Thursday May 13, 2021 Shawwal 1, 1442 Vol.14 no. 5257 QR 2

Fajr: 3:25 am Dhuhr: 11:30 am fine Asr: 2:57 pm Maghrib: 6:12 pm High : 42°C LOW : 28 °C Isha: 7:42 pm

World 7 Business 8 Sports 12 India’s official coronavirus death IEA sees strong rebound in oil Attiyah and Baumel face stiff toll surpasses 250,000 demand in 2021 H2 competition at Andalucia Rally

Amir exchanges Eid Al Fitr greetings

QNA HH the Amir exchanged Eid Doha greetings with President of Afghani- stan Mohammad Ashraf Ghani in a His Highness the Amir of State of phone call HH the Amir received on Amir to perform Eid Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Wednesday. Thani on Wednesday exchanged HH the Amir also received a mes- Al Fitr prayers today cables of greetings, with a number of sage from Shura Council Speaker Eid leaders of Arab and Islamic coun- HE Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al The Amiri Diwan has announced that His Highness the Amir tries, on the occasion of the blessed Mahmoud, on the occasion of the of State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will Eid Al Fitr. blessed Eid Al Fitr, which included his Mubarak perform the blessed Eid Al Fitr prayer along with citizens at HH the Amir also received congratulations and the congratula- Al Wajba praying area on Thursday morning. The Amiri Diwan cables of greetings on this occasion tions of the Shura members on this wished that this blessed occasion be full of goodness and from a number of leaders of friendly occasion. HH the Amir responded blessings for Qatar, Arab and Islamic nations. (QNA) countries. with a cable of thanks.

Calls grow for reducing escalation in Gaza Children above 12 can QNA Doha take Pfizer vaccine jab With escalation in Israel-Gaza vio- lence fuelling fears of a full-scale war, international efforts and calls for ur- Vaccine validity for quarantine exemption People over 30 years of age now eligible to gent de-escalation have increased. now extended to nine months: MoPH take COVID-19 vaccine after Eid holidays Deputy Prime Minister and Minis- ter of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mo- Tribune News Network The extension means that vac- hammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani Doha cinated people will have longer to received a phone call from US National take advantage of the additional Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. During Children aged from 12 to 15 privileges announced through the the call, they reviewed the develop- years are to be offered the Pfizer- lifting of restrictions plan pub- ments in Palestine. BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in lished earlier this week. The FM received a phone call from Qatar and the validity for quaran- It also means that fully vac- UN Special Coordinator for the Middle Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of tine exemption of all vaccines ad- cinated people are exempt from East Peace Process Tor Wennesland. Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin ministered in Qatar will be extend- quarantine requirements follow- The reviewed developments in Pales- Abdulrahman Al Thani received a series of ed from the previously approved ing travel abroad (except for six tine, and the need for joint action to phone calls to discuss ways to help reduce six months to nine months. specific countries) and following reduce recent escalation in Jerusalem the escalation in Gaza. This was announced by the exposure to a COVID-19 positive and Gaza. Ministry of Public Health on case for a period of nine months – The FM also received a phone call Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland Wednesday. The ministry con- starting 14 days after receiving the from Minister of Foreign Affairs and Pekka Haavisto. firmed that all people aged over 30 We now have very strong second dose. Minister for Defense of Ireland Si- They reviewed developments in will be eligible to receive the vac- scientific evidence that The news comes in the week mon Coveney. During the call, they re- Palestine, and the need for joint action cine after the Eid holidays. when Qatar announced that more viewed developments in Palestine. to reduce recent escalation in Jerusa- “Extending the opportunity for shows that the Pfizer than half the eligible population The FM received a phone call from lem and Gaza. children aged 12 to 15 years to take vaccine is safe and effective for has been vaccinated with at least the Pfizer vaccine comes shortly 12-15-year-olds and we want to one vaccine dose as well as setting after Pfizer said that its study of ensure that every child in this age out a road map to the gradual lift- the vaccine’s use in participants in group has the opportunity to get ing of restrictions. that age groupnfound that it was vaccinated soon.” Dr Abdullatif Al Khal, Chair ‘safe and extremely effective in — Dr Abdullatif Al Khal, Chair of of the National Health Strategic Qatar stands firmly preventing COVID-19 cases’. The the National Health Strategic Group Group on COVID-19 and Head US Food and Drug Administration on COVID-19 of Infectious Diseases at Hamad approved the Pfizer-BioNTech Medical Corporation, said, “We with the Palestinian COVID-19 vaccine for children now have very strong scientific ages 12 to 15 years in the US,” the be able to register their children range of global studies looking at evidence that shows that the Pfizer MoPH said in a statement. to take the vaccine through the the effectiveness of the vaccine, the vaccine is safe and effective for cause: Mahmoud Offering the vaccine to 12 to 15 Ministry of Public Health website ministry also announced the valid- 12-15-year-olds and we want to year-olds in Qatar will help to en- (www.moph.gov.qa) from Sunday ity for quarantine exemption of all ensure that every child in this age sure a return to greater normality May 16, after which they will be vaccines administered in Qatar will group has the opportunity to get QNA when the school year starts this contacted by the Primary Health be extended from the previously ap- vaccinated soon.” Doha coming September. Care Corporation. proved six months to nine months The MoPH said parents will In addition to this, following a from Wednesday onwards. Continued on page 4  Speaker of the Shura Council HE Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud has stressed that Qatar un- der the leadership of His Highness the Amir of State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani considers the Palestinian issue its main cause. Fears of ‘full-scale war’ as He said Qatar stands firmly with Palestinian cause and it is acting re- sponsibly to ensure that Al Quds and Israel-Gaza violence intensifies Al Aqsa mosque return to the Arab Shura Council Speaker HE Ahmed bin Israel and Hamas continued to and Islamic World, and an independ- Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud. trade fire on ednesdayW as the worst ent Palestinian state is established fighting between the sides in years based on the borders of June 4 of 1967 lims, and Christians. showed no signs of abating and fears with East Al Quds as its capital. The Shura Council speaker paid grew of a “full-scale war.” He said Qatar strongly condemned tribute to the Palestinian people who Hamas, the group that rules the the Israeli aggression and called on are standing up to protect Al Aqsa Gaza Strip, launched a new barrage of the international community to inter- mosque, the Damascus Gate, the rockets into Israel after Israeli mis- fere and stop it. Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood, and siles destroyed a third tower in the He said, at an emergency meet- Gaza in the face of bullets. besieged coastal territory. Mosques to open for ing for Arab Parliaments’ Speakers He called for participants in the Heavy bombardment on the Gaza organised by the Arab Inter-Parlia- meeting to make sure they conclude Strip continued into Wednesday as Eid prayers at 4.35am mentary Union, the Arab Ummah is the meeting with a united position Israeli forces continued to launch inten- On the occasion of Eid Al Fitr for the year facing a decisive moment and a grave that would regain trust in joint Arab sive raids on various locations. Hamas 1442 AH, corresponding to 2021 AD, the challenge in how to protect Al Quds, work, and that becomes the basis for confirmed that its Gaza City commander, Bassem Issa, was killed in an Israeli airstrike along with other Eid prayer halls (open squares) will be Al Aqsa Mosque, and the Palestin- a new way of working to face the ar- senior members of the group. Local sources said Israeli fighter jets bombed sites belonging to alestinP - opened at 3:45am, the Ministry of Awqaf ian people in the occupied territories rogance and crimes of Israeli occu- ian armed groups, in addition to security and police buildings. In Gaza City’s Tel Al-Hawa neighbourhood, and Islamic Affairs has said in a tweet. from the racist, inhuman, and aggres- pation, and support the Palestinian a pregnant woman, Reema Telbani and her child were killed by an Israeli attack on their home. Gaza’s The mosques in which the Eid prayer sion by Israel using its army, police, people beyond supportive words and ministry of health said the overall death toll since the latest offensive began stood at 56, including 14 would be held will open at 4:35am. Eid and settlers in a clear challenge to statements. children. More than 300 others have been wounded. Six Israelis, including one child, have also been prayers are held at 5:05 in the morning, international law and disregard of killed. (Agencies) page 5 the ministry added. (TNN) the feelings of millions of Arabs, Mus- Continued on page 4 

04 Thursday, May 13, 2021 Nation HMC announces its working Qatar records 392 new Quick read hours during Eid Al-Fitr holidays COVID-19 cases, 3 deaths Deputy Amir exchanges Eid Al-Fitr Tribune News Network greetings Tribune News Network emergency medical assistance. May 14 and reopen on May 15 from Doha Doha The Nesma’ak call centre will 8am to 2pm. The Deputy Amir His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al be closed from Wednesday, May 12 The drive-through vaccination Qatar on Wednesday recorded 392 new COV- Thani exchanged cables of greetings with Their Highnesses The Trauma and Emergency Cent- to Friday, May 14 in observance if centres at Lusail and Al Wakra will ID-19 cases — 224 from within the community and Excellencies crown princes and vice-presidents of the er at the Hamad Medical Corpora- Eid Al-Fitr and will reopen on Sat- continue to operate throughout the and 168 among travellers returning from abroad. brotherly Arab and Islamic countries on the occasion of the tion (HMC) will continue to operate urday, May 15 at 10am. holiday period from 1pm to 12am The Ministry of Public Health also reported 862 blessed Eid Al-Fitr. (QNA) for 24 hours as normal throughout The Urgent Consultation Ser- with the last entry at 11pm. recoveries. the Eid Al-Fitr holiday period. vice will be closed from May 12 to HMC’s Blood Donor Centers With this, the active cases in Qatar declined Prime Minister exchanges Eid Al-Fitr The paediatric emergency May 14 and reopen on Saturday, will be closed from Wednesday, to 7,197 while the total recoveries jumped to greetings centres will also remain open May 15 from 8am to 3pm. May 12 until Friday, May 14 and 204,408. 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week The National Mental Health will reopen on Saturday, May 15 Within 24 hours, the virus claimed the lives Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin for medical emergencies involving Helpline will close to May 12 to from 12pm to 8pm. The tempo- of three persons, aged 56, 58 and 72, raising the Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani exchanged cables of greetings children under the age of 14 years. May 14 and reopen on May 15 from rary donor centres at Msheireb and total number of deaths so far to 519. with prime ministers of Arab and Islamic countries on the occa- The Ambulance Service will contin- 9am to 7pm. Souq Waqif will also be closed and As many as 35,485 doses of COVID-19 vaccine sion of the blessed Eid Al-Fitr. (QNA) ue to operate 24-hours-a-day, sev- The Pharmacy Home Delivery reopen on Saturday, May 15 from were administered in the last 24 hours, bringing en days a week for people requiring Service will be closed May 12 to 4pm to 8pm. the total doses given out so far to 1,911,663. STARZPLAY’s Eid line-up a fun Mahmoud says time to protect delight for whole family to enjoy Al Quds, support Palestinians the time of honest and serious liaments can reach a position Tribune News Network Continued from page 1  work that protects Al Quds that helps end that aggression Doha and supports the struggle of against holy sites, and pro- He stressed the importance of the Palestinian people who tects the Palestinian people in Families that await the Eid Arab parliamentary work in these are showing a heroic example the occupied territories from Al-Fitr break and look to plan difficult times, saying it would of defending your rights, led being murdered, oppressed, their itinerary for the upcom- have a big impact on meeting the by their right to establish an terrorised and displaced in a ing five days of holiday week- aspirations of the Arab people independent state on the bor- genocide and war crimes. end, STARZPLAY has got you and honouring the struggle of the ders of their territories that The Shura Council del- covered. MENA region’s lead- Palestinian people. were occupied in 1967”. egation included members of ing subscription video on de- He added that “the time The Shura Council Speaker the council Hady bin Said Al mand (SVOD) service is bring- for condemnation and denun- concluded his speech by ex- Khayarain, and Saqr bin Fahd ing an amazing assortment ciation has passed, and now is pressing hope that Arab par- Al Muraikhi. of English and Arabic pro- gramming for those looking for a quiet time at home with family. Whether you’re planning a movie marathon or just relax- Vaccinating youngsters to ing with a binge-watch fam- ily session, tune in to STAR- ZPLAY and enjoy a slew of reduce restrictions in schools new Hollywood blockbusters as well as a variety of day and have fallen in love with the Continued from page 1  interruptions to the educa- COVID-19 vaccines provide date boxsets in Arabic with neighbour’s sons and plan to tion system that we have is lasting beyond six months English subtitles. get married. Watch how things He continued, “Getting our seen at times during the which is very encouraging Here’s a look at STAR- change for his daughters as young people vaccinated pandemic. It will also allow news for everyone. The an- ZPLAY’s Eid content line-up: they overcome their challeng- will not only protect them our younger people to have nouncement extending the es. Watch the trailer here. against the virus but will greater freedoms to social- validity of the vaccine from Ted: The hilarious com- give us the opportunity to ise and participate in activi- six months to nine months edy for the grown-ups, Seth Heen Ra’at: Exclusive have less restrictions in ties going forward.” should give everyone much MacFarlane writes and directs Gulf thriller ‘Heen Ra’at’ star- schools in the future and “Global evidence is also greater peace of mind,” he this boundary-pushing live ring Khaled Amin, Amal Mu- may significantly reduce the clear that the protection the added. action/CG-animated com- hammad and Laila Abdullah, edy that tells the story of John which captures the story of two Bennett (Mark Wahlberg), girls who tragically lose their a grown man who must deal loved ones in a terrorist bomb- with the cherished teddy bear The Happening: From spectacular fight will be live ing. Watch the trailer here. DPS-MIS presents scholar badges, who came to life as the result director M. Night Shyama- streamed on STARZPLAY via of a childhood wish--and has lan (The Sixth Sense, Signs) the UFC add-on the platform. The innocents: Adapt- refused to leave his side ever comes a lightning-paced, ed from the memories of psy- proficiency awards to 199 students since. MacFarlane voices Ted, heart-pounding paranoid Below are STAR- chiatrist Gulseren Budayicio- the boy’s favorite toy who has thriller about a family on the ZPLAY’s top Arabic day glu, the story is based on real Tribune News Network become the man’s biggest lia- run from an inexplicable and and date & boxsets: life experiences. The Inno- Doha bility. - Watch the trailer here. unstoppable event that threat- Bab Al Hara: Set during the cents (Masumlar Apartmani) ens not only humankind but French occupation of Syria; tell the lives of Han’s (Birkan DPS-Modern Indian The Day the Earth the most basic human instinct after the bombing of a small Sokullu) family and the love School held an Academic Stood Still: A remake of the of them all: survival. Watch town in Damascus, the people story between him and Inci Award Ceremony on Sunday 1951 classic science fiction the trailer here. of Al-Dab’e alley have to take (Farah Zeynep Abdullah) to honour deserving students film of the same name, The refuge in Al-Salihiya alley, and who has her own complicated from classes VIII, IX and XI Day the Earth Stood Still is a Run The World Season carry on with their lives under relationships with family and (2020-21) for their outstand- 2008 American science fiction 1: A STARZ original series Run occupation, and life’s ordeals. friends. The series of over ing academic merit and excel- drama about an alien visitor The World is set in Harlem and 100 episodes is the first-run lence. and his giant robot counter- tells the story of a group of four Nabd Mu’aqat: By the Turkish content on STAR- It was a virtual event, and part who visits Earth. Directed best friends in their late 20s virtue of fate, a fertility special- ZPLAY and will be exclusive- 199 people received certifi- by Scott Derrickson and star- and early 30s who are thriving ist doctor discovers her inabil- ly available on STARZPLAY cates, badges, and medals for ring Keanu Reeves as Klaatu, in their careers, strengthening ity to conceive, and while she the same time as Turkey. their well-deserved success, Parents and teachers watched the academic award ceremony on Zoom. this version replaces the Cold their friendships, and navigat- and her husband accept their With more than 10,000 which they achieved through War theme of nuclear warfare ing their love lives. Watch the unfortunate fate, she discovers hours of premium content in- sheer perseverance, grit, and the importance of upholding and teachers for their efforts with the contemporary issue trailer here. a truth that shell-shocks her. cluding blockbuster movies, determination. values, coping with a chang- despite the year’s challenges of humankind’s environmen- Watch the trailer here. exclusive TV shows, kids con- Rocky Fernandes, direc- ing world, being grateful to and uncertainty, and advised tal damage to the planet. It UFC 262: Oliveira vs. tent and Arabic series, STAR- tor of DPS-Modern Indian all involved in the journey of them to remain committed to follows Klaatu, an alien sent Chandler: UFC fans can con- Ala Aldine: Ala Aldine ZPLAY is today the number School, was the chief guest. life, and using their success to their academic pursuits. to try to change human behav- clude the Eid holidays with assumes his two daughters one player in the MENA re- He praised the students for benefit, inspire, and influence A lively and upbeat dance ior or eradicate humans from the upcoming bout between are safe when he brings them gion. The service is available in their enthusiasm, resilience, other students. performance by senior school Earth. Watch the trailer here. Charles Oliveira and Michael back home. However, he soon 20 countries across the MENA and determined efforts to Asna Nafees, the prin- students rounded out the Chandler at UFC 262. The discovers that both of them and Pakistan. achieve their goal. He stressed cipal, praised the students programme. CBSE launches counselling app MES Indian School organises for students of classes IX to XII intra-class debate competition

