more cluding a cough, plus shortness of on ski trips to Italy. ham in east London, Somerset, changing travel advice for Italy at China but Chinese airlines such as we have plentiful supplies of hand widespread in the country, a senior breath and a fever. Among the 18 aff ected schools Cornwall, West Yorkshire, Pem- this point in time. There are plenty China Eastern continue to operate sanitiser both for colleagues and health offi cial said. “This testing will tell us whether were Trinity Catholic College in brokeshire and County Antrim. of reasons people might wish to go between the countries. for passengers,” is being carried “We’re heightening our vigi- there’s evidence of infection more Middlesbrough and the Crans- England’s chief medical offi cer, to Italy where that balance of risk “We’ve not seen much impact out he said. lance because of the apparent widespread than we think there is. ley School in Cheshire which Professor Chris Whitty, suggested and benefi t is nothing.” on the number of people travel- Passenger temperatures would spread of the virus in countries We don’t think there is at the mo- have both closed temporarily for vulnerable groups should think Meanwhile chief executive John ling,” Holland-Kaye told BBC radio be monitored in future if that is outside of mainland China,” Public ment,” Cosford said. a deep-clean and the Brine Leas twice about going to Italy. Holland-Kaye said Heathrow has yesterday. what health authorities say should Health England’s medical director, “The other thing it will do is, if Academy, also in Cheshire, which He said: ‘Inevitably some peo- not yet seen much impact from “We are doing reasonable pre- happen, he added. PM unveils major review of foreign and defence policy

Guardian News and Media But there was criticism from London some experts because Downing Street is allowing the review to run at the same time as the com- oris Johnson has unveiled a prehensive spending review – post-Brexit review of for- which they said meant that any of Beign and defence policy in its conclusions would be limited an attempt to determine Britain’s by wider fi nancial constraints. national security strategy for the Dr Alan Mendoza, executive next fi ve years. director of the Henry Jackson So- The six-month exercise is an- ciety thinktank, said he believed other step in the prime minister’s that was “a major victory of the assertion of control following the civil service over the PM’s advis- controversial cabinet reshuffl e, ers”. and comes amid growing cyber “The announced approach threats and uncertainty about the risks decisions on our foreign UK’s place in the world. policy strategy being overtaken It will be led by Sir Alex Ellis, a by short-term fi nancial con- civil servant, with input from Do- cerns,” he said. minic Cummings, who has been The Foreign Offi ce, ministry of Flood waters lap against the partially submerged The Boat Inn in Jackfield, near Ironbridge, Shropshire, yesterday. a sharp critic of overspending by defence, and other government the ministry of defence and of departments and agencies will the methods of BAE Systems and feed into the central review team, other key contractors. while fi nal decisions will be taken Some Whitehall sources said by the National Security Coun- the appointment of Ellis amount- cil, a group of senior ministers ed to a defeat for Cummings, who chaired by the prime minister. they said had been struggling to Key issues under consid- Evacuations as Severn appoint offi cials to work on the eration will be how far the UK review because of his aggressive wants to develop an integrated reputation across Whitehall. off ensive hacking capability af- But while Ellis will report di- ter turf wars between the min- rectly to Sir Mark Sedwill, the istry of defence and GCHQ have cabinet secretary and Britain’s hampered progress since the most powerful civil servant, the previous 2015 review, at a time breaches fl ood defences terms of review made clear it when Russia and China are en- would also involve “a small team gaged in long-term, low-level Guardian News and Media Water also breached the tem- Shaun Davies, the Labour lead- workers’ cottages, the warehous- bulance control unit and moun- in Downing Street comprised of cyber warfare. London porary fl ood barriers in the er of Telford and Wrekin council, es, the industrial buildings, the tain rescue teams stood by as the experts from inside and outside It will also take a particular look Worcestershire town of Bewdley, urged people to stay away from other nearby villages,” she said. evacuation took place. the civil service”. at how the MoD and intelligence causing homes there to be evacu- Ironbridge. “The worry is that fl oods like this Shropshire council was trying Defence and security reviews agencies purchase equipment lood defences have been ated. He said: “The barriers are are putting the site at risk.” to rehouse the evacuated people traditionally take place every fi ve in a nod to Cummings, who has breached along the banks Ironbridge bore the brunt yes- buckling, overwhelmed by the Even businesses that have not and a local hotel was among places years, but this one will be diff er- made little secret of his criticisms Fof the River Severn, forcing terday. As 400 tonnes of water per pure volume of water in the River been fl ooded are struggling. Ri- off ering free rooms to those who ent as it will be considering the of defence budgeting, which has householders and businesspeople second fl owed through, the bar- Severn and the prolonged pres- chard Eley, whose family runs a had been displaced. country’s foreign policy needs at a historically favoured large capital to fl ee their properties as water riers were pushed back, allowing sure they have been under.” Dav- pie shop and a cafe in Ironbridge, At Bridgnorth, where there are time when the UK has just left the spending on aircraft carriers and rose toward record levels. water to seep through and putting ies also expressed concern that said the fl ooding was devastat- no permanent defences, sandbags EU and as it weighs up how close- sophisticated jet fi ghters. The water overwhelmed the properties in the Wharfage area at senior government ministers had ing. “This is a key time of year were being placed along the river- ly it wants to be aligned to the US. Last March, before returning fl ood barriers at Ironbridge, in risk. not visited the area. for us and the place is empty,” he bank to try to stem the fl ow. Prof Malcolm Chalmers from to government, Johnson’s chief Shropshire, leading to an emer- Chief superintendent Tom As well as the personal trauma said. Nick Bevon, the landlord of the the Royal United Services Insti- aide wrote that the procurement gency evacuation and promoting Harding, of West Mercia police, the fl ooding was causing, the Chris Warren did not bother Bassa Villa pub and restaurant, tute thinktank said: “What they process “has continued to squan- concern that the world heritage said: “We’ve got water that has chair of the world heritage site opening the Copper Fox gift shop. said that his cellar had fl ooded have to deal with is an increased der billions of pounds, enrich- site would suff er serious damage. started to come underneath the steering group, Marion Blockley, “There’s nobody around – it’s not for the fi rst time in a century. uncertainty about our long-term ing some of the worst corporate A little further down the river, fl ood barriers and in areas it ap- expressed concern about what it worth opening up,” he said. “We know we’ll never get fl ood relationship with Europe on one looters and corrupting public life at Bridgnorth, there was fl ooding pears that it is buckling.” Police could be doing to the historic spot. The problem for Ironbridge is defences,” he said. “There aren’t hand, and whether we can rely on via the revolving door of offi cials/ in some areas that had not been said virtually everyone had agreed “The world heritage site is not that the water is squeezed into a enough properties to protect here. Donald Trump’s US on the other.” lobbyists”. inundated for a century. to leave. just the iron bridge. It is the former narrow gorge. Firefi ghters, an am- We just have to carry on.”

Duchess gets sporty! Minister for expansion of Just call me Harry, seasonal workers scheme insists prince AFP He used his remarks in Edin- Edinburgh burgh to warn of the risks of huge Reuters to have free movement for a so- He will have to lobby within increases in tourists at key loca- Birmingham called low-skilled labour route cabinet on issues such as ex- tions, which he said could cause for other countries in the Euro- panding the seasonal workers rince Harry asked to be in- pollution, overwhelm local com- pean Union then the policy rem- scheme and some farmers are troduced as just “Harry” at munities and drive out wildlife. arming and Environment edy will be the seasonal agricul- concerned he may lack the infl u- Pan event yesterday, kick- As sixth in line to the throne, Minister George Eustice tural workers scheme and it will ence of some of his better known ing off a fi nal round of public Harry’s announcement in Janu- Fyesterday said he would need to be expanded,” he told the predecessors such as Michael engagements before he and wife ary that he and his wife wanted push for more agricultural work- National Farmers Union (NFU) Gove. Meghan step back from their to step back from their royal po- ers to be allowed to come to Brit- annual conference. NFU president Minette Batters royal duties. sitions rocked the monarchy. ain from other countries under a Ali Capper, who produces said Gove had initially had lit- The Duke of Sussex, a grandson The pair revealed plans to split seasonal scheme once free move- about 10mn apples a year at her tle knowledge about the indus- of Queen Elizabeth II, will stop their time between Britain and ment from the European Union farm in Worcestershire in central try but “could make the case to using “His Royal Highness” from Canada, after complaining about ends. England, said she would need to treasury and right across govern- the end of March when the couple media intrusion and expressing The seasonal workers scheme start recruiting seasonal work- ment”. stop being working royals. a desire to be fi nancially inde- currently allows 10,000 work- ers for 2021 in the autumn of this “I think that is the challenge But at a conference in Edin- pendent. ers to come to Britain to work year and so would need to know George Eustice faces. Is every- burgh for his sustainable tourism Harry arrived in Edinburgh by in agriculture but farmers have the details before then. thing he is saying going to be able project Travalyst, it emerged he train on Tuesday evening with- been seeking an expansion to “If there is no labour, there is to resonate right across cabinet, was already adopting a more in- out Meghan or their baby son 70,000 workers when they are no business,” said Capper, who is he going to able to infl uence the formal approach. Archie. no longer able to bring in work- is chair of the NFU’s horticulture Home Offi ce on labour, the de- “He’s made it clear that we are He will be in London today to ers from the EU under free board. partment for international trade all just to call him Harry, so la- meet US rock singer Jon Bon Jovi, movement rules. British farming has begun its on standards,” Batters said. dies and gentlemen — please give who is recording a special song Eustice said he had pressed greatest upheaval in decades fol- Britain formally left the EU on a big, warm Scottish welcome for the prince’s Invictus Game hard for expanding the seasonal lowing the country’s departure January 31 but will remain bound to Harry,” host Ayesha Hazarika Foundation for military veterans. scheme to 10,000 from 2,500 for from the EU. Prime Minister by the bloc’s laws and regulations said in her introduction. They will meet at Abbey Road this year even though EU workers Boris Johnson appointed Eus- during the transition period. The 35-year-old prince has Studios, where The Beatles re- will still be free to come to Brit- tice as farming and environment Johnson has ruled out extend- faced accusations of hypocrisy corded most of their albums and ain until the end of the transi- minister earlier this month. ing that period even if Britain and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, tries out the running track for using private planes while ad- where Bon Jovi is also recording tion agreement on December 31, He had held more junior posi- the EU have not yet reached a with starting blocks during a SportsAid event at the London vocating action to combat global his song with a choir made up of 2020. tions in the ministry for several comprehensive trade agreement Stadium in east London yesterday. warming but he insists he mostly wounded veterans and serving “Of course if we are not going years. by December 31. travels via commercial fl ights. personnel. Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 21 EUROPE

FLIGHT OF FANCY DAMAGED COMPLAINT POLITICS Batmobile towed away Building with Picasso Infant vomits worm after Slovenia anti-migrant party after Moscow city jaunt murals to be demolished consuming baby formula leader nominated as PM

A would-be Russian superhero returned to reality Norway yesterday gave the go-ahead for the A French woman has filed a complaint against The leader of an anti-migrant party was with a bump when police pulled him over as he demolition of a bomb-damaged building adorned a milk powder brand, Gallia, manufactured by nominated yesterday as prime minister of drove a replica Batmobile through Moscow. The with drawings by Spanish master painter Pablo French firm Danone after her infant daughter Slovenia, setting him on track for a return to high vehicle was too wide for the city’s streets and Picasso. The government, which ruled out a allegedly vomited a parasitic worm the length of off ice after a nearly seven-year absence. Janez had not been certified as roadworthy, a Moscow further postponement to the 2014 decision to an adult index finger, police said yesterday. Police Jansa’s Slovenian Democratic Party announced interior ministry spokesman said late on Tuesday. demolish the building, has said it would relocate in Brittany told AFP the mother of a three-month- on Tuesday that it had agreed with three other Police said the 32-year-old driver, whom it did not the two Picasso murals. Completed in 1969 in old child came in on Tuesday to file a complaint. parties to form a coalition government. The name, would be charged with violating traff ic laws. the centre of Oslo, the ‘Y block’, named for its “In November, her three-month-old daughter had previous centre-left government fell in January The vehicle was stopped on Saturday in western shape, bears drawings by Picasso sandblasted a high temperature,” Saint-Malo police told AFP. when Marjan Sarec stepped down amid infighting Moscow. It appeared to be a copy of the Batmobile on its walls — the work of Norwegian artist Carl “She brought her to the emergency room, where in his minority five-party coalition. “I would from Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. A Nesjar, who collaborated with the Spanish master she was treated. She vomited a worm about six to like to thank our coalition partners for having A Russian Interior Ministry handout photo of a life-size replica of the car from that film was put up painter. The building was damaged in the deadly seven centimetres long.” The mother told police had in mind the interest of the citizens and the vehicle resembling the Batmobile from Batman for sale by its owner for 55mn roubles ($840,000), bomb attack carried out by right-wing extremist the worm had been analysed at the hospital and common good of the state,” Jansa said after being v Superman: Dawn of Justice. according to online media outlet The Village. Anders Behring Breivik on 22 July 2011. was confirmed to be of a parasitic type. nominated as premier by President Borut Pahor.

