Exercise Caution As COVID-19 UK Variant Spreading Fast: Dr Al Khal ● Treatment,” He Said

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Exercise caution as COVID-19 UK variant spreading fast: Dr Al Khal ● treatment,” he said. Hopefully majority of Qatar’s Both Pfizer/BioNTech and Dr Al Khal said, “The good news is that population will be vaccinated Moderna vaccines are effective the two COVID-19 vaccines available in against the new virus strain Qatar — Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna — Amir takes part in 137th by summer: Health official are effective against the new variants.” • Over 380,000 COVID-19 vaccine The COVID-19 infections in Qatar have session of International Tribune News Network doses have been administered been significantly increasing over the past Olympic Committee Doha so far, covering nearly 12% few weeks, quadrupling what it was in Jan- of Qatar’s population uary 2021, he said, adding that the infec- His Highness the Amir of State of Qatar Qatar is now seeing an increase in positions have increased in all age groups, in- Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani took part tive COVID-19 cases with the new variant • More than 45% of teachers cluding the elderly. “This is an indication of in the virtual meeting of the 137th session known as B.1.1.7 (UK strain), which is more and school administrators have the transmission of the virus among family of International Olympic Committee (IOC), contagious, a senior health official has said. received the vaccine so far members, which is often caused by visits, which was chaired by President of the Interna- “Qatar’s strict quarantine policy for events and social gatherings,” he added. tional Olympic Committee Dr Thomas Bach, returning travellers enabled us to delay • With preventive measures in The cases of severe infection that require on Wednesday. The meeting was attended by the introduction of new variants into this place, no spike in infections hospitalization have also increased signifi- members of the Executive Office, members country for several months, but we are Dr Abdullatif Al Khal, Chair of the National cantly, at a rate of more than three times of of the IOC, and presidents of international now seeing positive COVID-19 cases in the in schools Health Strategic Group on COVID-19, addresses what it was in last January, Dr Al Khal said. federations and national Olympic commit- region and in Qatar with the new variant a press conference in Doha on Wednesday. He said the number of COVID-19 patients tees. Discussions during the meeting covered known as B.1.1.7 (UK strain),” Dr Abdul- transferred to the intensive care has in- issues related to promoting and supporting latif Al Khal, Chair of the National Health contagious and spreads more easily be- ber of new cases each day and everyday creased to 120 over the past weeks. The ca- the Olympic movement, as well as the topics Strategic Group on COVID-19, said while tween people than the existing strain and people are becoming sick due to the COV- pacities of COVID-19-designated hospitals listed on the agenda. Dr Thomas Bach was addressing a press conference in Doha on may be associated with increased severity ID-19 with many requiring admissions to have been increased by 60-70 percent. reelected as IOC President for a second term Wednesday. of disease. hospitals to manage their symptoms and during the meeting. President of Qatar Olym- He said this new variant is much more “We continue to see a significant num- even admission into ICU for life-saving Continued on page 2  pic Committee HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani also attended the meeting. (QNA) Qadatar ro s becoming safer Qatar welcomes Al Dafa appointed FM’s Significant decline in formation of unity special climate envoy traffic accidents govt in Libya Deputy Prime Qatar records 4 deaths per QNA Minister and Minister 100,000 population, 78% Doha of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed lower than global average Qatar has welcomed the formation of bin Abdulrahman Al the Libyan National Unity Thani issued the min- Ashraf Siddiqui Government headed isterial decision no 2 Doha by Abdel Hamid Al of 2021, appointing Dbeibeh, after gaining HE Bader Omar Ismail Qatar’s roads are increasingly becom- the confidence of the Al Dafa as Special ing safer, thanks to the efforts and tire- House of Representa- Envoy of the Minister less work of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) tives. of Foreign Affairs for Climate Change and Sus- and many governmental and private sec- The progress in traffic safety In a statement on tainability. Al Dafa is currently the Executive tor entities. indicators enhances the position Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Af- Director of the Global Dryland Alliance (GDA), In a significant and marked improve- of Qatar internationally. This fairs affirmed Qatar’s full support for the an international organisation associated with ment in road safety, Qatar recorded just 4 success is the result of the directives of the new government in order to meet the food security that is based in Qatar. deaths for every 100,000 people in 2020 wise leadership and the aspirations of the brotherly Libyan people Al Dafa was also Qatar’s Ambassador in as compared to 4.4 in 2019. studied development for development, stability and prosperity. Madrid, Cairo, Paris, Moscow, Washington, The number of road accident deaths in plans in the field of The statement expressed the hope as well as being the Non-Resident Ambas- 2020 was 138, compared to 154 deaths in roads, infrastructure that the new government would pave the sador to Switzerland, Finland, Greece, Latvia, 2019, a change of 10.4 percent, according and public transport. way for a comprehensive political solu- Lithuania, Estonia, Mexico, and the Permanent to road traffic statistics provided by the —Colonel Mohammed tion that preserves the unity of Libyan Delegate of Qatar to the Arab League. He also General Directorate of Traffic at a press Radi Al Hajri territories, respects the rights of the served as Head of the Department of Europe- conference on Wednesday. Libyan people, and establishes a state an and American Affairs at the Ministry of For- The traffic fatality rate in Qatar con- with rule of law and civil institutions. eign Affairs, Assistant UN Secretary General, tinued to decline since 2008 when 230 and Executive Secretary of the Economic and deaths, at a rate of 12 per 100,000 popu- rates as Qatar has recorded an accident ropean countries 9.3, Southeast Asian Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA). lation were registered. mortality rate of 4 deaths per 100,000 countries 20.7 and the North and South Al Dafa has a master’s degree in international It continued to decline over the past population. States of the Americas 15.6. The rate for public policy, and bachelor’s degree in political years registering only a slight fluctua- In comparison, the countries of the high-income states was 8.3. Cabinet reviews measures for science and economics. (QNA) tion within two years. The death rate in African continent have registered 26.6, draft law on endowments (PG 2) Qatar was significantly lower than global Eastern Europe and Asia Minor 18, Eu- Continued on page 3 

Ashghal to build 2-level interchange linking Deal signed to establish UN office Street 33 with West Industrial Street for humanitarian affairs in Qatar The Public Works Au- Qatar and the United Nations thority (Ashghal) has an- have signed an agreement to nounced the commence- establish the United Nations ment of building a grade QP, leading LNG Office for the Coordination of separated interchange Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) at Street 33 Upgrade players sign pact to in Qatar. Project in Industrial develop LNG carrier Permanent Representative Area, linking Street 33 of Qatar to the United Nations with West Industrial designs (PG 9 ) Ambassador HE Sheikha Alya Street. Ashghal clarified Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani signed that the existing rounda- the agreement on behalf of bout that connects West Industrial Street with Street 33 will be replaced with a grade separated Qatar, while Under Secretary- interchange, which includes a signalised intersection to streamline traffic in all directions. The new Qatar 2022 WC to General for Humanitarian Affairs and principled humanitarian sustainable solutions. It will interchange is considered to be an important link for commuters from Doha going towards West and Emergency Relief Coordina- action in partnership with na- also support the main United Industrial Street, commuters from Bu Sidra Interchange on Salwa Road, and commuters from Bu offer safe, dignified tor Mark Lowcock signed the tional and international actors, Nations office’s mission of Sala Interchange on G-Ring Road towards Industrial Area via Street 33 and vice versa. It will serve experience for fans agreement on the UN’s behalf. defend the rights of those in coordinating global humanitar- many vital entities, commercial and industrial facilities in the area, as the West Industrial Street The office, to be based in need, raise the level of alert ian action and field operations extends between Salwa Road and G-Ring Road. (QNA) page 2 with disabilities (PG 16 ) Doha, will coordinate effective and prevention, and facilitate around the world. (QNA) 02 Thursday, March 11, 2021

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Quick read Muraikhi meets Cabinet issues draft law on endowment Morocco envoy QNA visions relating to the estab- results of the 107th session of Doha lishment of the endowment, Economic and Social Council Minister of State for Foreign Affairs HE its distributions and condi- of the Arab League, and took Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met with The Cabinet, at a meeting tions, the civil endowment and the appropriate decision in Ambassador of Morocco to Qatar HE chaired by Prime Minister and the supervision of the endow- this regard. Mohamed Setri on Wednesday. During Minister of Interior Sheikh ment, its maintenance, archi- At the outset of the meet- the meeting, they reviewed the bilateral Khalid bin Khalifa bin Ab- tecture and investment. ing, the Cabinet was briefed relations between the two countries. dulaziz Al Thani on Wednes- The Cabinet also took the on the latest developments (QNA) day, took the necessary meas- necessary measures to issue a to contain the spread of the ures to issue a draft law on draft law amending some pro- Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Costa Rica V-P meets endowment after reviewing visions of the Companies Law affirmed the continuation of Qatar ambassador the recommendation of the No. 11 of 2015, after reviewing implementing the precaution- Shura Council. the recommendation of the ary measures in order to com- Vice-President of Costa Rica Marvin The draft law is being pre- Shura Council on the law. bat this pandemic. Rodriguez Cordero met with Ambassador pared to replace Law No. 8 The Cabinet approved of Following the meeting, of Qatar to Costa Rica HE Khamis bin of 1996 on endowment and the Ministry of Commerce and Minister of Justice and Acting Rashid Al Kaabi in San Jose. During comes in the framework of up- Industry’s proposal to form a Minister of State for Cabinet the meeting, they reviewed the bilateral dating legislation to keep pace committee to prepare for Qa- Affairs HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al cooperation between the two countries. with developments in this re- tar’s participation in the Osa- Jafali Al Nuaimi said the Cabi- (QNA) gard. ka Expo (Japan - 2025). net considered the topics on The draft law includes pro- The Cabinet reviewed the the agenda. Ashghal set to build two-level interchange to ‘More than 380,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses administered’ connect Street 33 and West Industrial Street Continued from page 1  “COVID-19 will continue to be a threat to the health for the majority of Tribune News Network He said more than 380,000 COVID-19 2021 and until all eligible members of Doha vaccine doses have been administered our population have been vaccinated, we since the start of the COVID-19 National must continue to follow the preventive The Public Works Author- Vaccination Programme, covering nearly measures,” he added. ity (Ashghal) has announced the 12 percent of the community members. With regard to pregnant women commencement of construction of “More than 15,000 vaccine doses be- taking the vaccine, Dr Khal said there is a two-level interchange, within the ing administered a day at present, and it no indication that the vaccination is not works of Street 33 Upgrade Project is reassuring to know that no serious side safe during pregnancy, whether for the in Industrial Area, to link Street 33 effects have been reported,” he added. mother or the foetus. It is known that with West Industrial Street. More than 70 percent of health work- COVID-19 infection during pregnancy Ashghal said the old rounda- ers at HMC and more than 67 percent of may lead to severe complications. bout that connects West Indus- health workers at PHCC have been vac- For his part, Dr Ahmed Al Muham- trial Street with Street 33 will be cinated, he added. The vaccine will be mad, acting chairman of HMC’s Inten- replaced with a two-level inter- made available to health workers in pri- sive Care Units, said: “We noticed that change, which includes a traffic vate hospitals and private clinics, starting people infected with the new strain of the signal at ground level to stream- next week. virus develop more severe symptoms and line traffic in all directions and ing free flow traffic from East 33 More than 45 percent of teachers and spend a longer period of recovery.” a 2.18-km-long bridge passing Interchange on the East Indus- administrators working in public and “Every day we are seeing more people over traffic signal to provide free trial Street and the Industrial private schools have also received the admitted to hospital and ICU requiring flow traffic along Street 33. Area Road to the West Industrial vaccine so far. life-saving treatment. Since February 1, The new interchange is con- Street. The registration for the vaccination we have seen around a 110 percent in- sidered to be an important link for The project includes increas- of imams, muezzins and mosque workers crease in people receiving care in ICU. commuters from Doha towards ing number of lanes of Street 33 has also begun, he added. This is incredibly concerning as many of West Industrial Street, commut- from three lanes in each direction A large percentage of Qatar’s popula- these people are severely sick and require ers from Bu Sidra Interchange on to four lanes in each direction, action will be vaccinated against COVID-19 intensive treatment and advanced res- Salwa Road and commutes from commodating about 16,000 vehi- by summer, he said, but warned that the piratory support,” he said. Bu Sala Interchange on G-Ring cles per hour. dangers associated with the COVID-19 Dr Muhammad said despite the large Road towards Industrial Area via The works also include con- virus will continue until the end of this increase in hospital and ICU admissions, Street 33 and vice versa. It will struction of two new interchanges year. “In the event of a significant increase the healthcare sector is able to care for serve many vital entities, commer- of two levels linking Street 33 with in the number of new COVID-19 cases in each and every one of these patients. cial and industrial facilities in the Al Kassarat Street on one hand the coming period, further restrictions are “At the start of the pandemic last year, area, as the West Industrial Street and West Industrial Street on oth- likely to be imposed,” Dr Khal said. we had a plan to significantly expand extends between Salwa Road and er, replacing the existing rounda- “We continue to monitor the risk of bed capacity across our hospital system G-Ring Road. bouts. infection within schools and it is pleasing to meet increased demand due to COV- The new interchange will also Engineer Nasser Al Dalmouk level interchange includes traffic The project will be implement- that with schools strictly enforcing the ID-19. To meet the increased demand facilitate traffic movement in the from Highway Projects Depart- signal to streamline traffic in all ed with about 80 percent locally preventive measures we are not seeing due to the recent rise in cases, we have direction of Al Taqa Street that ment of Ashghal said so far, more directions at ground level, and a manufactured materials such as any spikes in infection caused by trans- once again developed a capacity expan- connects between Salwa Road than 35 percent of works of Street bridge that passes above the traf- lighting poles, lamps, signboards, mission within schools,” Dr Khal said. sion plan to ensure that we have enough at Al Sailiyya Interchange and 33 Upgrade Project in Industrial fic signal to provide free flow along pipes of drainage and rainwater However, with government schools beds for people needing care,” he added. G-Ring Road at Al Bahia Inter- Area are completed. Street 33. drain, asphalt and precast man- beginning their post-exam break, it is It is very important that people seek help change. He added that the new in- Upon completion, the new holes, concrete and reinforced important that parents and children con- early — as soon as they notice the signs Ashghal will implement a new terchange will contribute to en- interchange will be an important steel. tinue to follow the preventive measures and symptoms — as the earlier treatment traffic diversion on the rounda- hanced traffic flow in the area, link for commuters from Doha Street 33 Upgrade Project in throughout the break to prevent a rise can be given the better the chances of a bout connecting Street 33 and especially as it connects two vital towards Al Kassarat Street and Industrial Area also includes con- in infections among children before re- full recovery. West Industrial Street in the In- roads in the area, West Industrial vice versa, as Al Kassarat Street struction of new infrastructure for turning to classrooms in a few weeks, he The main COVID-19 symptoms are: dustrial Area. Thus, all existing Street and Street 33. extends from north to south of In- water, electricity and communica- added. Dr Khal said the pace of the vacci- 1. A high temperature (fever); 2. lanes will be open to traffic from Ashghal has started imple- dustrial Area, connecting Street 1 tion networks, treated water lines nation programme means that there is fi- A new, continuous cough; 3 A loss or Friday, March 12, 2021 for a pe- menting a new interchange on through Street 52. for irrigation of green areas, as nally hope of a “gradual return to normal change to your sense of smell or taste riod of six months to allow the Street 33 replacing the old round- Ashghal is also upgrading the well as upgrading drainage net- for us here in Qatar and people around “Anyone experiencing these signs roundabout to be converted to a about that connects Al Kassarat 5-km-long Street 33 in Industrial work and rainwater drainage net- the world. But this will not happen in the should get a COVID-19 test as soon as two-level intersection. Street with Street 33. The two- Area into an expressway provid- work. next few weeks or months.” possible,” he added. HMC’s ACC achieves gold Certification for Excellence in Person-Centered Care Tribune News Network ing the Certification process. mittee evaluated the Ambulatory sess the ACC, addressed com- supported on their journey,” Dr Doha Opened in 2017, the ACC is Care Center against 26 specific ponents of a person-centred Jalham said. an innovative facility that offers and difficult criteria and deter- healthcare experience, includ- Susan Frampton, president The Ambulatory Care Center a new approach to surgical care mined it has met the standards ing the quality of patient inter- of Planetree International, said: (ACC) has become the second in Qatar using advanced clinical to be deemed Gold Certified for actions, access to information, “This Gold Certification signals Hamad Medical Corporation and surgical practices offered Excellence in Person-Centered family involvement and the to its patients and community (HMC) facility to achieve Certifi- within the same day and in a sin- Care,” added Naimi. physical environment of care. that Ambulatory Care Center is cation for Excellence in Person- gle dedicated location. “At HMC, our person-cen- “The care we give at the ACC an organisation where staff part- Centered Care by Planetree In- The team underwent a rigor- tred care programme drives our is unique - providing day care ner with patients and families, ternational and the first hospital ous evaluation by the Planetree overall quality improvement ef- surgery, some inpatient surgical and where patient and family in Qatar to be awarded the gold team in 2020 to achieve the Cer- forts of identifying areas of im- care and clinical care in a single comfort, dignity, empowerment Certification after a rigorous tification. Planetree Internation- provement. It is also driving our dedicated location,” Dr Jalham and well-being are prioritised as evaluation process. al is a not-for-profit organisation Ambulatory Care Center achieves Gold Certification for Excellence in teams to find innovative ways to said. “Many of our patients are key elements of providing top- Last year, Enaya Special- that partners with healthcare Person-Centered Care. enhance the patient experience with us for their procedure and quality clinical care.” ized Care Center became the organisations around the world to ensure they receive the best are able to recover in the com- Maryam Al Emadi, a mem- first facility in Qatar to achieved to transform how patient care tification represents the highest “At the very heart of person- care possible. We look forward fort of their own homes. But we ber of the ACC’s Patient and Person-Centered Care Certifi- is delivered. Nasser Al Naimi, level of achievement in person- centred care is the concept that to all of our facilities achieving are dedicated to ensuring they Family Advisory Council, said: cation from Planetree Interna- deputy chief of Quality, Center centred care based on evidence the patient, their family mem- this important milestone,” add- receive not only the best of care “As a member of the PFAC, I was tional. The Communicable Dis- for Patient Experience and Staff and standards and it is a great bers and the care provider are ed Naimi. when they are with us, but also in pleased to see many of our rec- ease Center, Home Health Care Engagement and director for achievement by the leadership partners in their healthcare pro- Dr Khalid Al Jalham, medi- their follow-up care. We worked ommendations put into practice Services and the Private Nursing the Hamad Healthcare Quality and team at the ACC to reach cess,” Naimi said. “Planetree’s cal director of the ACC, said the hard to implement new process- by the management and staff of Services are currently undergo- Institute, said the Planetree Cer- this level. independent certification com- criteria used by Planetree to as- es to make sure our patients are the hospital. Nation Thursday, March 11, 2021 03