Tribune News Network Tribune News Network Doha Doha

With an objective to help students The Department of English, Girls’ deal with the mental trauma amid Section of MES Indian School, or- the uncertain times of COVID-19, the ganised an online intra-class debate Central Board of Secondary Educa- for students of grades V and VI on tion (CBSE) of India has launched a Monday. The aim was to encourage counselling app named ‘CBSE Dost For critical thinking skills and improve Life’. poise, speech delivery, and oratory The app is available for students skills. from classes IX to XII and will help Principal of MES Indian School them maintain their psycho-social be conducted free of cost, thrice a week, the country, the Board has designed Hameeda Kadar was the chief guest wellness. The app will cater to a vari- on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, by this facility for the ease, convenience on the occasion. ety of issues faced by students, such as the trained counsellors or principals. and utility of students and parents Sehla Kabeer, the moderator, exam anxiety, internet addiction disor- Hameeda Kadar, principal MES within the safe home environment. announced the rules and regula- der, depression, specific learning dis- Indian School has been appointed as In addition, the CBSE has prepared tions to the eight participants. Four ability, exam-related traumatic stress the Counsellor for Qatar region by the educative material on social, emotional students from each team debated Basheer, and the Best Speaker pants. The competition was a fan- disorder, etc. CBSE to provide pre-examination psy- and behavioural issues such as exam whether or not animals should have (For) was Meherin Hafis. Sheba tastic experience for both the par- Students and parents can down- chological counselling to students and anxiety, internet addiction disorder, the same rights as humans. The Rebin M V was named Best Run- ticipants and the audience. load the app from Google PlayStore. the parents to help them overcome depression, specific learning disability, participants, who spoke with great ner Up (Against), and Bhavya Biju The judges for the Intra Class They can choose any of the two-time exam-related stress. substance use disorder and aggression, poise, persuaded the audience with was named Best Runner Up (For). debate were Chandra Lekha, Rema slots: 9.30 am to 1.30 pm or 1.30 pm The counselling programme com- and life skills to sensitize students and statistical data analysis to back up Arpitha Prasanth was named the Devi, and Shiny Suresh. Angeline to 5.30 pm and connect through a chat menced on May 10. Making a depar- masses alike. This can be accessed at their claims. competition’s “Best Speaker.” James proposed a vote of thanks, box as per their convenience. ture from the existing practice of coun- the website: cbse.nic.in and the You- The debate’s Best Speaker E-certificates were given to the and Devananda served as the The live counselling sessions will selling through toll free number across Tube channel of CBSE. (Against) was Aesha Fathima competition’s winners and partici- event’s host. World Thursday, May 13, 2021 05 Israel-Gaza ‘full-scale war’ fears escalate as deaths rise The number of Palestinians killed has risen to 53, including 15 children, while some 320 people were reported injured