Thunberg heads growing fi eld of Europe scrambles to Nobel Peace Prize candidates

Reuters contain coronavirus Oslo AFP the outbreak epicentre in the north. Rome Even as new cases continued to eenage climate activist Greta Thunberg, pro- multiply beyond China’s borders, the democracy campaigners in Hong Kong and the European Union sought to head off TNato military alliance are among those tipped for oronavirus cases spread yes- hysteria over the outbreak. the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize, following nominations by terday in Europe and beyond, “This is a situation of concern, politicians. Cwith Latin America con- but we must not give in to panic,” EU Also on the list, according to the eight members of the fi rming its fi rst patient as the world Health Commissioner Stella Kyriak- United States Congress who nominated her, is impris- scrambled to contain the deadly ides told reporters in Rome. oned Saudi women’s rights activist Loujain al-Hathloul. epidemic that has killed thousands “We must also be vigilant when it Norway’s Nobel Institute, which does not confi rm worldwide. comes to misinformation and disin- or deny the names of any particular individuals or or- New cases have emerged across formation,” she added. ganisations nominated, said yesterday it had received Europe, many linked to the conti- The impact of the virus has moved nominations for 317 candidates this year, up from 301 nent’s coronavirus hotspot in north- beyond health systems. in 2019. Of these 210 were individuals and 107 were or- ern Italy, amid warnings from health Markets have wobbled in recent ganisations. experts to rein in hysteria as the virus days while sports matches and fes- It will announce the winner in October. continued its march beyond China’s tivals across Europe have been can- Thousands of people who can make nominations, in- borders. celled over virus fears. cluding members of national parliaments, former lau- In a sign of the virus’ expand- A March 7 Six Nations rugby match reates and leading academics, often announce whose ing footprint, Brazil confi rmed Latin between Italy and Ireland in Dublin names they have forwarded. America’s fi rst case, a 61-year-old was called off yesterday, while the The outcome is decided each year by a committee of who travelled to Italy’s Lombardy re- famed Venice Carnival was closed fi ve people appointed by Norway’s parliament. gion. early over the weekend. Thunberg, 17, famous for launching her School Strike Greece also confi rmed its fi rst case As cases mounted across Europe, for the Climate campaign that has spread around much yesterday, a woman who had been in the WHO warned governments in of the world, is the bookmakers’ favourite to win, ac- northern Italy, while Spain, Croatia, Europe to remain vigilant. cording to betting fi rm Paddypower. Austria, North Macedonia and Alge- “You have to keep up and sustain Although nominated last year, the 2019 prize went to ria have all reported cases linked to these eff orts so that no-one is left Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his peace- the country. behind because ultimately health is a making eff orts which ended two decades of hostility Several governments have advised political choice,” WHO Regional Di- with longtime enemy Eritrea. against travel to Italy — which has 400 rector for Europe Hans Kluge said in Italian Green Berets off icers man a check-point at one of the entrances to the small town of San Fiorano The Swede would be the second youngest person to cases and 12 deaths — particularly to Rome. southeast of Milan, situated in the red zone of the Covid-19 novel coronavirus outbreak in northern Italy. win a Nobel, beaten only by Malala Yousafzai, who was a few months younger at the time of her 2014 award for promoting children’s right to education. Second death in France, mystery over how deceased caught the virus; Nice cancels carnival fi nale The two activists were pictured together this week at Britain’s University of Oxford, where Malala, as she is A second person suff ering from the He died overnight, health off icials of the regional health authority, told coronavirus cases in France now after a member of their party who best known, is a student. coronavirus has died in France as said yesterday. reporters. stands at 17. lived in Hong Kong died suddenly on While Thunberg’s name was put forward by two health off icials tried to find out how Another man from the same A team was working to identify The mayor of Nice said he was Tuesday evening. They were released Swedish parliamentarians, three members of the Nor- the college teacher, who had not northerly Hauts de France region anyone who had come into contact cancelling Saturday’s carnival finale after a coronavirus test on the dead wegian parliament have suggested that the North At- visited any country with a known who had the virus without having with the men before they were identi- in the Riviera city, which lies near the person proved negative. lantic Treaty Organisation — the military alliance that outbreak, had caught the new been to an aff ected zone was on fied as a high coronavirus risk. border with Italy, due to the outbreak A third new case in France last year marked its 75th anniversary — should be given disease. life-support. The teacher who died had been on in Europe. involved a Frenchman in his 30s the award. The 60-year-old man was already “Investigations are under way to sick-leave since February 12 and his In the central city of Beaune, a who had travelled to northern Italy. In January, members of Congress led by Oregon Dem- seriously ill when he was admitted to determine the source of these two school is now on holiday. group of Chinese tourists were con- He was not in a serious condition, ocrat Suzanne Bonamici nominated Loujain al-Hath- hospital in Paris late on Tuesday. infections,” Etienne Champion, head The total number of registered fined for several hours in their hotel off icials said. loul, whom rights groups have said was held in solitary confi nement for months and subjected to abuse includ- ing electric shocks, fl ogging, and sexual assault. “Ms al-Hathloul is deserving of the Committee’s recognition in 2020 because she embodies the peace- ful struggle for equal right of women in Saudi Arabia,” Bonamici and seven other members of Congress wrote Spanish PM opens crisis talks with Catalan separatists in a letter and published online. Norwegian Liberal Party MP Guri Melby meanwhile said she had nominated “the people of Hong Kong” for AFP key to the survival of his minority Sanchez relies on Catalan separa- ratist head of Catalonia’s regional for nine of their leaders who were fi ghting for freedom of speech, democracy and the rule Madrid government. tist party ERC to pass legislation. government, and members of the jailed or exiled after the failed inde- of law, which would be certain to provoke a sharp reac- The long simmering crisis was The survival of Sanchez’s gov- ERC party. But talks are off to a pendence bid. Spain’s central gov- tion from China if an award was ever made. sparked with Catalonia’s failed ernment could hinge on the fate of rough start with both camps disa- ernment has rejected both requests. The award in 2010 of the Nobel Peace Prize to Chinese pain’s prime minister yes- independence bid in 2017 that the talks, which are aimed at walk- greeing on the agenda. ERC demanded the dialogue in dissident Liu Xiaobo resulted in a six-year standoff be- terday opened talks with plunged Spain into its worst crisis ing back tensions with Catalonian The Catalans want a green light exchange for its continued support tween Norway and China, during which diplomatic ties SCatalan separatists to try and in decades. separatists. to hold a binding independence ref- for Sanchez’s government and as a were virtually frozen. defuse a crisis over the region’s Now, the minority government The meeting opened yesterday in erendum in the wealthy northeast- precondition for possibly backing Liu, who had called for sweeping political reforms, separatist push that could hold the of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Madrid with Quim Torra, the sepa- ern region. They also want amnesty his 2020 budget. died in 2017 while serving a lengthy prison term. Dozens hurt as Greeks protest migrant camps

AFP Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis Local authorities have rejected The conservative government Athens called for calm amid mounting the government’s plans to build which came to power in July has criticism from the opposition. the new camps to replace cur- announced that the camps on Some 2,000 people demonstrat- rently overcrowded facilities Lesbos, Samos and Chios will undreds of protesters ed on Chios, where a group later where asylum-seekers live in dire be shut down this year, to be re- on the Greek island of broke into a hotel where riot police conditions. placed with new facilities that are HLesbos yesterday threw are staying, injuring eight of them, More than 38,000 migrants, to be operational by mid-2020. stones at police who responded a police spokesman told AFP. most of whom arrived from On Leros and Kos, existing fa- with tear gas, stun grenades and After weeks of fruitless talks nearby Turkey, are crowded into cilities are to be revamped and rubber bullets, an AFP photog- with island offi cials on where camps on the islands of Lesbos, expanded. rapher said, on a second day of to build the new facilities, the Samos, Chios, Leros and Kos de- The government says that the demonstrations against the con- government on Monday secretly spite an offi cial capacity of just new camps, where entry and struction of new migrant camps. shipped construction machinery 6,200. exit will be tightly controlled, “You’re going to die here,” one and hundreds of riot police to The islanders, on the forefront will actually address most of the protester shouted at police, as Lesbos and Chios, causing out- of the migration crisis for the past islanders’ concerns by ending a others screamed obscenities at rage. fi ve years, have long complained currently “chaotic” situation. them. Opposition parties say the that the presence of thousands of “We are creating 20,000 places Ten protesters and dozens of move is undemocratic and re- asylum seekers threatens safety of hospitality on the islands when police offi cers were lightly in- gional offi cials called it a “bar- and public health. today there are over 42,000,” mi- jured in the daylong clashes in baric” attempt to “forcefully turn “We are also fi ghting for those gration minister Notis Mitarachi Mantamados, a village near a Lesbos and Chios into prisons”. who want to go to a better place. told Skai radio. construction site for a camp to Dozens of people have been We want them to leave” the “I would be irresponsible if I house 7,000 migrants, a police hurt on both sides since the in- squalid camps, Father Stratis allowed the islands to remain un- source said. cidents erupted late on Monday. said. defended in the face of migration “We are in a wartime situa- “I want to appeal for calmer “We will embrace war refu- fl ows. We ask residents to trust tion,” local priest Father Stratis tempers,” Mitsotakis said during gees, but the criminals should go us,” he said. told AFP. “(The police) have the a visit to the northern port of Al- back.” Mitsotakis’ administration weapons, we have our heart and exandroupolis. The islanders say they will is under increasing pressure to A Greek anti-riot police moves away from flames during clashes with demonstrators near the town of soul.” “Construction on the new fa- only accept small facilities where address the issue before spring, Mantamados on the northeastern Aegean island of Lesbos. A general strike was observed cilities has already begun,” Mit- asylum-seekers are screened and when new arrivals from Turkey on Lesbos, Chios and Samos — sotakis, said adding that the new then either moved to the main- are expected to increase. by announcing that land could “There is a limit to our pa- “They requisition areas and the islands with the largest mi- camps are “very far from urban land or sent back to Turkey out- The state had already angered be requisitioned for a three-year tience,” said one villager, Stratos bring riot police, tear gas people. grant populations — as Prime areas”. right. the islanders earlier this month period to build the new facilities. Paspalas, a retired butcher. Are we at war?” Gulf Times 22 Thursday, February 27, 2020 INDIA Sonia demands Shah’s ‘immediate’ resignation

IANS home minister,” party chief So- the two governments that has when a BJP leader gave an ulti- 1984 anti-Sikh riot, federal En- of the AAP (Aam Aadmi Party) It was so subtle reference New Delhi nia Gandhi said in a statement resulted in a great tragedy in matum of three days to the Delhi vironment Minister and senior as well as the Congress were to the Shaheen Bagh protest after a meeting of the Congress the capital city which threatens police,” the statement said. BJP leader Prakash Javadekar present.” against the new citizenship law. Working Committee. to become worse by the day,” it The Congress said it was said the Congress itself has Javadekar added that such Law Minister Ravi Shankar he Congress party yester- Demanding Shah’s immedi- said. gravely concerned over the un- blood on its hands. comments by the Congress lead- Prasad also lashed out at Gandhi. day demanded the resig- ate resignation, she also blamed “The tragic events since last precedented violence and loss of “Those whose hands are ership will only demoralise the “Tension in Delhi should end. Tnation of Home Minister Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Ke- Sunday have a history, design lives, and the deteriorating situ- drenched with blood in massacre police force. Many people are spreading vio- Amit Shah following his “colos- jriwal for the situation. and pattern. It was evident even ation in the national capital. of Sikhs are talking of success or In an indirect dig at the Con- lence here. At a time when Delhi sal failure” in controlling vio- “The chief minister and the during the Delhi elections. Sev- Gandhi said since 2014 no all- failure in stopping violence,” he gress and the AAP, Javadekar is returning to peace, Congress lence in north-east Delhi. Delhi government are equally re- eral leaders of the BJP (Bharatiya party meeting has been called, said. said: “We believe that the police chief Sonia Gandhi’s remark “What has happened in Delhi sponsible for not activating the Janata Party) made infl amma- which is “shocking”. Defending the home minister, investigation will reveal the truth is untimely. When peace is re- is a colossal failure of duty for administration to reach out to tory statements clearly intended The BJP was quick to hit back Javadekar said: “The Congress is about who arranged the stones, quired then there should be no which the entire responsibil- the people to maintain peace and to create an atmosphere of fear calling the demand for Shah’s asking where was Amit Shah? He who opened fi re, who set vehicles politics,” Prasad said. ity must be borne by the central harmony,” the statement said. and hate. The last of these state- resignation ‘laughable’. took a meeting of all the parties ablaze and who is instigating the “I condemn this statement of government, particularly the “It is the collective failure of ments were made on Sunday, Bringing back the issue of yesterday, in which the leaders people for the last two months.” Sonia Gandhi.” Police chief ‘missing in action’, Doval takes charge