French security systems SJC, NAMA sign deal to providers set to connect with Qatari experts at ‘Milipol Qatar 2021’ support entrepreneurs Tribune News Network Another French asset is re- Doha search and innovation capa- QNA tion between the two parties in the project activities within the bilities through its extensive Doha the fields of social work with an control, financial and sales sys- More than 30 major French network of state-of-the-art emphasis on the high quality of tems in which the NAMA Center companies will attend Milipol laboratories. The Supreme Judiciary Coun- products and the level of service and the donor party participate Qatar 2021 in Doha, the trade Outstanding engineer- cil (SJC) and Social Develop- provided by NAMA Center and in a joint cooperation agree- fair specialised in security ing and industrial processes ment Center (NAMA), one of from productive families, which ment. and safety issues, to be held skills also stem from the the centres under the umbrella will provide the Council’s em- She thanked the Supreme from March 15 to 17, 2021. French defence and digital of the Qatar Foundation for ployees and auditors with high- Judiciary Council for its initia- The French industry has technology industries - bi- Social Work, on Wednesday level hospitality services com- tive to grant this opportunity to gained international renown ometrics, access control, mo- signed a memorandum of un- parable to those provided by the NAMA Center, which is con- in different fields such as bility. derstanding (MoU) to support best international restaurants sidered a source of support for cybersecurity, drones and The French Pavillion, entrepreneurship in Qatar. and cafes. the owners of small projects in- robotics, personal protec- supported by the Paris Île- The agreement aims to at- For her part, Fadala said that cubated in the center, which in tive equipment as well as in- de-France Regional Cham- tract and support the maximum this project is one of the growth turn will contribute to enhanc- frastructure protection and ber of Commerce in coordi- number of entrepreneurs and accelerator projects (promo- ing their role in the development safety. These sectors will be nation with Business France, owners of productive projects Center. in the West Bay area and the tion), which is to provide outlets of the local economy of the state. represented by companies gathers 22 major groups and in the framework of coopera- The MoU was signed by Criminal Court in Al-Sadd area. for display and sale for projects The cafeterias work period offering cutting-edge inno- SMEs experts in their field, tion between state institutions Acting Assistant Undersecre- Kuwari stated that signing that benefit from entrepreneur- will coincide with the official vative solutions. such as SERB which pro- and for strengthening the role tary for Shared Services Affairs an MoU with NAMA Center is ship services at Nama Center, working hours in the court Ambassador of France vides anti-poison kits and of community partnerships in Khamis Muhammad Al Kuwari, part of the initiative of the Coun- adding that these projects meet buildings of the Supreme Judi- in Qatar HE Franck Gellet CBRN prevention solutions; supporting economic, social representing the Supreme Judi- cil to support civil community, all the commercial health condi- cial Council. The projects will be said, “Qatar is a particularly Exavision specialised in op- and human development. cial Council, and Executive Di- believing in the role it plays as a tions subject to the commercial changed periodically in order demanding partner for the tronics and optical systems; The agreement includes rector of NAMA Saba Muham- non-profit development institu- law in Qatar. to provide the opportunity and safety and security sectors, MC2 Technologies which equipping waiting and rest ar- mad Al Fadala. tion aimed at capacity building, She added that the aim of support the largest number of with large-scale upcoming has developed scanners dedi- eas (cafeterias) for court visitors Following the MoU signing, achieving economic stability for such programmes is to develop projects incubated in the So- projects such as the World cated to threat detection and that are operated by owners of three cafeterias were opened productive families and pro- the project in all aspects that en- cial Development Center and Cup, which will be held for drones jammers or VANS small and micro enterprises, in each of the Appeal and Cas- moting social development. sure its continuity and survival providing multiple options for the very first time in the Arab THEAULT experts in trans- beneficiaries of the entrepre- sation court building in Lusail The main objective of the in the local market, in addition court employees and serving world, as well as the expan- portation for Horse Guards neurship services at NAMA City, the Court of First Instance MoU is to enhance coopera- to the possibility of following up litigants. sion of Ras Laffan’s infra- Parade. structures. It includes Aeraccess, “Through their attend- Airbus Africa & Middle east ance at the Milipol Trade FZE, ALSETEX (Etienne La- Show, French experts and croix Group), Augier, Blax- ‘28.3 percent decrease in road accidents last year’ companies wish to showcase tair, CERBAIR, CS Group, their commitment, alongside DCI, Elistair, ERTC Center, Continued from page 1  percent of the incidents saw significant decline last year, as over speeding accounted for the fruit of carefully studied ef- their partners, in addressing ETS Morin, FB Mecasys- minor injuries, 0.3 percent re- 7,941 injuries were reported, 13.4 percent of the causes of ac- forts and tireless work in which the many challenges ahead, tem, Georges Morand, GSC Statistics presented by corded severe injuries and 0.1 or 14.8 percent, compared with cidents last year. many government and private such as the increase in the THEAULT, Nexter Robotics, the Director of the Awareness percent of the accidents result- 9,324 injuries in 2019. Traffic violations last year bodies participated alongside capabilities of infrastruc- Omega Koncept, Parapactum and Information Department ed in deaths. On the causes of traffic ac- also recorded a noticeable de- the Ministry of Interior (MoI). tures, securing power plants (MAPACHE - LE VERITA- at the General Directorate of The death of drivers accidents, the figures showed that cline of 20.1 percent to reach Colonel Al Hajri said the and oil & gas complexes, BLE CHERBOURG), SAPL, Traffic, Colonel Mohammed counted for 50 percent of the negligence and reckless driving 1,574,812 violations compared progress in traffic safety indi- protecting sites and people STID and Tactical Steel. Radi Al Hajri, showed a de- total number of casualties, with came at the forefront at a rate of with 1,969,896 violations in cators enhanced the position for major events to come in Despite the current travel crease in road accidents by 69 cases being reported during 42.4 percent, followed by fail- 2019. Overspeed violations ac- of Qatar internationally. He at- the country and in the wider restrictions, France, with all 28.3 percent last year, with the the period, while the number ure to leave enough distance be- counted for about 69.1 percent tributed this success to the di- region.” its major companies attend- number of violations declin- of passenger deaths was 26 ac- tween vehicles by 21.9 percent, of the cases last year. rectives of the wise leadership France offers, in paring the Milipol Trade Show, ing to 155,812 from 217,371 in counting for 18.8 percent. A deviation from the lane by 12.3 General Traffic Department and the studied development ticular, strong leadership in has decided to be present 2019. total of 43 cases of pedestrian percent and crossing the road Director Brigadier General Mo- plans in the field of roads, infra- IT engineering, algorithms, stronger than ever for this As many as 96.3 percent of deaths were reported at a rate by 10 percent. hammed Abdullah Al Shahwani structure, public transport and imaging software, identi- ultimate event for security the accidents recorded in 2020 of 31.2 percent. In addition, the Red signal violations, fail- said the decrease in traffic ac- other sustainable development fication and cybersecurity. players in Qatar. were without injuries, while 3.3 number of injuries recorded a ure to adhere to the lane and cident indicators in Qatar was projects. 04 Thursday, March 11, 2021 Nation McDonald’s Qatar gives away one-year free meal to 25 winners to commemorate 25th anniversary Tribune News Network participated in scanning and redeeming their of- Doha fers to receive exciting rewards on the app were automatically entitled to enter into a draw. The To celebrate the incredible milestone of serving more offers a user redeemed, the higher the chanc- 25 years of feel-good moments in Qatar, McDon- es of their win. Every five days, the wheel would ald’s has awarded 25 lucky winners an extraordi- spin and decide on five lucky winners who get to nary chance to experience the best one year, full of unlock a year of free meals through the McDonald’s Holiday Villa appoints delicious meals for free. App. The winners will have access to their favour- Always thinking of its customers’ safety and Mary Naidu as new AGM, ite meals for an entire year through the McDon- comfort, McDonald’s securely distributed the de- ald’s App. This will be in addition to the exclusive licious box of happiness at the winner’s favourite Ismadi Ismail as Director rewards, unbelievable deals and much more fun branch, following the Ministry of Public Health’s stuff always jam-packed into the app for the de- safety protocols. of Food & Beverage light of the customers. One of the winners expressed happiness saying, To make it convenient for the customers, they “Thank you for selecting me as a lucky winner. This Tribune News Network and sustain employee moti- were required to keep redeeming exciting deli- is the first time in my life I’ve received this lucky Doha vation through the practice cious rewards as they always do through the Loy- prize. My Kids really love it.” of continuous improvement, alty Programme on the app. One of the winners even expressed how Mc- Holiday Villa Hotel & Resi- involving all levels of work- In the rare case, one might not be aware of Donald’s feels like a home saying, “It’s a worldwide dence Doha has appointed force in the organisation. what the McDonald’s Loyalty Programme is, it’s brand that has been a part of so many lives. I think Mary Naidu as Assistant Naidu will be working simply another feature the brand introduced for it has one of the best things that make Qatar a hap- General Manager and pro- hand in hand with the Re- its customers to double their fun. Once registered py place, especially for kids. So, I feel really blessed moted Ismadi Ismail to Di- gional General Manager to the programme, the users are introduced to a to be one of the few who have won. Thank you so rector of Food & Beverage. Joey Chen, overseeing the whole new world full of amazing offers and the much McDonald’s Qatar and happy 25th.” Naidu is new to Doha various business interests of most scrumptious rewards. There is only one thing This delightful celebration of the 25-year-long while Ismail has been with Holiday Villa brand which better than eating your favourite food, getting re- journey is just a reflection of McDonald’s love for Holiday Villa since 2013. comprise the hotel, serviced warded with more food! its customers and its dedication to delivering hap- Hailing from Malaysia, they residences and resorts, F&B Over the duration of 25 days, customers that piness and feel-good moments for years to come. bring more than 50 years outlets, commercial spaces, of combined experience fitness centre, spa, hair and on board the Holiday Villa beauty salon and the overall brand in Doha. management. Naidu has wide experi- Ismail has over 20 years Hyatt Regency Oryx marks International Women’s Day ence of over 25 years in hotel of experience to leverage, operations, and assets and and he will lead the F&B and Tribune News Network er and share her success story more women become success- facilities management. She culinary operations. He will Doha as well as encourage Qatari ful entrepreneurs in the near is well versed in frontline and oversee the newly opened women discover their innate future.” back-of-house service indus- roof top Iconic View Restau- Hyatt Oryx Regency Doha, potential and step into the dis- Commenting on the occa- try operations management, rant and Majestic Ballroom the first brand of Hyatt Re- tinguished world of entrepre- sion, Julien Gonzalvez, Gen- business development, key with a 500 pax banquet ca- gency in Qatar, marked the neurship. eral Manager of Hyatt Regency account management, con- pacity, developing exciting International Women’s Day Speaking on the occa- Oryx Doha, said, “At Hyatt Re- tracts negotiation and train- F&B concepts, delectable to revel, promote and support sion, Amal Ameen, said, “I gency Oryx Doha, we recognise ing and development. menu and leading as well as women in the workplace. am thankful to Hyatt Regency the important contribution Among her responsibili- guiding the team to maintain International Women’s Oryx Doha for inviting me. In and participation of women in ties at the hotel will be the the HACCP (Hazard Analysis Day is celebrated every year on my opinion, women in Qatar our business and the role they continued implementation Critical Control Points) com- March 8, when the world joins have made great achievements play in society and the econo- of Holiday Villa Internation- pliance. forces to support, raise, inspire and women have always been my. We support fairness, di- al’s hallmark, the MANJA HACCP is an interna- and motivate women in all as strong, respectful and im- versity, fairness and inclusion. Programme, which is the tional standard defining the fields of work. portant part of the society. The We are proud to support and group’s unique quality man- requirements for effective To celebrate this day, Hyatt government’s endeavour to inspire women to become fu- agement system implement- control of food safety which Regency Oryx Doha, invited provide access to quality edu- through education, talented future leaders. In the last dec- ture leaders in their respective ed in all areas of hotel opera- Holiday Villa Hotel & Resi- Ms. Amal Ameen, Founder cation, has played an impor- women can develop the neces- ade, Qatari women have made fields and will continue to sup- tions as the means to achieve dence Doha has been main- & CEO, Triple Trend Design tant role in women’s empow- sary skill-sets to transform into great strides in all sectors and I port our female employees in total customer satisfaction taining since 2018. House to be the keynote speak- erment in Qatar. Empowered inspiring young women and am convinced that we will see realising their true potential.” Nation Thursday, March 11, 2021 05 Amiri Guard concludes Barzan joint exercise to hone officers’ skills QNA Doha

Amiri Guard concluded the activities of the Barzan joint exercise (8), which lasted for two weeks, with the participation of the military, security and civil authorities in the country, in the presence of Commander of the Amiri Guard HE Major-General Hazza bin Khalil Al Shahwani and Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior and Com- mander of the Lekhwiya Force HE Major-General Abdulaziz bin Faisal Al Thani. The conclusion of the exer- of Defense, the Ministry of authorities in the country dur- of the members of the Amiri the participants in the closing Mushay Al Ahbabi said the World Cup. cise that was held at the Lah- Interior, and the “Lekhwiya” ing the 2022 FIFA World Cup Guard and the participating presentation, which embodied exercise comes as an exten- He said the exercise was saniya camp, was also attend- Force in addition to a number and how to deal with potential bodies in dealing with various their competence, readiness sion of a series of exercises designed to simulate various ed by the deputy commander of officials in ministries and events. events related to the security and high fighting spirit, point- that initiate joint coordi- possible events, as it was im- of the Amiri Guard, the in- government agencies. Assistant Commander of and protection of VIPs during out that the exercise was nation between the Amiri plemented in simultaneous spector-general, the assistants The exercise was designed the Guard for Operations and ing the 2022 FIFA World Cup, carried out in a number of re- Guard and the concerned au- stages aimed at identifying the of the commander of the Amiri to simulate the duties and Training Colonel Jassim Ab- which is considered the largest gions of the country. thorities in the state to deal skill of officers and members Guard, leaders of departments tasks that the Amiri Guard dullah Al Marizeeq said that sporting event in the world. In his speech, Director of with the challenges facing of the Amiri Guard in master- and groups, and a number of will do in coordination with Barzan joint exercise (8) fo- He praised the distin- the Barzan Joint Exercise (8) the security and protection of ing the practice of joint work senior officers of the Ministry the military, security and civil cused on raising the efficiency guished level shown by all Lieutenat-Colonel Mubarak VIPs during the 2022 FIFA with all agencies in the state. NATO’s top official addresses incoming HEC Paris Masters students in Qatar Tribune News Network During this leadership Doha module, Professor Gianasso led participants through ex- The Deputy Secretary-Gen- ercises exploring the relation- eral of NATO, His Excellency ship between leadership and Mircea Geoană, was among personality and the challenge the high-profile panel of of leading culturally diverse speakers in Qatar this week teams. “All participants com- during the first module of the plete both the NEO personal- 2022 Incoming Class Special- ity and the Culture Compass ised Master’s Degree in Stra- tests, which provide them with tegic Business Unit Manage- a clear understanding of their ment (SBUM) at HEC Paris, own personality profile and its ranked #1 in the most recent implications in terms of leader- Financial Times European ship style, as well as their own Business Schools Rankings. cultural profile as opposed to The recipients of the UK Alumni Awards 2020-2021 from the British Council at a recent award ceremony at the United Kingdom Embassy in Doha. HE Geoană, former Ro- the profileof their own coun- manian Foreign Minister, par- try,” he said. ticipated in the Guest Speakers’ Professor Karl Moore, a Session of the Leadership Mod- well-known leading expert at British Council announces winners of ule held at HEC Paris, Qatar, McGill University in Canada, Tornado Tower. shared his ground-breaking The first module of the 2022 research on introverts as lead- 3rd national Study UK Alumni Awards SBUM class was delivered by ers. “Professor Moore’s mes- Dr. Guido Gianasso, Professor sage challenges conventional of Leadership at HEC Paris in wisdom – that great leaders are Qatar and an acclaimed leader always extraverted individu- Two UK alumni in Qatar were also recognised for their contribution to strengthening ties between the UK and Qatar and cultural intelligence ex- als – and offers an interesting pert who is also Senior Advisor developmental perspective to Tribune News Network leadership in their profes- sity of Derby with M.A in Busi- of the finalists for the ‘People’s to us all.” to the Cambodian Minister of participants who are highly in- Doha sional field, was presented to ness Administration Global Choice Award’ which ran over Sam Ayton, country direc- Post and Telecommunications. troverted,” explained Professor Dr Marc Owen Jones, a gradu- and with a B.Eng (honours) a seven-day campaign. The re- tor of the British Council in Dr. Gianasso brings 35 years Gianasso. The British Council an- ate from Durham University in Electronics & Communica- cipient of the People’s Choice Qatar, said: “We’re delight- of experience in international The HEC Paris Class 2022 nounced the recipients of the (PhD, MSc) and Cardiff Uni- tions Engineering from Lon- Award was who received 1,402 ed to announce the winners management, teaching and SBUM cohort consists of 50 Study UK Alumni Awards versity (BA Hons) specialising don Metropolitan University. votes (64.6% of total votes) from Qatar. Each of them has consulting to the HEC Paris participants from nine nation- 2020-21 in Qatar at an award- in Government and Interna- Hamad Alyafei was the To mark the occasion, Brit- achieved something incred- SBUM programme. “In our alities and diverse professional ing ceremony at the British tional Relations. first Qatari to test and deploy ish Ambassador to Qatar HE ible and the idea behind these programme, the NATO Deputy backgrounds and sectors, all of Embassy in Doha recently. Dr Marc Owen Jones is an DWDM technology in the Mid- Jon Wilks said, ‘‘I am delighted awards is to share their stories Secretary-General focuses on whom seek personal develop- In total, two UK alumni in assistant professor in Middle dle East working with Oore- to be celebrating the achieve- as widely as possible in order negotiating across cultures and ment and career acceleration. Qatar were recognised for their East Studies at College of Hu- doo, helping rural areas by ments of the third batch of to inspire the next generation. shares his extraordinary expe- New participants occupy sen- outstanding achievements as manities and Social Studies at deploying a British technology the Study UK Alumni Awards “These stories demonstrate rience with high level political ior positions in some of Qatar’s business professionals and Hamad Bin Khalifa University in microwave connection to winners in Qatar. Their stories the innovation and creativ- leaders from around the globe,” most valued companies across community leaders, and for (HBKU), who specialises in Stritch telecommunications to are a testament to what the UK ity of the UK education sector, explained Professor Gianasso. a wide range of sectors such as their important contribution tackling the growing scourge Qatari houses anywhere in Qa- and Qatar are continuing to which welcomes over half a “He also emphasises the im- energy, education, technology, to strengthening collaborative of digital disinformation. tar with affordable and some- achieve through our partner- million international students portance of cultural intelligence aviation, health, finance, con- ties between the UK and Qatar. Marc’s award-winning re- times free services. ship in the field of education today, and it’s fantastic to see and explores how it is critical struction and banking, bringing For the third time in Qa- search and groundbreaking Hamad also launched the and to the impact and value of how the finalists have all taken to the success of cross-cultural valuable diversity to learning tar, the awards are hosted at investigative work has also first full time MBA programme a UK higher education on to- the knowledge and experience negotiations particularly when experience. a national level to celebrate been featured in the New York with the University of Derby, morrow’s leaders. from their studies and used there is a lot at stake, such as In addition to the develop- the achievements of alumni Times, Washington Post and designed based on British Cur- “I would like to congratu- it to actively drive positive major crises or military con- ment of leadership skills, the in Qatar across two award cat- on the BBC. riculum and directed to global late the winners, as well as all change in Qatar.” flicts.” HEC Paris in Qatar Specialised egories this year: Professional The Social Impact Award, business administration re- the finalists for their success. Qatar is one of the first HEC Paris in Qatar regular- Master’s enables individuals to Achievement and Social Im- which acknowledges alumni quirements leading to a CMI They have used their experi- countries to host the awards ly invites leading national and apply the latest business prac- pact. who have made an excep- certification. ence of studying and living physically this year and will international experts to share tices to strategy, decision-mak- The Professional Achieve- tional contribution to creat- For the second time in Qa- in the UK to make a positive be followed by awarding cer- their experience with partici- ing and human capital management Award, which recognises ing positive social change, was tar, the public were able to vote contribution to Qatar National emonies in other 12 countries, pants in order to broaden their ment, all of which are essential alumni who have distinguished presented to Hamad Alyafei, for their favourite inspirational Vision 2030 and the wider so- including Azerbaijan, Kuwait, perspectives and ensure the rel- for business success and long- themselves through exemplary a graduate from the Univer- story by nominating online one ciety. They are an inspiration Saudi Arabia and Turkey. evance of their programmes. term career development.