dpa Gaza Strip. Tel Aviv According to reports, they contained offices of senior Ha- Israel and Hamas continued mas members. to trade fire on Wednesday as The buildings also housed the worst fighting between the Arabic media outlets. sides in years showed no signs Ben Gurion International of abating and fears grew of a Airport near Tel Aviv was tem- “full-scale war.” porarily closed for landings Israel has struck a range and departures because of the of targets in the Gaza Strip as rocket fire. Many schools are part of its airstrike response also closed in Israel. to the more than 1,000 rock- The airstrikes and rocket ets Palestinian militants have attacks followed violent clashes launched towards its territory in recent days at the Jerusalem since Monday. holy site known as the Temple The Health Ministry in the Mount to Jews and the Noble Hamas-run Gaza Strip said the Sanctuary to Muslims. number of Palestinians killed Hamas had issued a Mon- has risen to 53, including 15 Smoke billows following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City. day night ultimatum telling children, while some 320 peo- Israel to withdraw settlers and ple were reported injured. police from the Jerusalem holy Around 850 of the missiles site, parts of which had been launched by Palestinian forces Mourners attend the funeral of Palestinian Rashid Abu Ara, 16, who was killed during clashes with Israeli cordoned off, and from the were intercepted or went down troops in village of Aqaba near Nablus, in the north of the occupied West Bank on Wednesday. (afp) Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood. in Israel, while some 200 mis- Shortly after the deadline fired and landed in the Gaza responding to the barrage of Arab residents desecrated a expired, mass rocket attacks Strip, according to the Israeli rockets fired up and down its Airstrikes synagogue and set it on fire. began. military. territory with the most com- Dozens of cars were set alight Hamas either builds its The military reported its prehensive bombardment of ● Israeli airstrikes have and windows of stores were own weapons or smuggles first death in three days of the Gaza Strip since a clash be- destroyed all police smashed. The mayor of Lod them into the coastal area via fighting on Wednesday.A tween the two sides in 2014. buildings in the Gaza Strip called it a “civil war.” Police Egypt or by sea. The group, 21-year-old Israeli soldier was Israel’s air raid warning said that a man and a teenager which is classified as a terrorist hit by anti-tank missile fire sirens sounded on Wednesday ● A 21-year-old Israeli were killed in Lod. organization by Israel and the originating across the border mainly around coastal area but soldier was hit by anti-tank Israeli President Reuven Rockets are launched towards Israel from Gaza City. EU, has never given figures on in Gaza. also in cities such as Ashkelon, missile fire originating Rivlin strongly condemned the its rocket arsenal. Six people in Israel have Ashdod and Beersheva. across the border in Gaza riots as a “brutal attack on co- the population of 9 million. destroyed the house of a sen- Israeli Prime Minister Ben- now died and more than 200 “Stop the fire immediately,” existence in the state of Israel.” They face discrimination, and ior Hamas member in the jamin Netanyahu has said the have been injured. UN Special coordinator for the “The sight of the pogrom in Lod right-wing politicians often Gaza Strip. The house had also military operation “will take Hamas’ military wing said Middle East Peace Process Tor tacks between Israel and the and the riots throughout the portray them as enemies of the served as a weapons cache. time, but we will bring security 15 rockets were fired in the di- Wennesland tweeted. Palestinians has also spilled country by an incited and blood- Jewish state. Israeli airstrikes have de- back to the citizens of Israel.” rection of the Israeli desert city “We’re escalating towards into the streets. thirsty Arab mob that injures In Gaza, the Israeli army stroyed all police buildings in Israeli Defence Minister Benny of Dimona, where an Israeli a full-scale war. Leaders on all The town of Lod, near Tel people, destroys property and said that members of the Is- the Gaza Strip, a spokesper- Gantz said there was no end nuclear reactor is located. The sides have to take the responsi- Aviv, saw major rioting over- even attacks holy Jewish sites lamist Hamas and Islamic son for the Hamas-led Interior date for the current operation. complex, however, is consid- bility of de-escalation. The cost night, with police confirming is unforgivable,” Rivlin said in a Jihad militant organisations Ministry said early on Wednes- China, Russia, Britain, Ger- ered to be extremely well pro- of war in Gaza is devastating early Wednesday that a man statement released by his office. were killed, including senior day. many, the US and host of other tected. and is being paid by ordinary and a teen were killed. The Arab minority in Israel officials. Israel also destroyed two nations have called on all sides Israel’s military said it was people.” The cross-border at- According to local media, makes up about 20 percent of The air force said it had multi-storey buildings in the to show restraint. Nearly 300 Ahmadinejad registers Chinese ships Malaysia reports record COVID spotted in for another run at the disputed Sea: deaths as third lockdown starts Iranian presidency dpa Mohamad marked the start of Philippines Bangkok the lockdown with an apology dpa for not having his temperature Tehran dpa Malaysia’s Health Ministry taken at a weekend charity Manila on Wednesday reported a re- event. Former Iranian president cord one-day coronavirus-re- Checks at entrances to Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is Nearly 300 Chinese militia lated death toll of 39, just hours malls, restaurants and event making another run for office, vessels have been monitored after the start of a third corona- venues have been mandatory he confirmed on Wednesday around territories claimed by virus lockdown. since last year. as he appeared at the Interior the Philippines in the disputed The ministry said that more “I apologize for not abid- Ministry to officially register South China Sea in the past than 4,700 new cases of the ing by the SOPs [standard op- for the June 18 election. week, a national task force said virus had been recorded in the erating procedures],” said the Candidates are only al- on Wednesday. past 24 hours, almost double 95-year-old Mahathir, who led lowed on the ballot in Iran if The ships were found in Tuesday’s caseload and taking Malaysia from 1981 to 2003 they are approved by election areas both within and outside the cumulative total to over and again from mid-2018 until councils. The 64-year-old, the Philippines’ exclusive eco- 450,000. his surprise resignation in last who was president from 2005 Iran’s former president Mahmoud nomic zone, said the task force The lockdown, which was February, less than a month be- to 2013, was not allowed on Ahmadinejad in Tehran on on the West Philippine Sea, re- announced on Monday and im- fore Malaysia’s first lockdown. the slate at the last election, Wednesday. (AFP) ferring to the disputed sea by posed from Wednesday, is set An aerial view shows police manning a roadblock at the East Coast “I will face the music ac- in 2017. its local name. to run for one month in an at- Expressway (Kuala Lumpur–Karak) during a partial lockdown in cording to the relevant law,” Ahmadinejad was popular the Holocaust ever happened “Bigger groupings of [Chi- tempt to rein in South-East Bentong on Tuesday. (AFP) said Mahathir, whose mea cul- among hardliners, conserva- - also marginalised Iran on nese ships] were sighted at ar- Asia’s highest daily case num- pa came hours less than a week tives and the ruling clerics the international stage. To- tificial islands of China, while bers per capita. Thursday, as Idul Fitri or Hari economy and pointing to local after another former prime during his term in office, wards the end of his time in some were observed near is- The restrictions, known Raya. curbs in cities such as Kuala minister, corruption convict though questions about his office, even some of his con- lands occupied by the Philip- officiallyas a movement con- However, police roadblocks Lumpur. Najib Razak, was fined the policies cropped up towards servative allies had aban- pines,” it said in a statement. trol order, also mean the an- have been set up since the the According to official es- equivalent of around 700 dol- the end of his term, especially doned him. The Chinese ships included nual holiday marking the end weekend to stop people from timates announced on Tues- lars for a similar breach when as his focus on bulking up the He has popped into the two Houbei-class missile war- of the Muslim fasting month making the usual holiday cross- day, Malaysia’s gross domestic entering a Kuala Lumpur res- country’s atomic capabilities headlines since leaving office ships inside Mischief Reef, 11 of Ramadan will be low-key for country trips to see family and product shrank by 0.5 per cent taurant. prompted international sanc- with frequent criticism of the militia vessels in Reed Bank, 34 the second year in a row. friends. in the first quarter, after a sec- The lockdown means res- tions that pushed the country sitting government and the in Whitsun Reef, 77 in Chigua Known as Eid-al-Fitr in As late as Saturday, the gov- ond lockdown spanning Janu- taurants are closed to dine- into an economic crisis. judicial system, as well as on Reef, 64 in Gaven Reef North, Arabic-speaking countries, Ma- ernment was insisting it would ary and February. in customers and events such His political style - which Twitter for his enthusiasm for and 55 in Fiery Cross Reef. laysians refer to the days-long not impose another nationwide Earlier on Wednesday for- as Mahathir’s weekend func- included regular threats sport, especially American An average of four Chinese celebration, which kicks off on lockdown, citing fears about the mer prime minister Mahathir tion are off-limits. against Israel and denial that football and basketball. coastguard ships were also spotted in Scarborough Shoal every day from May 3 to 10, and one Chinese coastguard ship per day near Second Thomas Shoal and Pag-asa Is- Myanmar’s military arrests at least 30 protesters in Mandalay land, the biggest territory occu- pied by the Philippines. dpa At least 783 people have than three months, ever since “The military junta is in- On May 7 and 8, a patrol Berlin the elected civilian leaders tensifying its campaign of ship from the Philippines’ Bu- been killed and over 4,900 were arrested and the coun- repression against its own reau of Fisheries and Aquatic Myanmar’s military con- have been detained amid try was thrown into political people in Myanmar,” the UN Resources dispersed three of tinued its bloody crackdown the violence turmoil. Human Rights Office in Gene- the Chinese ships from Sabina on people protesting against According to the Assis- va said on Wednesday, urging Shoal, more than 230 kilo- the junta’s rule, arresting at tance Association for Politi- international businesses with metres east of the province of least 30 demonstrators in the asked not to be named, told cal Prisoners (AAPP), at least ties to Myanmar to put pres- Palawan. It was the second northern city of Mandalay on dpa by phone. 783 people have been killed sure on the military to stop such incident in the shoal since Wednesday. According to local media and over 4,900 have been de- human rights violations. April. Members of the junta’s outlet Myanmar Now, the tained amid the violence. “Information suggests “We reiterate that the Phil- forces turned up at the protest military seized about 60 mo- At least 15 people were that the military’s economic ippines shall continue to de- clad in plain clothes and trav- torcycles, including from peo- killed in clashes between the interests, including access fend its sovereignty, sovereign elling in civilian vehicles, ac- Protesters hold banners during a demonstration against the military ple who had not taken part in military and armed resist- to arms and technology, re- rights and jurisdiction over the cording to protest organizers coup in Yangon on Wednesday. (AFP) the rally. ance fighters in the city of main largely untouched and West Philippine Sea, and shall and local media outlets. Protesters have been Tamu between Tuesday and unchallenged by other states, not yield an inch of our terri- “They knew our plan. It location and came to arrest tester from the organizing marching nationwide in defi- Wednesday, Myanmar Now and businesses operating in tory,” the task force said. was leaked. So they knew our with proper plans,” a pro- committee in Mandalay, who ance of military rule for more reported. the country,” the UN said. 06 Thursday, May 13, 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

Declining US Birth Rate Adds Urgency To The Need For Smart Immigration Reform Let’s Unite To Cut

he recent announcement that changing over time. That, in fact, the US birth rate slipped further has been one of the nation’s endur- Tduring the COVID-19 pandemic ing strengths. didn’t come as a surprise, but that But our economic growth and Military Spending didn’t make it any less sobering. stability will require a larger future The report spotlights a complex labor pool, even with advances in intersection of issues, including automation. In fact, an aging popu- insufficient financial support for lation creates more demands for During a pandemic, it makes no sense to approve a military budget that is 95 times families with young children, the health services, and it can have a social and career costs women must trickle-down impact on other work the budget of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention weigh when deciding to have a child as adult children opt out of the la- (or two or more), the environmen- bor pool to care for their parents. Medea Benjamin, Marcy Winograd tal impacts of human population An aging population also increases growth, and national economics. costs for safety net programs like Historically, nations with stagnant Social Security and Medicare. or shrinking populations also often A clear source for expanding face stagnant economies. that labor pool is immigration. To With a 4% decrease from 2019, meet that need, though, we must last year was the sixth in a row that develop a smarter, more flexible the birth rate fell; the pandemic and more generous federal immi- just made it worse. The reasons in- gration policy than the dysfunction- clude uncertainty among would-be al system Congress has let languish parents about the for far too long. future and about But what the possible ef- should it be? For fects of COVID-19 decades US policy on a fetus, as well has prioritized as reduced oppor- family reunifica- tunities for repro- tion and employ- duction because ment-based im- of social distanc- migration, which ing and fear of must remain intimate contact. key to future im- One study found migration poli- a general decline cies. Studies have in sexual activity, found that im- so those knowing migrants achieve jokes last spring about a baby boom more and integrate into society being the silver lining in the pan- faster if they have family ties and demic were off-base. family support. The nation also But other pre-pandemic factors needs job-based immigration, but are at play, too. Younger women crafted in such a way that it does reported in one survey that they not undermine employment for ex- were delaying or opting not to have isting Americans or undercut wages children because they wanted more and benefits. This is where things any progressives have been pleasant- “We’re in the midst of a crisis that has left budget of the Centers for Disease Control and personal freedom and leisure time, get thorny. ly surprised by President Joe Biden’s millions of families unable to afford food, rent Prevention (CDC). The billions saved from did not have a partner with whom The Migration Policy Institute, sweeping proposals to repair the Unit- and bills,” Caucus Chair Rep. Pramila Jayapal “right-sizing” the Pentagon could also provide they wanted to share a child, or a nonpartisan pro-immigration ed States’ failing infrastructure, ex- (D-Wash.) told The Nation magazine. “But at critical funds for addressing the climate crisis. worried about the affordability of think tank, just issued a report pand health care coverage and address the same time, we’re dumping billions of dollars And it would be applauded by the Democrats’ child care. Notably, deciding not (“Rethinking the US Legal Im- theM climate crisis. Some have suggested that one into a bloated Pentagon budget. Don’t increase base. Polls show that 70% of Democrats favor to have children, or not to have as migration System: A Policy Road way to pay for such things would be to cut the defense spending. Cut it — and invest that mon- not just cutting nuclear weapons, but actually many, often means more success in Map”) that lays out suggestions for military budget, especially since Biden has an- ey into our communities.” eliminating them. This is in line with the newly careers for women, a patently un- reimagining employment-based nounced that he is ending US involvement in Biden’s military and non-military budget passed UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear fair trade-off. visas to address the need for sea- the Afghan war. resolution, a package deal, is expected to hit the Weapons, as well as the Nuclear Non-Prolifer- Overall, a combination of de- sonal and short-term workers, clear But hopes for a “peace dividend” were floor in June or July. If Republicans refuse to ation Treaty, which requires nuclear states to creased births and immigration paths for “the best and brightest in dashed when Biden came out in April with a support it, the president would need every Dem- pursue disarmament to avoid a catastrophic ac- and increased death meant the U.S. their fields,” and make it easier for proposed military budget of $753 billion — a ocrat in the Senate and almost all Democrats in cident or intentional nuclear holocaust. population grew in the last decade noncitizen workers to move among $13 billion increase to Trump’s already gargan- the House to win approval. Will progressives in Congress play hardball by the second-lowest amount on employers rather than being tied to tuan sum and one that includes more than $30 In the House, Biden needs at least 212 of the to threaten Biden’s entire budget by insisting he record, behind the 1930s Great De- the one that sponsored their visa. billion for new nuclear weapons. 218 Democratic seats (allowing for current va- reduce military spending and scrap plans for a pression years. Other proposals, such as the non- Congressional progressives have long com- cancies in both parties. But what if at least seven new nuclear arsenal? Will they have the courage So what are the repercussions? partisan Economic Innovations plained about runaway military spending. In members of the House voted no — or even just to unite behind such a noble cause as saving the Let’s dispense first with the rac- Group’s idea for site-based visas to 2020, 93 members in the House and 23 in the threatened to put their foot down — because the planet from an existential nuclear threat? ist notion pushed by right-wing shore up struggling communities in Senate voted to cut the Pentagon budget by budget calls for increased military spending and Odds will improve if their constituents flood nationalists that white American the nation’s interior, also deserve 10% and invest those funds in critical human a plan to “modernize” U.S. nuclear weapons and them with messages insisting that now is the women need to have more babies consideration. needs. A House Spending Reduction Caucus, maintain 800 overseas bases? time to finally put an end to the cycle of expo- to counter some sort of global con- We don’t want to get too pre- co-chaired by Reps. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) and Now is the time for congressional progres- nential military spending and invest, instead, in spiracy by nonwhites to move to the scriptive at this juncture, but it is Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), emerged with 22 mem- sives like the Squad — Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez the needs of the people. US, have lots of kids and dilute our imperative that Congress ends its bers on board, including all four members of the (D-N.Y.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Rashida Tlaib national identity. While white su- dismaying inability to come up “Squad” but also more moderate or mainstream (D-Mich.) and Ayanna Presley (D-Mass.) — to (Medea Benjamin is the co-founder premacy has coursed through the with a reasonable comprehensive Democrats. unite with Jayapal, Lee, Pocan and others in the of CODEPINK for Peace. Marcy Wino- Americas since the first whiteE u- immigration reform. Immigration Members of the Congressional Progressive Defense Spending Reduction Caucus, to stand grad of Progressive Democrats of Amer- ropeans arrived, in truth American not only is our history, but with the Caucus, one of the largest caucuses in Congress as a block against a bloated military budget. ica is a coordinator for CODEPINKCON- culture has always been a simmer- birth rate steadily declining, it is vi- with almost 100 members, also want reductions During a pandemic, it makes no sense to GRESS. This column was produced for ing stew, its flavors and textures tal to our future. in the military budget. approve a military budget that is 95 times the The Progressive magazine)

What Do We Know To Be True About COVID Safety, Especially Masks?