IANS the national capital in recent New Delhi times. Sources said the prime min- ister’s offi ce was also surprised elhi Police Commissioner that despite the availability of Amulya Patnaik was no- police and paramilitary forces, Dtably missing from all inadequate forces were de- important meetings of top police ployed at hotspots in northeast offi cers chaired by National Se- district. The role of Amulya curity Adviser Ajit Doval yester- Patnaik, who ostensibly failed day afternoon. to tighten up the security appa- Top sources said that Patnaik ratus in the aff ected areas, was was expected to be present in the also assessed by the govern- meetings. However newly-ap- ment. A firefighter walks past damaged shops at a tyre market after they were set on fire by a mob in New Delhi, yesterday. pointed Special Commissioner It was the second time that S N Srivastava turned up with Doval was seen in action in the Doval for the meeting to assess public. Earlier, he was seen in the situation. Jammu and Kashmir after the Special Commissioner Satish abrogation of Article 370. Golcha was also present at the Doval visited the northeast meeting where several key deci- police offi ce twice, between sions over strategic deployment 11.30pm of Tuesday and 3.30pm and action against rioters were yesterday to take stock of the Modi appeals for calm taken. situation and ordered imposi- Police sources said Doval felt tion of curfew in Seelampur, that adequate forces should Jafrabad, Maujpur and Yamuna have been deployed well on Vihar. time. As Doval took control Meanwhile, fi ve-time Con- of the situation, a heavy con- gress legislator from Seelam- tingent of paramilitary forces, pur, Mateen Ahmed, has blamed as Delhi toll rises to 24 including Border Security Bharatiya Janata Party leader Force (BSF), was rushed to the Kapil Mishra for the violence. Agencies brothers of Delhi to maintain the death toll stood at 13. studies, said in her father’s shop “The situation is totally under riot-affected areas of northeast Ahmed alleged that Mishra New Delhi peace and brotherhood at all A policeman was among as police looked on. control. People are satisfi ed. I Delhi. came out with a mob and insti- times. It is important calm and the victims and 40 more were “There is no police in the streets have confi dence in law enforce- The NSA also asked the police gated the people to “attack oth- normalcy is restored at the earli- among those injured, police said. at night, just during the day.” ment agencies. Police is doing its offi cers to increase patrolling in ers.” rime Minister Narendra est,” Modi tweeted yesterday. Yesterday morning residents The area is home to most- work,” key pockets which were marked He also said it was wrong for Modi called for calm yes- Delhi’s Chief Minister Arvind cleaned out the blackened inte- ly poorer economic migrants said National Security Advi- communally sensitive. Later in the protesters to block roads. Pterday after Delhi’s worst Kejriwal called for the army to be rior of a trashed mosque, burned from elsewhere in India living sor Ajit Doval, who undertook a the day Doval met several resi- “There was no reason to cre- sectarian violence in decades left deployed and for a curfew to be out during the violence in the in shanty neighbourhoods, and tour to the aff ected-areas, met dents in Seelampur and Jafrabad ate a blockade as the (anti-CAA) at least 24 people dead and calls imposed. Ashok Nagar area. some fl ed yesterday ahead of locals and gave them assurances area and was heard saying “jo ho protest was going on peace- for a military curfew. “Police, despite all its eff orts, Locals accused the police of more expected clashes. of peace. gya so gya (what has happened fully,” he said. But, he said, af- This week’s battles between (are) unable to control situation doing nothing to help - or worse. “It is better to leave than to But troubled parts of north- can’t be changed). Now I am ter Mishra’s speech on Sunday Hindus and Muslims have seen and instil confi dence,” Kejriwal “We tried to make many calls stick around here. Why would we east Delhi continued to simmer. here, we will work together to protesters were attacked and mobs armed with swords, guns tweeted. Around 200 wounded to the police that people are en- want to die here?,” a tailor said as Armed police were carrying ensure peace.” that “people from outside are and acid raze parts of a north- people were brought to the Guru tering our neighbourhoods,” said he prepared to return home to his out patrols in violence-hit ar- Sources said Doval later responsible for the arson.” eastern district of the capital. Teg Bahadur Hospital, the main Naeem Malik. village in northern India. eas that have been placed under briefed Home Minister Amit Congress leader Priyanka The clashes, which also left hospital in the region, doctors “But police did not help us at The unrest comes amid grow- curfew. Shah about the initiatives taken Gandhi Vadra also slammed almost 200 injured, were trig- said yesterday. all. We tried to save the women ing concerns at home and abroad While fresh clashes were not by Delhi police since Tuesday Mishra, and appealed to the peo- gered by protests against a citi- Hospital superintendent Sunil at the protest site but instead about India’s direction and the reported yesterday, there were night. ple to maintain peace. zenship law seen by many crit- Kumar Gautam confi rmed the policemen started beating us future of its 200mn Muslims since stray incidents of arson and In fact, once US President She said “no action on Ka- ics as anti-Muslim and part of deaths of 23 people from injuries up,” he said, showing wounds on Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party stone-throwing. Donald Trump left Delhi on pil Mishra is as shameful as his Modi’s nationalist agenda. including “gunshots, stabbings, his leg and hands. swept to a second term last year. Police have been criticised for Tuesday evening, Prime Min- statement.” They exploded into brutal vi- (and) jumping from heights to Elsewhere a fi retruck tried to Top police and security offi cials their alleged inaction when the ister Narendra Modi had a “I appeal to the people of olence on Monday and Tuesday, escape rioters.” Separately, an- put out blazes from the previous said the law-and-order situation violence unfolded and for de- meeting with Doval, where the Delhi not to indulge in violence, with residents forced to fl ee their other person injured in riots had night, the air thick with smoke was returning to normal yester- ploying inadequate forces on the NSA was given enough hints to exercise caution and maintain homes after seeing dwellings de- died at another hospital. from still-smouldering cars, day as additional police forces ground, a charge offi cials denied. immediately take over the su- peace. We have told our work- stroyed, a mosque attacked and a Most of the injured were dis- motorbikes, shops and homes. were on the ground and “peace Police spokesman M S Rand- pervision of the police which ers in Uttar Pradesh to do all they tyre market and two schools set charged, but 35 patients were “They say we are not Indians, meetings” were being organised hawa said 106 locals had been seemed to have failed in con- can to maintain peace if violence ablaze. still admitted, Gautam told but we are Indians by blood,” between community representa- arrested for rioting and their role trolling one of worst riots in spreads there.” “I appeal to my sisters and reporters. On Tuesday night, Farhat, 22, a student in Islamic tives and religious leaders. in clashes.

Bar associations slam SC 24 dead as wedding judge for praising PM bus falls off bridge Agencies and reported to be stable, Gurjar Jaipur said. The survivors said the tyre Agencies stewardship of internation- and calls upon all concerned of the bus came off while it was New Delhi ally acclaimed visionary Prime in the administration of jus- crossing the bridge as a result of Minister Narendra Modi.” tice to work for the same in bus carrying a wedding which the driver lost control. The SCBA in a statement said letter and spirit,” the state- party crashed into a river Nagaur MP Hanuman Beniwal he Supreme Court Bar it has taken note of these com- ment said. Ayesterday in Rajasthan expressed shock over the acci- Association (SCBA) and ments with a deep sense of an- The Bar Association of India killing 24 passengers, including dent. Tthe Bar Association of guish and concern. also expressed discontent. 10 women, police said. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot India yesterday condemned a “The SCBA expresses its The association’s president The driver lost control as the tweeted: “I am deeply saddened senior judge of the court for strong reservations of the Lalit Bhasin said: “The execu- bus, with 28 people on board, to learn about the tragic acci- praising Prime Minister Naren- statements and condemns the tive committee of the Bar As- was crossing a bridge, according dent in #Bundi in which about dra Modi at an event last week, same strongly. The SCBA be- sociation of India is of the view to Bundi district police superin- 25 people have lost lives after the as “such remarks refl ect poorly lieves that the independence of that the use of eff usive terms of tendent Shrivaj Meena. bus fell into river Mej. My heart- on the independence of the ju- the judiciary is the basic struc- praise and adulation by Justice “The bus was carrying a mar- felt condolences to the bereaved diciary”. ture under the constitution Mishra about the prime minis- riage party from Kota. The bus families who have lost their Justice Arun Mishra, who is and that such independence be ter go beyond the terms of for- fell off a bridge,” Meena said. loves ones in this tragedy. I wish third in seniority, on Saturday preserved in letter and spirit,” mal courtesy extended during a Villagers and rescue workers speedy recovery to all injured.” praised Modi twice, calling him it said. vote of thanks address.” were seen in images broadcast Most of the dead were from one an “internationally acclaimed It emphasised that such He claimed that such acts from the scene trying to retrieve family which belonged to Kota. visionary” and “versatile gen- proximity and familiarity may serve to dilute the perception of bodies from the river as the bus India records more than ius who thinks globally and acts impact decision-making proc- impartiality and independence, lay upside down in the water. 150,000 road deaths each year locally”. ess by judges, and it may give and also diminish the confi - Five passengers were injured. which are widely blamed on Delivering the vote of thanks rise to justifi able doubts in the dence of the general public. “The bus fell some 10m into badly maintained vehicles and at the International Judicial minds of the litigants on the At the same event, Law the river. Most victims, that in- reckless driving. Conference 2020, he said: “In- outcome of their matters. Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad clude two children died on the Last month, 26 people were dia is a responsible and most “The SCBA reaffirms its praised the prime minister for spot,” police offi cer Suresh Gur- killed when a bus collided with friendly member of the inter- faith in the constitution and doing away with 1,500 obsolete People try to rescue passengers after a bus ferrying a wedding party jar said. an auto-rickshaw and fell into a national community under the independence of the judiciary laws. fell while crossing a bridge yesterday. The injured were hospitalised well in western India. Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 23 LATIN AMERICA Shot Mexican teen’s mum fears for others after US ruling

Reuters agent, Jesus Mesa, who stood on “He was just a boy,” she said, fence before running back. Elena Rodriguez from across the said Lee Gelernt, a lawyer for the tional security, including illegal Ciudad Juarez, Mexico the US side when he shot across in tears. Issued at a time of high ten- border in Arizona. American Civil Liberties Union, cross-border traffi c. the border into the face of the Mesa did not face criminal sion between both countries, the “To be left with no remedy which represents the Rodriguez Later, the Mexican govern- 15-year-old. charges. ruling prevents civil rights law- ... given such a violent and un- family. ment said it is deeply concerned Mexican mother whose Standing in a culvert right on US Border Patrol has said the suits in US federal courts involv- provoked shooting weakens the Justice Samuel Alito, writing about the eff ects the decision teenage son, Sergio Adri- the Mexican side of the border, teenager had pelted its agents ing such cross-border incidents constitutional foundation of for majority, said the case pre- would have on similar cases in Aan Hernandez Guereca, clutching her son’s framed photo- with rocks from the Mexican when the person who is injured America’s house,” said Robert sented “foreign relations and which its citizens have died from was shot dead by a US Border graph, Maria Guadalupe Guereca side. or killed is not on US soil. Hilliard, a lawyer for Hernan- national security implications” gunshots fi red by US agents to- Patrol agent from the other side said the ruling could embolden The FBI accused him of being The ruling, which matched dez’s family, adding that the rul- and noted that Congress should wards the Mexican side. of the border 10 years ago fears other US Border Patrol agents. a migrant smuggler. the position taken by US Presi- ing could “promote a Wild West decide whether such lawsuits “I ask that they analyse the a US Supreme Court ruling on “They’ll feel that they have Lwyers who represented the dent Donald Trump’s adminis- attitude on our border.” can be permitted. case,” said Guereca, who vowed Tuesday that barred her lawsuit the right to kill innocent people, family said he was simply play- tration in the case, also ended “The gravity of this ruling Alito added that the US and to keep fi ghting for justice even could endanger others. that they can continue killing ing a game in which a group of litigation involving a similar in- could not be clearer given the Mexico have sought to resolve as legal experts said she had run Earlier, the court ruled 5-4 children,” said Guereca, adding teenagers would run across cident in which a Border Patrol Trump administration’s mili- border issues through diplomacy out of options. to uphold a lower court’s dis- that her son had never caused the culvert from the Mexican agent fatally shot a 16-year-old tarised rhetoric and policies and that US Border Patrol agents “It’s not fair what they have missal of the lawsuit against the her trouble. side and touch the US border Mexican named Jose Antonio targeting people at the border,” have a key role in protecting na- done.” Clashes erupt as Nicaragua’s opposition widens coalition