Ooredoo App now allows more QRCS delivers food aid to families affected by pandemic in Pakistan choices for ‘Aamali’ customers Tribune News Network Ooredoo, Qatar’s leading quickly and easily change their Doha communications company, has allowances whenever neces- announced that the business- sary. The new, enhanced self- The Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) is implement- to-business functionalities on care functionalities on the App ing the COVID-19 response project in Pakistan by sup- the Ooredoo App have been gives Aamali users the free- porting vulnerable communities most affected by the upgraded to permit greater dom to add any service to their pandemic. The project is designed to meet the basic choice and flexibility. own plan, without the need to food needs of families in four provinces. In consultation The innovative new iPay op- visit one of our retail establish- with the district authorities, the Pakistan Red Crescent tion allows customers to make ments. Once again, we hope to Society (PRCS) selected the beneficiaries and obtained an Add-on purchase directly. demonstrate through innova- food supplies through a public tender pursuant to the Customers can purchase Add- tion that our B2B support is applicable regulations. ons using a simple activation even more competitive than Currently, field staff are distributing 800 food par- those with low incomes, was severely affected by the process, which can be eas- ever before, in turn assisting cels, 25 kg each, with $20,000 in funding from QRCS. COVID-19 pandemic. The ongoing pandemic situation ily and immediately completed our clients to stride ahead in These distributions cover 800 families or 4,800 people also triggered the risk of poverty and unemployment. opia, Chad, Senegal, Mauritania, Ivory Coast, Mali, Si- using the iPay option on the their commercial endeavours.” in the provinces of Baluchistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, QRCS is a long-term, reliable and dedicated partner erra Leone, Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, Venezuela, Ooredoo App. This change to Business customers can Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and TDs, with a special fo- of the PRCS. It has consistently engaged in humanitari- El Salvador, Peru, and Panama. the App allows direct Add-on leverage the Ooredoo Advan- cus on daily wagering, widows, people with disabilities an services with the PRCS through a variety of response The list of activities carried out by the QRCS in sup- purchases, meaning that enter- tage, making Ooredoo ‘Best for (PWDs) and people who have lost their livelihoods due activities to assist the most vulnerable. port of those countries includes the provision of equip- prises can tailor their business Business’, thanks to its breadth to Covid-19. This project is part of the QRCS initiative to support ment and supplies for health facilities, the provision of plans to their precise needs. and depth of talent, best fixed Pakistan is quite vulnerable to climate and human- fellow national societies in 22 countries across six con- medicines and medical supplies, the protection of med- Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, and mobile networks, broadest induced disasters. According to the Global Risks Report tinents, aimed at protecting 320,000 people against the ical professionals and volunteers, the provision of food director of PR at Ooredoo, said: portfolio of ICT services and so- 2020, the country is among the top-10 most vulnerable virus, with a total budget of QR 2,236,827. and shelter for families worst affected by loss of income “Contemporary business cus- lutions, and as a trusted partner countries in the world to be exposed to natural disasters. These countries are: Palestine, Afghanistan, Paki- and the provision of protective supplies (masks, gloves, tomers need the confidence to for 60 years. (TNN) In addition, the majority of the population, particularly stan, Nepal, Tajikistan, Mongolia, Laos, Vanuatu, Ethi- sanitisers, etc.). 06 Thursday, March 11, 2021

Established September 3, 2006 hamad bin suhaim al thani chairman Opinion adel ali bin ali managing director dr hassan mohammed al ansari editor-in-chief

Google Renounces Web Tracking, But Protecting Qatar Renews Commitment Privacy Will Take Much More To Ensure Participation Of he commercial internet devel- nies continue to collect personal oped with so little regard for information in abundance from Tprivacy, tech companies have people who use their sites and ser- been able to turn personal data into vices through first-party cookies hefty profits, raising billions of dol- and similar techniques. Women In UN Peace Process lars off their ability to collect and The concerns about personal sell information about anyone who data collection are the same wheth- strayed within hailing distance of er it’s being collected through first- Qatar has a long track record in facilitating peace and mediation process for the peaceful their software. This week, Google party or third-party techniques, announced a step in the right direc- said Michelle Richardson of the resolution of disputes and conflicts, says Sheikha Alya tion — but not a giant step, nor one Center for Democracy and Tech- that will stop Google from continu- nology: Companies may use the QNA ing to hoover up immense amounts information to discriminate among New York of personal data. internet users, offering different At issue is how online compa- goods, services and even prices to atar has renewed its unequivocal com- nies track internet users as they different users. mitment to continue developing frame- browse from site to site online, Instead of helping advertisers works and tools to ensure meaningful typically through snippets of code track individuals, Google says, it is participation of women in dialogue, ne- known as cookies. The most nox- refining a technology that assigns gotiation and peace processes. ious version, “third-party” cookies, users anonymously to large groups QQatar stressed that ensuring full, equal and is the web equivalent of a company with common interests. That’s an meaningful participation of women in peace posting sentinels across the internet improvement, even though it too processes led by the United Nations is funda- to surveil what you do even when may be vulnerable to abuse. But mental to the sustainability of peace, sustain- you’re on other companies’ sites. why do any form of tracking at all? able development and human rights. Google declared in a blog Privacy advocates say pitches can be This came in a statement by Permanent post Wednesday that it would no targeted effectively by basing them Representative of Qatar to the United Nations longer use or support third-party on where the user is at the moment Ambassador HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif cookies, nor would it create or use (contextual advertising), not where Al Thani at UN Security Council’s virtual Arria- any other technology that tracks he or she has roamed previously on- Formula meeting called by the United States, individual users across the web. line (behavioral advertising). which presides over the work of the Council for Given that Google is a main sup- Ultimately, legislators are going this month on “Leading by Example: Ensuring plier of online advertising tech- to have to enact protections giving the Full, Equal and Meaningful Participation of nology, its change in approach people far more control over wheth- Women in UN-led Peace Processes.” will ripple far and wide. er and how personal information is Sheikha Alya said Qatar has a long track That’s welcome news, albeit used online. Ideally the federal gov- record in facilitating peace and mediation pro- with caveats galore. As Lee Tien ernment will set a strong floor un- cesses for the peaceful resolution of disputes of the Electronic Frontier Foun- der online privacy protections, but and conflicts. Qatar realises the importance dation noted, third-party cookies until then it will be up to state law- of women’s participation in conflict preven- were already on the retreat, with makers or voters to act, as this state tion, crisis management and reconstruction, Permanent Representative of Qatar to the UN Ambassador HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani Apple and other makers of popu- has done with its groundbreaking she added. lar web browsers moving to block online privacy laws. It’s good to see In this context, the envoy referred to the ing women in peace negotiations, which would them. Meanwhile, Google, Face- Google move the ball forward, but Afghan peace talks hosted by Doha — the talks Permanent Representative of Qatar to the broaden the range of topics discussed at the book and other Big Tech compa- there’s much further to go. facilitated by Qatar witnessed the active par- United Nations Ambassador HE Sheikha negotiating table, saying that more comprehen- ticipation of women, including 11 prominent Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani has affirmed sive processes would contribute to comprehen- women who were among the representatives Qatar’s unequivocal commitment to con- sive agreements that better integrate and reflect of the government, civil society and the media the interests of the wider community. at the Afghan peace conference held in Doha tinue developing frameworks and tools to Sheikha Alya praised the commitment of in July 2019. ensure meaningful participation of the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria She also pointed out to the participation women in dialogue, negotiation and Geir Pedersen to fully integrate women into the of women in the intra-Afghan peace talks that peace processes peace process, as proved by his regular meet- were launched in Doha in September 2020, say- ings with Syrian representatives and civil soci- ing that this participation has contributed to Sheikha Alya hoped that the conference ety organizations. protecting the rights of all Afghans, including would represent a turning point for young wom- She also commended the Special Repre- women, as affirmed by Security Council Resolu- en and the peace and security agenda by gen- sentative of the Secretary-General of the United tion 2513 (2020).” erating political commitments at the national Nations Martin Griffiths, who is committed to She drew attention to Qatar’s hosting of the level and promoting an environment conducive focusing fully on the representation of Yemeni high-level conference on comprehensive peace to comprehensive peace processes to become women in any formal talks and on the impor- processes, which was organised in coordination more sustainable. tance of a gender perspective. with the envoy of the United Nations Secretary- She also referred to the participation of Sheikha Alya affirmed Qatar’s unequivocal General on Youth. young women and women’s organisations in commitment to continue developing frame- Hosting this conference reflects the com- all stages of preparation, implementation and works and tools to ensure meaningful partici- mitment of Qatar to enhance the participation follow-up of the conference results. pation of women in dialogue, negotiation and of young women in peace processes, she said. She stressed on the importance of includ- peace processes. Achieving Woman Empowerment Through Agency Qatar Foundation is playing pivotal role in empowering women to be community leaders

Machaille Hassan Al Naimi innovate. And our women have helped to Doha play a pivotal role in this – reflected, not least, in the fact that almost 40 percent of eflecting its logo, I often de- researchers at QF are female. scribe Qatar Foundation (QF) as the Education City – the heart of our Rlungs from which a developing coun- QF community – is a physical and digi- try and region such as Qatar and the tal city that provides women and men Middle East breathes from; the centre with opportunities to thrive, families for innovation in education, research, to connect, and youth to exercise pur- and community development, for which pose and meaning in their daily lives. the seeds were embedded 25 years ago Education City truly is a melting pot by QF’s Chairperson, Her Highness of ideas – from sustainability, to cul- Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. ture, to sports, and beyond – but, more As one of QF’s first students, at Qa- importantly, it is a test-bed for these tar Academy, I fondly remember Her ideas to metamorphose into solutions Highness participating in our school Machaille Hassan Al-Naimi to our most pressing challenges. It is a assemblies, inspiring and reassuring us enrollment, the workplace, and entre- have this obstacle. Instead, they have place where we promote ethical values that we are the ”future” of this country; We fundamentally believe women preneurship. Being a community leader the opportunity to obtain a world-class because we consider them the building an unequivocal assertion that has stood must play a central role in society to en- as a woman can take varied forms: be- degree locally. blocks of any development, they anchor the test of time. sure the long-term development of our ing an active member of, and contribut- Often, people ask: is history the prod- our society and provide maxims for the Today, at a student level, 63 percent nation and region. We recognise that ing to, society; motherhood, by raising uct of a few great women and men, a few way that we, as QF community mem- of QF’s student body in higher education women and men are created different a conscious, able future generation; be- great battles, a few great inventions, or bers, should govern ourselves. are female, with half of our engineer- and proudly embrace these differences ing a CEO, and managing and growing a is it an inevitable and evolved process? Unlocking human potential is at the ing students at Texas A&M University to service the varying needs that comple- healthy organization; becoming an en- Witnessing the pace of innovation in QF, core of what we do; it is our ethos and at Qatar, and almost 60 percent of our ment one another in order to advance trepreneur and building and improving from being a student to being part of its our mantra. QF recognizes that achiev- medical students at Weill Cornell Medi- our community. Making up half of our on innovations. All of these and more leadership, I can only personally conclude ing women’s empowerment requires cine-Qatar and our students at Carnegie world’s population, women must be giv- require three common tools: education, that, history, like innovation, is an evolu- social innovation, and we will continue Mellon University in Qatar being women equal opportunities for communities skills and determination. tionary process. It’s an iterative process to dismantle structural inequalities en; a female representation that is higher to utilise their contributions. When I graduated from high school of thinkers, leaders, and communities that hinder opportunities for women in than that of our main campus partners. We are truly proud that the per- and decided to pursue a career in law, iterating and building on previous works the community, the workplace, and the And, at an organisational level, 40 centage of women in Qatar who are in there were limited options locally for and experiences. As such, with QF being marketplace. percent of our leadership is female. employment – almost 57 percent – is me, so I opted to travel abroad and was a vehicle for rapid development in the re- These are notable statistics that convey above the global average, and will sure- fortunate to have had the opportunity gion, we recognize the importance of dis- (Machaille Hassan Al Naimi QF’s mission: empowerment through ly continue to rise as we provide more to do so. Today, with the establishment secting, experimenting, and building off is the President of Community agency. But the work doesn’t stop here. opportunities for women in university of QF, local and regional women do not our lessons, successes, and inventions to Development, Qatar Foundation)

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. World Thursday, March 11, 2021 07 MOVING AHEAD Saudi could give Malaysia extra Libyan lawmakers approve 10,000 Hajj spots, interim unity government says PM Yassin dpa pandemic and travel re- Bangkok strictions limited the 2020 Hajj to around 1,000 people An extra 10,000 Malay- already in Saudi Arabia. sians could travel to Saudi Saudi Arabia has not Arabia for this year’s Hajj, yet announced how many the once-in-a-lifetime oblig- people can attend the Hajj atory pilgrimage for devout this summer. Muslims, Prime Minister Malaysian Foreign Muhyiddin Yassin said on Minister Hishammuddin Wednesday. Hussein, who accompa- “When the Hajj situa- nied Muhyiddin to Saudi tion returns to normalcy af- Arabia, said the increased ter the Covid-19 pandemic, quota will be “subject to the we will get the additional Kingdom’s approval for the quota for our pilgrims,” Hajj this year, whether their Muhyiddin said, after meet- SOPs [standard operating ing Saudi Arabia’s Deputy procedures] will limit pil- Prime Minister Mohammed grims etc.” The annual Hajj Bin Salman in Riyadh. quota is usually 0.1 per cent The announcement of the population for each came at the end of Muhy- of the 57 countries that are iddin’s four-day visit to the part of Organisation of Is- kingdom. lamic Cooperation. Around The Hajj usually draws 60 per cent of Malaysia’s up to 2 million Muslims to 32 million people are Mus- the holy cities of Mecca and lim, giving the country a Medina in Saudi Arabia. previous quota of just under However the coronavirus 32,000.

Libya’s prime minister-designate Abdul Hamid Dbeibah (left) addresses lawmakers during the first reunited parliamentarian session, in Sirte on Tuesday. (afp)

parliament his proposed line- statement. Govt to continue until Dec 24 when presiden- New govt up, which includes 27 minis- The United Nations Sup- tial and legislative elections will be held The interim adminis- ters, six state ministers and two port Mission in Libya also con- deputy prime ministers. gratulated the Libyan people tration will replace the US Ambassador to Libya on the approval of a new uni- dpa ernment will last until Decem- UN-backed Govern- Richard Norland tweeted: fied government. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (centre) with Malaysian Tripoli ber 24 when the presidential ment of National “Congratulations on the forma- “Libya has now a genuine PM Muhyiddin Yassin (left) in Riyadh on Tuesday. (afp) and legislative elections are Accord, which has tion of an interim unity govern- opportunity to move forward Libya’s parliament on held,” Saleh said at the end of been in charge of ment to set the stage for elec- towards unity, stability, pros- Wednesday confirmed the new the vote. Tripoli and western tions in December.” perity, reconciliation and to re- interim unity government to The vote came on the third areas, as well as the Fayez Serraj, head of the store fully its sovereignty,” the lead the conflict-torn North Af- day of parliamentary debate in competing eastern GNA, congratulated the unity mission tweeted. rican country to long-delayed the coastal city of Sirte. administration linked government on winning the of Libya has been in turmoil Christians can use ‘Allah’ in elections scheduled for the end The interim administration with warlord Khalifa parliamentary confidence vote, since long-time ruler Moamer of the year. will replace the UN-backed Haftarm expressing readiness to hand Gaddafi was toppled in 2011. publications: Malaysian court In a vote of confidence 132 Government of National Ac- over power to the new admin- The oil-rich country has be- lawmakers voted in favour cord (GNA), which has been in istration. come a proxy battleground for dpa of the government of interim charge of Tripoli and western Dbeibeh as interim premier “What has happened today rival forces and foreign powers. Bangkok Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid areas, as well as the competing and Mohammed Menfi as head is an important step to end in- Libya’s elected legislature Religious terms derived Mohammed Dbeibeh, Parlia- eastern administration linked of a three-person Presidency fightingand division, and we has been divided between two Malaysian Christians can from Arabic are widely used mentary Speaker Aguila Saleh with warlord Khalifa Haftar. Council in a UN-hosted pro- call on all to cooperate and assemblies: one in the eastern use the word Allah in religious in Malaysia, including by said. Last month, delegates from cess in Switzerland. unite for the sake of Libya and city of Tobruk and the other in publications, the country’s some of the country’s 2.6 “The mandate of the gov- Libya’s rival factions elected Last week, Dbeibeh sent its renaissance,” Serraj said in a Tripoli. High Court said on Wednes- million Christians of various day, overturning a ban imposed in 1986. denominations Justice Nor Bee described the proscription as uncon- cent of Malaysia’s 32 million Saudi court upholds sentence against freed rights activist stitutional and said that “the people. use of the words would not Wednesday’s judgement dpa fiveyears and eight months in “The judges confirmedfor campaigning to give women disrupt public order,” refer- comes after a 13-year legal Cairo prison on charges of seeking to the first sentencing of Loujain the right to drive in Saudi Ara- ring to the then-government’s campaign based on a case carry out foreign agendas and Hathloul,” she wrote, noting bia, which was granted one rationale for the ban, which taken against the govern- A Saudi court on Wednesday topple the Saudi political sys- that the foreign agendas her month after her detention in covered four Arabic religious ment by Jill Ireland Lawrence confirmed an earlier sentence tem. Around two years and 10 sister was accused of boosting 2018. words. from the Malaysian part of the against prominent Saudi wom- months of the sentence were included those of Britain and She also campaigned to end Religious terms derived island of Borneo, where most en’s rights activist Loujain al- suspended. She has also been Netherlands. the kingdom’s male guardian- from Arabic are widely used of the country’s Christians live. Hathloul, who was released last banned from travelling for five “Which means SA confirms ship system, which requires in Malaysia, including by Lawrence sued after month after nearly three years years. considering the UK, the EU and women to obtain the consent of some of the country’s 2.6 officials confiscated eight in detention, her sister said. On Wednesday, a court in the Netherlands ‘terrorist enti- a male relative for major deci- million Christians of various compact discs with the word Hathloul was arrested in Riyadh heard Hathloul’s appeal ties’ and contacting them a ‘ter- sions. Some rules have been denominations. The major- Allah on the cover which she May 2018 and convicted in De- to overturn her conviction, her Saudi activist Loujain al-Hathloul rorist act’,” she added. eased, but the system is yet to ity religion is Islam, which is had brought back to Malaysia cember. She was sentenced to sister Lina wrote on Twitter. in Riyadh on Wednesday. (afp) Hathloul, now 31, is known be removed. practised by around 60 per from Indonesia. Death toll in Yemen detention facility fire soars to 80 Pak to close schools in cities dpa controlled capital Sana’a left eral hospitals in Sana’a, medi- So far, there has been no Sana’a at least eight people dead and cal sources told dpa Wednes- comment from the Houthis. 170 others injured. day. Yemen has been roiled by a amid resurgence in virus cases The number of people killed Nearly 900 migrants, pre- Most the injured are in devastating power struggle be- in a fire that broke out at an dominantly Ethiopians, were critical condition, they added tween a Saudi-backed govern- dpa immigrant detention centre in in the overcrowded holding fa- on condition of anonymity. ment and the Iranian-backed Islamabad war-torn Yemen at the week- cility at the time of the fire, the The Houthi rebels have im- Houthis since late 2014. end has soared to at least 80, International Organization for posed tight security at the de- Despite the conflict, there The Pakistani government announced that ed- local medical sources said on Migration (IOM) said. partments of the Sana’a hos- is a flow of migrants from Af- ucational institutions in densely populated cit- Wednesday. More than 80 people, pitals where the injured are rica travelling to Yemen, using ies would close for two weeks and reimposed a On Sunday, the UN migra- mostly migrants, have since staying and prevented officials the impoverished country as a series of coronavirus-related restrictions amid tion agency had reported that died due to the fire while 150 and witnesses from making re- stepping stone to reach neigh- a surge in cases. the blaze in Yemen’s rebel- others are being treated in sev- lated statements. bouring oil-rich Saudi Arabia. “It has been decided that all educational institutions in cities with rising numbers of new infections will remain closed for two weeks,” Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood told media. A man receives a dose of Chinese-made Sinop- Xi calls on military to be combat-ready The shutdowns begin on March 15 and af- harm vaccine in Karachi on Wednesday. (AFP) fects cities including Lahore, Islamabad and dpa egation to the National People’s the course being set as well as innovation and there must be Peshawar. Schools have been shut twice in the The announcements came as Pakistan Beijing Congress (NPC), China’s an- a hefty 6.8-per-cent increase in further efforts to make science past year and then reopened. starts Covid-19 vaccinations of people aged 60 nual parliamentary session. military spending for this year. and technology independent. “The number of coronavirus cases is rising and above. Chinese President Xi Jin- The development of the Xi said the plan was to step He also said defence-relat- once again, though situation was under control Last month, the country kick-started the ping has called for the country’s military must focus on “combat up building “high-calibre stra- ed innovation needs a signifi- during the month of February,” Health Minis- campaign by prioritizing frontline health work- military to be constantly ready readiness,” Xi said, as reported tegic deterrence” and that the cant boost. ter Faisal Sultan said. ers. in the face of “instabilities” and by state news agency Xinhua. People’s Liberation Army must The modernization and ex- In addition, the government has reimposed Pakistan received a vaccine shipment from “uncertainties,” state media re- The new five-year plan from “resolutely safeguard national pansion of the Chinese military restrictions such as the early closure of com- China as a gift and has also secured 17 million ported on Wednesday. 2021 to 2025 provides a good sovereignty, security, and de- comes against the backdrop mercial activities, “smart” lockdowns in virus doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, with delivery The entire armed forces starting point for strengthening velopment interests.” The Chi- of growing tensions with the hotspots and the banning of large indoor gath- expected to start this month. must “always be ready to re- nation;;;;;;;al defence and the nese leader, who is also the United States and Taiwan, in- erings, particularly weddings. The country has so far reported 595,239 spond to all kinds of complex military, Xi said. chief of the Communist Party cidents on its border with India Wearing a face mask and maintaining social cases of Covid-19 and 13,324 related deaths. and difficult situations,” Xi was At the end of its one-week and chairman of the military and disputes over islands in the distance have been made mandatory again, too. At least 1,786 new cases and 43 deaths were cited as saying at a Tuesday meeting on Thursday, the NPC commission, said military de- South China Sea and the East “We will review the situation and the deci- reported during the last 24 hours, according to meeting with the military del- will approve a draft laying out velopments must be driven by China Sea. sions on April 12,” Sultan said. the Health Ministry. 08 Thursday, March 11, 2021 World