Sunday, Anthony Fauci, the chief med- sion about masks. to normal” as he did Sunday in his inter- DAVID ZURAWIK ical adviser to the White House, told ABC “I was in Baltimore over the weekend view with ABC’s George Stephanopoulos, News he thinks it is time to start scaling visiting my mom for Mother’s Day and I we should try to help viewers understand back on indoor mask requirements, as was outside without a mask on, and I got how profoundly the experience of the pan- here have been few stories as big well. the stink eye from so many people,” he demic has changed us and the culture. Like and complicated in my lifetime as “I think so, and I think we’re going to said, pointing out that he was vaccinated so many other elements of American life, the pandemic, and we in the media probably be seeing that as we go along and and following guidelines. public health information has become po- are once again at a point in cover- as more people get vaccinated,” he said. The interview Blackwell and co-anchor liticized. Think Tucker Carlson telling his ing it where clarity and exactitude “We do need to get more liberal as we get Alisyn Camerota did with Dr. Wen was a Fox News audience that wearing a mask is Tare needed perhaps more than ever. For more people vaccinated.” good one. Acknowledging that “people are a sign of “shame and submission” or mak- the most part, though, we are not follow- To the average viewer, that might so confused,” Ms. Camerota pressed Dr. ing children wear masks is “child abuse.” ing through on that, especially on wearing sound like it is OK to ease up on wearing Wen for clarity, and the public health ex- It was further politicized when Presi- masks and relaxed mandates. masks indoors, but while the CDC did re- pert provided some. dent Trump’s White House pressured the There is a lot of talk on TV news pro- lax its advice in April on wearing masks But we need more of it. Like many, I CDC to withhold information and alter grams about masks and when and where outdoors, it still recommends that even admire Dr. Fauci. But it is not enough to recommendations for political reasons. they need to be worn, and I think a lot of fully vaccinated people continue to wear have him on your show and not challenge Thankfully, that no longer appears to be people are confused about it. masks in indoor public spaces. him. Dr. Fauci has great expertise and happening. But the damage to public trust Sunday on the CBS show “Face the Na- Leana Wen, former Baltimore City outstanding communication skills, but he has been done. tion,” Scott Gottlieb, former commissioner health commissioner, said on CNN on has become a kind of likable TV character Straight talk and hard facts are needed of the Food and Drug Administration, said Monday that she thinks “it’s a bit soon for who gives good soundbites. That can be a more than ever to combat the confusion, he thinks it is time to relax requirements relaxing indoor mask mandates overall Anthony Fauci. comforting distraction rather than a help distrust and fear. Let’s focus on trying to on masks indoors. when there are people of unknown vacci- at this point in our struggle with COVID. find out what is true about how best to “In the states where prevalence is low, nation status.” transmission, I think it is just too soon in Yes, we should celebrate the vaccines keep ourselves safe during this pandemic vaccination rates are high, and we have As she put it: “How do you know if those settings.” and what they have accomplished. We and then try to figure out the most effective good testing in place and we’re identify- someone else is vaccinated? So, if you are An anecdote that CNN anchor Victor should encourage people to get them, way to share that with the public. ing infections, I think we could start lift- going to a store or a restaurant or some Blackwell shared Monday with viewers two things Dr. Fauci should rightfully be ing these restrictions indoors as well on a other setting especially in communities about a weekend trip he took to Baltimore, praised for doing in the media. (David Zurawik is The Baltimore broad basis,” he said. where there are high levels of community his hometown, is indicative of the confu- But before we start talking about “back Sun’s media critic.)

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. World Thursday, May 13, 2021 07

News India’s official coronavirus in brief Ex-NATO chief sees ‘very high risk’ of interference in German polls Copenhagen Former NATO secretary general Anders Fogh death toll passes 250,000 Rasmussen has warned of attempts by other countries to inter- fere in Germany’s federal elections in September. “There is a very high risk of election meddling, not least Shortage of vaccines across the country has hit India’s battle against rising coronavirus cases from Russia, because a lot is at stake. ... China now has an increasing interest in what is going on in Germany,” the former dpa and national manufacturers to Danish prime minister told dpa. New Delhi set up franchise operations in Experience in recent years shows that no country in the India. EU is attacked as bitterly and as frequently with disinformation India’s daily COVID-19 death Two vaccines are currently as Germany, said Rasmussen, who is also the founder of the count hit 4,205 on Wednesday, being used in India: the Astra- Alliance of Democracies group. setting a new daily record and Zeneca-Oxford University shot Since the end of 2015, he said, more than 700 such at- taking the total fatalities due to manufactured by the Serum tempts to influence opinion have been registered in Germany the disease in the country past Institute of India under the - more than in France, Italy and Spain combined. (dpa) 250,000. name Covishield, as well as A total of 348,421 fresh Covaxin, which has been de- infections have been reported veloped jointly by Indian phar- Navalny is ‘fine’ after hunger strike: since Tuesday, according to a maceutical company Bharat Spokesperson federal Health Ministry bul- Biotech and the state-support- letin. ed Indian Council of Medical Moscow The imprisoned Russian dissident Alexei Navalny India’s total caseload Research. is slowly regaining his strength after his hunger strike in the surged past 23 million as the The two firms have been prison camp, which lasted about three weeks. country battled with a second unable to meet the demand for “Everything is fine with him - as far as that is possible virulent and deadly wave of the vaccines after the government under the current conditions,” his press spokeswoman Kira pandemic. opened eligibility to all Indians Yarmysh wrote on Twitter on Wednesday. His lawyers had As many as 533 of India’s above the age of 18 from May 1. visited him, she added. 700-plus administrative dis- Both Serum Institute and Navalny had gone on hunger strike at the end of March in tricts are now reporting a test Bharat Biotech were expand- protest at inadequate medical care. He ended it after more positivity rate of more than 10 ing their capacities with fi- than 20 days at the insistence of his doctors. percent, government officials nancial assistance from the The 44-year-old leading opposition figure, who narrowly said during a weekly briefing. government. And with Rus- survived a poison attack last year, continues to complain of The daily new infection sia’s Sputnik V vaccine also ex- severe back pain and paralysis in his limbs. count dropped below 350,000 A man mourns as he with volunteers prepare to perform the last rites of a child who died of COVID-19 pected soon the vaccine crunch Meanwhile, Russian authorities have cracked down on Na- for the second consecutive coronavirus at a crematorium in New Delhi on Wednesday. (AFP) should ease in some weeks, valny’s supporters. His regional political staff were put on the day, but experts are divided on COVID Task Force member list of extremist and terrorist organizations almost a fortnight whether India, a country of 1.3 Randeep Guleria said on CNN- ago and their accounts were blocked. (dpa) billion has yet seen a peak of its EU regulator confident vaccines News18 television channel. second wave. The government is consid- “It is still too early to say protect people from Indian variant ering requests for the Covaxin Ship larger than the Empire State whether we have reached the formula be shared with other Building to dock in New York peak. There is some indication Amsterdam: The European on Wednesday. reach a decision on the vac- manufacturers. of the cases plateauing. But Medicines Agency (EMA) said He said the EMA’s experts cines made by Curevac, of India has so far adminis- New York A container ship larger than the Empire State Build- we must not forget that this its experts were confident the would continue to monitor Germany, and from Novavax, of tered 175.2 million doses of the ing will float into New YorkH arbor next week and become the is a very high plateau,” virolo- vaccines against COVID-19 that and review developments very the US, in the near future. vaccine, with about 39 million biggest vessel to ever dock on the East Coast. gist Shahid Jameel was quoted have been approved so far will closely. Site inspections for the being given both doses. The 1,300-foot CMA CGM Marco Polo spans the length as saying by Indian Express also protect people from the So far, four vaccines Russian-developed vaccine Experts have expressed of five Manhattan blocks and at the time of its christening newspaper. variant in India. against Covid-19 have been Sputnik V are currently under concern that given the current in 2013 was the world’s biggest container ship. Many ships Experts have stressed the The data is reassuring and approved for use in the EU. way. pace vaccination of a substan- launched since then are even bigger. need to step up vaccinations to indicates that the vaccines Four further shots are currently The review process for tial population may take years. Marco Polo is due at the Elizabeth-Port Authority Marine fight the rising cases, but sev- provide sufficient protection, undergoing accelerated rolling the shot made by Chinese India’s latest surge has Terminal on May 20 to offload a slew of consumer goods, rang- eral states reported a shortage the EMA’s vaccination strategy review. manufacturer Sinovac has only been linked to a variant of the ing from Christmas decorations to vanilla extract. of doses. director, Marco Cavaleri, said The EMA is expected to recently begun. (dpa) virus - B.1.617 - which has been The Marco Polo can carry roughly 6 per cent more cargo Several state governments found in 44 countries accord- than the CMA CGM Brazil, which arrived in Elizabeth last Sep- including Maharashtra, Delhi ing to the World Health Organ- tember and at the time was the biggest ship to call at an East and Uttarakhand are consider- acquire COVID-19 vaccines. Mamata Banerjee urged Prime push for import of COVID-19 ization (WHO) and has been Coast port. (dpa) ing floating global tenders to West Bengal chief minister Minister Narendra Modi to vaccines and encourage global labelled it a variant of concern.

Ex-soldier Republicans oust Cheney from House leadership over Trump criticism sentenced dpa dent never again gets anywhere “I will not sit back and New York near the oval office.” watch in silence while others to 20 years The dramatic move came lead our party down a path that Wyoming Representative I will do everything I can to hours after the Wyoming abandons the rule of law and for murder Liz Cheney was removed from ensure that the former lawmaker denounced fellow joins the former president’s her post as Republican Confer- president never again gets Republicans in House floor crusade to undermine our de- ence chair on Wednesday after anywhere near the oval office speech for bowing to Trump’s mocracy.” in France months of defiant criticism claims about the 2020 presi- “We face a threat America dpa over former President Donald Liz Cheney dential election. has never seen before,” Cheney Paris Trump’s grip on the party. Cheney delivered a fiery added. The closed-door vote was warning about the danger “A former president who An ex-soldier in France has over in a matter of minutes by “We cannot both embrace Trump poses after he urged provoked a violent attack on been sentenced to 20 years in voice vote and no roll call, the the big lie and embrace the followers to storm the Capitol this Capitol in an effort to steal prison for murder in a high- sources said. It was not im- constitution,” Cheney told re- on January 6. the election has resumed his profile case that has gripped mediately clear how each of porters moments after the vote. “Remaining silent and ig- aggressive effort to convince the country. Cheney’s fellow Republicans “I will do everything I can noring the lie emboldens the Americans that the election Nordahl L, 38, was found Wyoming Representative Liz Cheney in Washington on Wednesday. (AFP) voted. to ensure that the former presi- liar,” said Cheney. was stolen from him.” guilty on Tuesday, French me- dia reported from the court- room in Chambery. He admitted to the court in Chambery that he killed the 23 still being treated in hospital man, who was also a soldier, German foreign minister talks to but said it was not intentional. Prosecutors argued he had a after attack on school in Russia Pope Francis about child sex abuse sexual motive. A so-called se- curity period was imposed on dpa dpa the sentence, meaning that Moscow Rome no release is possible for two- thirds of the prison term. Twenty-three people are In the first private audience of The state prosecutor had still being treated in hospital a German foreign minister with pushed for the maximum after this week’s attack on a the pope in almost 20 years, term of 30 years after a trial school in Russia. Among them Heiko Maas on Wednesday lasting around a week for the are 20 pupils, said the deputy addressed the sensitive issue former dog handler. The trial head of the Republic of Tatar- of sexual abuse in the Catholic concerned only the murder of stan, Leila Fasleyeva, accord- Church. the young soldier, who disap- ing to the state agency TASS The meeting with 84-year- peared in April 2017. Mobile on Wednesday. old Pope Francis lasted a phone data led investigators to That reflected an increase lengthy 40 minutes and, ac- the now convicted soldier. in the number of known vic- Ilnaz Galyaviev (left), the suspect in the shooting at school at the cording to Maas, also touched But the case garnered tims, as, hours after Tuesday’s Sovetsky district court in Kazan on Wednesday. (AFP) on the latest flare-up in the Pope Francis (left) with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas in The widespread attention in attack in the city of Kazan, Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Vatican on Wednesday. (afp) France because the Nordahl L there had been talk of 21 peo- tors are analysing evidence coronavirus pandemic, the fu- was also suspected of abduct- ple injured. According to the investiga- and questioning witnesses. ture of the European Union of the report, which also cited must be held accountable.” ing and killing an 8-year-old “Everyone’s condition is tion committee, the Wednesday had been de- and Germany’s Latin America negligence on part of the arch- Maas said the historic Masses girl in south-eastern France. stable,” Fasleyeva said. How- 19-year-old has not been clared a day of mourning in policy. diocese’s leadership when deal- that have taken place in Ger- A separate case concerning ever, given the extent of the in- under psychiatric treatment Tatarstan, about 700 kilome- Maas had said before meet- ing with abuse allegations. many to bless about 100 homo- her death is expected to go to juries, doctors want to transfer tres east of Moscow. In Kazan, ing Francis that he wanted to Maas declined to say what sexual couples was not a part of trial in the coming year. nine patients to Moscow for so far schools remained closed. The talk about the sexual abuse of the pope had to say about the their conversation. Maely disappeared from treatment, she said. first victims in the Muslim re- children by Catholic priests. sex abuse scandals: “I am not Starting last weekend, some a wedding party in summer Nine people - most of them Wednesday. gion were to be buried. In March, an 800-page re- authorized to announce here German Catholic churches held 2017. During the investiga- children - were killed in the at- According to the investiga- Passers-by laid flowers and port looking onto the archdio- what the Pope has said on this services to bless same-sex cou- tion, DNA traces and camera tack at a high school in Kazan, tion committee, the 19-year- stuffed animals and lit candles cese of Cologne threw the issue subject. But it is certainly a top- ples, defying a Vatican decree evidence strengthened the according to the authorities. old has not been under psy- in front of High School Num- into the spotlight in Germany. ic that is not unknown here in saying that such blessings are case against Nordahl L, who The police arrested a chiatric treatment so far. ber 175. There were many ex- It found that, between 1975 and the Vatican.” banned in the Catholic Church. eventually led investigators to 19-year-old suspect who had However, his relatives had ob- pressions of sympathy from 2018, 202 people within the The German foreign min- Catholic priests in Germany the child’s body. legally possessed a weapon. served aggressive behaviour in abroad. archdiocese were suspected of ister stressed that coming to have expressed their dissatis- Investigations into other The background to the attack the past few months. According to the authori- involvement in abuse, and that terms with the abuse was not faction with the Vatican ban unsolved criminal cases were was initially unclear. The man had reportedly ties, the school will now be 63 per cent of those accused the sole responsibility of the and have said they want to bless launched to see if the former The young man is being announced his crime before- renovated. were clerics. church. all loving couples, whether gay soldier could have had some- investigated for murder. The hand on his Telegram mes- Pictures from the school A number of bishops and The state could not stay out or straight. Lay members of thing to do with them - but so authorities ruled out a terror- saging channel, where he also building had shown devas- other church officials were sus- of this issue, he said, “if there the church have also expressed far there has been no indica- ist background. Charges were referred to himself as “God.” tated corridors and shattered pended or offered their resigna- are victims who have a right their opposition to the Vatican’s tion of his involvement. to be brought against him on More than 100 investiga- glass on the floor. tion in the wake of the release to expect that the perpetrators stance. The future of natural gas in ASEAN’s power sector page 11