AFP ing a “national coalition” against Managua leftist Ortega’s 13-year rule. “These seven organisations are taking the initial step of icaragua’s opposition shaping the National Coalition parties broadened their to rebuild democracy,” according Ncoalition against the gov- to a statement read by one of the ernment of President Daniel Or- leaders, former political prisoner tega to include right-wing parties Yubrank Suazo. and former Contra rebels ahead The ruling Sandinista party of elections set for next year. has not ruled out the possibility Shortly afterwards, riot po- of Ortega standing for a fourth lice deployed in several parts of consecutive term. the capital to break up a series of Critics accuse Ortega — a lightning anti-government pro- former rebel hero who has been tests by opposition supporters. in power since 2007 — of run- Police assaulted protesters ning a dictatorship whose crack- Passengers, wearing masks as a precautionary measure to avoid contracting the Covid-19 virus, travel through Guarulhos International Airport, in Guarulhos, Sao Paulo, and journalists as they broke up down on protests in 2018 left at Brazil, yesterday. a demonstration at Metrocentro least 300 people dead, according shopping plaza in central Mana- to rights groups. gua and outside a church in the The demonstrations, initially city. over a social security scheme, “About a hundred police of- broadened into a nationwide pro- fi cers went to the Metrocentro test against the rule of Ortega, who shopping centre, beating and also led Nicaragua in the 1980s. pushing everyone,” said an AFP “It was a rebellion against the photographer whose camera was collapse of social security, cor- Brazil sees fi rst virus damaged. ruption, the abuse of power and Several people were arrested. nepotism,” the new coalition Police also attacked a protest said in a statement. at the Divine Mercy church, ac- The coalition includes promi- cording to Willy Narvaez, a re- nent opposition groups including porter with Channel 10 private the Civic Alliance for Justice and TV, who said the tyres of his car Democracy (ACJD) and the Blue case in Latin America were deliberately punctured. and White National Unit (UNAB), “There were patrols full of riot which emerged after the 2018 an- Reuters bardy, in northern Italy, from it notified Sao Paulo state’s a list of the passengers on his the new coronavirus, offi cials police and people dressed in ci- ti-government protests. Brasilia February 9-21 and had symp- epidemiological agency on same flight from Italy to Bra- said, as travellers return from vilian clothes operating with the It also includes a peasant toms compatible with the Tuesday. zil. Asia and Europe. government,” he said. movement formed to fi ght a ca- disease, the ministry said in a While dozens of people have The latest suspected case Protester Oscar Rosales told a nal project, as well as the Yatama razil’s health ministry statement. The patient, a Sao Paulo been tested from Mexico to appeared in the northeastern human rights NGO he had been indigenous party. yesterday confi rmed Italy has been hardest hit by resident, had travelled to Brazil with similar symptoms, state of Pernambuco, where briefl y arrested at the scene and The Nicaraguan Democratic Bthe fi rst case of a fast- the outbreak in Europe, with Lombardy, in northern this marks the fi rst case in Latin a 51-year-old woman arrived “kicked in the ribs.” “They took Force, a group of Contra ex- spreading new coronavirus in more than 350 cases reported Italy, from February America. this week from Italy with mild me for about 15 minutes, they combatants who fought Ortega’s Latin America, diagnosing a and 11 deaths. Vast swathes of 9-21 and had symptoms Sao Paulo has the largest ur- fl u symptoms, according to the put a rifl e in my mouth and told Sandinistas in the 1980s, has also 61-year-old man in Sao Paulo the Lombardy and Veneto re- compatible with the ban population in the Americas state health secretariat. me there were going to kill me.” joined the coalition to oust him. who returned recently from gions of Italy, stretching from disease with about 20mn people in the The coronavirus is believed to The Inter-American Commis- “This is a historic day because Italy. Milan to Venice, remain in a vir- greater metropolitan area. The have originated in a market sell- sion on Human Rights said on we have signed a fi rm commit- The diagnosis comes during tual lockdown and the world- The patient remains in good Brazilian megacity is also the ing wildlife in the Chinese city Twitter it was “aware of a police ment of unity — it is the birth Brazil’s carnival holiday, a peak wide death toll has climbed to health and will be monitored in home to the country’s fi nancial of Wuhan late last year. operation to prevent” protests, certifi cate of the National Coa- time for domestic travel when 2,769 with 81,170 confi rmed isolation for the next 14 days, industry and a business hub Concerns over the econom- adding that opposition leaders’ lition,” said opposition leader millions of revellers throng to cases. the Albert Einstein Hospital with the greatest concentration ic impact of the disease have homes had been placed under Carlos Tunnermann. major cities for raucous street The Albert Einstein Hospi- in Sao Paulo said in a written of multi-national companies wiped out more than $3tn of surveillance. He said “the doors are open” celebrations. tal in Sao Paulo said that the statement. and executives. value on tumbling stock mar- Offi cials from seven parties for- for other parties to join forces The patient, a Sao Paulo man tested positive to a PCR Brazilian sanitary agency Brazil’s health ministry is kets over the past four trading mally signed the agreement form- with the coalition. resident, had travelled to Lom- real time test on Monday and Anvisa said it had requested tracking 20 suspected cases of sessions. Cuba sells used cars Support for change Peru rejects bid to ban cock, bull fi ghting for dollars for fi rst time was built in 1766. More than AFP Lima 5,000 people had signed a pe- Reuters tition, submitted in 2018, de- Havana manding that “all cruel shows eru’s top court has re- using animals” be banned. jected a lawsuit brought “I can confi rm that there uba’s government began selling used cars for Pby animal rights activ- is no universal declaration of dollars at a single Havana outlet, a fi rst for ists hoping to ban cock and animal rights that has been Cthe nation and a further step toward the dol- bull fi ghting on grounds they adopted by either the UN or larisation of a segment of its retail sector. are unconstitutional. Unesco,” said magistrate Car- Around a hundred people showed up to look at Peru has animal welfare laws los Ramos. the cars, representing a hodgepodge of brands and but there is a clause that ex- Bull and cock fi ghting are models. empts cock and bull fi ghting legal in many Latin American Around one in 20 Cubans owns a car and the cost Yoan Orlando Milian camped out for days to be the as it considers them “cultural countries, but not in Peru’s puts them out of the reach of many citizens, in a first in line to purchase a 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser shows.” The decision taken by neighbour Chile, where they country where the average wage is below the equiv- for $80,000. the seven magistrates sitting were banned in 1818 when it alent of $100 per month. on the Constitutional Tribunal declared independence. Yoan Orlando Milian, a 37-year-old who splits Now available for dollars through use of a bank is not open to appeal. Cock fi ghting was briefl y his time between Miami and Havana, said he had card, the government says it will discount 10% “The law didn’t receive the barred in Peru in the 19th cen- camped out for days to be the fi rst in line to pur- from the former price as it opens more outlets and necessary votes to declare it un- tury. chase a car. makes new vehicles available. constitutional,” said the court’s “There are countries that “I will do anything for my family. And this is a Reinier Ramos, from the central Cienfuegos president Marianella Miranda, already many years ago banned good option for my wife and kids in Havana,” he said province, said he had come to Havana three days one of three magistrates to sup- this so I don’t see why coun- from the window of his 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser earlier to stake a claim on a car. port the case brought by animal tries like Peru continue with that he had bought for $80,000 — more than double “I want to buy a Geely at $35,000 or MG3 for rights activists. this burden that does no good the amount he might expect to pay in the US. $34,000,” he said, referring to two Chinese brands. They needed fi ve votes to either for children or animals,” Cuba fi rst legalised in 2014 the sale and purchase Ramos, a civil engineer, said he had sold a car and Activists fly flags and posters in support of the April 26 ban the practices, which have lawyer and animal rights ac- of cars manufactured after the 1959 revolution, but received money from family abroad for the pur- referendum to change the country’s constitution, in Santiago been popular activities in Peru tivist Jorge Mori said. for convertible Cuban pesos, which are offi cially chase. yesterday. The electoral campaign for the referendum, since the Spanish colonisation. Defenders of bull and cock valued at a dollar though worthless outside the The government has opened around 80 “dollar which will decide whether or not to change the constitution Peru has more bull fi ghting fi ghting say the livelihoods of country. stores” selling items such as home appliances and inherited from dictator of Augusto Pinochet, began arenas than football stadiums. 400,000 people involved in The state maintains a monopoly on foreign trade car parts that it has to buy abroad in tradeable cur- yesterday in the midst of a social crisis that never ceases and The arena in the Rimac breeding these animals would and retail sales. Previously, the new and used cars rencies. The state had previously sold such items deep political polarisation. neighbourhood of Lima is one be at risk if the activities were were priced at more than four times the factory price. for convertible pesos. of the oldest in the world and banned. Gulf Times 24 Thursday, February 27, 2020 PAKISTAN