News Biden plans virtual in brief meeting with Popular TV host Piers leaders of Japan, NY SC tosses India, Australia Trump defamation lawsuit against Morgan quits after dpa New York Times Washington New York: A New York US President Joe Biden is Supreme Court justice on set to meet virtually with the Tuesday dismissed a Trump controversial remarks leaders of Japan, India and campaign lawsuit claiming Australia this week, the White the New York Times defamed House confirmed on Tuesday. the former president by pub- “On Friday morning, lishing an opinion piece that over Meghan File photo of TV presenter Piers Morgan. (AFP) President Biden will meet vir- accused him of colluding with tually with his counterparts Russia in the 2016 election. dpa He took Morgan to task, by Morgan’s comments, add- if someone is feeling that way in the Quad: Prime Minister The Trump camp’s lawsuit London saying: “I understand you’ve ing: “It’s vital that, when they should get the treatment [Yoshihide] Suga of Japan, failed to show that the Gray got a personal relationship people reach out for support and help they need every time.” Prime Minister [Narendra] Lady [as the paper is known] Piers Morgan has decided to with Meghan Markle, or had I’m sorry, I don’t believe a or share their experiences Harry and Meghan, now living Modi of India, and Prime acted with actual malice leave “Good Morning Britain,” one, and she cut you off. of ill mental health, they are in the US, made a number of Minister [Scott] Morrison - a high legal bar required ITV has said. “She’s entitled to cut you off word she says. I wouldn’t treated with dignity, respect explosive revelations in their of Australia,” White House for successful defamation The presenter stormed off if she wants to. Has she said an- believe her if she read me a and empathy.” During Tues- interview, among them an al- Press Secretary Jen Psaki told actions - by publishing the the set of the news programme ything about you since she cut weather report day’s programme, Morgan ad- legation that a member of the a press briefing. March 2019 piece entitled on Tuesday after a heated dis- you off? I don’t think she has dressed his comments about family - not the Queen or Duke This group of four, “The Real Trump-Russia Quid cussion with his colleague, Alex but yet you continue to trash Piers Morgan said during Meghan’s mental health. of Edinburgh - had made a rac- known as Quadrilateral Se- Pro Quo,” Justice James Beresford, about the Duke and her.” Ofcom also announced Monday’s programme He said: “When we talked ist comment about their un- curity Dialogue or Quad, d’Auguste wrote in a rul- Duchess of Sussex’s TV inter- on Tuesday it was investigating about this yesterday, I said born son, Archie. was formed in the aftermath ing. “In this regard, bias, view with Oprah Winfrey. comments Morgan made about sorry, I don’t believe a word she as an all-encompassing thing During the interview, of the 2004 Indian Ocean or ulterior motive does not A statement from ITV said: the interview. says. “I wouldn’t believe her if I don’t believe what Meghan which first aired in the SU earthquake and tsunami and constitute actual malice,” “Following discussions with The watchdog received she read me a weather report.” Markle is saying generally in and was broadcast on ITV on formalized in 2007. d’Auguste wrote. A spokes- ITV, Piers Morgan has decided more than 41,000 complaints Morgan added she had sparked this interview, and I still have Monday night, Meghan spoke Friday will mark the first man for Trump did not return now is the time to leave Good about his remarks on Monday an “onslaught” against the serious concerns about the ve- openly about her mental time that the Quad leaders a request for comment after Morning Britain. during Good Morning Britain. royal family. racity of a lot of what she said. health, telling Winfrey she had meet in this format, Psaki the ruling. (dpa) “ITV has accepted this After a clip aired of Meghan His comments were criti- “But let me just state on experienced suicidal thoughts explained, as in the past the decision and has nothing discussing her issues with men- cised by the mental health the record my position about and had asked to go some- quartet met at foreign minis- further to add.” Weather pre- tal health and suicidal thoughts charity Mind. mental illness and on suicide. where to get help, but was told ter and working level. Afghanistan senter Beresford defended and royal officials’ knowledge The organisation previ- These are clearly extremely it would not look good by one The virtual meeting will bans schoolgirls the couple during his discus- of them, Morgan said during ously said in a tweet it was serious things that should be of the most senior people in deal with issues facing the from singing at sion with Morgan. Monday’s programme: “I’m “disappointed and concerned” taken extremely seriously, and the institution. global community. public events KABUL: Education authorities in Kabul have banned schoolgirls from singing at public Russia slows Twitter events, according to a letter Erdogan, Putin hail joint nuclear plant project by the education directorate dpa nial of the republic’s founda- access citing failure to that was leaked to the media Istanbul tion, Erdogan said. on Wednesday. The letter said The “strategic” project that female students older A Russian-built nuclear will eventually provide 10 remove illegal content than 12 would not be allowed power plant in Turkey, set to per cent of Turkey’s electric- to sing at public ceremonies, go online in 2023, represents ity, Erdogan added. Russia’s dpa Shortly after the an- except if the event’s par- close cooperation between Rosatom has a 99.2 percent Moscow nouncement, the home pages ticipants were all female. Girls the two countries, the two stake in Akkuyu. Turkish en- of Roskomnadzor, the Krem- older than 12 would also not country’s presidents said on gineers are receiving training Twitter users in Russia will lin, the Duma and the govern- be allowed to be trained by a Wednesday. in Russia to operate the plant have to make do with slower ment were all unavailable for male singing teacher, the letter “We see this giant pro- in the future. updates and more error mes- about 45 minutes. The outage read. A spokeswoman for the ject as one of the symbols of Erdogan said construction sages now that Russia has has not been explained. Education Ministry confirmed Turkish-Russian cooperation,” of the fourth unit will start in reduced data speeds for the A law went into effect in the authenticity of the letter, Turkish President Recep Tayy- 2021. Ankara is determined social media site, citing Twit- Russia a few weeks ago that saying the decision applies to ip Erdogan told a videoconfer- to deepen ties with Moscow in ter’s failure to remove illegal requires operators of social all 34 provinces of the country. ence with Russian counterpart other fields, including in secu- content. networks to hunt down and The spokesperson said the Vladimir Putin, whom he re- Russian President Vladimir Putin looks at a screen showing Turkish rity cooperation in the wider Media oversight author- remove forbidden content. decision was taken after par- ferred to as “my dear friend.” President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Moscow on Wednesday. (AFP) region, Erdogan added. ity Roskomnadzor said on Along with the content ents and students complained Erdogan and Putin watched Turkey and Russia have Wednesday that Twitter has mentioned above, that would they could not focus on les- the laying of concrete at the The construction of the and said it will “contribute to struck a fragile balance in Syria failed, since 2017, to remove also include calls for people sons due to singing practice. third unit of the 20-billion- plant, Turkey’s first ever, start- Turkey’s energy security.” The and Libya even as they support 3,100 items. The flagged items to attend protests conducted The ministry did however not dollar Akkuyu nuclear power ed in 2018. plant’s first unit, out of a total opposing sides and are jointly included instances of child without the proper permits. address why the ban only ap- plant in southern Turkey via Putin praised the project of four, is scheduled to be op- monitoring a ceasefire in the pornography or attempts to Social networks have plied to girls. (dpa) video link. as a “symbol of friendship” erational in 2023, the centen- disputed Nagorno-Karabakh. talk minors into suicide. been under attack in Russia In an effort “to protect Rus- in recent weeks because they sian citizens,” the regulator has have been used to urge people slowed data connection to all to attend demonstrations to mobile devices and about half support Alexei Navalny, an France transfers patients due to US new coronavirus case of stationary devices. incarcerated opposition lead- Vadim Subbotin, the er. Fines have been issued stretched coronavirus situation deputy head of Roskomnad- against Facebook, Twitter and count tops 50,000 for Tuesday zor, later said on state televi- YouTube. dpa gian hospitals. This would de- sion that the restrictions Human rights activists Paris pend on available capacity, the dpa year. Under a deal between the from here is really dependent would affect photo and video have criticized attempts to suitability of the patients and Washington Los Angeles Unified School Dis- on our collective behaviors and content. limit freedom of expression on France is transferring pa- the consent of their families, it trict and its teachers union, pre- continued commitment to fol- Authorities also threat- social media. However, in Rus- tients to other areas and even said in a statement. More than 50,000 new coro- schools and elementary schools low the public health measures ened Twitter with further sia, hundreds of internet sites to neighbouring Belgium due to Previously, patients from navirus cases were reported in will reopen for part-time classes we know work to stop the spread restrictions or a complete have been blocked, including the tense coronavirus situation Dunkirk in Hauts-de-France the United States on Tuesday, by the middle of April. of the virus: wearing well-fitted block, should it not come into those belonging to opponents in the hospitals of some regions. near the Belgian border, for taking the national total to Middle and high school masks, avoiding traveling in compliance. of the government. The situation in the greater example, had also been trans- 29,096,053, according to latest students will continue online crowds, social-distancing and Paris area, in the Hauts-deferred to the neighbouring re- data compiled by Johns Hop- learning. washing hands,” she said dur- France region and in the south gion of Normandy. Attal also kins University. At a press briefing, White ing the Health Action Alliance is “worrying,” government announced an extension of the With 1,883 new deaths, the House press secretary Jen Psaki National Business Summit on spokesman Gabriel Attal said weekend lockdown in Nice and US COVID-19 death toll rose to highlighted the progress the Tuesday. on Wednesday after a govern- the coastal region. Previously, 527,699. Biden administration made on The House of Representa- ment meeting chaired by Presi- this lockdown had also been ex- In his weekly conference vaccinations in the country. tives is expected to vote on dent Emmanuel Macron. tended in Dunkirk. The meas- call with governors, White “On January 20, there was Wednesday on the 1.9-tril- A certain number of pa- ures were originally supposed House COVID coordinator Jeff a seven-day average of 890,000 lion-dollar COVID-19 relief tients would therefore be trans- to last for a fortnight. Zients announced that Pfizer shots per day. Today we’re av- bill, which will include up to ferred in the coming days, es- There is currently no such and Moderna vaccine supply eraging 2.17 million shots per 1,400-dollar stimulus checks. pecially from the greater Paris lockdown in the greater Paris will get increased to 15.8 million day,” she told reporters. Meanwhile, Brazil re- area. Such transfers are already area. The regional health au- doses going out to states, tribes, It’s critical that Americans ported its highest daily death taking place in other regions. thority had asked hospitals and territories, along with 2.7 don’t abandon safety measures toll - nearly 2,000 - due to the The regional health author- there earlier this week to post- million first doses going to and “March and April are going Covid-19 pandemic on Tues- ity of the Hauts-de-France re- pone some non-urgent medi- pharmacies. to be pivotal times,” according day. Hospitals in the country gion in the north of the coun- cal procedures, such as op- Elementary students in Los to Centers for Disease Control are reportedly close to collapse try announced a transfer of erations, to make room in the Angeles will return to class- director Rochelle Walensky. as intensive care unit beds are Commuters use their mobile phones at Ploschad Revolyutsii metro intensive care patients to Bel- intensive care units. rooms after a gap of more than a “Where the pandemic goes nearing capacity. station in Moscow on Wednesday. (afp) Raids, arrests as military surrounds demonstrators in Yangon

dpa online portal Myanmar Now. gon tweeted: “We are seeing ernment in early February. put down. There was initially Yangon “When they saw the pro- reports of innocent students The demonstrators are no information about possi- testers, they [sent informa- and civilians surrounded by demanding the release of the ble casualties. Security forces in Myan- tion] and the next military security forces in North Ok- ousted and detained head of In the city of Myingyan, mar again used brutal force forces came. They surround- kalapa, as well as arrests. government, Aung San Suu at least two people were seri- against demonstrators on ed the protesters outside of “We call on those security Kyi, and the reinstatement of ously injured by rubber bul- Wednesday. the park,” an eyewitness who forces to withdraw from the her elected government. lets, according to the online The situation was par- wished to remain anonymous area, release those detained, The police and military portal Mizzima News. ticularly threatening in the told dpa. and allow people to depart are acting with increasing Police also reportedly North Okkalapa district of safely.” brutality. According to esti- used tear gas and destroyed Yangon, the country’s larg- The European Union mates by the Assistance Asso- barricades. est city, where the military More than 60 people have Delegation to Myanmar also ciation for Political Prisoners “I urge all people in Yan- first surrounded hundreds been killed since the pro- expressed concern: “As the (AAPP), more than 60 people gon to come out,” said a of participants in a rally and tests began, and nearly use of force is intensifying in have been killed since the 24-year-old protester who then arrested many of them, 2,000 have been detained North Okkalapa and other protests began, and nearly wished to remain anony- according to eyewitnesses. townships in Yangon, we urge 2,000 have been detained, at mous. “The coup is about to Residents in the neigh- Residents look on as soldiers block a road in Yangon on Wednesday. (AFP) the security forces to allow least temporarily. fail and we will win.” Security bourhood tried to help the When they surrounded everyone to reach their homes There were also rallies in forces also carried out raids protesters and block roads so everyone, “they started to ar- local residents were injured in he said. Myanmar Now spoke peacefully.” Mass protests many other parts of the for- again, including on accom- the military could not remove rest the protesters, mostly their attempts to hold back the of at least 200 arrests. have been ongoing since the mer Burma on Wednesday, modation belonging to rail- the detainees, according to the youths and students.” Some forces and help the protesters, The US embassy in Yan- military overthrew the gov- some of which were brutally way employees. Efforts on to ensure effective debt structure for GIS: Chairman pg 10

Thursday, march 11, 2021

32,318.09 10,272.11 51279.51 1,722.80 +485.35 pts +154.27 pts +254.03 pts Gold +0.34 % ‘Qatar has highest female labour Dow QE sensex participation rate in Arab world’ pg 11 Price percentage Price percentage 26.25 Brent 68.14 +0.92 % WTI 64.71 +1.09 % Silver +0.26 % QP in deal to develop new LNG carrier designs

Tribune News Network ates of ConocoPhillips, ExxonMo- LNT A-BOX introduces a system to accommodate the future Doha bil, Shell and Total. step-change in LNG containment shipping requirements of the LNG The LNT A-BOX LNG cargo systems and demonstrates the industry.” Qatar Petroleum, along with containment system is a new de- potential to improve LNG trans- ABS, a leading global provider several leading international sign that has recently been de- portation economics in the com- of classification and technical ad- LNG players, signed a multi-par- ployed on the 45,000 m 3 new ing years. visory services to the marine and ty agreement with LNT Marine, built ABS-classed vessel ‘Saga LNT Marine Founder and offshore industries are committed the American Bureau of Shipping Dawn,’ which entered commercial Chairman David Wu said, “We to setting standards for safety and (ABS), and Shanghai Waigaoqiao service in the second quarter of are very pleased to cooperate with excellence in design and construc- Shipbuilding (SWS) to collaborate 2020. Qatar Petroleum and other mar- tion. on the development of new medi- Commenting on the agree- ket leaders in the LNG industry, “ABS has a proud track record um and large liquefied natural gas ment, Minister of State for Energy to support new technology devel- of supporting innovation in gas (LNG) carrier designs. Affairs and Qatar Petroleum Pres- the LNG industry by supporting LNG cargo containment sys- opment for the next wave of LNG carrier development and we are The agreement paves the way ident and CEO HE Saad Sherida Al new concepts and encouraging in- tems are highly specialized and carriers. Based on our decade of delighted to be able to add this for the establishment of a Joint Kaabi said, “We are pleased to col- novation in areas that benefit the have experienced few improve- hard work and today’s coopera- exciting project to that list,” ABS Industry Project (JIP) that tar- laborate with LNT Marine, ABS, industry as a whole, in a safe and ments over the past decades. tion with Qatar Petroleum, Qatar- Global Gas Solutions Vice Presi- gets the development of new LNG and SWS to introduce new designs economic manner.” LNT Marine is a technology gas and the other distinguished dent Patrick Janssens said. carrier designs utilising the LNT utilizing innovative technologies Kaabi said, “Competition is provider and innovator within international partners, including SWS is a subsidiary of China A-BOX LNG cargo containment to the LNG shipping industry. critical for technology advance- the LNG sector, developing gas ABS and SWS, we have confidence State Shipbuilding Corporation system. With this signing, Qatar Petro- ment, and we are pleased to play carriers and cryogenic in- in our ability to develop state-of- with extensive experience in ves- Other signatories to the agree- leum reaffirms its commitment to an active role in this regard with sulation systems for marine the-art LNG carrier designs with sel and offshore structure con- ment include Qatargas and affili- the continuous improvement of our industry partners.” applications. the LNT A-BOX® containment struction. CB well-positioned to resume Al Rayyan tops in building permit growth this year: Chairman issuance in Feb