Thursday, May 13, 2021

33,630.44 10,925.24 48690.80 1,820.30 -638.72 pts -25.48 pts -471.01 pts Gold -0.86 % Scramble on for new fuel routes after Dow QE sensex pipeline hack page 10 Price percentage Price percentage 27.13 Brent 69.02 +0.69 % WTI 65.76 +0.74 % Silver -1.94 %

Qatar registers QR527 mn real IEA sees strong rebound estate trade deal in a week

QNA Doha in oil demand in 2021 H2 The volume of real estate transactions in sales contracts registered with the Real Estate Brent crude nears $70 a barrel on signs of global economic recovery and better demand for energy ahead Registration Department at the Ministry of Justice during Tribune News Network COVID-19, though waves of infec- the period from May 2 to May Doha tions in India and Brazil weighed on 6 reached QR527.374 million. gains. The weekly bulletin issued The International Energy Agency Brent crude climbed 1.47 percent by the administration stated (IEA) on Wednesday cut its global to $69.56 a barrel and US West Texas that the list of real estate trad- oil demand growth forecast for 2021. Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 1.58 ed for sale included vacant But it said that its forecast for a percent to $66.31 on Wednesday. lands, residences, residential strong rebound in energy demand in “Expectation that the economy buildings, a residential com- the second half of the year remains and demand will recover rapidly have plex, a multi-use space land unchanged as expanding vaccination once again allowed Brent to climb,” and commercial buildings. programmes allow the global eco- said Commerzbank analyst Carsten Sales operations were con- nomic recovery to power ahead. Fritsch. Oil prices were also sup- centrated in the municipali- In a sober reminder that the ported by the outlook from oil cartel ties of Al-Daayen, Al-Rayyan, global recovery from the pandemic OPEC, which on Tuesday stuck to a Doha, Al Wakra, Umm Salal, remains fragile, the IEA said oil de- forecast for a strong recovery in world Al Khor, Al Dhakhira and Al mand dropped last month as the oil demand in 2021, with growth in Shamal. coronavirus surged in India. China and the US outweighing the The volume of real estate “India’s COVID-19 crisis is a re- impact of the coronavirus crisis in transaction during the pe- minder that the outlook for oil de- India. riod from April 25 to April 29 mand is mired in uncertainty,” the Data from the American Pe- reached QR378.555 million. IEA said in its latest Oil Market Re- troleum Institute industry group port. showed that US crude oil stocks fell The Paris-based energy watch- by 2.5-million barrels in the week dog now expects full-year global oil to May 7, two market sources said, QGIRC posts consumption growth of 5.4 million representing a slightly lower than bpd, to 96.4 million bpd, lower by expected decline. QR46 mn net 270,000bpd from its previous fore- The drawdown came before the cast largely because of downgrades Colonial Pipeline was hit by a cyber- profit in Q1 to demand in the first half of the attack last Friday, forcing the shut- year. It sees demand nearly recov- down of a pipeline that transports Tribune News Network ering to pre-pandemic levels by the more than 2.5-million barrels of fuel Doha end of 2021 to reach 99.6 million a day. bpd in the fourth quarter of this Petrol stations from Florida to The Qatar General Insur- year, not far off the 100.6 in the fi- Virginia began running out of fuel ance & Reinsurance Com- nal quarter of 2019. on Tuesday as drivers rushed to top pany (QGIRC) on Wednesday The energy watchdog said oil de- International Energy Agency IEA sees full-year global oil consumption growth of 5.4 mbpd to 96.4 mbpd. up their tanks, sending pump prices disclosed the interim finan- mand is already outstripping supply soaring. US unleaded petrol prices cial statement for the three- and the shortfall is expected to wid- eased since imposing record high in Canada. bpd year-on-year versus a collapse of hit an average $2.99 a gallon (3.78l), month period ending March en even if Iran boosts exports as vac- cuts last year, with more easing While new waves of infections in 6.6mn bpd in 2020,” it said. the highest since November 2014, 31, 2021. The financial state- cinations against COVID-19 bolster agreed from this month. Brazil and Thailand and even India “Canada leads non-OPEC+ with the American Automobile Associa- ments revealed a net profit of the global economy. “The anticipat- “The widening supply and de- - the world’s third-largest consumer growth of 340,000 bpd while the tion said. QR46.892 million in compari- ed supply growth through the rest mand gap paves the way for a further suffering record-breaking cases - US is set to contract by a further “While a prolonged outage would son to net profit of QR11.23 of this year comes nowhere close easing of OPEC+ supply cuts or even were not enough to derail the trend 160,000 bpd,” it said. be supportive for refined product million for the same period of to matching our forecast for signifi- sharper stock draws,” the IEA said, but could continue to affect the mar- “After nearly a year of robust sup- prices, it could start to weigh on crude the previous year, according cantly stronger demand beyond the noting that storage of oil had ebbed ket, it added. ply restraint from Opec+, bloated oil prices if refiners on the SU Gulf to a statement posted by the second quarter,” said the report, cit- to nearly the five-year-average after The IEA revised demand lower world oil inventories that built up dur- Coast are forced to reduce run rates company on website of Qatar ing increased pumping from OPEC+ soaring amid the pandemic. in Europe and OECD Americas by ing last year’s Covid-19 demand shock due to a build-up of refined product Stock Exchange. countries. Iran’s possible full reentry into the 320,000 bpd and 515,000 bpd re- have returned to more normal levels,” inventories,” ING analysts said. The earnings per share Output from the Organisation of oil market, if indirect US-Iranian nucle- spectively in the first quarter, and cut the IEA said. “While the market looks Colonial Pipeline has said it (EPS) amounted to QR0.054 the Petroleum Exporting Countries ar talks succeed, would still leave pro- its forecast for demand in India in oversupplied in May, stock draws are hopes to restart a large portion of as of March 31, 2021 against (OPEC) and allies including Russia duction from OPEC+ producers at 1.7 the second quarter by 630,000 bpd. set to resume from June, even with the network by the end of the week. EPS of QR0.013 for the same lagged demand by around by 150,000 million bpd short of demand, it added. The IEA said that based on the global oil supply on the rise.” Oil also found support from posi- period in 2020. bpd in the second quarter, IEA said. Supply recovery outside OPEC+ current OPEC+ agreement, it sees Meanwhile Oil prices rose on tive economic data in the UK. All eyes QGIRC had earlier an- That shortfall is expected to widen to was recovering more slowly than the global oil production growing by Wednesday on signs of a speedy eco- will be on US consumer price data for nounced to postpone the a 2.5 million bpd by year’s end. IEA expected as the virus delayed 3.8mn b/d from April to December. nomic recovery and upbeat predic- April, due later in the day. Numbers date of the board of directors’ OPEC+ producers have been projects in Brazil and the Gulf of “For 2021 as a whole, world oil tions for energy demand in light of for Germany and France were largely meeting for discussing the first curbing output since 2017 but have Mexico and hampered maintenance production expands by 1.4 million progress with vaccinations against in line with estimates. quarter results to May 11.

UK economy set to bounce back after being among hardest hit: S&P Tribune News Network acerbated the downturn com- Business Research, said the However, net trade will Doha pared with its peers, so it will March GDP data indicates likely weigh on growth, he boost the upswing more than that the UK’s economic re- said, as the recovery in con- Britain’s sharp economic elsewhere as restrictions are vival was already well under sumption is set to translate contraction in 2020, the increasingly lifted,” said S&P way in March, with strong into higher demand for EU worst among global major Global Ratings Senior Econo- growth momentum poten- imports, on which the UK still economies, will contribute to mist Boris Glass. tially eliminating the gap to heavily depends. a stronger recovery in growth “This has already started pre-pandemic GDP levels by UK goods exports to the numbers this year and next, and is a key reason why we the end of May. EU rose 8.6 percent in March according to S&P Global expect stronger growth for “Fast economic indica- from a month earlier and are Ratings. the UK over 2021-2022 than tors such as card spending now almost back to their De- The UK’s economy con- for many other European data and online vacancy rates cember level, while imports tracted 9.8 per cent last year, economies. For the UK we point to a rapid resurgence of from the bloc remained slug- one of the worst declines forecast cumulative growth activity in recent weeks in line gish with an increase of 4.5 among 42 of the world’s larg- of 11 percent over that period, with the opening of outdoor percent, outstripped by non- est economies, with only compared with only 8.7 per hospitality venues and non- EU imports for the first time Spain suffering a steeper fall cent for the EU.” essential shops,” Shah said. on record, the ONS said. in gross domestic product, Britain suffered the worst The National Health Ser- “UK exports will continue according to S&P’s new re- contraction in more than 300 vice’s shift back to more regular to struggle to reach levels of port ‘ Why the UK’s Worse years in 2020, with the start The UK’s economy contracted 9.8 per cent last year, one of the worst declines among 42 of the health activities as the pressure the EU because of increased Recession Should Turn into a of the pandemic forcing the world’s largest economies. from the pandemic abates will red tape, tariffs in some cases, Stronger Recovery’. closure of non-essential busi- add impetus to the recovery, and weaker demand from the The study found that the nesses, shops and schools. growth statistics last year was ences,” said Glass. pening of schools. S&P said, with an extra boost EU, following the implemen- UK fared far worse among GDP shrank almost 20 per that the Office for National While Britain’s econo- The Bank of England ex- from the country’s testing and tation of the new trade agree- its peers because of its more cent during the first nation- Statistics measures public my shrank again in the first pects the UK to record the tracing efforts and the success ment,” Glass said. stringent lockdown to fight wide lockdown last spring, sector output differently from quarter of this year, declining strongest year of growth since of the vaccination drive. “Still, overall, the UK the Covid-19 pandemic and with the economy stuttering national statistics institutes 1.5 per cent when England the Second World War in “We saw some of these growth dynamics this year the country’s high share of throughout the rest of the elsewhere, S&P said. was plunged into its third 2021 with a surge in output of effects at play already in the and next will be led predomi- household consumption in year as the country grappled “We estimate that the lockdown, there was a strong 7.25 per cent and the economy final quarter of 2020, when nantly by the recovery from GDP, because this was most with the fallout from the dis- UK growth performance recovery in March with GDP returning to its pre-pandemic the drag on growth from the the pandemic. All things go- affected by lockdowns and ease that has claimed more would have been 1 to 3 per- growing 2.1 per cent, the level by the end of the year. health services was greatly re- ing well, despite Brexit, the furlough. than 127,000 lives. centage points better, more fastest monthly growth since However, Pablo Shah, duced as testing and tracing UK’s GDP growth should out- “But just as the UK’s Another key reason for in line with its European August, when restrictions managing economist at the activity picked up consider- pace that of most of its peers,” larger consumption share ex- the UK’s poor economic peers, absent these differ- started to ease with the reo- Centre for Economics and ably,” Glass said. said Glass Economy & Business Thursday, May 13, 2021 09