Top court allows Panel moots commercialisation Musharraf plea to of Pakistan’s space programme be heard against treason conviction Internews “The capability diff erential be- “Despite its support for interna- The main issue highlighted dur- tion of new applications of space Islamabad tween the space programmes of In- tional norms, India is continuously ing the discussion was the inte- technologies for sustainable de- dia and Pakistan will increase the developing its ballistic missile pro- gration of space technologies with velopment. Internews regional instability,” Saadat said. gramme. India has not signed the other emerging technologies like ISSI board of governors chair- Islamabad etired Pakistani air chief mar- Senior Fellow at Centre for In- Moon Treaty of 1979 but it entered artifi cial intelligence, information man Ambassador Khalid Mahmood shal Kaleem Saadat has urged ternational and Strategic Studies into a space situational agreement and communication technologies, talked about the development of RPakistan to actively focus on (CISS) Dr Naeem Salik identifi ed with the US which will give it a false cyberspace, lasers and how it will dual-use space technologies by In- he Supreme Court of Pakistan has ordered maximum utilisation of existing three areas of Indian space milita- sense of confi dence that it can track aff ect the survivability of deterrence dia and their destabilising eff ect on fi xing before one of its benches an applica- space capabilities to decrease the risation: dual-use space platforms, Pakistan’s strategic assets from out- on ground. the deterrence equation in South Ttion fi led by former military dictator Pervez gap with India. ballistic missile system and linkage er space,” he said. Participants also discussed the Asia. Musharraf against the court registrar’s decision In a keynote address at a roundta- with the nuclear programme. In his opening remarks, ACDC- social, economic, political, diplo- He said Pakistan could invest in to return an earlier appeal seeking to overturn the ble ‘India’s space programme: global He also talked about the Indian ISSI Director Malik Qasim Mustafa matic and military consequences of the indigenisation of dual-use space December 17, 2019 death sentence awarded to him implications’, he said Pakistan has to anti-satellite capability which will said states were contesting for the the Indian space programme. technologies and public- private by a special court in the high treason case. set its priorities in outer space and lead to new global and regional arms “newest war fi ghting domain,” and They agreed that there were al- partnership to enhance its deter- The decision to fi x the matter before a bench was allocate resources accordingly. race in outer space. that was “outer space.” ways asymmetric ways to counter rence against India. taken by Justice Umar Ata Bandial after hearing He stressed the commercialisa- He also cited the cyber and laser “Major powers are investing huge the technological development At regional level, Pakistan and Advocate Salman Safdar, Gen Musharraf’s coun- tion of space programme to over- weapons as new threats to space- resources to modernise and develop like increasing public-private India should start bilateral nego- sel, in his chamber. come the fi nancial constraints. based assets. their space programmes with dual- partnership, development of tiations for the confi dence building The matter will be taken up by a three-judge SC The event was organised by the Director Arms Control and Dis- use capabilities. India has already economic model for self-sus- measures in outer space. bench whenever the case will be fi xed. Arms Control and Disarmament armament Division at the Ministry embarked upon a dual-use space tainable space programme, in- At international level, Pakistan On January 18, the court registrar offi ce had re- Centre (ACDC) at the Institute of Foreign Aff airs Husham Ahmed race and a global space competition, creasing incentive for future should play an active role in the de- turned the genera’s appeal on the grounds that un- of Strategic Studies Islamabad Cheema spoke on the role of inter- which will have global and regional generation, easy availability of velopment of relevant international less the petitioner surrendered himself, his plea (ISSI). national norms in this area. implications,” he said. data for research and explora- norms, he said. could not be entertained. Musharraf is presently living in Dubai. Order 23, Rule 8 of the Supreme Court Rules 1980 empowers the apex court not to accept any petition unless the convict surrenders to the au- thorities. Musharraf in his appeal requested the apex court Cost of fl agship to set aside the conviction since the trial was con- ducted and completed “in sheer violation” of the Constitution as well as the Code of Criminal Pro- cedure, 1898. fast train project The appeal argued that in a nutshell the case of the appellant was that he was being tried for a con- stitutional crime in an entirely unconstitutional may top $10bn manner. nternews ernised after which the speed of Islamabad train will be increased up to 160kph from existing level of 60/80kph. KP regularises more “The biggest question arising ith completion of 90% before the policymakers is that than 9,000 special designing work for who will run the modernised Wmuch-awaited M-1 railways after the completion of police personnel fast train project under China- ML-1,” said one top offi cial. Pakistan Economic Corridor One of the proposals under (CPEC), the Imran Khan gov- consideration was to handover Pakistani soldiers wear face masks on the closed border between Pakistan and Iran in Taftan as fears over the Internews ernment has asked Ministry of the railways to the Chinese for spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus escalate following an outbreak in neighbouring Iran. Peshawar Railways to update the feasibility period of three to fi ve years be- for resubmission before Planning cause the existing workforce of Commission expecting that its Pakistan Railways would not be he Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial cabinet cost would exceed $10bn. able to run the modernised rail has approved absorption of 9,619 special Although the coronavirus epi- that would be run through com- Pakistan confi rms two cases of virus Tpolice personnel into regular police force demic has negatively impacted puterised technology. that would cost the government Rs2.76bn per an- the Chinese economy, Pakistani “The Pakistan Railways will num. authorities seem confi dent that require professionals having AFP clinical standard protocols & both conference today on Pakistan’s new Information Minister Shaukat Yousafzai says the multi-billion dollar ML-1 MBA degrees, economists and Karachi of them are stable. No need to panic, cases. the special police offi cers (SPOs), who were hired project will be on ground from experts having expertise in lo- things are under control”, tweeted With porous borders and creaking by the police department on contractual basis next fi scal year 2020-21, per- gistics, and other areas, so exist- health adviser Zafar Mirza. hospitals, Pakistan faces a poten- during the war against terrorism, were waiting for haps in July, after completion of ing workforce will not be able to akistan has detected its fi rst A statement issued by Sindh tially devastating health crisis from their regularisation for quite long. all procedural/approval require- deliver” said the offi cial sources. two cases of novel coronavirus, province’s health department stat- the new coronavirus. He said that SPOs performed duty in the most ments before June 2020. The working of the govern- Pa public health adviser to Prime ed that the first positive case was The virus has spread to more than testing situation, therefore, their services needed Top offi cial sources say the ment showed that the feasibility Minister Imran Khan tweeted yester- reported in Karachi in a 22-year- 30 countries, killing over 2,700 and to be regularised. Ministry of Railways was given was presented before the Plan- day, days after Islamabad closed its old male with a “history of travel infecting 80,000, mostly in China. He said that the issue was vigorously debated by deadline of end of ongoing month ning Commission on October land border with Iran, where 19 peo- to Iran where he has acquired the But new outbreaks in Europe, the provincial government for a long time. for submission of updated feasi- 24, 2019 when designing work ple have died from the virus. virus.” Middle East and in Asia have fanned However, Chief Minister Mahmood Khan de- bility of ML-1, as it was told dur- was completed just 60%, but “I can confi rm fi rst two cases of Offi cials did not confi rm where fears of the contagion taking hold in cided to regularise SPOs with immediate eff ect, he ing one of top level meeting held now they have accomplished corona virus in Pakistan. Both cases the second case was reported. poor nations which lack the health- added. under Minister for Planning Asad over 90% work so the Ministry are being taken care of according to Mirza said he would hold a press care infrastructure to cope. Yousafzai said that fi nance department was of Umar in second week of February of Railways was asked to come the view that the SPOs should be absorbed into 2020 that the concerned ministry up with updated PC-1 including police force from August next while another pro- has completed over 90% design- revising its cost. Safari worker’s remains found in lion enclosure posal called for terminating their services but ing work of the project. Prime Minister Imran Khan Khan rejected both proposals, stating he had al- Now the ministry has been as- also established fi nancing com- The remains of a teenaged safari worker were found came across the skull and bones when workers went to ready promised their regularisation. signed to align the cost, along with mittee under leadership of Dep- yesterday in the lion enclosure at an animal park in the feed the animals,” Shafqat told AFP. “The SPOs would now be regularised perma- designing of the project, and its uty Chairman Planning Com- Pakistani city of Lahore, an off icial said. Shafqat added that it was unclear how Bilal ended up in nently with immediate eff ect. New committees cost is set to go up beyond $10bn mission Mohamed Jehanzeb The boy, Mohamed Bilal, aged 17 or 18, had gone missing the lion enclosure, noting that a criminal investigation would be set up for this purpose,” he said, adding against earlier estimates of $9.2bn. Khan and so far three meetings two days earlier, said Chaudhry Shafqat, deputy director was underway. that absorption of over 9,000 personnel would Under ML-1, the rail line from were held to fi nalise modalities of the Lahore Safari Park. “There is a safety fence in place, but that is to keep the cost the province’s kitty to the tune of Rs2.72bn Peshawar to Karachi will be mod- for fi nancing of ML-1. “We found his clothes in the lion enclosure and then later animals in their enclosures,” he said. per annum. Govt to revise social Abbasi, Iqbal released from Adiala Jail media laws: minister Internews Internews and will have to provide data Rawalpindi Islamabad of accounts found guilty of various crimes includ- ing targeting state institu- akistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) ederal Minister for tions, spreading fake news leaders Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Ahsan Education Shafqat and hate speech, engaging in PIqbal walked out of Adiala Jail yesterday FMahmood has said the harassment, issuing state- evening hours after the Islamabad High Court notifi cation of controversial ments that harm national issued their release orders. Citizens Protection (Against security or uploading blas- A day earlier, the IHC had approved Abbasi Online Harm) Rules, 2020, is phemous content to intelli- and Iqbal’s bail in corruption cases against the being revised. gence and law enforcement two. The PML-N leaders were granted bails “The bill is not fi nalised agencies. against bonds worth Rs10mn each in the cases yet, meetings are being con- It will be the authority’s against them. ducted to discuss it further. prerogative to identify ob- Former prime minister Abbasi had secured The meetings will amend jectionable content to the bail in the LNG terminal case, while Iqbal had the issued notifi cation,” social media platforms to be been granted bail in the Narowal Sports City Mahmood told Geo TV in re- taken down. case. The two leaders had been incarcerated at marks broadcast yesterday. In case of failure to com- Adiala Jail. “The act is being revised,” ply within 15 days, it will On July 18, 2019, the National Accountability the federal minister added. have the power to suspend Bureau (NAB) had arrested Abbasi in an alleged The law greenlighted by digital media companies’ case of corruption while awarding a multi- the federal cabinet a few services or impose a fi ne billion rupee import contract for LNG in 2013, weeks ago made it compul- worth up to Rs500mn. when he was the minister for petroleum and sory for social media com- Special Assistant to the natural resources. panies to register and open Prime Minister on Infor- According to the NAB arrest warrant, Ab- offi ces in Pakistan. mation and Broadcasting, basi was accused of commission of the of- The law requires social Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan had fence of corruption and corrupt practices un- media giants such as Fa- confi rmed that an authority der Section 9 (a) of National Accountability cebook, Twitter, YouTube, will be regulating social me- Ordinance, 1999. TikTok and others to build dia companies, saying that it On December 23, 2019, NAB had arrested data servers in Pakistan, was not possible for the gov- Iqbal as he appeared before it in relation to the get registered and appoint a ernment to leave digital me- corruption case. NAB had begun investigating representative who will deal dia companies completely the complex in July 2018. It was built at the stag- with a government-consti- unregulated. gering cost of over Rs3,000mn. tuted authority. “We cannot leave these The accountability bureau’s investigation Under the new law, so- websites completely unreg- team also visited the Narowal Sports City project cial media companies will ulated,” she had said. “These in November to secure records. The mega ven- have to set up data servers laws have been made to fa- ture was one of the primary projects developed Pakistan’s former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi (right) and former interior minister and PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal wave to in Pakistan within a year cilitate social media.” under Iqbal during the PML-N’s tenure. supporters outside the Adiala prison after being granted bail, yesterday. Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 25 PHILIPPINES Govt imposes ban on travel to South Korea

By Catherine S Valente Manila Times

he Philippine government has barred Filipinos from Ttravelling to South Korea, where cases of coronavirus dis- ease 2019 (Covid-19) have risen. The country also barred the entry of travellers coming from the North Gyeongsang province of South Korea. Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infec- This undated handout photo from the Department of Foreign Aff airs (DFA) received yesterday shows Filipino crew members of the tious Diseases (IATF-EID) ap- Diamond Princess cruise ship getting on a chartered plane bound for the Philippines, at Narita airport in Chiba prefecture, outside Tokyo. proved the travel ban during their meeting yesterday. “The Inter-agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Disease met today and it has approved Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles explains the government decision to to impose a ban on the entry of impose a travel ban as Health Secretary Francisco Duque 3rd listens. Filipino repatriates from cruise travellers coming from the North Gyeongsang province of South countrymen’s welfare is foremost (ADB) provided a $2mn fund that Korea into Philippine territory in the mind of the president and developing Asian countries like eff ective immediately,” Panelo as well as concerned offi cials,” he the Philippines can use to contain ship test negative for Covid-19 told reporters. added. the Covid-19 outbreak. “With respect to other parts of As of yesterday, there were In a statement yesterday, the South Korea, the IATF-EID shall 1,146 cases of Covid-19 in South Manila-based multilateral lender Manila Times Francisco Duque 3rd during a line, but said it would update batches of 309 passengers at conduct a risk assessment of the Korea, according to the Korea said the funds will be available Manila briefi ng in Manila. its prescribed quarantine pro- 10.15pm on Tuesday, and 136 at situation within 48 hours to ana- Centers for Disease Control and for all ADB developing member The DoH said, however, that cedure if needed. The DoH 12.12am yesterday. lyse whether it is necessary to ex- Prevention. countries in updating and imple- it was prepared should the need said it would use 21 hospitals They are currently in New pand the travel ban.” Of this number, 134 were from menting their pandemic response ll 445 Filipino repatri- arise. “We have prepared and in Central Luzon or Region 3 Clark City in Capas, Tarlac, When asked if Filipino tourists Daegu City in North Gyeongsang. plans, including buying emer- ates from the Diamond equipped our hospitals and lab- should any repatriate exhibit where they would be assessed are not allowed to travel to any South Korea President Moon Jae- gency supplies and equipment; APrincess cruise ship oratory facilities, and allocated the symptoms of the respira- twice daily while they undergo part of South Korea, Panelo said, in on Tuesday tagged the situation assessing health system and eco- tested negative for the Coro- all necessary resources should tory disease. the prescribed 14-day quaran- “Yes, for their own safety.” in the country as “very grave.” nomic impacts to improve future navirus Disease (Covid-19), this happen — so we are ready, “We have mobilised about tine. Filipino tourists are now “The Inter-agency has author- Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei resilience; and co-ordinating bet- but the Department of Health just in case,” Duque said. 21 hospitals within Region 3 to barred from entering South ised Filipinos to travel to South Nograles earlier said that none ter regionally to prevent, detect, (DoH) yesterday said it was Recent reports from Wuhan, help us in case there will be re- Korea, as ordered by the Inter- Korea, provided they are perma- of the confi rmed cases were Fili- and respond to animal and human considering the possibility that China — the epicentre of the patriates who will show symp- Agency Task Force on Emerg- nent residents thereof, or leaving pinos. Imposing a travel ban on disease outbreaks. the repatriates may exhibit respiratory disease — suggested toms,” said Assistant Secretary ing Infectious Diseases, Duque for study, or are overseas Filipino South Korea is also seen to sig- “The severity of the Covid-19 symptoms of the virus after the that the incubation period of Maria Rosario Vergeire. said. workers (OFWs). They are to ex- nifi cantly damage the local tour- outbreak is escalating, and past 14-day period. the new coronavirus could last The DoH also said it would The government also re- ecute and sign a declaration sig- ism industry, as South Korea has disease outbreaks have had large “As observed in other coun- up to 27 days. buy 19,000 test kits to be used stricted the entry of passengers nifying their knowledge and (un- been the country’s largest source impacts on social and economic tries, there is still a possibility The DoH said it was still us- on the repatriates who would from North Gyeongsang Prov- derstanding) of the risks involved of tourists for the past fi ve years. development,” said ADB Vice that our nationals may even- ing the 14-day incubation pe- exhibit symptoms. ince, which include Daegu City prior to their travel,” he said. “The In 2019, 1.9mn South Koreans President for Knowledge Man- tually test positive upon their riod, in line with the World The returnees were fl own and Cheongdo County, eff ec- safety of Filipinos here and abroad visited the country. Meanwhile, agement and Sustainable Devel- return,” said Health Secretary Health Organisation’s guide- by Philippine Airlines in two tive immediately. remain our primary concern. Our the Asian Development Bank opment Bambang Susantono.