Shareholders approve recommendation for cash dividend distribution of QR0.1 per share Tribune News Network (residential Doha and non-residential) con- Satyendra Pathak stitutes 51 percent (662 per- Doha The municipality of Al mits) of the total building Rayyan was at the top of the permits issued during Feb- Commercial Bank (CB) municipalities where the ruary 2021, while the per- is well-positioned for a re- number of building permits centage of additions permits sumption of growth in 2021, issued were 471 permits, 36 constituted 46 percent (599 the bank’s chairman said on percent of the total issued permits), and finally fencing Wednesday. permits during February, permits with 3 percent (33 Addressing shareholders Planning and Statistics Au- permits). at the bank’s ordinary general thority (PSA) has said in its By analysing new resi- assembly meeting, Commer- latest report. dential buildings permits cial Bank Chairman Sheikh According to the report, data, PSA found that villas’ Abdulla bin Ali bin Jabor Al Al Da’ayen came in second top the list, accounting for Thani said, “Qatar contin- place with 204 permits, 16 68 percent (389 permits) of ues on its remarkable growth percent of the total, followed all new residential buildings trajectory and Commercial by municipality of Al Wakrah permits, followed by dwell- Bank is fully aligned with and with 200 permits (15 percent) ings of housing loans permits contributes towards Qatar’s and then municipality of Al by 20 percent (115 permits) national development objec- Doha with 198 permits, 15 and apartments buildings by tives. We look at 2021 with a percent of the total. 7 percent (42 permits). positive outlook.” The rest of the munici- On the other hand, com- During the bank’s ordinary Board members of Commercial Bank at the bank’s ordinary general assembly meeting on Wednesday. palities were as follows: mercial buildings were found general assembly meeting, Umm Slal 107 permits (8 to be in the forefront of non- the bank got approval from earlier announced that the normalised basis) to QR3.14 QR2.963 billion in 2019. On active management of the cost percent), Al Khor 51 permits residential buildings permits the shareholders to distribute Group reported a net profit billion for 2020, compared to a normalised basis, net inter- of funding,” the bank said in a (4 percent), Al Sheehaniya with 46 percent (42 permits), a cash dividend of 10 percent of QR1.301 billion in 2020 as QR3.118.6 billion in 2019. est margin increased to 2.4 statement. 33 permits (3 percent), and followed by industrial build- of the share’s nominal value, compared to QR2.021 billion Net interest income of percent in 2020 compared to Non-interest income of Al Shammal 30 permits (2 ings e.g. workshops and fac- amounting to QR0.1 per share. in 2019. the Group increased by 4.6 2.3 percent in 2019. the Group decreased by 17.8 percent). tories with 36 percent (33 The shareholders also approved The operating profit of percent to QR3.1 billion (17.7 “Although asset yields percent to QR1.137 billion in In terms of type of per- permits), then governmental all items on the agenda. the Group increased by 0.7 percent on a normalised ba- have reduced, the increase in 2020 compared with QR1.383 mits issued, data indicates buildings with 11 percent (10 Commercial Bank had percent (14.1 percent on a sis) in 2020 compared to margins is mainly due to pro- billion in 2019, the bank said. that the new building permits permits). QIIB first bank in Qatar to launch Visual IVR

Tribune News Network approved by QIIB. They can the past period. istered with the Bank and Doha then choose the Visual IVR “This will continue in the through which he can have service and carefully follow next phase until we reach a access to available services QIIB on Wednesday an- the instructions of the an- point where the customer instantly;” he said. nounced the launch of the swering machine. will have access to all ser- “With the launch of the Visual IVR to become the Thereafter, an electronic vices and products through VIVR service, the digital op- first bank in Qatar to pro- link will be sent to the cus- QIIB’s digital channels,” Ja- tions available to custom- vide this ultra-modern, tomer’s phone and by click- mal said. ers have been qualitatively technology-driven service ing on the link, the customer QIIB Business Develop- broadened. As through this to its customers. can register for the service ment and Alternative Chan- service, one can complete This is part of the imple- that requires entering his nels Sector Head Omar Ab- most of the banking services mentation of QIIB’s digital bank card number and its dulaziz Almeer said, “QIIB remotely- from anywhere, transformation strategy and secret code for additional se- visual IVR service is the lat- while ensuring speed and se- the provision of the best curity and protection to the est method through which curity,” he said. services to customers, in customer’s account. customers can obtain a wide Meer called on QIIB cus- accordance with the latest Commenting on the QIIB Visual IVR Service provides many services to customers, including information on accounts and range of banking services tomers to take advantage standards, adopted globally. launch of the Visual IVR money transfers, as well as those related to bank cards such as transaction inquiry, card activation, quickly with the highest of this new service and its QIIB Visual IVR Service service, QIIB Deputy CEO password change, service bills’ payment and much more. standards of security adopt- many advantages that allow provides many services to Jamal Abdullah al Jammal ed in all QIIB transactions, them to join those who use customers, including in- said, “We are pleased to be es they aspire to.” customers, he said. from wherever they are.” whether digital or provided the latest, most advanced formation on accounts and the first bank in Qatar to “QIIB has always sought Jammal said, “The bank “Turning challenges through the Bank’s network and reliable generation of money transfers, as well as launch a VIVR service to its to take advantage of the lat- is optimistic about the great into opportunities is what of branches.” digital banking services. those related to bank cards customers and move rap- est technological innova- interaction of customers we have worked on, in par- “VIVR service is easy and “These represent the fu- such as transaction inquiry, idly in the process of digital tions in the banking sector with the digital services ticular in the field of digital simple and requires only ture in which we strive to card activation, password transformation, providing and put them at the service launched by the bank, as we transformation, as the pace registration, after which the become pioneers in keeping change, service bills’ pay- more services to our custom- of customers in order to save have already witnessed ex- of implementation of pro- delivery of services becomes with customers’ aspirations, ment and much more. ers in this aspect. This is in time and effort and facilitate ceptional demand for these jects that was part of the smooth and comfortable by and strengthen the position In order to activate the accordance with the highest their access to banking prod- services. We are pleased to bank’s plans in this area, contacting the Bank’s call of QIIB as one of the most service, QIIB’s custom- security standards, respond- ucts and services, which also have responded to the expec- has been accelerated. This centre and opting for the important providers of Is- ers may contact the Bank’s ing to competition and pro- serves to improve opera- tations of customers in high- has been felt by customers VIVR service. Thereafter, lamic banking services lo- call centre on their mobile viding customers with the tional efficiency and provide ly secure banking services, through the frequent launch the customer receives a link cally, regionally and inter- phone registered with and high-quality banking servic- services on optimal terms to with access to these services of new digital services over on his mobile phone reg- nationally,” he said. 10 Thursday, March 11, 2021 Economy & Business Efforts on to ensure effective debt structure for GIS: Chairman GIS Group of companies to continue their efforts in ensuring leaner cost base to be more competitive, resilient and improve asset utilisation Satyendra Pathak pandemic, both of which created Doha another layer of macro pressures to the Group. These unprecedented ex- Relentless efforts are being ternal headwinds negatively affected placed to ensure efficient and effec- the Group’s operational and finan- tive debt structure for Gulf Inter- cial performance for the year 2020,” national Services (GIS) to make the the chairman said. group more resilient, enabling it to In order to offset these unprec- address market challenges and cap- edented dual macroeconomic head- ture suitable investment opportuni- winds, he said, GIS further empha- ties to improve its operational and fi- sised on the optimisation drive across nancial performance, GIS chairman all the segments and implemented said on Wednesday. new measures, as an additional layer Addressing shareholders at the of defense, in addition to the existing company’s annual general assem- optimisation programmes. bly meeting, GIS Chairman Sheikh “However, the external macro- Khalid bin Khalifa Al Thani said, economic factors were beyond the “Debt structure for the Group is a key Group’s control and could not be fully ingredient of our corporate strategy, offset by our optimisation initiatives, and to support the company and all considering the overall magnitude of the stakeholders in repayment with the headwinds, especially in the drill- more convenient terms. We hope ing segment which has been a major that bank lenders would support contributor to the Group’s overall these efforts to benefit GIS and its performance and earnings,” he said. shareholders.” “In terms of our business perfor- “With our more sustainable busi- mance, drilling segment experienced ness models along with the recent momentous challenges in form of rig contracts won in 2019 and 2020 and suspensions within our on-shore fleet given the oil and gas market condi- and decline in rig day-rates, as the de- tions recovering supported by the mand for the drilling rigs worldwide increased demand globally, we hope had fallen drastically, amid projects that an improved macroeconomic deferrals or cancellation, which in environment would have a more turn led to a reduction in rates of rigs positive impact on our segments, es- and rig suspensions, globally. Simi- pecially the drilling segment,” Sheikh Demand for drilling rigs worldwide has fallen drastically amid projects deferrals and cancellations. larly, within the aviation segment, we Khalid said. saw a decline in overall flying hours, “The current levels of debt have a the restructuring and refinancing could lead to an optimum funding due to lockdown situation during the significant impact on the Group’s net Debt restructuring inevitable programme originally targeted levels with an efficient and effective peak of pandemic. On the positive earnings, as finance cost is one of the Debt structure for GIS is a key ingredient of its corporate had to be deferred. This decision interest cover for the Group which side, the Group saw growth in the key cost ingredients and especially strategy and to support the company was taken with the intent to adopt could unlock future growth opportu- premiums within the insurance seg- limits the drilling segment, consid- a more prudent and conservative nities, and could translate into realiz- ment with lesser claims. Within the ering major amount of Group’s debt ● The current levels of debt have a significant impact on the Group’s net approach to the business, which able shareholder value creation, while drilling segment, we successfully de- relates to the drilling segment. The earnings, as finance cost is one of the key cost ingredients would allow management to refor- offering greater confidence and sus- ployed two new rigs under GulfDrill effect of finance cost is so large that mulate and quantify the impacts tainability in turbulent times,” it said. JV,” he said. a substantial part of the free cash ● The debt restructuring is inevitable and would not only build a more of the current challenging exter- GILS Group companies will con- “Also within the aviation seg- flows generated each year is used optimum interest cover, but provide greater flexibility to manage liquidity nal factors on its businesses new tinue their efforts in ensuring leaner ment, we expanded our footprints to pay interest and to meet the ob- and ease pressure on the Group’s financial position scenarios. Here various options, cost base to be more competitive, internationally via winning several ligations in relation to the credit fa- along with the involvement of all while maintaining our current market new short-terms contracts during cilities, which ultimately affects our the stakeholders, are being devel- share, improve asset utilisation and the year, while pushing further ahead bottom line cash position and hence age liquidity and ease pressure especially the drilling segment, as oped and considered that would built resilient future financial perfor- with the growth of MRO business leads to our inability to payout divi- on the Group’s financial position. day rates were repriced to lower allow the management, as well as mance to create long term sharehold- into new markets. In the catering dends,” a statement issued on behalf With a stable market, GIS will be levels and drilling rigs were sus- all other stakeholders, to appre- er value, Sheikh Khalid said segment, the performance remained of the board of directors said. able to develop an appropriate sce- pended,” the statement said. hend with certainty a stable view “As the Group companies were muted, as the segment was hit by new “Given the overall corporate nario. It was expected that the per- “During the year, due to the of the market, in relation to the relentlessly working to recover from challenges due to new precautionary strategy and future growth pros- formance of the company would uncertainties emanating from debt profile and the principal re- the previous down cycle within the oil measures applicable for catering in- pects, the debt restructuring is in- improve, but the volatilities of the the unforeseen lowered operating payment structure,” it said. and gas industry, the crude oil prices dustry implemented during the year evitable and would not only build a oil and gas prices and the pandem- backdrop across the Oil and Gas “We hope that we will be able to plunged to a record low, especially because of pandemic, which caused more optimum interest cover, but ic have negatively impacted the industry globally caused by the achieve our targeted direction in re- during the first half of 2020, coupled increased levels of costs and lower provide greater flexibility to man- performance of group segments, spread of COVID-19 pandemic, lation to the funding strategy, which with the outbreak of the COVID-19 volumes for the segment,” he said. GIS aims to build market share, optimise cost: Sulaiti Despite the severe macro pressures, GIS’s base-case business strategy revolved around core objectives of increasing its market share in Qatar

Tribune News Network Doha drilling segment, the demand for the sector is heavily dependent on eliminations,” he said. Gulf International Services the drilling rigs worldwide has fall- the level of offshore oil and gas ex- “The segment’s financial per- (GIS) will remain resolute in re- en drastically amid projects defer- ploration and production activities, formance was also affected due positioning its segments by build- rals or cancellation, which in turn the current market volatilities led to booking of one-off, non-cash ing market share and enhance led to a reduction in rates of rigs, to fall in demand for the off-shore impairment loss of QR87 million overall utilisation of assets, along globally. Consequently, days-rates aviation services worldwide, as in relation to 19 bell aircrafts that with continued rationalisation at Gulf Drilling International level many oil companies required fewer are lacking marketability in the fu- programme that could provide av- were also negatively affected and journeys, he said. ture,” he said. enues of cost savings and making were re-priced to lower level. This “From GHC’s perspective, our “The insurance segment wit- sure our organisational structures was coupled with temporary rig contracts remained unaffected and nessed significant growth in terms remained at the optimum levels, suspension, specifically within the was only impacted by lower flying of premiums, amid successful re- Qatar Petroleum Privatized Com- on-shore fleet, which negatively hours due to the travel restrictions, newal of existing contracts with panies Affairs Manager Moham- mained flat compared to the previ- ternational markets. The Group’s impacted the overall performance which was only for a short period of clients, along with improved price med Jaber Al Sulaiti has said. ous year,” he said. top priority was to reposition its of the segment,” he said. time, during April and May. How- terms. Moreover, the segment was Presenting report on behalf of “Moreover, impairment of as- core oil and gas services business, “The segment reported a net ever, the fixed charges remained able to gain new SME clients in the board of directors on the occa- sets within the drilling and aviation by minimising costs and maxim- loss of QR453 million, up by 345 unaffected and supported the over- its medical line of business, which sion of GIS annual general assembly segment, has also contributed sig- ising asset utilisation, in order to percent, compared to last year, all year-on-year growth in segmen- further added value to the top line. meeting on Wednesday, Sulaiti said, nificantly to the Group’s net losses become more efficient and better while the segment revenue reached tal revenue,” he said. Al-Koot Insurance currently stands “The year 2020 was one of the most for the year. The decision of the leverage its domestic and interna- QR923 million for 2020, down by “The aviation segment reported as the second largest company, in challenging year for the Group since impairment assets was taken after tional strengths. 21 percent compared to the last segmental revenue of QR688 mil- terms of gross written premiums inception as it witnessed the worst taking into consideration the age However, despite the challeng- year. On a positive side, the re- lion for 2020, up by 17 percent within the medical insurance busi- plunge in the oil prices coupled with and technical capabilities of those ing macroeconomic conditions, duction in revenue and bottom compared to last year. The growth ness in Qatar. During the year, the the global economic downturn amid rigs and aircrafts and future mar- which remains out of the Group’s line profitability was partially off- in revenue translated into a growth segment reported a revenue growth COVID-19 outbreak. This led to se- ketability for those assets. Exclud- control, all the Group companies set by additional revenue streams in segment’s net earnings to reach of 18 percent versus last year, to vere cuts in oil and gas exploration, ing the impact of one-off, non-cash placed efforts to withstand these from the GulfDrill , as two of the QR 383 million, compared to QR reach QR981 million,” he said. production and maintenance activi- impairment losses, the Group’s momentous challenges in order to planned rigs have commenced op- 143 million for last year. The seg- “The segment net profit, in- ties across the globe.” bottom line would have reached to mitigate the business and opera- erations during the year, whereas, ment profitabilityincluded a one- creased by QR36 million as com- “These headwinds exerted se- a net loss of QR10 million for the tional risks and made continuous the remaining rigs will commence off non-cash capital gain of QR 268 pared to last year, to reach QR52 vere pressure on our companies financial year 2020,” he said. efforts to optimise cost in all pos- operations during first half of 2021. million, arising on account of capi- million for 2020, translating into and affected Group’s overall finan- Despite the severe macro pres- sible areas of business, to provide The segmental profitability was tal gain on transfer of a building by a growth of 226 percent year-on- cial performance and the Group sures, Sulaiti said, the Group’s financial flexibility, while ensuring also affected to the booking of one- Gulf Helicopters Company to GIS, basis,” he said. posted a net loss of QR319 million, base-case business strategy re- the safety and performance stand- off, non-cash impairment losses as a part of distribution of divi- Earlier during the meeting, the down from a net profit of QR44 volved around its core objectives ards are not compromised. amounting to QR221 million relat- dends in kind. The same one-off shareholders approved the board million in 2019. The Group’s total of increasing its market share in “Moving onto the segmental ing to two drilling rigs,” he said. gain was eliminated at the Group of directors recommendation for revenue of QR3billion for 2020 re- Qatar, while entering into new in- performance, starting with the In the aviation business, where level, as part of inter-company no dividend payment for 2020. Economy & Business Thursday, March 11, 2021 11 QFCA’s Alanoud Al ‘Qatar has highest female labour Thani to join WEF’s Young Global Lead- participation rate in Arab world’ ers Community Qatar’s female participation rate of 59% is above the global average: QBWA Vice Chairwoman Aisha Al Fardan