Toyota’s Nissan trims annual net annual net profit jumps loss 10.3 percent Agencies Crisis-hit Japanese car- Agencies maker Nissan said Tuesday it had trimmed its annual net Toyota Motor Corp’s loss but warned its outlook re- full-year net profit jumped mained clouded by the global 10.3 percent even as the chip shortage that has hit the pandemic hit the auto in- auto industry. dustry, the Japanese firm The firm has faced a se- said Wednesday, project- ries of trials, from weak de- ing growth despite the mand during the pandemic ongoing semiconductor to the fallout from the arrest crisis. of former boss Carlos Ghosn, The global pandemic now an international fugitive has hit automakers hard, after jumping bail and fleeing with demand collapsing Japan. as the coronavirus forced Nissan said it narrowed people indoors and hit its net loss to 448.7 billion spending. yen ($4.1 billion) for the But the world’s top- fiscal year to March, from selling carmaker has losses of 671.2 billion yen a bounced back quicker than year earlier, beating its own its competitors, and has forecast. also successfully weath- For the current year, Nis- ered a chip shortage that san expects to stay in the red has forced rivals to slash but move closer to profitabil- production targets. ity, projecting a net loss of 60 “Even though sales de- billion yen. clined in the first half of The firm also forecast the year due to the impact stronger sales for the current of the coronavirus, in the fiscal year, steadily recover- latter half of the year we ing from the impact of the saw a rise in sales in many coronavirus pandemic. regions,” chief financial Elon Musk’s SpaceX says it will launch a satellite to the Moon next year funded with dogecoin. “However, there is con- officer Kenta Kon told re- tinued business risk due to porters. semiconductor supply short- Toyota said it generat- age and raw material price ed 2.25 trillion yen ($20.6 hike in this fiscal year,” it said billion) in the fiscal year to in a statement. March, up from 2.04 tril- Dogecoin: ‘Joke’ virtual Even as vaccine rollouts lion yen the year before, put the end of the pandemic beating its own annual within sight for the hard- forecast. hit auto sector, it is battling For the year to March a chip shortage driven by a 2022, it now projects an currency touted by Musk surge in demand for electron- annual net profit of 2.3 tril- ic devices during lockdowns. lion yen, up 2.4 percent. Supply disruptions in- “Toyota’s performance Dogecoin tumbles from record high after Tesla and SpaceX founder joked on SNL show that it was a ‘hustle’ cluding a fire at a Japanese was outstanding, com- factory, an extreme cold pared with its rivals,” Sa- snap in the United States and toru Takada, auto analyst Agency two big internet phenomena: fourth biggest cryptocurrency. Nevertheless, SpaceX an- a drought in Taiwan have at Tokyo-based research cryptocurrencies such as bit- The world’s most popular nounced Sunday that it would compounded the mismatch and consulting firm TIW, Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency coin, and a meme image of a virtual unit bitcoin has a valu- launch a satellite to the Moon between demand and avail- told AFP before the an- originally created as a joke, has Shiba Inu dog. ation of $1.1 trillion. next year funded with dogecoin. ability. nouncement. “Toyota has grabbed the headlines thanks That gave the unit its The second and third big- Semiconductors are a key maintained steady produc- to repeated interest from tech unique name. gest are ethereum and binance Market skepticism component in modern cars tion while releasing timely billionaire Elon Musk -- and “From ‘that seems like it’s Oops! coin, respectively. The broader financial com- and the supply shortage has models in major markets.” despite doubts in the financial funny’ to actually doing it took The post-”SNL” slide shows munity is wary of dogecoin’s prompted Nissan to reduce The pandemic has taken community. about three hours,” co-founder how fraught dogecoin’s rise The Musk effect volatility, which is attractive to production at home and fur- a heavy toll on the global The price of the virtual Billy Markus, a video game- Controversial multi-bil- retail investors but not major lough around 800 workers in auto sector but demand unit hit a record high over the obsessed software engineer has been. The show is a lionaire Musk praised dogecoin financial players. Britain, Japanese media re- recovered swiftly in the weekend ahead of Musk’s host- at IBM, told the news website comedy series, not an again during SNL -- but sent That is in contrast to vola- ports said. second half of last year, ing of popular U.S. sketch com- CNET. infomercial, and anyone mixed messages. tile bitcoin, which has won key Nissan has said its pro- most notably in the United edy show Saturday Night Live Users of Reddit forums expecting Musk would be Pressed on what dogecoin backing from big-hitting banks duction has been affected but States and China. (SNL). then began using dogecoin, allowed to heap breathless is, Musk called it “an unstoppa- on Wall Street. declined to provide details. Sales fell 8.9 percent Dogecoin then tumbled thanks to its previously ex- praise on the cryptocurrency ble vehicle that’s going to take OANDA analyst Jeffrey “Nissan is on the path to to 27.2 trillion yen but the because the Tesla and SpaceX tremely low prices, to welcome and not joke about it clearly over the world”. Halley pulled no punches in his recovery,” Satoru Takada, an firm expects to report a founder joked on the show that posters’ comments. miscalculated. But then he agreed in a assessment of Musk’s latest fa- auto analyst at Tokyo-based 10.2 percent gain to 30.0 dogecoin was a “hustle” -- or Dogecoin was boosted this jokey tone during a sketch that vorite crypto unit. research and consulting firm trillion yen in the current money-making scam. year by the buying frenzy that “it’s a hustle”. “Someone (who) bought TIW, told AFP before the re- fiscal year. Musk is also a vocal sup- surrounded the GameStop above 74 cents last Saturday. Investors were apparently Dogecoin before the SNL pro- sults were released. Even as vaccine roll- porter of the world’s most pop- saga, and after multiple sup- However, it slumped to as not amused as the currency fell gram... was nursing 40 per- “But the semiconductor outs put the end of the ular virtual currency bitcoin, portive tweets from Musk. low as 49 cents during the SNL following the show. cent losses after it aired,” he shortage and growing ship- pandemic within sight for adding to its soaring value ear- broadcast. Dogecoin stood at “The word ‘hustle,’ which lamented. ping costs could pour cold the hard-hit auto sector, it lier this year. What is dogecoin worth? 52 cents in Monday morning he used as a joke, made specu- “On the other hand, if you water on its recovery.” The is battling a chip shortage Dogecoin stood at just frac- trades, according to website lators dump the coin who were are stupid enough to stake group’s strategy of trying to driven by a surge in de- A niche currency tions of a cent for most of its CoinMarketCap. previously thinking of more a goodly portion of your net cut sales incentives, which mand for electronic devices Founded in 2013, doge- existence, before breaching That gave dogecoin a mar- optimistic language from him,” wealth on juvenile tweets and tend to lead to discounts and during lockdowns. coin’s creators say it was in- five cents earlier this year -- ket valuation of $67 billion (55 said ThinkMarkets analyst a comedy show, you probably squeeze overall profit, has tended as an ironic response to and striking a record pinnacle billion euros), making it the Naeem Aslam. deserve everything you get.” paid off, Takada said. Explainer: Why are fears of high inflation getting worse in the US?

Agencies accelerate for long without siz- out. The Fed’s policymakers 2008 that took oil to nearly able wage gains. Yet pay raises What’s behind the con- have stressed that one-time $150 a barrel. If the pub- Gas prices are rising. Auto — if they do occur — typically cerns about inflation? increases are not the same lic expects inflation to stick prices are soaring. Consumer lag behind price increases, Mainly, it’s the fact that thing as a difficult bout of in- around 2%, then consumers goods companies are charging thereby squeezing consumers prices for so many things are flation, which is characterized and businesses won’t likely more for household basics like at least temporarily. And even- rising and seem likely to do by ongoing, chronic price in- change their behavior much toilet paper, peanut butter and tually, pay gains themselves so for the next several months creases. even if commodity prices rise. soft drinks. will fuel further inflation: at least. One reason for that is “A persistent material increase Businesses won’t charge their All of which is resurrecting Companies raise prices further that prices tumbled in March in inflation would require not customers more, because fears of an economic threat that to offset higher wages for their and April of last year, when just that wages or prices in- they’ll expect the increases to has all but disappeared over employees. the pandemic tore through crease for a period after reo- be temporary. And workers the past generation: Runaway Some companies, includ- the economy, and have since pening, but also a broad expec- won’t generally demand large inflation.I t occurs when prices ing Amazon, have recently rebounded. As a result, year- tation that they will continue wage increases to offset higher for most goods and services not raised or said they plan to raise over-year price increases now to increase at a persistently prices. only rise but accelerate, mak- wages. look much higher than most higher pace,” Lael Brainard, a Some measures of infla- ing the cost of living steadily Not since the late 1960s consumers are used to. The Fed governor and key voice on tion expectations are rising, more expensive and shrinking and early ’70s has the United consumer price index rose Chairman of the Federal Reserve Jerome Powell the central bank’s interest rate but not markedly so. Financial the purchasing power of Amer- States endured chronic high 2.6% in March compared with policies, said in an appearance market measures, based on icans’ earnings and savings. inflation, with consumer prices a year ago, a significant rise Supply bottlenecks have tract applicants to fill their Tuesday. “A limited period of the yields of different Treasury On Wednesday, the govern- rising at or near double-digit from just 1.7% a month earlier. occurred because companies open jobs. Only 266,000 jobs pandemic-related price in- securities, show that investors’ ment reported that consumer percentages from one year to Analysts forecast that con- were caught flat-footed by the were added last month, far creases is unlikely to durably expectations for inflation are prices for goods and services the next. In fact, the reverse sumer prices will soar again in speed of the economic recov- fewer than expected. Rising change inflation dynamics.” increasing in the short-run but surged 0.8% in April — the has been true for about a dec- April when that month’s fig- ery from the pandemic, with pay is a sign that companies less so over the longer-term. largest monthly jump in more ade: Inflation has remained ures are reported Wednesday, most consumers flush with are trying harder to fill their Why is the Fed so sure that That suggests that they agree than a decade — and that year- persistently below the 2% an- to a year-over-year reading of cash, after multiple stimulus jobs. That’s good for workers, price increases will prove with the Fed: They expect a over-year inflation reached its nual target set by the Federal 3.6%. If that prediction is ac- checks, and spending freely. and many companies may eat fleeting? temporary increase in infla- fastest rate since 2008. Reserve. Under Chair Jerome curate, that would be the larg- With everyone now ramping the higher cost or turn to au- Two reasons: Because the tion. But they also think that Growing jitters about in- Powell, the Fed is betting that est increase in nearly a decade. up at once, manufacturers, tomation to reduce their labor public still largely expects in- entrenched inflation expecta- flation have contributed to a it can keep rates ultra-low Another factor is a wide- shipping firms, miners and expenses. But if businesses flation to remain in check and tions will prevent price rises sharp sell-off in stock prices even as the economic recovery spread shortages of raw mate- agricultural companies can’t start to raise their prices to because of recent history. from running rampant. this week. Any significant ac- kicks into high gear — and that rials and parts that is magnify- keep up. cover higher wage bills, that The Fed is closely monitor- Another reason the Fed celeration of inflation would it won’t have to quickly raise ing costs. Builders can’t find would accelerate inflation. ing “inflation expectations.” thinks inflation will likely be exert a drag on the market and rates to stop runaway inflation. enough lumber to build new Will Americans’ paychecks These are measures of where temporary is that prices have potentially imperil the eco- Few economists think the homes. Manufacturers are increase, too? It’s the Fed’s job to keep consumers and financial mar- been in check for roughly a nomic recovery. nation is on the verge of un- desperate for more copper and Paychecks are starting prices in check. What do kets expect inflation to be in quarter-century. Even when In the past, rising inflation controllably high inflation. other commodities. Auto mak- to rise. Average hourly earn- its officials think? the future. Inflation expecta- the unemployment rate fell to has usually led to higher pay as But worries among business- ers need more semiconductor ings jumped 0.7% in April, a Powell said last month that tions have changed little for a 50-year low of 3.5% in 2019, workers have demanded and es, consumers and investors chips. And some restaurants substantial gain for a single he expects higher inflation more than two decades, even forcing wages higher, consum- received raises to keep pace. about uncomfortably high in- are scrambling for chicken month. Many companies have to prove temporary, once the amid sharp price fluctuations, er prices remained below the In fact, inflation can’t really flation are growing. wings. said they are struggling to at- supply shortages are worked such as a spike in oil prices in Fed’s 2% target. 10 Thursday, May 13, 2021 Economy & Business Amazon wins EU court fight over Scramble on for new fuel $300 mn tax ruling