Senate approval for bill Ash Wednesday sees coronavirus vigilance to combat terrorism Reuters 80,000 people and killed At the end of services, Manila/Hanoi close to 2,700 in China since it church workers sprinkled holy By Bernadette Tamayo violators would be meted out life emerged in the central city of water on the devout, who wore Manila Times imprisonment without the ben- Wuhan late last year, causing masks or covered their mouths efi t of parole. SB 1083 penalises orshippers in the global anxiety and economic with cloths, and used towels foreign terrorist fi ghters as well mainly Roman Cath- shocks. to dab their faces or touch re- oting 19-2, senators yes- as Filipinos who committed ter- Wolic Philippines tried Priests in the Philippines, ligious items. In Hanoi, many terday passed on third rorist acts abroad. to avoid brushing against fel- which accounts for more than worshippers wore protective Vand fi nal reading the An- “With (SB 1083), we can be low devotees and church work- half of Asia’s roughly 148mn masks, but most took them off ti-Terrorism Act of 2020, which sure that whether the terroristic ers during Ash Wednesday Roman Catholics, offered ver- during the ceremony. repealed the Human Security act is committed here or abroad, ceremonies, while in neigh- bal blessings instead of touch- “We pray daily for the dis- Act of 2007, to further strength- the perpetrator shall be within bouring Vietnam the faithful es or handshakes, praying for ease infection to be over soon,” en the campaign against extrem- the arms of the law once he or wore masks to keep safe from a sufferers to be healed and a said a 48-year-old business- ism. she comes to our country,” said spreading coronavirus. Catholics wearing protective masks attend mass on Ash halt in the spread of the virus. woman, Mary Hoan, who The senators approved Sen- Lacson. Religious congregations in Wednesday amid coronavirus scare, at the National Shrine of Our “The Catholic church is in prayed at St Joseph’s Cathe- ate Bill (SB) 1083, which pro- SB 1083 penalises those who countries such as Singapore Mother of Perpetual Help, Paranaque City, Metro Manila, yesterday. line with the government in dral in the Vietnamese capital. vided for “a clear, balanced and will propose, incite, conspire, and South Korea have played being cautious,” said Eric Mo- Vietnam, with 16 virus rational anti-terrorism law that participate in the planning, a role in the spread of the dis- empty, devotees avoided hold- a virus,” said housewife Jubeth jica, a lay minister. infections, has the largest adheres to regional and interna- training, preparation and facili- ease, awakening authorities to ing hands and priests sprinkled Lupac, 48, after attending a Notices reminded worship- number of Catholics in South- tional standards.” tation of a terrorist act; as well the risk of contagion during black ash on people’s heads in- mass yesterday in the Philip- pers of precautionary meas- east Asia after the Philippines, Sen. Panfi lo Lacson, chair- as those who will provide ma- religious services in crowded or stead of tracing it into a cross on pine capital to mark the begin- ures adopted by churches. which has had one virus death, man of the Senate Committee terial support to terrorists and confi ned spaces. foreheads. ning of Lent season. Catholics make up about the first outside China, among on National Defence and Secu- recruit members in a terrorist Holy water fonts in churches “Nothing will hinder us from “We just have to be careful.” 80% of a population of more a total of three infections in rity and sponsor of SB 1083, said organisation. in Manila were sealed or left going to church, even if there’s The virus has infected than 100mn in the Philippines. Chinese tourists.

Journo leading war on fake news may be jailed on libel charges

By Juliette Garside leader could harness social me- yers, including the London bar- the EU referendum, and more made possible by the failures of Duterte supporters began Guardian News & Media dia to win power. rister Amal Clooney. recently the bullying of the BBC those who control the web’s big- using a controversial word to Ressa’s commitment to ex- If found guilty on all counts, and other media by the team that gest forums.”If the social media slander reporters critical of his posing corruption, propaganda she faces up to 83 years in prison. surrounds Boris Johnson. platforms don’t take the gate- methods. The toughest part is not and thousands of extrajudicial She is braced: “I’m prepar- But Duterte’s campaign keeping seriously they will kill In August 2016, Ressa trav- knowing whether it’s going killings sanctioned by Duterte ing to lose every case here. They preceded the Brexit vote and the public sphere. elled to Facebook’s regional “to be a normal day, or a not in his self-proclaimed “war on could shut us down tomorrow. Trump’s election. Rappler was If we don’t get this right in headquarters in Singapore with normal day,” says Maria Ressa, drugs” has made her some pow- But we will fi ght everything, discovering the playbook as it 2020 you can open a decade or her initial list of 26 suspected speaking by phone from her of- erful enemies. both in court and by telling sto- was being written. longer of a descent into fascism. fake accounts, all supporting fi ce in Manila. But her determination to ries. Our fame is our only pro- It did so by mapping Duterte’s And it will be global because Duterte, which she estimated A former CNN bureau chief speak has also won her many al- tection.” Rappler is not alone in hidden networks, an eff ort that platforms are global.” had in turn infl uenced 3mn other who spent two decades as an in- lies. feeling the heat. In a sign that the eventually led to the creation As Ressa tells it, Duterte’s accounts. She asked for them to vestigative reporter, Ressa is the In 2018, she was one of a group Maria Ressa’s commitment to outlook for independent jour- of a monitoring tool capable foray into social media began be taken down. No action was founder of a news website that of journalists named as Time exposing corruption has made nalism in the Philippines is fast of scraping information from in earnest in January 2016, six taken. has found itself on the front- magazine’s person of the year. her some powerful enemies. deteriorating, the solicitor gen- across the Internet. months before the election, Days later, a bomb killed 14 line of the global disinformation All of the others lauded by the US eral fi led a complaint on Monday Rappler’s Sharktank database when executives from Facebook people in Duterte’s home town, wars. journal were at that point either what we do.” On April 3, Ressa against ABS-CBN, which could began as a spreadsheet listing 26 fl ew in to train presidential cam- Davao City. Since the summer of 2016, dead or in detention. will learn the outcome of a libel lead to the broadcaster losing its suspected fake accounts, and has paign teams. Ressa’s team noticed his fol- her reporters at Rappler have Ressa lives every day knowing trial brought against her. licence. evolved into a vast information- For the Philippines, with its lowers were posting links to the been engaged in a running battle that both of these fates could be- If she loses, the sentence is The online playbook devel- gathering machine. population of 105mn, Facebook same article, entitled “ Man with with paid trolls, infl uencers, bot fall her. a maximum of 12 years: in the oped by Duterte, 74, while he As of October, it had captured is the Internet. Everyone who is bomb nabbed at Davao check- armies and fake news websites Security measures have been Philippines, defamation remains was still a city mayor has by now data on posts and comments online has a page. The platform point”. The headline gave the run by supporters of Rodrigo increased six times at Rappler’s a criminal off ence. become familiar. from 6,000 public Facebook often comes pre-installed on impression the government had Duterte, the authoritarian presi- offi ces in the past year, and Ressa Other regime-led prosecu- It is being repeated the world groups and 48,000 public Fa- mobile phones. acted quickly. dent of the Philippines. has protection at home, too. tions are pending, for allegations over, with populist leaders from cebook pages, alongside links Already into his seventies, Du- It was a false impression: the Launched on Facebook in A Princeton graduate raised ranging from tax off ences to for- Donald Trump to Brazil’s Jair posted each day from more than terte embraced the new medium. article was fi ve months old. Us- 2012, before emerging as a fully in the US, she is a dual national. eign ownership. Bolsonaro adopting its toxic mix 2,700 separate websites. With a fraction of the campaign ing data and human sources, fl edged news website with a Returning to the US might be the She has been arrested and of viral disinformation and in- “I feel like a Cassandra,” says spend of previous presidents, his Rappler uncovered the cam- monthly audience of 12mn, Rap- safest option. bailed eight times in the past timidation of independent me- Ressa. While her personality is team used online engagement to paign’s online architecture. pler was among the fi rst publi- But for now, it is not on the year. dia. sunny, her prophecies are bleak. dominate the debate. At fi rst he Created for the election, it ap- cations anywhere in the world cards. “I hate it, but I can’t leave. Ressa has assembled a formi- In the UK, there are parallels She believes that the rise of courted Rappler, but after his pears to have been maintained to shine a light on how a populist This time matters. It’s why we do dable defence team of 40 law- with the tactics employed during hard-right leaders has been election, there was a falling out. after Duterte entered offi ce. Gulf Times 26 Thursday, February 27, 2020 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Internet giants fi ght spread of virus untruths