Tribune News Network tor Yao Chen, lawyer Amal Doha Clooney, filmmakerWanuri Kahiu, and football player The world’s most driven Megan Rapinoe. researchers, innovative en- YGLs are active in to- trepreneurs, activists and day’s most exciting and promising political leaders dynamic fields and focus between the ages of 30 and on impact. In the past year 40 are today joining the they have worked on more World Economic Forum’s than 30 COVID-19-related Young Global Leaders Class initiatives, including ex- of 2021. panding the use of free pub- The World Economic lic digital health services, Forum selected a group launching data challenges of Arab youth to join this to build an ecosystem that year’s batch of Young can help tackle the pan- Global Leaders such as: demic, creating mobile in- Dalal Saeb Iriqat, Vice- tensive care shelters, open- President for International ing mental health support Relations, Arab American platforms and working on University-Palestine, Pal- vaccine development estinian Territories, Fawaz The class of 2021 is Farooqui, Senior Advisor gender equal and has rep- to the Minister of Culture of resentatives from 56 coun- Saudi Arabia, and Alanoud tries. Members will take bint Hamad Al-Thani, part in a five-year pro- Managing Director, Qatar gramme, which offers exec- Financial Centre Author- utive education courses, ex- ity, among others to jointly peditions and opportunities shape an inclusive and to collaborate and test ideas sustainable future for the among a trusted network of world. peers. The Forum of Young “The YGL Class of 2021 Global Leaders was founded is comprised of thought- in 2005 by Klaus Schwab, ful and courageous leaders Founder and Executive who will shape a more sus- Dignitaries attending a webinar celebrating Qatar women in business. Chairman of the World tainable and inclusive post- Economic Forum, to create pandemic era,” said Mariah Tribune News Network fields.” the depth of the relationship a world where leaders take Levin, Head of the Forum Doha Through this virtual ex- between the United States and responsibility for a sustain- of Young Global Leaders. change, the panellists discussed the State of Qatar. Al-Mulla able future, while meeting “We are delighted to The Embassy of Qatar in the the important role that Qatari expressed gratitude to the increasingly complex and welcome the class of 2021 United States in partnership women play in the country’s Qatari government for having interrelated challenges. at a time when cultivating with the Association of Women rapid economic development. provided her an opportunity to Today, there are 1,400 responsible leadership is in International Trade (WIIT), Currently, Qatari women hold participate in the IWD event, members and alumni from needed more than ever to the US-Qatar Business Council executive positions in all indus- which she says, “confirms the more than 120 countries. steer us through the mul- (USQBC) and Qatari Business- tries and government, in ad- State of Qatar’s support for Notable members include tiple challenges the world women Association (QBWA) dition to being strong leaders women professionals in all prime ministers Jacinda is facing,” said Nicole hosted a virtual event on March in a variety of fields, including fields.” Ardern and Sanna Marin, Schwab, Board Member of 9 titled, “Qatari Businesswom- the medical and engineering “Each woman should in- President Carlos Alvarado the Forum of Young Global en: Shaping the Present, Lead- sectors as well as entrepreneur- vest in herself, with a strat- Quesada of Costa Rica, ac- Leaders. ing the Future.” ship. egy to improve knowledge in a This virtual event, which “Qataris know no country QBWA Vice Chairwoman Aisha Mishael Al-Ansari, Board business sector and gain know- was coordinated by the Office of can become an economic pow- Hussein Al Fardan, Member, QBWA how to operate in any segment the Commercial Attaché at the erhouse without valuing the whether it be F&B, real estate, Embassy of Qatar, highlighted contributions of all women,” universities, there are twice as Additionally, Qatar’s Su- or fashion. By following this, a the leadership roles of Qatari said Ambassador Anne Pat- many female students enrolled preme Council for Family Af- woman will be perceived as an Europcar Qatar wins ISO women in the workforce on the terson, President of USQBC. in universities as males with fairs established the Women’s asset to others,” said Chef Sara occasion of International Wom- “Businesswomen from the US nearly two-thirds of all gradu- Affairs Committee in 1998 to Al-Sayyed. “Throughout the en’s Day (IWD). Their discus- will find warm welcome and ates in Qatar being women. propose policies, plans and country, women are growing certification for multiple sion focused on Qatari women’s excellent opportunities in this As women transition to the programs to upgrade the po- in prominence in Qatar’s busi- success in the corporate space, rapidly growing market. For working world, Qatari females tential of women culturally, ness environment and hold executive management, and women, Qatar is a great base also receive important incen- economically and politically. key leadership positions. This quality mgmt systems boardroom decisions. The we- to do business in the rest of the tives and assistance to grow “Qatari women are sup- is reflected both in government binar featured keynote remarks region.” their business with 60% of ported and encouraged to pur- and the private sector, and we Tribune News Network from QBWA Vice Chairwoman Through the Qatar National grant recipients from the Qatar sue careers in all industries and expect this momentum to con- Doha Aisha Hussein Al Fardan, as Vision 2030, Qatar has put Business Incubation Centre be- given the opportunity to grow tinue to build.” well as other leading Qatari and a large emphasis on effective ing women. These initiatives, into leadership positions,” said The event was concluded Europcar Qatar, a subsidi- American business women in- participation of women in the among others, have resulted Reem Al-Suwaidi. “From micro by Dana Al-Fardan’s music ary of Qatari Investors Group cluding Ambassador Anne Pat- country’s labour force. In fact, in Qatari females achieving the businesses, SMEs, and even video, “Rising,” which fea- Projects Development, has terson, President, USQBC; An- the Qatar Second National De- second lowest women’s unem- in large corporations, Qatari tured behind the scenes foot- been successfully certified with drea Durkin, President, WIIT; velopment Strategy 2018-2022 ployment rate in the world. women are a central part of the age of the making of the video ISO standards on multiple Amanda Horan, Vice President specifically addresses how “tak- “Qatar has taken major country’s growing economy.” with Al-Fardan and the United quality platforms. and Head of Government Rela- ing advantage of highly edu- strides to support and inspire During the course of the States Air Force band at Cen- The company fulfilled re- tions, EMEA, MetLife; Mishael cated Qatari women” is central women both in educational event, the Office of the Com- tral Command at Katara stu- quirements for ISO 9001:2015 Al-Ansari, Board Member, to the country’s transition to a and business pursuits,” said mercial Attaché at the Embassy dios in Qatar. Al-Fardan was (Quality Management Sys- Raghesh Vijayakumar, Director of QBWA and Restauranteur; knowledge-based economy. Mishael Al-Ansari, Board of the State of Qatar in Wash- inspired to write the song, tems), 14001:2015 (Environ- Europcar Qatar Reem Al-Suwaidi, Acclaimed “Qatari women’s role in Member of QBWA and Restau- ington presented an Acrylic “Rising,” and collaborated mental Management Sys- Entrepreneur and Founder business is a key component of ranteur. painting by acclaimed Qatari with the US Air Force to pro- tems), 39001:2012 (Road tar, said: “We are pleased to of Saikl; Chef Sara Al-Sayyed, the country’s future economic “As a result, today in Qatar artist, Maryam Al-Mulla, to the mote inclusion and connectiv- Traffic SafetyM anagement) have passed the rigorous and Celebrated Chef and Founder growth,” said Andrea Durkin, there are twice as many female association of Women in Inter- ity after a visit to Qatar by the and 45001:2018 (Occupational companywide audits leading of SOCIÉTÉ, and Terra Sabag, President of WIIT. “Through students enrolled in universi- national Trade (WIIT) – DC Washington Spirit women’s Health & Safety Management). to the award of certificates, Chief of Staff, US Congressman both private and public sector ties as males and 30% of deci- Chapter, for devoting their an- soccer team. These management stand- which will not only enhance Rick Larsen (WA-02) initiatives, Qatar is becoming sion-making roles in the coun- nual, International Women’s Al-Fardan is Qatar’s only ards provide impetus to im- our internal management and “Qatar has a 59 % female a leader in women empower- try occupied by women.” Day (IWD) event, and recog- female contemporary compos- proved business processes operational processes, but labour participation rate, above ment in the region.” To support more women in nizing the association’s role in er and was appointed recently that deliver a higher quality also improve our competitive the global average, and the The Government of Qatar business, the Qatari Business- coordinating this event that as the official composer for of service with stronger focus standing in future commercial highest in the Arab world,” said has empowered women in the women Association (QBWA) celebrated Qatari women and Qatar Airways global flights. on customer satisfaction and efforts. QBWA Vice Chairwoman Aisha country through access to edu- was established in 2000 to their economic contributions. Al-Fardan is an advocate for increased efficiency in respon- “Europcar Qatar is com- Al Fardan. cation, economic participation, highlight women’s contribu- Al-Mulla, a member of the In- peace through cultural dia- sible and effective use of re- mitted to the vision of achiev- “This event showcased the and career opportunities sup- tions to economic activity, and ternational Art Society and Qa- logue and has composed the sources. ing business goals with un- leadership roles Qatari women porting growth. In Qatar’s high- to provide a networking plat- tari Art Society, expressed her official song for the Lusail Sta- Raghesh Vijayakumar, wavering focus on product, hold, as well as the advances er education system, including form to empower professional happiness in having created dium, which one of the 2022 Director of Europcar Qa- people and planet.” women are making in various over seven American-based women. an artistic work that embodies FIFA World Cup venues. Aamal Travel receives ‘Top Performer’ certificate Bezos plans to spend $10 bn

Tribune News Network by 2030 on climate change Doha Agencies a pace of more than a $1 bil- to have Andrew aboard and Aamal Travel Lufthansa City Center (ATLCC), lion a year. very energized about what lies a fully-owned subsidiary of Aamal Company, has Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos “The Earth Fund will in- ahead for the Fund and our been awarded the “Top Performer” certificate by plans to spend the $10 billion vest in scientists, NGOs, activ- partners,” Bezos wrote in an Lufthansa City Center International. he invested in the Bezos Earth ists, and the private sector to Instagram post, referring to The award recognises ATLCC’s high level of Fund by 2030, the fund’s new help drive new technologies, his girlfriend, journalist Lau- quality of its processes, and commitment within CEO said Tuesday. investments, policy change ren Sanchez. the global network of Lufthansa City Center Inter- Since Bezos announced the and behavior,” Steer tweeted. Bezos, who announced national. fund in February 2020, little “We will emphasize social jus- plans to step down as Ama- “This only reflects our continuous quest to has been revealed about how tice, as climate change dispro- zon’s CEO last month to focus maintain our unwavering level of quality of our it would be used combat the portionately hurts poor and on philanthropic and science products and services, and the importance we give climate crisis. marginalized communities.” interests, cited Steer’s decades to meeting our clients and stakeholders’ expecta- Andrew Steer was named Steer, who had been the of experience in environmen- tions”, said ATLCC Assistant General Manager Na- as the fund’s CEO on Tuesday, president and CEO of the en- tal and climate science, as well zeer Mohamed. and in a series of tweets, he of- vironmental nonprofit the as his environmental work “I would like to take this opportunity to thank fered a few details, including World Resources Institute, is with World Resources Insti- all the loyal team members who are a part of this that Bezos’ “goal is to spend the Bezos Earth Fund’s first tute, which received a grant success, hoping to witness further recognition and it down between now and president and CEO. from the Earth Fund in No- excellence.” 2030.” That would work out to “Lauren and I are thrilled vember. 12 Thursday, March 11, 2021 Economy & Business Nakilat wins BSC’s ‘Sword of Honour’ Asian bourses follow Wall for third year in row Street higher after tech rally Tribune News Network Doha Wall Street’s S&P 500 index closed up 1.4%, led by gains for Apple, Amazon and other tech majors Nakilat has been awarded the ‘Sword of Honour’ by British Safety Council for the third consecutive year, a Exemplary prestigious award for organ- Nakilat continued to uphold isations that have reached its exemplary commitment the pinnacle of excellence and dedication in operating in managing the company’s to the highest international health, safety and environmental risks. standards and effectively Despite the challeng- manage occupational ing circumstances brought health, safety, environment, about by the global pan- and wellbeing within the demic, Nakilat continued to organization uphold its exemplary commitment and dedication a selected number of or- in operating to the highest ganisations worldwide that international standards achieved a Sword of Hon- and effectively manage oc- our this year, awarded to cupational health, safety, companies which have dem- environment, and wellbeing onstrated excellence in the within the organization. management of health and Throughout COVID-19, safety risks at work. In order the company has spared no to compete for the Sword of effort in ensuring a safe work- Honour, the organisation place to protect its workforce first had to achieve the max- by implementing various imum five stars in the Brit- measures to prevent the ish Safety Council’s health, spread the virus and reduce safety and environmental risks to all its employees, management audit scheme contractors and visitors. This in the period August 2019 was possible due to the robust – November 2020. Nakilat systems and procedures in had also remotely demon- place that allowed the com- strated to an independent pany to act swiftly in response panel of experts its excel- People walk by an electronic stock board of a securities firm in Tokyo on Wednesday. Shares are higher in Asia after gains for major tech companies powered a 3.7% surge in the to the situation and ensure its lence in health, safety and Nasdaq, the largest jump for the index in four months. global operations remained environmental management uninterrupted while keeping throughout the business - Agencies sent investors back to compa- On Wall Street, the S&P ogy stocks that fueled last year’s and the inflation that could fol- its personnel safe. from the shopfloor to the nies they hope will thrive after 500 rose Tuesday to 3,875.44. market rebound after the coro- low. Inflation erodes the value Nakilat was among boardroom. Asian stock prices followed the coronavirus pandemic ends. Communication companies navirus outbreak upended the of that future bond payout, en- Wall Street higher on Wednes- The swing shows “how frag- and those that rely on con- global economy have been shed- couraging investors to shift to day following a rally for major ile sentiment has become, driv- sumer spending contributed to ding gains since the Nasdaq stocks. tech companies. en by the absolute uncertainty” the increase. Financial, energy peak on Feb. 12. The fall in bond prices drew Shanghai, Tokyo and Hong about the outlook for interest and industrial stocks lagged the Apple was down 14% investors who didn’t want to pay Kong advanced. South Korea rates and inflation, saidS tephen broader market. through the end of last week. high prices for stocks, especially retreated. Innes of Axi in a report. Apple rose 4.1%, chipmaker Financial sector stocks, tech stocks that looked most ex- Wall Street’s benchmark The Shanghai Composite Nvidia climbed 8% and Tesla which had benefited from the pensive. S&P 500 index closed up 1.4%, Index rose 0.7% to 3,381.84 jumped 19.6% for the biggest rise in bond yields, were the big- Investors are betting the led by gains for Apple, Ama- and the Nikkei 225 in Tokyo ad- gain in the S&P 500. gest decliners Tuesday. Bank of $1.9 trillion in coming govern- zon and other tech majors. The vanced 0.3% to 29,106.84. The The Dow Jones Industrial America fell 2.2%, while Ameri- ment stimulus will help lift the Nasdaq composite index, domi- Hang Seng in Hong Kong added Average, which is weighted can Express slid 3.4%. Banks U.S. economy out of its coro- nated by tech shares, surged 0.5% to 28,9904.00. less toward tech, rose 0.1% to and credit card issuers tend to navirus-induced malaise. The 3.7% for its biggest gain in four The Kospi in Seoul lost 0.6% 31,832.74. do well when interest rates are package set for final approval in months. to 2,957.54 while Australia’s The Nasdaq advanced to rising because they can charge the U.S. House on Wednesday Markets have been adjust- S&P-ASX 200 slid 0.4% to 13,073.82. Despite that, the in- higher rates. provides direct payments of up ing to a rise in long-term inter- 6,745.60. dex is 7.2% below its Feb. 12 Bond yields, or the differ- to $1,400 for most Americans est rates in the bond market, India’s Sensex opened up high. On Monday it closed 10% ence between a bond’s market and extends emergency unem- which has pulled money out of 0.4% at 51,229.28. New Zealand below its peak in what is known price and the payout at matu- ployment benefits that help to stocks. A reversal in bond mar- and Indonesia rose while Singa- as a correction on Wall Street. rity, have been widening due to support consumer spending, the ket trends at least temporarily pore retreated. Some of the big technol- rising expectations for growth economy’s main engine.

booming cryptocurrency Rush to bitcoin? Not so fast, say keepers of corporate coffers

Agencies the short term, according to over About 5% of chief financial a chance and then cash out with a dozen financial officers, board officers (CFOs) and senior finance potential gains. They passed on the When Elon Musk’s Tesla became members and accountants inter- leaders said they planned to hold opportunity, he said. the biggest name to reveal it had viewed by Reuters. bitcoin on their balance sheets in Other potential headaches for added bitcoin to its coffers last “It will take more than a small 2021, a survey of 77 executives by executives include questions over month, many pundits were swift handful of disruptive companies U.S. research firm Gartner found how a company can safely hold a to call a corporate rush towards investing in bitcoin to impact the last month. cryptocurrency, and how much it the booming cryptocurrency. narrative in boardrooms,” said Some 84% of respondents said should disclose to shareholders Yet there’s unlikely to be a Raul Fernandez, an entrepreneur they did not plan to ever hold it as about security precautions, said concerted crypto charge any time and investor who sits on the audit a corporate asset, citing volatility as Tim Davis, principal in the finan- soon, say many finance executives committee of the board of chip- the top concern, followed by board cial and risk advisory practice at and accountants loath to risk bal- maker Broadcom Inc as well as risk aversion, slow adoption as a Deloitte & Touche, which advises ance sheets and reputations on a other companies. widespread method of payment firms on holding crypto on their highly volatile and unpredictable “Larger global companies, I and regulatory issues. balance sheets. asset that confounds convention. can’t see those conversations hap- “I think for the most part you High-profile thefts from “When I did my treasury pening right now.” will find companies will avoid exchanges have highlighted prob- exams, the thing we were told as that sort of thing,” said Jack Mc- lems over safely storing digital number one objective is to guar- Bitcoin’s intangible tangle Cullough, president of the CFO assets. The loss of passwords for antee security and liquidity of One problem could lie in the Leadership Council and a former digital wallets is also a risk. Offline the balance sheet,” said Graham devil of the accounting detail in CFO. or “cold” storage is widely seen as Robinson, a partner in interna- a bookkeeping industry that, like “CFOs are likely to be very the best defense against hackers tional tax and treasury at PwC and many others, is still taking stock of Proponents of the cryptocurrency see it as a hedge against inflation at a time of conservative in managing cor- but there are few, if any, regulatory adviser to the UK’s Association for the nature of cryptocurrencies. unprecedented government stimulus. porate treasuries. They’re happy standards. Corporate Treasurers. The Financial Accounting sinking money into very safe places “Do you custody it yourself?” “That is the fundamental Standards Board, which sets ac- their financial statements. together hold around $9 billion with low interest. Their job is to Davis said. “Do you have an ex- problem with bitcoin, if those are counting standards for U.S. cor- The FASB has no immediate of bitcoin, data from the Bitcoin help grow the company through its change custody it? How much of it the objectives for treasurers, then porations, does not have guidance plans to review its treatment of bit- Treasuries website shows. Around operations, and the treasury needs do you want to have in a hot wallet breaking them could get them in specific to the accounting for cryp- coin as the issue affects few of its 80% is held by Tesla and Micro- to be safe and secure.” versus a cold wallet?” trouble.” tocurrencies. However, consistent constituents, according to a source Strategy, the latter with over $4.5 Ultimately, experts added, the Tesla Inc’s $1.5 billion bitcoin with discussions among a separate familiar with the matter. billion. Why put my neck on the line? expansion into bitcoin by com- bet saw it join business software U.S. trade body, companies apply “I don’t think it’s the best Square, which allows users Cryptocurrency supporters, panies without existing ties to firm MicroStrategy Inc and Twit- existing FASB guidance on the accounting so far,” said Robert to buy and sell bitcoin, said last however, say the rationale for com- the cryptocurrency market may ter boss Jack Dorsey’s payments accounting for “intangible assets”, Hertz, a former FASB chairman. month it had added an additional panies to buy bitcoin is clear, not depend on the willingness of finan- company Square Inc in swapping which usually includes intellectual “I am hoping that if more main- $170 million of the virtual coin to least the decline of the dollar - the cial executives to take on risk. some traditional cash reserves for property, brand recognition or stream companies get into bitcoin, its coffers. dominant reserve currency - which “The general consensus among the digital coin. goodwill. the accounting standards board Of course, if the price of bitcoin has fallen about 4.5% against a treasurers is that very few of them Proponents of the cryptocur- Under these rules, companies may revisit the accounting treat- rises, a company can always simply basket of major currencies in the are going to follow this trend rency see it as a hedge against in- other than investment firms or ment.” sell its holdings, thus realizing past year. initially,” said Naresh Aggarwal at flation at a time of unprecedented broker-dealers cannot book gains Outside the United States, some gains. Yet it is still a risky “The value of the dollar over the UK’s Association for Corporate government stimulus, a falling dol- in the value of holdings should cryptocurrencies are usually investment, given the cryptocur- time is getting weaker and weaker,” Treasurers. lar and record-low interest rates the price of bitcoin rise - but must treated as intangible assets too. rency’s record of wild swings. said Dave Sackett, CFO of ULVAC “As a treasurer, if I am right that make attractive high-yielding write down their investment as an But in contrast to guidance un- In 2013, for example, bitcoin Technologies Inc, the U.S. subsidi- and the price doubles, the compa- assets hard to find. impairment charge if it falls. der the FASB rules, writedowns started at around $13 and spiked to ary of a Japanese vacuum equip- ny may sell its holding and make a While the moves have prompt- Furthermore, once a company can be reversed in future years. over $1,000. In 2017, it went from ment maker, and an active crypto- profit. Whilst the company may be ed more boardroom discussions writes down its holdings, it cannot In certain cases, companies can about $1,000 to around $20,000. currency investor. worth more, it won’t be reflected in though, headaches from bitcoin’s record subsequent gains until it record bitcoin at market value. See In early 2020, it sunk below “Bitcoin flips the script on my compensation,” he added. volatility to accounting for it and sells. EXPLAINER: $4,000. It fell more than 25% late that.” “But if the price falls, I am storing it are likely to preclude a By contrast, companies period- last month only a week after hitting Sackett pitched ULVAC ex- pretty confidentI will be fired. big wave of companies holding ically reflect the impact of fluctua- Companies’ crypto billions a record high above $58,000. It has ecutives on investing in bitcoin Why bother putting my neck on large amounts on balance sheets in tions in traditional currencies in Publicly listed companies now recovered part of its losses. last April, suggesting they take the line?” QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Thomas Bach overwhelmingly re-elected as IOC president page 14

THURSday, MARCH 11, 2021 Back where he belongs: Federer makes a winning return in Doha after 405 days Swiss staves off Evans in three sets; will face Basilashvili in quarters