Agencies Both Luxembourg and routes after pipeline hack Amazon challenged the de- In the latest setback to cision with the EU’s General European Union efforts to Court. Supply crunch after ransomware attack shuts critical gas line; public warned against panic buying tackle corporate tax avoid- The EU has taken aim at ance, a court on Wednes- deals concluded between in- Agencies day annulled a ruling by the dividual countries and com- European Commission that panies used to lure foreign State and federal officials a tax deal between Amazon multinationals in search of are scrambling to find alter- and Luxembourg’s govern- a place to establish their EU nate routes to deliver gasoline ment amounted to illegal headquarters. The practice in the Southeast U.S. after a state support. led to EU states competing hack of the nation’s largest fuel The EU’s executive with each other and multi- pipeline led to panic-buying branch ordered the U.S. on- nationals playing them off that contributed to more than line retailer in 2017 to pay one another. 1,000 gas stations running out around 250 million euros Judges at the General of fuel. ($300 million) in back taxes Court have backed the Eu- There is no gasoline short- to Luxembourg. But judges ropean Commission in age, according to government at the EU’s General Court several cases, but the EU’s officials and energy analysts, said the European Com- efforts to crack down on but if the pipeline shutdown mission didn’t prove “to the favorable tax deals suffered continues past the weekend, it requisite legal standard that recent setbacks in cases in- could create broader fuel dis- there was an undue reduc- volving Starbucks and Ap- ruptions. tion of the tax burden of a ple. The Colonial Pipeline, European subsidiary of the which delivers about 45% of Amazon group.” the fuel consumed on the East Amazon said it wel- Coast, was hit on Friday with comed the court’s decision, We’re pleased that the a cyberattack by hackers who which is “in line with our lock up computer systems and long-standing position that Court has made this demand a ransom to release we followed all applica- clear, and we can them. The attack raised con- ble laws and that Amazon continue to focus on cerns, once again, about the received no special treat- delivering for our vulnerability of the nation’s ment,” the company said in customers across Europe. critical infrastructure. a statement. The pipeline runs from the Several gas stations in the Southeast reported running out of fuel, primarily because of what analysts say is unwarranted panic-buying among “We’re pleased that the Amazon Gulf Coast to the New York drivers, as the shutdown of a major pipeline by hackers entered its fifth day. Court has made this clear, metropolitan region, but states and we can continue to fo- in the Southeast are more re- cratic Gov. Roy Cooper urged come more mobile, especially the lowest since AAA began cus on delivering for our Wednesday’s ruling can liant on the pipeline. Other people Wednesday to only buy as the nation emerges from the keeping records in 2000. customers across Europe.” be appealed to the 27-na- parts of the country have more gas if their tank is low, and to In a nutshell pandemic. Multiple U.S. agencies are The European Commis- tion bloc’s highest court, the sources to tap. For example, report any instances of price ● Colonial Pipeline, which The national average price coordinating efforts to avert sion’s decision related to European Court of Justice. a substantial amount of fuel gouging. operates the main gas for a gallon of gasoline ticked any potential shortage, should Luxembourg’s tax treat- The EU remains at is delivered to states in the “We will continue our ef- above $3 for the first time they arise. ment of two companies in odds with Amazon on Northeast by massive tankers. forts to help make sure there artery along the East since 2016 Wednesday, ac- The White House said the Amazon group: Amazon other issues relating to “What you’re feeling is not is an adequate supply of fuel,” Coast, shut down the cording to the AAA. Prices Wednesday that the Depart- EU and Amazon Europe competition. Last year, EU a lack of supply or a supply is- Cooper wrote on Twitter. pipeline Friday after begin to rise around this time ment of Transportation is now Holding Technologies. regulators filed antitrust sue. What we have is a trans- Cooper declared a state of discovering ransomware on every year and the auto club allowing Alabama, Georgia, Margrethe Vestager, charges against the e-com- portation issue,” said Jeanette emergency Monday, initiating its computer systems. said Wednesday that the aver- Kentucky, Louisiana, Mary- the EU official in charge of merce company, accusing McGee, spokeswoman for the fuel waivers that make it easier age price hit $3.008 nation- land, Mississippi, New Jersey, antitrust issues, argued at Amazon of using its access AAA auto club. “There is am- to transport fuel into the state. ● The FBI blamed the ally. North Carolina, Tennessee the time that Amazon had to data from companies that ple supply to fuel the United Georgians were also get- attack on a group called “You go to some states, and Virginia to use interstate unfairly profited from spe- sell products on its platform States for the summer, but ting squeezed, with 17.5% of Darkside. and you’re going to see much highways to transport over- cial low tax conditions since to gain an unfair advantage what we’re having an issue stations there out of gas, ac- higher increases, especially weight loads of gasoline and 2003 in tiny Luxembourg, over them. with is getting it to those gas cording to Gasbuddy.com. In ● The shutdown has in the South, because that’s other fuels under existing dis- where its European head- In another judgment stations because the pipeline Virginia, 17% of stations were affected the supply of gas where you’re seeing the larg- aster declarations. quarters are based. As a re- Wednesday, the General is down.” In North Carolina, out, and in South Carolina, in parts of the East Coast, est impact in terms of strain of The department’s Mari- sult, almost three quarters Court found the existence 28% of gas stations were out of 16% had no fuel. with some people waiting gasoline, or strain of people,” time Administration complet- of Amazon’s profits in the of a tax advantage in rulings fuel, according to Gasbuddy. A large part of the pipeline an hour or more at filling McGee said. ed a review of potential actions EU were not taxed, she said. granted by Luxembourg com, a technology firm that resumed operations manually stations. The AAA expects more available under the Jones Act, “We will carefully study to companies in the Engie tracks real-time fuel prices late Monday, and Colonial an- than 37 million people to trav- a U.S. maritime law that re- the judgment and reflect group, a French multina- across the country. In Raleigh- ticipates restarting most of its day. el at least 50 miles (80 kilom- quires shipments between on possible next steps,” Ve- tional electric utility com- Durham it was worse, with operations by the end of the However, the disruption is eters) from home during the U.S. ports, including fuel, to be stager said in a statement. pany. 72% of gas stations out of fuel. week, U.S. Energy Secretary taking place at the time of year Memorial Day weekend, up moved by American-flagged North Carolina Demo- Jennifer Granholm said Tues- when Americans begin to be- 60% from last year, which was ships.

Pent-up demand explodes As chip shortage goes on, cars are scarce and prices are up Agencies SUVs and diverting computer chips said Smith, who frequently buys predict how long the chip shortage to higher-profit pickup trucks and trucks for his business. To get one and tight supplies will last. Mor- For the next few months, Charlie large SUVs. Leading automakers now, he says, people have to move gan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas Gilchrist figures his 11 car dealer- are warning of diminished earn- quickly to put in bids with dealers cautioned investors not to expect ships in the Dallas-Fort Worth area ings. or owners. extremely high auto prices beyond will sell just about every new vehi- The vehicle scarcity and the “If you’re not on it,” he said, the end of this year as new-vehicle cle they can get from the factories soaring prices can be traced to “those things are gone.” Given the supplies recover. — and at increased prices. the eruption of the coronavirus 14 lack of supply, nearly everyone ex- The pandemic and chip short- In normal times, that would be months ago. As the virus spread, pects new vehicle sales to fall soon. age have made rental cars scarcer, cause for joy. Not so much now. A auto factories shut down for a cou- That would mean fewer trade-ins, too, driving up prices dramatically global shortage of computer chips ple of months. With millions more which would further tighten a low and causing long waits as people has forced automakers to slash people working from home, de- supply of used vehicles. For con- start traveling again. Rental compa- production. The result has been far mand for laptops and monitors led sumers who can wait, analysts say, nies have had trouble getting new fewer vehicles on dealer lots, just as semiconductor makers to shift from it might be wise to delay buying cars because auto companies have the waning pandemic has fueled a autos to personal electronics. Soon, any vehicle until next year or even diverted vehicles away from fleet pent-up consumer demand for cars, though, a faster-than-expected beyond. buyers to more profitable sales to trucks and SUVs. economic rebound boosted demand An index that measures whole- consumers. Higher demand has Given the robust customer for vehicles, and auto plants tried sale U.S. used vehicle prices from sent some rental companies to the demand, dealers like Gilchrist could to restore full-scale production. auction house Manheim soared used car market to find vehicles. sell many more cars and trucks, if Yet chip makers couldn’t respond 53% in April from a year ago, hit- Whenever the car shortage only they had more. Even at el- swiftly enough. Ford pickup trucks built lacking computer chips are shown in parking lot storage ting a record high. Auto dealers buy ends, GM, Ford and others say they evated prices — the average new- With production slowed, in Dearborn, Mich., on Tuesday, May 4, 2021. used vehicles at auctions; the aver- will change business models away vehicle sales price tops $40,000, up dealer inventories shrank. Now, age price there hit nearly $18,000. from having huge stocks. GM has nearly 10% in two years — customer as the chip shortage has persisted, Dealers mark up wholesale considered regional distribution demand exceeds supply. the shortage of new vehicles has pickup, for example, is now just prices when they sell to consumers. centers that could send vehicles to “It’s pretty evident when you worsened, and analysts foresee no under $51,000. The average list price of a used car dealers in a matter of days. Ford’s pull onto our lots that there’s not return to normal before next year. Even so, the supply of vehicles last month was just over $22,000, CEO Jim Farley has talked of much selection,” said Gilchrist, Yet so far, automakers have is dwindling. Last month, the na- 14% higher than a year ago. quickly delivering on factory orders. whose lots carry brands ranging been earning big profits even with a tion’s total new-vehicle inventory Dealers are now scrambling for Both companies hope to reduce the from General Motors and Ford depleted inventory, largely because plummeted 42% from a year ago to used cars, hoping to sell them to interest paid on high inventories to Nissan and Volkswagen. “Our many buyers have been willing to 1.9 million. That’s enough to supply Dealers nervous keep cash flowing through the sum- and keep discounts low. (sales) volume is falling because of pay more to get what they want. only 33 days of sales at the current Automakers are cutting production mer as new vehicle supplies dry up. “I do think we are on the verge the sheer lack of inventory. It will With government stimulus checks pace — 88 days fewer than a year as they grapple with a global Richard Bazzy, who runs four Ford of possibly a different kind of para- still fall during the next two or three and tax refunds in hand, Ameri- ago, according to Cox. At the same shortage of computer chips, and and Lincoln dealerships in subur- digm for how vehicles are distrib- months.” The across-the-board cans bought about 1.5 million new time, discounts fell 5% from March that’s making dealers nervous. The ban Pittsburgh, said he’s formed a uted,” Krebs said. surge in auto prices contributed vehicles in April. That’s an adjusted to April and 25% from a year ago to pandemic and chip shortage have team to buy used vehicles. Still, competition could thwart mightily to last month’s jump in annual sales rate of 18.5 million — an average of $3,239 per vehicle. made rental cars scarcer, too, “Every car dealer in the world those plans once factories return to U.S. consumer prices, the govern- the highest such rate since 2005. Jeremy Smith is seeing the driving up prices dramatically and is jamming the auctions right now normal production. ment reported Wednesday. A “It’s like toilet paper was a year price increases on both ends as he trying to fill their shelves because of Bazzy normally stocks 400-500 record 10% increase in used vehicle ago,” said Michelle Krebs, executive buys and sells pickup trucks for his causing long waits as people start the lack of new-car inventory,” he pickup trucks at his three Ford prices, in fact, accounted for rough- analyst for Cox Automotive. “Eve- utility trailer sales business near traveling again. Rental companies said. dealers but is down to around 100. ly one-third of April’s overall rise ryone is rushing to buy a car.” Cox Buffalo, New York. In March, he have had trouble getting new cars Bazzy said he’s hopeful that He’s confident that he can keep cus- in consumer prices — the sharpest Automotive surveys suggest that bought a used diesel 2020 Chevy because auto companies have his business will manage OK with tomers happy if they order a truck monthly increase in more than a 63% of potential buyers will stay in Silverado crew cab with 21,000 diverted vehicles away from fleet used sales, as well as revenue from and can get it in four weeks. But he decade. the market even with higher prices miles on for $61,000. Comparable buyers to more profitable sales to parts and service. But he wants all fears losing business to competing Ford expects to produce only and a meager selection of vehicles. trucks are now listed on websites, consumers. the used cars they acquire now to brands with a huge stock. half its normal number of vehicles With new vehicles prices jumping, he said, for $68,000 to $70,000. be sold by August, when he expects “If the guy across the street from now through June. GM and the cost of popular vehicles has At the same time, he’s asking higher price than he would have the inventory of vehicles to start a from me has 300 (trucks) and my others have resorted to halting pro- become eye-opening. The average $13,995 for a 2011 Silverado crew thought even a few months ago. return to normal. guy has to wait four weeks,” Bazzy duction of some cars and smaller price of a new Chevrolet Silverado cab with 178,000 miles on it, a far “You sell high, you buy high,” Cox’s Krebs said it’s hard to said, “I’m going to lose him.” Thursday, May 13, 2021 11 Economy & Business