As the new coronavirus spreads globally, the online battle to keep misinformation about the disease is also stepping up. Google, Facebook and other platforms are struggling to keep ahead of scammers, trolls, and others with ill intent who routinely use major tragedies or disasters as opportunities to swindle or manipulate people. “The public concern about coronavirus is being used as a vehicle to get people to transmit misinformation and disinformation,” said University of Washington biology professor Carl Bergstrom. Internet companies took part in a meeting with the World Health Organisation last week at Facebook offi ces in Silicon Valley to discuss tactics such as promoting reliable information and fact-checking dubious claims about the coronavirus referred to as Covid-19. To make peace plan work, “(We must) combat the spread of rumours and misinformation,” WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said recently. “To that end, we have worked with Google to make sure people searching for information about coronavirus see WHO information at the top of their search results.” Google search ranks authoritative sources higher when people are it must be Afghan-owned seeking information on health and labels results or news stories that have been fact-checked. Ghebreyesus said that social media platforms including Twitter, By Kamran Rehmat were consumed in keeping the US did we build a peace team but we also US-led Nato and Afghan forces in Facebook, Tencent and TikTok have also taken steps to limit spread of Doha war machine running for nearly two played our role in ensuring that the Afghanistan — could not have been decades. In fact, President Donald negotiations were successful,” he said. more forthcoming on the hour of misinformation about coronavirus. Trump is so desperate to have the The first signs of a deal were reckoning. In a surprise oped piece Facebook said in a recent ome Saturday and the maximum number of troops return apparent last year when President for The New York Times entitled online post that it is focusing “(We must) world’s eyes will be riveted home before he seeks re-election this Trump said he was readying to What Taliban Want earlier this week, on claims which, if relied on, to Doha where the US and year that his administration flipped invite key Taliban figures to a he spoke categorically of his militia’s combat the could increase the likelihood Taliban are slated to sign open a moribund relationship with secret meeting in Camp David, commitment to keep the deal. of someone getting sick or not C what would be a historic peace deal Pakistan last year to seek its help to Maryland with Afghan president, Admitting he is “convinced the spread of getting proper treatment. between two of the fiercest rivals in bring the Taliban to the negotiation but summarily cancelled it when a killing and maiming must stop”, “This includes claims related recent war history. Qatar is playing a table. US sergeant was killed in a suicide Haqqani wrote: “We are about to rumours and to false cures or prevention gracious host — as it has on a number As a first step, President Trump attack in Kabul last September. sign an agreement with the United methods - like drinking bleach of occasions in the past — and has wrote an official letter in this regard Despite the setback, Islamabad had States and we are fully committed to misinformation” cures the coronavirus - or invited Pakistan, too, which has to Prime Minister Imran Khan, to bring all its experience, energy and carrying out its every single provision, claims that create confusion played a central role in trying to make reinforcing the long-held stance of the power of persuasion to get the two in letter and spirit”. Removed from the about health resources that are available,” Facebook head of health this happen against all odds. Pakistani leader, who has been a vocal parties back to the negotiating table. militia’s oppressive rule in the past, he Kang-Xing Jin said in the post. While understandably, there proponent of talks with the militia “The world knows that the two sides appeared to offer a new social contract “We will also block or restrict hashtags used to spread was a great sense of relief at the since his early days in politics, and have been fighting for over 19 years. that would allow for “a new, inclusive misinformation on Instagram, and are conducting proactive sweeps to simultaneous announcement last which earned him the wrath of many After US President Donald Trump political system in which the voice of fi nd and remove as much of this content as we can.” week by the US and Taliban of who thought it was a preposterous cancelled the peace process in a single every Afghan is reflected and where no Bergstrom said some virus misinformation is “people trying to sell an impending peace deal and the idea. Nearly two decades of a draining tweet after a death (of a US soldier), it Afghan feels excluded”. snake oil products” such as bogus cures or treatments, while others use subsequent week-long ceasefire war later, the Americans have was Pakistan who convinced the US to That being said, the reality is that attention-grabbing deceptions to drive online traffi c that yields money that is conditioned to it (mercifully, themselves come around and been restart negotiations,” Qureshi noted. it would take a great deal to make the from advertising. holding at the time of writing this), seriously engaged in dialogue with the Even though the Taliban were proposed peace deal work in the long Misinformation is also spread by “actors” out to fuel distrust for the the stakes are high, especially given Taliban for more than a year now. equally belligerent when Trump term even if it survives the pangs establishment in China or foment societal instability overall, according the complexities of the undertaking Earlier this week, Pakistan’s Foreign called the talks “dead” and vowed to of birth. The intra-Afghan political to Bergstrom. and uncertainty that has always Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi inflict more damage, it is perhaps, reconciliation is a virtual maze and “There’s appetite for up-to-date, real-time information,” said Jevin engulfed war-torn Afghanistan. Any recalled in a statement how it all not very hard to imagine that there it will require more than just a leap West, co-author of a book on misinformation with Bergstrom. peace process therefore, can only be sprang from the lowest ebb in ties is, over all, very little enthusiasm of faith from one or two partners to “These actors can take advantage of that; things with crazier looked at from the prism of cautious with Washington. for a meandering existence in the find a way out. The country — and scenarios are more likely to be clicked on than the report from that optimism at best. “(US Secretary of State Mike) theatre of a war with seemingly no its vulnerable government — is still doctor at WHO trying to calm down the fears.” There is however, no doubt that Pompeo told me that the pathway end. coming to terms with a disputed Facebook said that when users seek information related to the all parties to the conflict are heartily to fixing relations between Pakistan Sirajuddin Haqqani, the presidential election last September and US came through Kabul. Now, I deputy Taliban leader and head and solving it is key to future virus, the social network will show “educational pop-up” boxes with tired of war. The Americans want out, having lost more than 2,400 would like to remind him that we have of the Haqqani network — a US- settlements because in the next phase information considered credible. personnel and trillions of dollars that fulfilled all our promises. Not only designated terrorist group fighting of the process, the Afghan government Facebook is also giving free advertising credits to organisations and Taliban will be on the negotiating running coronavirus education campaigns. table. For this to effectively Google-owned video sharing platform YouTube has been modifying materialise, President Ashraf Ghani policies and products for several years to remove harmful content and who has been declared winner, give priority to authoritative content deemed trustworthy. and his rival contestant Abdullah “We currently do not allow content promoting dangerous remedies Abdullah, who rejected the results and or cures, like videos which claim that harmful substances or treatments simultaneously claimed victory, will can have health benefi ts,” YouTube said. have to reconcile — by no means an YouTube last year began providing links to reliable information easy proposition. along with videos on “subjects prone to misinformation,” and added With Ghani insisting on leading the coronavirus to that list. talks, but other Afghan parties seeking Social media giants have also beefed up ranks of fact-checkers, hiring more inclusive representation, it will outside parties such as AFP News Wire, to sort truth from fi ction, even test the resolve of the Americans, the if there are questions on their eff ectiveness. main interlocutors on behalf of Kabul. A recent study published in the journal Science Advances suggested Contrast this with the united Taliban fact-checking did little to stem the tide of misinformation about other who may find other power groups and epidemics such as Zika, Ebola and yellow fever. warlords willing to form alliances in The researchers said that “current approaches to combating a widening turf, which would hardly misinformation and conspiracy theories about disease epidemics and bring the government in Kabul any outbreaks may be ineff ective or even counterproductive,” and could solace. even cause “collateral” damage by undermining trust in fact-based It is interesting to note that the disease information. Taliban have shown no proclivity Bergstrom and West questioned whether social media giants yet towards a permanent ceasefire optimised for virality could stem the tide of disinformation and deceit. and this may stem from the “Social media company claiming it’s active participant in the fi ght uncertainty surrounding the rather against misinformation is like (tobacco maker) Philip Morris saying complex nature of the Afghan power they’re active participant in the fi ght against lung cancer,” Bergstrom chessboard. Under the proposed said. agreement, approximately, 5,000 Taliban prisoners held by the American and Afghan authorities will To Advertise be released, which would reinforce the militia. For now, the Taliban [email protected] leadership is holding their cards close to their chests. Display Mindful of these realities, 44466621 44418811 Islamabad has repeatedly underscored the need for Afghans to take charge of Classified their affairs and ensure the transition 44466609 44418811 is in line with the aspirations of the Afghan people who yearn for peace Subscription and stability. Ultimately, lasting peace would require the process to be [email protected] Afghan-led and Afghan-owned.

PEACE MISSION: “Not only did we build a peace team but we also played our role in ensuring that the negotiations were z The writer is Features Editor. He © 2020 Gulf Times. All rights reserved successful,” Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said this week. tweets @kaamyabi Gulf Times Thursday, February 27, 2020 27 COMMENT When China sneezes

By Stephen S Roach compiled by Morgan Stanley’s China the experts say – the combination New Haven team underscore the nationwide of warmer weather in the northern impact of this disruption. As of hemisphere and unprecedented February 20, coal consumption containment measures could mean he world economy has (still 60% of China’s total energy that the infection rate peaks at some clearly caught a cold. The consumption) remained down point in the next few months. But the outbreak of Covid-19 came 38% from the year-earlier pace, economic response will undoubtedly Tat a particularly vulnerable and nationwide transportation lag the virus infection curve, as a point in the global business cycle. comparisons were even weaker, making premature relaxation of quarantines World output expanded by just 2.9% it extremely diffi cult for China’s nearly and travel restrictions could spur a in 2019 – the slowest pace since the 300mn migrant workers to return to new and more widespread wave of 2008-09 global financial crisis and factories after the annual Lunar New Covid-19. just 0.4 percentage points above the Year holiday. That implies, at a minimum, a two- 2.5% threshold typically associated The disruptions to supply are quarter growth shortfall for China, with global recession. especially acute. Not only is China double the duration of the shortfall Moreover, vulnerability increased the world’s largest exporter by a wide during Sars, suggesting that China in most major economies over the margin; it also plays a critical role could miss its 6% annual growth target course of last year, making prospects at the centre of global value chains. for 2020 by as much as one percentage for early 2020 all the more uncertain. Recent research shows that GVCs point. China’s recent stimulus In Japan, the world’s fourth-largest account for nearly 75% of growth measures, aimed largely at the post- economy, growth contracted at in world trade, with China the most quarantine rebound, will not off set a 6.3% annual rate in the fourth important source of this expansion. the draconian restrictions currently in quarter – much sharper than expected Apple’s recent earnings alert says it all: place. following another consumption-tax the China shock is a major bottleneck This matters little to the optimistic hike. Industrial output fell sharply in to global supply. consensus of investors. After all, by December in both Germany (-3.5%) But demand-side eff ects are also defi nition shocks are merely temporary and France (-2.6%), the world’s very important. After all, China is disruptions of an underlying trend. fi fth- and tenth-largest economies now the largest source of external While it is tempting to dismiss this respectively. The United States, the demand for most Asian economies. shock for that very reason, the key is to world’s second-largest economy, Unsurprisingly, trade data for both heed the implications of the underlying appeared relatively resilient by Japan and Korea in early 2020 show trend. The world economy was weak, comparison, but 2.1% real (infl ation- unmistakable signs of weakness. As a FILE PHOTO: People wearing masks are seen at Lujiazui financial district in Pudong, Shanghai, China, as the country is hit by and getting weaker, when Covid-19 adjusted) GDP growth in the fourth result, it is virtually certain that Japan an outbreak of a new coronavirus, on February 3, 2020. struck. The V-shaped recovery quarter of 2019 hardly qualifi es as a will record two consecutive quarters trajectory of a Sars-like episode will boom. And in China – now the world’s of negative GDP growth, which would sentiment for February hints at just back then. The good news is that the on the world’s most important growth thus be much tougher to replicate – largest economy in purchasing-power- make it three for three in experiencing such a possibility and underscores disruption was brief – a one-quarter engine. The International Monetary especially with monetary and fi scal parity terms – growth slowed to a recessions each time it has raised its the time-honoured adage that no shortfall of two percentage points in Fund puts China’s share of global authorities in the US, Japan, and 27-year low of 6% in the last quarter consumption tax (1997, 2014, and country is an oasis in a faltering nominal GDP growth – followed by a output at 19.7% this year, more than Europe having such little ammunition of 2019. 2019). global economy. vigorous rebound over the next four double its 8.5% share in 2003, during at their disposal. That, of course, was In other words, there was no margin The shortfall of Chinese demand In the end, the epidemiologists will quarters. But circumstances were very the Sars outbreak. Moreover, with the big risk all along. In these days for an accident at the beginning of is also likely to hit an already have the fi nal word on the endgame diff erent back then. In 2003, China China having accounted for fully 37% of dip-buying froth, China’s sneeze this year. Yet there has been a big weakening European economy for Covid-19 and its economic impact. was booming – with real GDP surging of the cumulative growth in world may prove to be especially vexing for accident: China’s Covid-19 shock. very hard – especially Germany While that science is well beyond my by 10% – and the world economy was GDP since 2008 and no other economy long-complacent fi nancial markets. - Over the past month, the combination – and could even take a toll on a expertise, I take the point that the growing by 4.3%. For China and the stepping up to fi ll the void, the risk Project Syndicate of an unprecedented quarantine on Teflon-like US economy, where current strain of coronavirus seems world, a Sars-related disruption barely of outright global recession in the Hubei Province (population 58.5mn) China plays an important role as to be more contagious but less lethal made a dent. fi rst half of 2020 seems like a distinct z Stephen S Roach, a faculty member and restrictions on inter-city (and America’s third-largest and most than Sars was in early 2003. I was Again, that is far from being the possibility. at Yale University and former Chairman international) travel has brought rapidly growing export market. in Beijing during that outbreak 17 case today. Covid-19 hit at a time of Yes, this, too, will pass. While of Morgan Stanley Asia, is the author the Chinese economy to a virtual The sharp plunge in a preliminary years ago and remember well the fear much greater economic vulnerability. vaccine production will take time of Unbalanced: The Codependency of standstill. Daily activity trackers tally of US purchasing managers’ and uncertainty that gripped China Signifi cantly, the shock is concentrated – 6-12 months at the very least, America and China.