Agencies cross-court backhand passing Doha shot of the tie-break to clinch the set. In his first appearance since Evans took his attack the 2020 Australian Open, to Federer’s backhand and Roger Federer made a win- rushed the net to save a break ning return to the ATP Tour point in the opening game of on Wednesday at the Qatar the second set. It proved to ExxonMobil Open in Doha. be a crucial moment for the The three-time Doha Brit, as he forced Federer into champion showcased his fight- backhand errors three games ing spirit to save a set point at later to earn the first break of 5/6 in the first-set tie-break the match. Evans maintained and he closed the match with a his advantage to serve for the late break at 6-5 in the decider set at 5-3, and he showed no to beat Daniel Evans 7-6(8), sign of nerves to claim four 3-6, 7-5 at the centre court of straight points. Khalifa International Tennis & After escaping two break Squash Complex. points with a mix of pace and “It feels good to be back,” precision at 3-3 in the de- Federer said in an on-court cider, Federer ripped ground- interview. stroke winners and applied “I am happy to be stand- scoreboard pressure to earn ing here regardless of if I won match point at 5-4. But Evans or lost, but obviously winning charged to the net behind his feels better. It was a good serve to stay in the match. match. Dan played a good Two games later, Federer match too. He has been a won- earned two more chances and derful training partner as well. he took the first with a back- Over the past two weeks, we hand winner down the line. played over 20 sets and it went “I said, ‘If I’m going to go on (tonight).” out, I’m going to go out swing- “It has been a long and ing.’ Dan had more energy tough road for me. I enjoyed it left at the end, but I was serv- though,” said Federer. ing well and I thought I actu- “It has been a huge chal- ally played a really, really good lenge of mine in my tennis match,” said Federer. career and to come back at my “I’m incredibly happy age is not something that is about my performance… It very simple. I have had a won- was nice to finish off with a derful team around myself that backhand down the line.” always supported me through- “I actually thought he out. That made it much easier played his best tennis in the and it was worth it because I last three [or] four games,” played a good match today.” said Evans. “(He) got himself Roger Federer of Switzerland during his Qatar ExxonMobil Open Round of 16 match against Britain’s Dan Evans at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex on Despite a reduced crowd in out of trouble (at 3-3 and) then Wednesday. Federer won 7-6 (8), 3-6, 7-5. (Photo by Samer Al Rejjal/Qatar Tennis Federation/AFP) Doha due to COVID-19 restric- when I was 4-5 down he really tions, Federer received a warm came at me. I felt a lot of pres- welcome to Centre Court. sure from him, from his game.” Results; Thursday Order of Play Federer repaid local fans Federer will face Nikoloz Men’s Singles Tunisia, 6-2, 6-2. Philipp Oswald, Austria, and Marcus Daniell, New Starts 2:30pm 1-Dominic Thiem vs 5-Roberto Bautista Agut for their support with a thrill- Basilashvili in the quarter- Round of 16 Taylor Fritz, United States, def. David Goffin (6), Zealand, def. John Millman, Australia, and David Singles Quarter-finals Court A ing opening set, which went all finals. Andrey Rublev, Russia, def. Richard Gasquet, Belgium, 6-1, 5-7, 7-6 (9). Vega Hernandez, Spain, 6-4, 6-1. Taylor Fritz vs 4-Denis Shapovalov Starts at 2:30pm the way to a tie-break. The 20- The Georgian broke Malek France, walkover. Roger Federer (2), Switzerland, def. Daniel Evans, Fabrice Martin and Jeremy Chardy, France, def. Doubles semi-finals time Grand Slam champion Jaziri on six occasions to re- Roberto Bautista Agut (5), Spain, def. Alexander Britain, 7-6 (8), 3-6, 7-5. Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic (2), Croatia, 6-4, 6-4. Followed by 1-Juan Sebastian Cabal/Robert Farah vs Marcus Bublik, Kazakhstan, 6-4, 6-3. Marton Fucsovics, Hungary, def. Lloyd Harris, Aslan Karatsev and Andrey Rublev, Russia, def. 3-Andrey Rublev vs Marton Fucsovics or Lloyd Daniell/Philipp Oswald fired multiple forehand win- cord a 6-2, 6-2 win on Court B. Denis Shapovalov (4), Canada, def. Vasek South Africa, 4-6, 7-6 (7), 6-2 Jean-Julien Rojer, Netherlands, and Marcelo Melo Harris ners, including one at 5/6 to Federer won his only Pospisil, Canada, 7-5, 6-4. Men’s Doubles (Quarterfinals) (4), Brazil, 6-2, 6-3. Followed by / After suitable rest save set point, and came to the previous ATP Head2Head Dominic Thiem (1), Austria, def. Aslan Karatsev, Robert Farah and Juan Sebastian Cabal (1), Not before 6pm Aslan Karatsev/Andrey Rublev or Marcelo Melo/ net to rush his opponent. encounter against Basilash- Russia, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-2. Colombia, def. Frederik Nielsen, Denmark, and Tim Thursday Order of Play Nikoloz Basilashvili vs 2-Roger Federer Jean-Julien Rojer vs Jeremy Chardy/Fabrice On his third set point, vili 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 at the 2016 Nikoloz Basilashvili, Georgia, def. Malek Jaziri, Puetz, Germany, 6-3, 0-0, ret. Centre Court Followed by Martin. Federer struck his second Australian Open. Thiem battles past Karatsev; Shapovalov wins all-Canadian clash Fritz saves three match points to shock Goffin Agencies Doha

Top seed Dominic Thiem withstood the challenge of Russian wild card Aslan Kar- atsev on Wednesday in a comeback victory at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open. The World No. 4 bounced back from last month’s Austral- ian Open fourth-round exit by beating Karatsev 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-2 in one hour and 56 minutes. Fourth seed Denis Shapovalov beat fellow Canadian Vasek Pospisil in straight sets 7-5, 6-4. “We played in juniors 10 or 11 years ago, and we also prac- Top-seed Dominic Thiem of Austria overcame Russian Aslan Karatsev on Wednesday. Cup crown (d. Italy). rinka’s conqueror, qualifier Shapovalov will now chal- tised in Vienna, so he wasn’t Defending champion An- Lloyd Harris of South Africa lenge American Taylor Fritz, completely new to me,” said beat Kazakhstan’s Alexander break. Karatsev responded, sev’s serve once more in the drey Rublev, the third seed 4-6, 7-6 (7), 6-2, in the final who saved three match points Thiem, who hit nine aces and Bublik, this season’s Antalya winning the next five points to first game of the decider. from Russia, advanced to the match on day three. in the deciding set to over- won 83 per cent of his first- Open and Singapore Tennis clinch the 52-minute opener, Last month, Karatsev be- Doha quarter-finals without come David Goffin of Belgium. service points against Kar- Open finalist, 6-4, 6-3 in 70 which ended with a Thiem came the first player in the hitting a ball after his oppo- Shapovalov to meet Fritz Fritz beat sixth seed Goffin, atsev. “But he has raised his minutes. The Spaniard won backhand error. Open Era (since April 1968) nent, France’s Richard Gas- Denis Shapovalov was rock the recent Open Sud de France level so much in the past six 32 of 37 first-service points to Thiem regrouped in the to reach the semi-finals of a quet, the 2013 Doha titlist, solid on serve as the fourth champion, 6-1, 5-7, 7-6(9) in months, especially last month advance to the quarter-finals. second set, with Karatsev pay- Grand Slam championship withdrew ahead of their match seed won an all-Canadian clash two hours and 35 minutes. in Australia,” he added. In a high quality first set, ing the price for two double on his main draw debut. The due to a leg injury. against Vasek Pospisil 7-5, 6-4 The World No. 33, who led Thiem will next face 2019 which didn’t feature a break faults in the second game. Thi- 27-year-old rose from No. 114 Rublev will have a rematch in one hour and 45 minutes. Goffin by a set and 3-1, was champion and fifth seed Rob- point en route to the tie-break, em varied his groundstroke to No. 42 in the FedEx ATP of last week’s ABN AMRO One break of serve in each set forced to save three match erto Bautista of Spain. One Thiem struggled to return length and service pace to take Rankings after his perfor- World Tennis Tournament fi- was enough for Shapovalov, points at 5-6 in the third set, break of serve in each set was Karatsev’s serve, but opened a 3-0 lead and carried the mo- mances in Melbourne. He also nal against Hungary’s Marton who struck seven aces and then at 6/7 and 8/9 in the tie- enough for Bautista Agut to up a 5/2 advantage in the tie- mentum by breaking Karat- helped Russia capture the ATP Fucsovics who beat Stan Waw- didn’t face a break point. break. (atptour.com) 14 Thursday, March 11, 2021 Sports

Aaley Al Magam completes a double landing Rodat Al Maida Cup

Meshaal bin Ali Al Attiyah’s Aaley Al Magam (Amer x Abigaille) made a scintillating run on the inside on the home straight to win for the second straight time this season following his Al Zubara Trophy victory over the HH The Amir Sword Festival weekend with the Rodat Al Maida Cup (Local Purebred Arabian Conditions) at the Al Uqda Complex at QREC’s 37th Race Meeting on Wednesday. In the dirt feature over 2000m, JP Guillambert tracked leaders early on before finding traffic on the home straight, and instead choosing to go down the rails and edging out Umm Qarn’s Sealine (Amer x Jaljalah), ridden by Soufiane Saadi for trainer Alban Elie De Mieulle, by a neck at the post. Injaaz Stud’s Lekhraib (AF AlBahar x Grace T), trained by Mohammed Ghazali, settled for a close third under Marco Casamento. (Pic centre): Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club’s (QREC) Acting CEO Bader Al Dariwsh hands over the trainer’s trophy to Jassim Gazzali for Aaley Al Magam. Bach overwhelmingly re-elected as IOC chief and for commercial opportu- Former fencing nities at the Games. gold medallist was Bach’s tasks in his second term also include overseeing unopposed and this summer’s Tokyo Olym- won the vote 93-1, pics amid the coronavirus pandemic and the Beijing with four members 2022 Winter Games where Dortmund’s Norwegian forward Erling Braut Haaland holds his China is under fire for its “Man of the Match” trophy after the UEFA Champions League Last-16 abstaining treatment of the Uighurs mi- 2nd-leg match against Sevilla FC at the Signal Iduna Stadium in nority and the crackdown on Dortmund, Germany, on Tuesday. (AFP) DPA protests in Hong Kong. Berlin Bach reiterated that the IOC and Japan are fully com- Thomas Bach was on mitted, Tokyo the best pre- Haaland fires Wednesday all but unani- pared hosts and that “the mously re-elected as presi- question is not whether, but dent of the International how these Olympic Games Olympic Committee (IOC) will take place. Dortmund into for a final term of four years “There is no doubt the at a virtual IOC Session. opening ceremony will take The Session voted 93- place on July 23.” 1, with four abstentions, in “We must always be quarter-finals favour of Bach who was the guided by science and facts,” only candidate. Bach said, naming them the simple task to find the net. Germany’s Bach, 67, a driving force for the play- Porto stun Dortmund had been under fencing gold medallist in books developed for every pressure until then, though Se- 1976, was first electedI OC stakeholder at the Games. Juventus villa struggled to create clear president in 2013 for an Bach highlighted that DPA chances, but Haaland gave eight-year term in succession International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach speaking after being re-elected during the some 270 World Cup events Berlin them breathing space. of Jacques Rogge. 137th IOC Session held virtually in Lausanne on Wednesday. (AFP) or world championships Haaland had a goal was Under IOC rules he can have been held since Septem- Erling Haaland contin- disallowed after review soon serve one more term over that solidarity is important come more digital, esports ber, with some 30,000 ath- ued his astonishing Champi- after the restart but an earlier four years, with a new presi- and suggested to change to be supported and athletes’ letes overall and more than ons League scoring record to foul on him by Jules Kounde dent to be elected in 2025. the Olympic slogan “faster, rights to be reinforced, after 200,000 coronavirus tests. fire Borussia Dortmund into in the build-up gave Dort- “Thanks from the bot- higher, stronger” to “faster, Thanks from the bottom of the original programme saw “Not a single event turned the last eight for the first time mund a penalty. tom of the heart for the higher, stronger - together.” the heart for the bidding and hosting being into a virus spreader. That is in four years with a 2-2 home Keeper Bono saved the overwhelming vote of con- “This could be a strong overwhelming vote of made cheaper and Games obvious proof that an inter- draw against Sevilla while Ju- kick but another review fidence. This is touching me commitment to our core val- more sustainable. national event can be organ- ventus crashed out on away deemed he left his line early deeply and making me hum- ue of solidarity and an appro- confidence. This is touching “The coronavirus crisis ized while safeguarding the goals to 10-man Porto. and Haaland made no mis- ble,” Bach said after the IOC priate and humble adaption me deeply and making me has changed our world in health of everyone,” Bach Dortmund were defending take with the retake - though members congratulated him to the challenges of this new humble. profound ways. said, adding that the Olym- a 3-2 first leg lead from Spain he did earn a booking in the in many languages once vice- world,” he said. Nobody should even pics have an advantage be- on Tuesday and Haaland eased aftermath - to better Har- president Anita DeFrantz Many IOC members had Thomas Bach, dream of going back to the cause “several vaccines are their nerves against the run of ry Kane’s previous best tally had announced the result. earlier heaped praise on IOC President way things were before,” already widely in use.” play in the 35th minute. of 24 games to reach 20 goals Bach pledged that “my Bach and his leadership Bach said, naming Olympic Bach also said that thanks A second half penalty - at with room to spare and be- door, my ears and my heart around the ratification of programme named Olympic Agenda 2020+5 “our vision to Agenda 2020 sponsorship the end of a remarkable se- come the youngest to do so. remain open for each and eve- the Olympic Agenda 2020 Agenda 2020+5 and to be for this new world.” income will triple to 3 billion quence of video reviews - then “It was a hard game,” Haal- ryone. I hope I can count on reform programme, with ratified by the Session on In addition, many ath- dollars 2021-2024, and more brought the 20-year-old Nor- and told Sky. “But it feels very your continued dedication.” DeFrantz’s words at the end Friday, is another task. letes have been calling for a than 4 billion dollars secured wegian Haaland to 10 goals in good to be in the next round.” Bach said that the coro- moving him to tears. The 15 recommenda- bigger saying and more free- from sponsors and broad- six Champions League games Two of Haaland’s goals navirus pandemic had shown The next step of the reform tions include the IOC to be- dom to express themselves casters for 2029-2032. this season and a record 20 in also came away to Sevilla as 14 career appearances in the he made the difference in elite competition. each leg. Dortmund’s interim Youssef En-Nesyri’s spot- coach Edin Terzic hailed his kick reduced the deficit and performance as “exceptional.” Dortmund held on despite En- En-Nesyri’s 69th minute pen- Nesyri making it 5-4 on aggre- alty, after Emre Can fouled Ferrari unveil new car for 2021 F1 season gate deep into stoppage-time. Luuk de Jong, and fine header Juventus were eliminated six minutes into added time DPA unit appeared to “have re- “It’ll debut next year and also has a new livery. in Bahrain on March 12-14, after a 4-4 aggregate draw sparked a frantic finale but Berlin covered quite a lot of speed be even more important be- The posterior part has a where the season will kick thanks to a long-range free-kick Dortmund held on. on the straights,” one Ferra- cause it’ll be with us for at burgundy colour, the same off on March 28 after the from Sergio Oliveira in extra- “We’re not happy with the Ferrari unveiled their new ri’s biggest issues last year. least three years of racing,” one they used last year at Australian race scheduled a time despite holding a man ad- result. We played really well,” car for the 2021 Formula “We have put enormous he added. Formula One will Mugello to celebrate their week earlier was postponed vantage for more than an hour. En-Nesyri, told Movistar. One season on Wednesday, energy into this project freeze all engine develop- 1,000th Grand Prix, and because of the coronavirus Oliveira thumped the de- “Truth is, we didn’t have two days before pre-season but at the same time we’re ment once the 2021 season also very similar to Ferrari pandemic. cisive set piece under the wall any luck - they had one chance testing in Bahrain, and be- already working hard on has concluded. first racing car in 1947. and beyond the despairing and they scored. ing the last team to do so. the power unit for 2022,” The SF21, which will be There’s also a splash of dive of Wojciech Szczesny and “We wanted to stay in the The SF21 has the task to power unite director Enrico driven by Charles Leclerc green highlighting one of though Adrien Rabiot replied competition. We weren’t lucky put behind the team’s terri- Gualtieri said. and newcomer Carlos Sainz the team’s sponsor. immediately for Juventus - to but I’m happy with the effort ble 2020 season, which was (previously at McLaren), Leclerc and Sainz secure a 3-2 win on the night of the team. We fought until Ferrari’s worst since 1980, will do a shakedown - Porto went thanks to scoring the last minute.” Juventus had finishing sixth inthe con- with the car before twice in Turin. hope at home thanks to Fed- structors’ championships. preseason testing Paris Saint-Germain and erico Chiesa’s late away goal “This car was born out of Liverpool take leads into last in Porto and he levelled on the last year’s car due to the new 16 second leg matches with night in the 49th minute from regulations. Barcelona and RB Leipzig on Cristiano Ronaldo’s neat layoff. So it was partially frozen Wednesday. Holders Bayern Taremi was dismissed in but we tried to improve it in Munich welcome Lazio on the 54th for a second yellow all of its areas, wherever it March 17 having won 4-1 in for kicking the ball away and was possible,” team princi- Rome. Sevilla are record win- Chiesa headed an aggregate pal Mattia Binotto said. ners of the Europa League but equalizer moments after strik- Binotto said the aerody- only once have they reached the ing the post. namics was revised and the Champions League last eight Oliveira’s 19th-minute car has a completely new This image handout by the Ferrari and Haaland ensured they did penalty, given for a soft foul power unit. Press Office in Maranello on Wednesday shows not improve that record despite on Taremi, had put Porto in During the team launch Ferraris Spanish driver Carlos Sainz Jr (right) and Ferrari’s an impressive start. the driving seat and his bril- on February 26, Binotto had Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc posing with Ferrari’s new A mix-up conceded posses- liant long drive, which Szczesny already said the new power single-seater Formula One SF21 for the 2021 season. (AFP) sion from a goal kick and Marco could only help in off the post, Reus’ cut back gave Haaland a won the tie in the 115th. Sports Thursday, March 11, 2021 15 Campillo embraces role as defending champ as CB Qatar Masters begins at ECGC today

have made encouraging starts Qatar’s Ali Al to the 2021 Race to Dubai, Happy to be back with Sullivan finishing in a Shahrani to share of 25th at the Abu Dhabi I have had most of the attention this week, but I’m HSBC Championship, the first tee-off at 7.55am fine with it. It’s nice to be the defending champion. Rolex Series event of the year, It feels good to be back in Qatar, it’s a good course while Pieters finished tenth at Tribune News Network the Saudi International pow- Doha and I enjoyed playing it last year. ered by Softbank Investment Advisers. The Belgian has also Jorge Campillo is ready to Jorge Campillo missed just two cuts in his last tread new ground this week as 28 European Tour starts. he defends a European Tour Rising star Rasmus Ho- title for the first time in his jgaard is keen to build on his career at the $1.5mn Commer- strong start to the 2021 sea- cial Bank Qatar Masters 2021 son at this year’s Commercial which begins at the Education Bank Qatar Masters, after en- City Golf Club from Thursday. couraging performances dur- The Spaniard recorded his ing the Desert Swing. second European Tour win The Dane finished ina when he defeated Scotland’s share of 25th at the Abu Dhabi David Drysdale in a thrilling HSBC Championship, the first five-hole play-off atE duca- event of the year, and backed tion City Golf Club last season that up with a tied-ninth fin- - holing three putts from more ish at the Omega Dubai Desert than 20 feet on the extra holes. Classic and finished sixth at the The 34-year-old was una- Saudi International powered by ble to defend the Trophee Has- Softbank Investment Advisers. san II trophy he won in 2019 After missing the cut at the after the tournament was can- WGC-Workday Championship celled last year due to the glob- at The Concession, the 19-year- al coronavirus pandemic, with old, who won twice during his the 2020 Commercial Bank rookie season last year, hopes Qatar Masters proving to be to bounce back at Education the finalE uropean Tour event City Golf Club this week. before the enforced hiatus. “I struggled at the WGC at “It’s different (being de- The Concession, I think I got fending champion), I’ve never caught up in thinking about been in this position before the result there. It’s a big because the other tournament event, you want to play well. I I won (Trophee Hassan II) I was thinking more about that couldn’t defend it. It’s new for instead of producing good golf me. I have had most of the at- shots. That will be my focus tention this week, but I’m fine this week. I want to win as with it. It’s nice to be the de- Spaniard Jorge Campillo will be defending a European Tour title for the first time in his career at the $1.5mn Commercial Bank Qatar Masters 2021. much as possible, but it’s more fending champion. important that I keep improv- “I’ve had a long time to come back after the break. keep up in the play-off.” only second Qatari golfer to Qatar’s other golfer Ja- ren Fichardt, Justin Hard- ing my game and that should think about the win. I was “The play-off stands out Campillo will tee off with win the Qatar Open Amateur ham Al Kuwari will follow at ing and Eddie Pepperell are produce good results and playing good and was ready the most. It was such a great Frenchman Romain Lan- Championship in its 35-year 8.15am with South African also teeing it up in Doha this more wins, I hope. to go to India to try and win play-off. Besides all the putts gasque and Italian Renato history, will tee off at 7.55am Dean Burmester and Eng- week, as are 2016 Ryder Cup “It feels good to be back in another golf tournament, but I made, I hit some good shots Paratore at 11.30am. along with India’s SSP Chaw- land’s Robert Rock being the players Thomas Pieters and Qatar, it’s a good course and I that was stopped because of too. David played great and I Qatar’s Ali Al Shahrani, rasia and Denmark’s Benja- others in his group. Andy Sullivan. enjoyed playing it last year.” the pandemic. It was hard to was glad I made those putts to who recently became the min Poke. Former champions Dar- Both Pieters and Sullivan (europeantour.com)