Three-day forecast Why Bernie Sanders? TODAY Maximum Temperature : 240c Minimum Temperature : 160c By Alexander Friedman States’ electoral swings become so crisis, the Congressional Budget quo that leaves you deep in debt, Jackson, Wyoming wide? Office expects real (inflation- tenuously employed, badly housed, FRIDAY Once upon a time, successful adjusted) GDP growth this decade and one medical emergency away Maximum Temperature : 250c presidential candidates had to to average just 2% annually. This from economic ruin? Ironically, Minimum Temperature : 140c this powerful message is similar or the last 50 years, almost embrace hope and optimism. may not be secular stagnation, so SATURDAY every US presidential elec- This made sense, for the world’s much as a reversion to mean: since to Trump’s appeal to disaffected Maximum Temperature : 250c tion has brought a new swing wealthiest country was on a more 1800, the US economy has grown working-class voters to win the Minimum Temperature : 170c of the national political than century-long upswing, living at roughly the pace the CBO now Republican nomination and the F Fisherman's forecast pendulum. Richard Nixon’s shifty large in its fevered American projects. And critically, the last presidency in 2016. administration gave way, after Gerald Dream. When leaders deviated decade of ultra-loose monetary Elections are uncertain, and for WARNING Ford was in office long enough to from this script in periods of policy widened wealth inequality so all the self-serving rhetoric of the Inshore : Strong wind expected daytime with poor vis- pardon his former boss, to the choir- national difficulty (think of Carter’s much that many in the middle class Democratic establishment (and of ibility at places at times boy Jimmy Carter. Four years later, “malaise” speech), or were blamed fell into the resulting chasm, taking Michael Bloomberg’s $460 million, Offshore : Strong wind and high in rode Ronald Reagan, and then, for temporary recessions at odds flagging faith in the American Dream and counting, in advertising) that sea WEATHER following George H W Bush’s one- with rising-tide expectations (Bush with them. nominating Sanders would ensure Inshore : Moderate temperature term interregnum, came America’s père), the electorate showed them And with that faith probably went Trump’s re-election, there is daytime with slight first baby boomer president, Bill the door. any hope for a moderate Democrat likely a close to even chance that dust to blowing dust to win the 2020 nomination. After this consensus thinking is wrong. at some places at Clinton. An impeached (but brainy) Then, the millennium turned and times,cold by night. philanderer, Clinton was succeed the American Century was laid low all, Democrats like Joe Biden, Pete Sanders could win a presidential by Bush’s son, the moralising and by three successive existential body Buttigieg, and Amy Klobuchar talk a election for any number of reasons. Offshore : Slight dust with scat- anti-intellectual George W Bush, blows: the 9/11 terrorist attacks, lot (even with their inevitable shift The country is almost perfectly tered clouds at times WIND who then gave way to the Spock-like misconceived and inconclusive left) like Bill Clinton and Robert divided regardless of candidate, Inshore : Northwesterly 10-20/26 Barack Obama, before the pendu- wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and Rubin, avatars of an era that seemed swing voters are unpredictable, KT lum’s widening swing extended all the 2008 global financial crisis. For good at the time, but today is electoral math is tricky, Trump has Offshore : Northwesterly 18-28/33 KT the way to the unprecedented fringe more than a decade since the crisis, viewed as the period when jobs were plenty of weaknesses, and a lot can Visibility : 4-8/3 KM of Donald Trump. policymakers have tried everything globalised away, median incomes happen between now and November. So, is it any wonder that as the to boost economic growth, for stagnated, and a new plutocracy was Let’s not forget that most Offshore : 6-8/10 FT Democrats muddle through their nothing lifts more boats. And yet not just born, but sponsored by its political and market forecasters got nominating contest, their most debate still rages about what can national leaders. the 2016 election wrong. Today, Around the region extreme candidate is running away be done to restore 4% annual GDP Demographics, like gravity, are as America’s national ethos of Weather Weather with the race? After the Nevada growth. The answer is probably close to an immutable force. As much optimism seemingly gives way to today Max/min tomorrow Max/min caucuses, US Senator Bernie Sanders nothing sustainable, as extreme as the traditional “wise” men and bipartisan disillusionment, Sanders’ Baghdad Sunny 22/09 P Cloudy 22/09 has more than just wind at his back. tax cuts have shown. Simply put, women of the Democratic Party try momentum is both understandable Kuwait City Sunny 22/11 Sunny 24/12 He represents exactly the type of the US economy grew abnormally to convince voters that nominating and not to be underestimated. - Manama Cloudy 21/17 Sunny 22/16 partisan reaction to Trump that fast for the century after the Civil Sanders will re-elect Trump, most Project Syndicate Muscat P Cloudy 26/19 Sunny 26/18 should be expected, and he is the War, because human life spans of the party’s youth, immigrant, Tehran Sunny 12/04 P Cloudy 13/06 latest manifestation of the national almost doubled and productivity and minority blocs (the Democrats’ z Alexander Friedman, a co- political pendulum’s steepening arc. soared, owing to breakthrough literal future) appear to disagree. founder of Jackson Hole Economics, Sanders, a lifelong socialist who has discoveries that rarely come around They likely see in Sanders someone is a former Chief Executive Officer never joined the Democratic Party, (for example, vaccines, antibiotics, who speaks convincingly to lost of GAM Investments, Chief embodies the opposite of America’s electricity, and microchips). hopes and wants fundamentally Investment Officer of UBS, Chief 1980s-style, greed-is-good By contrast, despite persistent and to change a system that no longer Financial Officer of the Bill & incumbent. ever more extreme unconventional offers them a credible path forward. Melinda Gates Foundation, and Why has the arc of the United monetary policies since the financial After all, why defend a status White House Fellow.

Live issues Around the world Weather Weather today Max/min tomorrow Max/min Athens M Sunny 18/07 M Sunny 16/08 Mammograms not helpful in women 75 and older, study fi nds Beirut M Cloudy 19/06 M Sunny 20/14 Bangkok P Cloudy 34/26 P Cloudy 33/26 Berlin Rain&Snow 07/01 S Showers 08/01 By Julie Steenhuysen “The study is important because Dr Xabier Garcia-De-Albeniz of the prior breast cancer diagnosis. Cairo P Cloudy 25/13 Sunny 27/12 Chicago a third of all American women die of Harvard School of Public Health, RTI They found that in women aged Cape Town Cloudy 21/17 Cloudy 27/14 breast cancer are diagnosed after the Health Solutions and Massachusetts 70-74, the benefit of screening Colombo P Cloudy 32/24 P Cloudy 32/24 age of 70,” Brawley said in a telephone General Hospital, said in a telephone outweighed the risks, which Dhaka M Sunny 27/17 Sunny 29/17 omen 75 and older do interview. interview. can include overdiagnosis, Hong Kong P Cloudy 20/16 Cloudy 20/18 not benefi t from regular The US Preventive Services Task Brawley said clinical trials cannot be overtreatment and the anxiety of a Istanbul Rain 18/06 M Cloudy 13/06 screening mammo- Force, which sets screening guidelines, done to provide that evidence because potential breast cancer diagnosis. Jakarta S T Storms 31/26 T Storm 30/25 Wgrams, researchers currently states that the evidence too many people are convinced of the In women 75-84, screening did not Karachi P Cloudy 29/20 P Cloudy 28/18 reported on Monday, off ering some of is insuffi cient to assess the harms benefi ts of mammography, and would substantially reduce the risk of dying London Rain&Snow 07/01 Showers 11/10 the fi rst evidence on whether screen- and benefi ts in women 75 and older. consider withholding screening to be from breast cancer. Manila P Cloudy 32/23 P Cloudy 32/23 ing makes sense in these women. Recommendations by other groups unethical. The reason is likely that by 75, Moscow Rain&Snow 04/-1 Cloudy 03/-1 Although studies clearly show vary. Garcia-De-Albeniz and colleagues women are more likely to die from New Delhi P Cloudy 27/16 P Cloudy 27/17 mammograms starting at age 50 prevent As a result, some 52% of women set out to provide that evidence heart disease or neurological diseases New York Cloudy 08/-2 M Sunny 06/-2 breast cancer deaths, until now, doctors in the United States aged 75 and using claims data from the federal such as dementia than breast cancer, Paris Rain 12/02 Showers 08/08 have had little evidence about when to older still get regular mammogram Medicare insurance programme for the authors said. Sao Paulo S Showers 21/17 Cloudy 22/17 end screening, Dr Otis Brawley of Johns screening, according to the paper the elderly. They studied data on more Brawley said the fi ndings Seoul P Cloudy 11/01 Showers 07/02 Hopkins University and former chief published on Monday in the Annals of than 1mn women aged 70-84 who underscore the need for more research Singapore P Cloudy 32/26 P Cloudy 32/25 medical offi cer of the American Cancer Internal Medicine. underwent mammograms from 2000- to understand breast cancer in older Sydney P Cloudy 23/17 M Sunny 23/19 Society, wrote in editorial in the Annals “A lot of women over 75 and 80 are 2008. Women in the study had a life women and better treatments for Tokyo Clear 11/05 Clear 11/02 of Internal Medicine. receiving mammograms,” study author expectancy of at least 10 years and no women in this age group. - Reuters Gulf Times 28 Thursday, February 27, 2020 QATAR HIA passengers treated to Amir attends Qatar Total Open surprise show of Messi 10

assengers at Hamad In- comes all obstacles to become at the preview performance at As a curator of world-class ternational Airport (HIA) one of the greatest footballers of HIA today, visitors and resi- art, HIA has been known as a Pwere treated to an exclu- his time. dents in Doha are in for a real destination for global travellers. sive, surprise preview perform- Cirque du Soleil has partnered treat. It’s just one of many in- HIA is currently undergoing an ance of Cirque du Soleil’s latest with Qatar National Tourism credible events taking place in expansion to meet the growing production – Messi 10 – last Council (QNTC) to bring Messi Qatar this spring.” demand for air travel and ac- night. Messi 10 opens to the 10 to Qatar, with support from QNTC’s chief marketing of- commodate more than 53mn public in Qatar today at Ali bin Qatar Airways as sponsor. Or- fi cer Rashed al-Qurese, said: passengers by 2022 annually. Hamad Al Attiyah Arena, mark- ganised in collaboration with “Messi 10 is a celebration of a HIA is currently a candi- ing its Asian and Middle Eastern Alchemy Project Entertain- remarkable athlete, and QNTC date for the ‘Best Airport in the debut. ment, the show will run until is proud to bring Cirque du So- World’ award by Skytrax, which At HIA, the artists performed March 7. Messi 10 comes to Doha leil’s foray into football to Qatar. also classifi ed it as a fi ve-star two 10-minute freestyle shows, as part of a limited tour through HIA’s Corporate Communica- airport, making it one among interacting with passengers at Barcelona, Buenos Aires, and tions and Marketing vice presi- only fi ve other airports in the the airport’s iconic grand foyer. other Argentinian cities. Tick- dent Abdulaziz al-Mass, com- world and the only one in the Messi 10 is an immersive ex- ets are available on TIXBOX.QA, mented: “Passengers are at the Middle East to achieve this perience which combines clas- and are priced from QR295. heart of HIA and hence we were prestigious status. sical circus acts such as tram- Qatar Airways senior vice excited to off er them a sneak HIA currently holds the His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani attended yesterday part of Qatar Total poline, trapeze and tightrope president Marketing and Cor- peek of the Cirque du Soleil per- ‘Fourth-Best Airport in the Women’s Tennis Open 2020, currently being held at Khalifa International Tennis and Squash artists with never-before-seen porate Communications, formance at the terminal. World’ and the ‘Best Airport in Complex. The Amir attended a match between Tunisian 44-seed Ons Jabeur and Czech third seed disciplines, audiovisual mate- Salam al-Shawa, said: “We are “Being a gateway to the the Middle East’ titles. The re- Karolina Pliskova. His Highness also watched another match between Swiss fourth seed Belinda rial and videos highlighting Li- thrilled to support Cirque du world, it is only fi tting for us sults of the Skytrax World Air- Bencic and Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan. Sport Page 2 onel Messi’s best plays, as well Soleil and QNTC to bring this to showcase Qatar’s events to a port Awards will be announced as exclusive images especially incredible show to Doha. Messi wider audience within the ter- in March 2020. Passengers can produced for the show. It tells 10 combines two of our pas- minal, while attracting them to vote for HIA by visiting the Offi - the story of a young man with sions in Qatar – art and sport visit the country and experience cial Skytrax World Airport Sur- boundless ambition who over- – and from what we have seen Qatar’s culture and essence.” vey website. ‘Sham Deserves’ to raise funds for Syrians through live broadcast

s part of the ongoing snow. Benefactors can make their in response to the worsening hu- ‘Sham Deserves’ cam- contributions to the campaign in manitarian situation following Apaign being implemented many forms, including money, the largest displacement in Syria by Qatar Charity (QC) in part- jewellery and vehicles, in addi- in the past three months”. nership with Qatar Media Cor- tion to Zakat. Many restaurants Donations in favour of the poration for vulnerable Syrians, and cafes have shown their soli- ‘Sham Deserves’ campaign can several media outlets in Qatar darity with the vulnerable Syr- be made through QC’s website, will host a live broadcast tomor- ians by donating some portions mobile app, 27 branches across row and on Saturday to raise do- of their profi ts in support of the the country and 97 collection nations for the campaign. campaign, while others are also points in commercial places. The live broadcast will be car- expected to support the initiative, The donors can also request for ried out from 6pm-10pm on the the statement notes. a ‘home collector’ through the two days, QC has said in a state- The ‘Sham Deserves’ cam- mobile app and dial the hotline ment. Qatar Charity has urged paign aims to deliver assistance 44667711 to make their con- people to interact with the broad- to 250,000 Syrian refugees and tributions. Mobile donating is cast aimed at easing the hardship displaced persons in the areas also available. To donate QR100, of Syrian refugees and internally of shelter, food, water, sanita- QR200, QR500 and QR1,000, displaced persons struggling tion and health. The campaign one can send an SMS with the A moment from a freestyle show performed at HIA by Messi 10 to survive under the harsh cold comes within the framework of code “SOS” to 92642, 92015, The Messi 10 artists at HIA’s grand foyer. artists. weather, heavy rains, frost and “moral and humanitarian duty 92428 and 92429, respectively.