Quick read Tiger Woods ‘doing better’ as he recovers from car accident, says McIlroy London: Rory McIlroy has revealed that Tiger Woods is “doing better” – and also dishing out criticism – as he recovers in hospital from serious leg injuries suffered in a car accident. Woods underwent surgery on open fractures to his lower right leg and further injuries to his foot and ankle following a single-vehicle accident in Los Angeles on February 23. “I’ve spoken to him a little bit,” McIlroy said in an interview on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. “He’s doing better. I think all the guys have reached out to him and hopefully if things go well over the next week or so he might be able to get home and start to recover at home, which would be great for him, see his kids, see his family. “He’s doing better and just I think all of us are wishing him a speedy recovery at this point.” McIlroy was among the players who Woods thanked for the “touching” gesture of wearing his signature red and black for the final round of the WGC-Workday Championship, five days after the 45-year-old’s accident. But McIlroy also revealed that Woods has not been afraid to give his thoughts on the Northern Irishman’s recent form, including a final round of 76 in theA rnold Palmer Invitational. “He text me some words of encouragement before the final round of Bay Hill on Sunday and things didn’t quite go to plan and he was the first one to text me and be like ‘What’s going on here?’” McIlroy added. “So even from the hospital bed he’s still giving me some heat.” (DPA) 2021 Beach volleyball calendar and Olympic qualifiers announced

FIVB zilian Volleyball Confedera- Doha tion and city of Itapema to find a suitable date, possibly in The FIVB has announced the June or July, to stage another beach volleyball calendar for 4-star World Tour event. QCA announces AAB 2021, which will feature eight Following Tokyo 2020, 4-star events, nine 1 and 2-star where beach volleyball is set events, the World Tour Finals to captivate audiences world- Open U-16 online meet and the U19 World C’ships. wide, top beach volleyball The 2021 season, which is teams will once again meet in for young enthusiasts already underway with the Ka- Italy for the World Tour Finals tara Cup 2021 in Doha, is set on 8-12 September 2021. Tribune News Network Top 24 players along with to be full of exhilarating beach In addition, the U19 Beach Doha top 8 Qatari players, a total of volleyball action as the world’s Volleyball World Champion- 32, shall qualify for the finals. top teams compete for quota ships has been scheduled for The Qatar Chess Association The finals consist in a places at the Olympic Games 14-19 September in Roi Et, (QCA) will hold an open chess 32-player knock-out session. Tokyo 2020. Thailand. The hosts of the U21 tournament “AAB (Abdullah Every one-to-one match shall Six of the eight 4-star Beach Volleyball World Cham- Abdulghani & Bros) Open” for be played in 2 games of Rap- events scheduled will offer pionships will also be decided under-16 players in collabo- id Chess by (10min + 5sec/ Olympic ranking points, in- at a later stage. ration with AAB and Qatar- move). cluding the ongoing 4-star FIVB President Dr Ary S Streaming for young chess en- In case of a draw score 1-1, event in Doha, three back-to- Graca F, said: “We are delight- thusiasts from March 26, 2021. players shall play up to the first back events in Cancun, Mexico ed to announce the beach vol- The finals (Rapid chess win by (5min + 3sec/move). from 16 April to 2 May, one leyball calendar for 2021 with by knockout system) will take The winner will receive a event in Sochi, Russia on 26- several prestigious stops on place on April 1 and April 9, a prize of QR3500, while the 30 May and one in Ostrava, Qatar’s top pair of Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan after defeating Spanish duo of Herrera and Gavira 2-0 the road. The FIVB has invest- release from QCA stated. runners-up will get QR1750. Czech Republic on 2-6 June. (21-16, 21-15) in the FIVB World Tour 4-Star Katara Cup at the Al Gharafa Beach Complex on Wednesday. ed a total of USD 3 million into “The tournament will be The semi-finals will receive The Olympic Ranking will this year’s events to support played over three consecutive QR1000 each, quarter-final- be officially published on 14th Olympic qualification 4-star the world’s top beach volley- tournaments, and working in the host countries and pro- Fridays in two exciting and ists QR500 each, Round of 16 June to determine the 15 high- event in Gstaad, Switzerland ball players visit Cancun, Mex- collaboration with the Mexi- moters during these challeng- competitive stages. A Live finishers QR250 each. est ranked teams per gender. on 6-11 July. ico to compete at three back- can Volleyball Federation, the ing times, set up the first-ever Stream session will be held Those finishing from 10th These teams will earn a While the Olympic ranking to-back 4-star events on 16-20 Quintana Roo local govern- Cancun Hub, and ultimately during the finals. The win- to 16th shall also be awarded quota place for the Olympic list will be released on 14 June, April, 22-26 April and 28 April ment and the event promoter to ensure our beach volleyball ner will be determined dur- QR250 each. Games Tokyo 2020, respect- the last remaining quota places - 2 May 2021. This never seen Moveo-lab, to guarantee ath- players have a good number of ing the last knock-out round Every participant in the ing the maximum of two quota per gender and continent will before multi-tournament hub letes the opportunity to com- events to play at prior to the at the iconic Lexus Building,” qualifying stage must fill up places per National Olympic be up for grabs from 21 to 27 will minimise travel for ath- pete in a safe environment be- Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. it added. the following online form: htt- Committee. June during the five Continen- letes and feature total prize fore the Olympic Games Tokyo “Players are at the heart of The qualifying stage will ps://docs.google.com/forms/ Beach volleyball players tal Cup Finals organised by the money of USD 900,000 (USD 2020, while earning ranking our sport and we will do what- be played in 11 Rounds of Blitz d/1MKs3c5A4ki9LMjCp8zZq will also have one last chance Continental Confederations. 300,000 per event). points and prize money. ever it costs to create opportu- Chess (5min + 3sec/move by P5TKeZ2kywLAuK05VPwZR to practise their craft against One of the highlights of the The FIVB is significantly Meanwhile, the FIVB is nities for them to return to the Swiss System). Mw/edit the world’s best in a non- tour, the Cancun Hub, will see investing in the Cancun Hub working closely with the Bra- court safely.” 16 Thursday, March 11, 2021 The Last Word Qatar committed to empowering women: QF official Ailyn Agonia the Queen Elizabeth II’s Dia- do more for the community. to be a collective challenge in people in many sectors locally “It is possible to have a DOHA mond Jubilee Medal for her It’s because of this support all sectors for many women. and globally. I am fortunate family, have a successful ca- achievements in Qatar and her and freedom that I believe I “I personally struggle with in my current sector that it is reer, have a great marriage and By supporting women in the exceptional service to Canada. have been able to achieve what the idea of ‘balancing’ all ar- made up of 40 percent women be healthy and happy yourself. workplace and putting more She is a proud alumna of HEC I have achieved in my field. eas, at the time. I believe that in leadership roles. Due to this, It’s not easy, it takes a huge women in iconic leadership Paris, a member of QF. Working in an incredible eco- at times, certain areas are not I have never felt a glass ceiling amount of planning, schedul- positions, Qatar has demon- In an interview with Qa- system like the Education City balanced, and I’ve learnt to ac- because I am a woman. I know ing, managing multiple cal- strated its commitment to em- tar Tribune on the occasion has also helped me achieve cept that’s okay; we’re human this is a special case and again, endars and sometimes letting powering women, said Amy of International Women’s success; for those who aren’t at the end of the day. What’s its important women and men one thing be less than okay in Johnson, director of Com- Day, the senior executive currently familiar with the important is you give focused collectively push past any glass order to move another area munity Engagement at Qatar said while a gap still exists EC, I encourage you to explore and dedicated time to each ceilings by using their influ- ahead. But with the right fam- Foundation -- Community De- in Qatar, as in other parts of its various community pro- area when you are in the mo- ence and voice to ensure people ily, community and managers velopment. the world, it is a global chal- grammes and academic insti- ment. Planning, honest com- are chosen for positions based around you, and with a lot of Johnson is an award- lenge that is being faced and tutions -- no matter your age, munication and scheduling on their skillset and not their communications and being winning executive with global requires global effort. EC has something for everyone is for me personally. It’s also gender,” she added. open and honest with yourself, leadership experience in man- “Every day I come to the of- -- to see if something can help important to make sure you On this year’s slogan for the sky is the limit! Make sure aging and operating within fice, I know I am empowered you achieve greater success in are surrounded by supportive International Women’s Day you find that strong network family business, not-for-profit, and asked to explore fearlessly. your life,” said Johnson. Amy Johnson people professionally and per- ‘#ChooseToChallenge’, John- who supports you and find an corporate and sporting event I have incredible women lead- Touching on the current sonally,” she said. son said for her this resonates as amazing boss who works with environments. The mother of ers around me who inspire me challenges for women, she said family life, marriage and the “I believe the glass ceiling speaking up and having a voice you! You can do anything!” four children is a recipient of daily to push and achieve and balancing a successful career, pandemic, among others prove exists and is very real for many and support other women. Johnson remarked. HBKU’s QEERI, CARE-C QCDC’s Career Guide helping young to assess environmental people plan for post-pandemic future Tribune News Network ongoing efforts to help the sector “QCDC strives to make career guid- hazard risk in Middle East Doha overcome the COVID-19 crisis. ance the best means to help young An interview with Sheikha Lat- people achieve their professional Qatar Career Development ifa Khalid Al Thani, Education Sec- and practical aspirations, by ap- Center (QCDC), a member of Qa- tor Executive at Microsoft Qatar, propriately guiding skills and po- tar Foundation, recently launched about her career and her inspiring tentials in a manner that serves Qa- the 11th edition of its Career Guide journey as the first Qatari woman to tar’s future aspirations. Therefore, magazine, which aims to tackle work at the global tech giant, is an we focus our efforts on reaching all challenges posed by COVID-19, opportunity for the youth to learn community groups, especially stu- within the education sector and la- from her experiences. dents and youth, through various bour market, and help young peo- In honour of the tremendous activities and events that help them ple plan for a post-pandemic future. efforts the nation’s healthcare achieve a better understanding of The new issue of the Career resources, economics and futurol- workers have exerted during the career guidance.” Guide looks closely at the future of ogy, the 11th edition discusses the COVID-19 crisis, the magazine’s Apart from Career Guide mag- the educational process, expecta- future of work in light of the pan- Exploring Careers section is dedi- azine, QCDC issues a wide range of tions and lessons learned from the demic and post-pandemic effects. cated to highlighting a variety of other specialised publications. In global pandemic, which has forced The challenges and solutions medical professions, introducing February 2020, QCDC career guid- Tribune News Network early warning systems to assess natural most countries to apply strict pre- facing the education sector in Qatar young people to the details of each ance experts released the Career Doha hazards and support policy and decision- cautionary measures, suspend in- are the focus of a discussion with position and the skills required. Q&A for Graduates and Job Seek- making processes. We look forward to person classes in schools and uni- Undersecretary of the Ministry of QCDC Director Abdulla Al ers, tackling the most frequently The Qatar Environment and Energy Re- working alongside Cyl to support efforts versities, and pivot to e-learning. Education and Higher Education Mansoori explains why the Career asked career questions to help search Institute (QEERI) at Hamad Bin in reducing the risks of natural and envi- Through interviews with an ex- HE Dr Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuai- Guide has been a vital resource them take practical steps in their Khalifa University (HBKU) and the Cli- ronmental hazards.” clusive group of experts in human mi, where he explains the ministry’s for more than a decade, saying: career path. mate and Atmosphere Research Center Prof Jean Sciare, director of the (CARE-C) of The Cyprus Institute (CyI) CARE-C, added: “Combining the sys- have signed a collaboration agreement to tems we already have in place, such as estimate and predict contamination risks CARE-C’s EMAC model and QEERI’s and associated impacts from the atmos- WRF-Chem model (Weather Research pheric dispersion of radionuclides ac- and Forecasting with Chemistry), helps ‘The Priest’ marks debut of Doha-based Truth Global Films cidentally released by a major industrial us make more accurate assessments. We facility in the Middle East. work in close collaboration with global Tribune News Network The QEERI-CARE-C collaboration partners to conduct pioneering research Doha The Malayalam-language film brings superstars Mammootty aims to develop a methodology for envi- programs involving cutting-edge, high ronmental hazard risk and vulnerability throughput technologies, in order to ad- The worldwide release of Malay- and Manju Warrier together on silver screen for the first time assessment in the Middle East, in addi- dress problems of regional as well as in- alam film ‘The Priest’ on Thursday tion to test this methodology by estimat- ternational significance.” (March 11) marks the film-distri- ing the risk to the population in Qatar, in Dr Marc Vermeersch, executive di- bution debut of Doha-based Truth case of a severe accident at a nuclear or rector, QEERI, said: “We believe partner- Global Films (TGF). industrial risk site. ships such as the one we recently signed TGF is the first Doha-based The main objectives of the agreement with Cyl resonates with our goal to be company to have won the overseas are the establishment of preliminary radi- a catalyst for positive transformation distribution rights of an Indian film, oactivity risk maps regarding atmospher- in Qatar and the region while having a its chairman Abdul Samad said, ic deposition of -- and the population’s global impact. This partnership is crucial adding that the film — which brings exposure to -- radionuclides following to leverage the expertise of both QEERI’s Malayalam superstars Mammootty potential nuclear accidents in the Mid- researchers as well as the specialists from and Manju Warrier together on sil- dle East. Secondly, the risk assessment of Cyl to assess potential risks, and to pro- ver screen for the first time — would atmospheric deposition and population vide robust and timely recommendations be released in 16 theatres in Qatar. exposure to radioactivity and other toxic to minimise the risk for Qatar.” In the GCC, The Priest will be substances following potential accidents NEHO, established by QEERI mid- released in 108 theatres, a record at industrial facilities. The collaboration 2019, aims to assess, understand, observe for a Malayalam film, despite the will also lead to the establishment of an and mitigate natural and environmental cinemas being shut in Bahrain and early warning system for radioactive and hazards in Qatar through research and Kuwait due to the COVID-19 pan- other toxic spills in the atmosphere in technology developments to support gov- demic, Samad said. This, according munity leaders is being organ- dialogues are written by Deepu soundtrack composed and pro- the Middle-East region, using numerical ernmental and community response and to him, is also the third biggest re- ised by TGF, Qatar Mammootty Pradeep and Shyam Menon, and duced by Rahul Raj. forecasting tools. recovery actions. lease for an Indian film in the GCC. Fans and Welfare Association, the film is produced by B Un- “‘The Priest’ is a start for Truth Dr Huda Al Sulaiti, senior research CARE-C aims to address the risks as- To celebrate the Qatar release and Radio Malayalam 98.6 FM on nikrishnan and Anto Joseph. Global Films,” said Samad. It has director at QEERI’s Natural and Environ- sociated with air pollution and climate of The Priest — the first Malay- Thursday evening. The first-lookposter shows struck overseas distribution deals mental Hazards Observatory (NEHO), change, with a special focus on the East- alam film under a major banner Being billed a mystery thriller, Mammootty’s title character in with five other Malayalam film, said: “At NEHO, we aim to use our state- ern Mediterranean Middle East region, to come to Qatar after the out- The Priest is directed by debu- a hooded cassock against the including social drama ‘Varthama- of-the-art facilities in characterisation, through a combination of research, inno- break — a special screening for tant Jofin T Chacko and is based backdrop of a church and the nam’, starring Parvathy Thiruvothu modelling and forecasting to establish vation and education activities. Indian film producers and com- on a story by him. The script and film features original score and and Roshan Mathew. SC highlights accessibility plans for Qatar WC 2022 at UNHRC meet Tribune News Network the tournament offers what she ers have been working hard to a seamless fan experience for Doha described as “a safe, dignified deliver and will continue to re- people with disabilities during and independent” experience fine,” Meer added. the tournament, through test- The Supreme Committee for for fans with disabilities and Qatar 2022 is set to be the ing, evaluating and consulting Delivery & Legacy (SC) recently limited mobility. most compact tournament in on plans before they are imple- participated in the 46th session “We are hard at work pre- modern history with the dis- mented to ensure the best out- of the United Nations Human paring for the event to be as tance between the eight stadi- comes,” said Meer. Rights Council (UNHRC). accessible as possible. Our goal ums ranging between five kilo- As a result of ongoing con- Bodour Al Meer, SC’s Sus- is for the event to be accessible metres and 75 kilometres. This sultations through the Acces- tainability director, took part in for all people,” said Meer before will potentially enable fans to sibility Forum, Meer pointed to a panel discussion that focused outlining the different touch- attend more than one match per improvements made through on the rights of people with points of a person’s journey, day during the early stages of the provision of accessibil- disabilities to have equitable identified as part of the tourna- Bodour Al Meer the tournament. ity training to all tournament access to sports activities, facili- ment’s accessibility plans. At the heart of this unique volunteers, the upgrade of ac- ties and events. First, Meer addressed sible experience. experience will be a modern cessibility features at entertain- The two-hour session was match tickets, stating that FIFA Meer also discussed the transportation system that ment venues across the country chaired by President of UNHRC will allocate dedicated acces- availability of accessible accom- will connect fans across sta- Fans with disabilities, particu- includes getting to and from the and the installation of sensory Nazhat Shameem Khan and sible seating for fans with dis- modation, saying, “A range of diums, accommodation, fan larly wheelchair users, can also stadium, watching the match rooms in stadiums to provide included a series of video mes- abilities or limited mobility at accessible accommodation op- zones and numerous cultural make use of a growing fleet of from a comfortable seat, buy- a managed space for children sages that discussed enabling all stadiums. Once fans have tions are available, including sites. There will be no air trav- accessible taxis, made available ing a drink and something to with Autism. persons with disabilities to par- purchased tickets, Meer dis- accessible rooms at major inter- el between matches, with all around the clock by Mowasalat, eat. They also include assistance She said, “The pace of de- ticipate in recreation, leisure cussed how Qatar Airways, the national hotel chains, cabins on visitors able to stay in the same the country’s national taxi ser- through specially trained staff velopment across Qatar is truly and sports on an equal basis. country’s national carrier, has board moored cruise liners or accommodation throughout vice provider. and volunteers.” remarkable and it is guided The Permanent Mission of Qa- several accessibility services in apartment hotels.” the tournament. With reference to the acces- The SC established an Ac- by our National Vision 2030, tar to the UN supported the SC’s place to support all travellers. “Once they’ve landed, fans Meer assured the audience sibility features of the venues cessibility Forum in 2016 to which sets out a blueprint for participation in the event. She also mentioned that will experience barrier-free ac- that fans with disabilities will set to host matches during the facilitate input and user testing where we aim to be in just un- With under two years to go tournament organisers are in cess, accessible check-in coun- be able to enjoy the compact tournament, Meer said, “The from the disabled community der 10 years’ time. This includes until the first FIFA World Cup touch with the airline to ensure ters, accessible washrooms and nature of the tournament by heart of the tournament – the in Qatar. making sure that people with in the Middle East and Arab that passenger services are specialised services, as well making use of the Doha Metro, stadiums – have all the neces- “This forum is made up of disabilities are fully integrated world, Meer discussed the many fully optimised during Qatar as a dedicated lounge. This is which boasts a fully accessible sary facilities for everyone to 80 people from 25 different or- and active participants across measures put in place to ensure 2022 to ensure a truly acces- something that our stakehold- network across its 37 stations. have a great experience. This ganisations and aims to ensure all aspects of society.”