Expert Commentary The future of natural gas in ASEAN’s power sector

to about 2,970 TWh in 2050. Con- sidering projects under construction as well as an assessment of energy policies and long-term capacity ad- ditions, the region’s installed genera- tion capacity will almost triple to 760 GW in 2050. Coal will continue to expand across ASEAN and the total coal-fired capacity will reach 170 GW in 2050 (net capacity additions of 90 GW). Gas-fired capacity will rise from 98 GW to nearly 200 GW By Dr Alexander Ermakov, by mid-century, driven by develop- Energy Econometrician ments in Indonesia, Vietnam, Thai- Energy Economics and land, and Myanmar. Renewables, Forecasting Department, such as solar, wind and geothermal, GECF Secretariat and hydropower will comprise almost 60% of all capacity addi- he development of elec- tions, reaching around 360 GW by tricity markets in the 2050, of which solar and wind will Association of Southeast make the largest contributions. The Asia Nations (ASEAN) is development of the ASEAN Power in a dynamic stage, both Grid is also taken into consideration, Tfor demand and supply. Countries which will facilitate the promotion are continuing their path towards in- and scaling-up of renewables. creasing level of electrification, while Gas-fired generation is forecast the region’s power industry and to contribute to 30% of the increase policymakers intend to improve the in electricity supply through to environmental sustainability of the 2050. This will translate into higher sector in the context of strengthening natural gas demand of ASEAN clean air policies. Mitigating reliance countries in the power generation on coal through the diversification of sector, adding about 110 bcm over energy sources for electricity genera- the next three decades to 200 bcm tion is becoming an important trend, mary source of the regional power are envisaged to support the devel- many countries face the depletion gas hub in the region. There is also in 2050. LNG will bridge a widening which paves the way for higher generation mix and the dominance opment. of existing domestic assets, and the an alternative project of gas hub gap of field depletion and lack of new natural gas penetration and scaling- might persist given the capacity Indeed, there are strong ambi- ability to create import opportunities creation in Thailand, based on a indigenous resources, however more up of renewables. under construction, equal to 20.5 tions towards scaling up of renewa- for LNG. receiving terminal in Map Ta Phut. pronounced sectoral gas demand The Gas Exporting Countries Fo- GW, mostly in Indonesia, Vietnam bles. Particularly, Vietnam in the Policy incentives and ongoing A strong impetus will stem from growth will be stifled by competition rum (GECF) attaches special atten- and the Philippines. Substantially abovementioned draft PDP8 consid- market reforms, which support the advancement of intra-country from cheaper coal that will be critical tion to the development of ASEAN’s more capacity of around 56 GW ers 45 GW of renewable capacity by competition and attract upstream LNG trade in Indonesia, making to revitalising economies in the af- energy system and its power sector is at the pre-construction phase, 2030 (an increase of nearly 70% in and infrastructure investments, are gas accessible to the entirety of the termath of COVID-19 and to keeping by targeting this matter in research although some of potential projects the renewable capacity target from assumed to slow down the long-term archipelago. The long-term infra- pace with growing electricity needs. activities and publications, particu- are expected to be reviewed due to the amended PDP7) and 127 GW by decline of regional gas domestic structure plan envisages the alloca- It is also expected, that ASEAN larly the GECF Global Gas Outlook environmental considerations, rising 2045 when its share reaches 46% of production. Recent discoveries, tion of small-scale terminals coupled countries will experience some 2050 (GGO, February 2021) and public opposition as well as difficul- the total installed capacity. Currently including large ones such as Ken Bau with integrated generators across delays in the commissioning of the new edition of the GGO (slated ties to secure financing as more untapped wind power is anticipated in Vietnam, Lang Lebah in Malaysia, 32 locations in Jawa, Sulawesi and regasification terminals and new for release in Q4 2021). Focusing on banks and financial institutions back to lead additions, featuring 60 GW and Kali Berau Dalam in Indonesia, West Kalimantan. Recently, there gas-fired power capacities, impacted cooperation with ASEAN, the GECF away or tighten their policy towards growth between 2020 and 2045. are expected to sustain this trend, has been an announcement that the by COVID-19 and capital spending is keen to promote the dialogue with coal-powered projects. Thailand, within the 10-year Alterna- however the development of some government will begin to build a cuts. It could lead to a higher coal key regional stakeholders in order to A downward revision of the tive Energy Development Plan, aims projects could be hindered due to system of seaborne electricity sup- utilisation in the following 5-7 years. share views and support in address- number of coal-fired projects is to cover 33% of electricity needs difficult geographical (located far ply networks, powered by LNG, in Overall, coal is projected to be the ing energy challenges, including confirmed by countries’ recently from renewables (including hydro) away from demand centres) and order to deliver electricity to islands largest generation source, amount- providing a clean and competitive adopted plans and announcements. by 2037. Renewables are set to reach (up to 10 islands at the initial stage ing to 42% by 2030 and 33% by electricity for the region’s economies. For example, the Philippines last 29 GW, amounting to around 35% of of the plan) that currently rely on 2050 of the total regional electricity One of the examples is the series year implemented a moratorium the total installed capacity in 2037. diesel generation units. Moreover, supply. In its turn, gas-fired gen- of joint workshops with the Eco- on new coal-fired power plants; it The Philippines, in the draft of the the Indonesia’s first LNG-to-power eration, based on indigenous gas nomic Research Institute for ASEAN will not concern projects that have new version of the National Renewa- project, the 1.76 GW Java-1 plant production and LNG imports, is set and East Asia (ERIA), involving a already been approved or secured ble Energy Program, has set a target integrated with floating storage and to maintain a strong foothold and number of stakeholders with strong permits. In Vietnam, within the to achieve renewables’ share in the Profound regasification unit (FSRU), will com- provide above 30% of the power intentions to enhance the usage of draft national power development power generation mix of 37% by mence operations this year. generation mix in the second part of natural gas and increase its import. plan for the period of 2021-2030 2030 and 56% by 2040 (9). Indone- transformation Meanwhile, Myanmar commis- the outlook period. with a vision to 2045 (draft PDP8, sia also aims to increase substantially The largest contribution to sioned its first 477 MW LNG-to- Renewables, on the strength of Policy orientations unveiled 22 February 2021), almost the role of renewables for electricity power plant in Thaketa in June 2020 policy support and declining tech- Over the past 20 years, electricity half of previously planned coal-fired generation. It is underpinned by the electricity demand will stem from and LNG import facility (floating nology costs, are starting to alter the demand in the ASEAN community projects (about 18 GW, approved overall policy orientation to raise the residential segment, storage unit, FSU), located on the mix that - together with expanding has been rising at a substantial rate under the amended PDP7) will be their share in the primary energy underpinned by higher space Yangon River, also began to supply hydropower - will meet around 40% of over 6% annually, twice the world cancelled or delayed until after 2030. mix from 9% in 2020 to 23% by cooling requirements and natural gas to the 350 MW power of the projected increase in total average. Of the region’s 10 countries, Malaysia, in line with the country’s 2025 and 31% by 2050. In accord- increased household appliance plant in Thanlyin and 150 MW in power output. The share of renewa- Indonesia (26%), Vietnam (21%), latest generation development plan ance with the draft of the National ownership. With electricity’s share Kyaukpyu. Another gas-fired power bles in regional electricity supply is Thailand (21%), and Malaysia (16%) covering 2021-39 (released on 24 Electricity Supply Business Plan in ASEAN’s final energy plant in Thilawa (1.2 GW), sourced forecast to almost quintuple, reach- currently make up almost 85% of March 2021), intends to retire over 2021-2030, Indonesia’s renewables consumption expected to approach by LNG, is expected to come online ing 20% in 2050. In this context, the total demand in the region. Ac- 7 GW of coal-fired capacity by 2039 capacity between 2021 and 2025 is 26% by 2050 (from 15% today), by 2024. With the aim of reaching gas-fired power plants, given their cording to the GGO, this electricity and only 2.8 GW of new coal-fired set to boost by 11.7 GW. the power sector is slated to universal electricity access by 2030, effective operations in baseload, demand is set to continue its strong projects should be commissioned in Despite these ambitious plans, undergo a profound transformation Myanmar plans to boost gas-fired flexibility options, and short start- growth trajectory with an annual that time. In Indonesia, where coal several challenges are expected power plant deployment and is up times, will play a central role, pace of 3.2% over the next three supplies more than 60% of electric- to affect the pace of renewables’ to achieve sustainability goals. building six LNG-to-power projects specifically beyond 2030, helping decades and to reach 2,690 terawatt ity, there remains a determination to deployment. Intensive introduction with a total installed capacity of 4 to sustain the transition away from hours (TWh) by 2050, propelled reduce the dominance of this source of intermittent renewable energy geological conditions, problems GW. more carbon intensive coal and ac- predominantly by Indonesia, Viet- of fuel. The government has declared will be hindered by: 1) economic of impurities and contaminations. Perhaps, the most vibrant exam- commodate higher share of renewa- nam, Thailand, and the Philippines’ plans to replace old coal-fired fleet difficulties post-COVID-19 to fund Thus, taking into account the rising ple of development in this sphere is bles into the grid. economies. It is based on a combi- (aged 20 years and older, a com- costly projects; 2) bottlenecks in the natural gas usage in the power gen- represented by Vietnam. The coun- To conclude, electricity require- nation of dynamic economic and bined capacity of over 11 GW) with electricity transmission networks; eration, industry and transport sec- try is not yet importing LNG, but ments in the ASEAN region are population drivers. Particularly, the cleaner power sources. Moreover, 3) current underinvestment in grid tor, the GECF predicts, that ASEAN plans, unveiled in the draft PDP8, vast and natural gas together with region’s GDP will more than triple Indonesia is also considering setting modernisation; 4) insufficient avail- as a whole will transform into a net are attracting the industry’s atten- renewables should be at the fore- in size and the urbanisation rate is a net-zero emissions target by 2070 ability of land to allocate large-scale gas importer in the early 2030s. tion. The draft’s base-load scenario front in meeting these needs while expected to grow from 49% to 66% as part of its long-term strategy for renewable projects; and, 5) the exist- For comparison, ASEAN Center for proposes significant ramp-up of reducing the environmental foot- between now and 2050, when the reducing carbon emissions and cli- ing inflexibility of power systems Energy in the 6th Energy Outlook gas-fired capacity from 7 GW in print. The existence of abundant urban population will expand by 198 mate resilience. This decision could dominated by coal-fired generation. (November 2020) considers that re- 2020 to 29 GW by 2030 and 67 GW and cheap coal resources cannot be million to 525 million in 2050. slow down the ramp-up of coal-fired This is where gas-fired power plants gion’s self-sufficiency in natural gas by 2045, with additional capacities simply set aside, however, there is The largest contribution to elec- generation in the country, which has will play a critical role regionally, will come to an end by 2026 (AMS to be mainly LNG-based. Hai Linh’s even a larger potential for coal-to- tricity demand will stem from the the largest coal pipeline projects in being a significant component for targets scenario) or by 2029 (APAEC LNG terminal in Vung Tau-Ba Ria gas switching in the power sector if residential segment, underpinned by the region. the transition away from coal-fired targets scenario). Wood Mackenzie province is on-track to become the more favourable policy measures higher space cooling requirements In this context, countries have generation, while complementing foresees ASEAN demand for natural first LNG regasification project in are undertaken and gas-based infra- and increased household appliance started to place greater emphasis variable renewables, and stabilising gas to surpass local production in Vietnam (set to start operations in structure affordability grows. This ownership. With electricity’s share in on natural gas and renewables’ ever-more complex grids. around 2026. ERIA anticipates that Q2 2021) to supply the Hiep Phuoc corresponds to the 2019 Malabo ASEAN’s final energy consumption expansion. In terms of renewables, In general, a number of countries only Malaysia and Brunei Darus- power plant expansion with up to Declaration at the outcome of the expected to approach 26% by 2050 ASEAN set a target of 35% share in are highly reliant on natural gas for salam will keep their export posi- 1.2 GW of capacity. Another receiv- 5th GECF Gas Summit of Heads (from 15% today), the power sector is the total installed power capacity by electricity. With an average share in tions until 2040. ing terminal at Thi Vai is under of States and Government (19), slated to undergo a profound trans- 2025. It will contribute to achieving the regional power generation mix of This will bring LNG imports to construction (phase 1 is set to be which emphasised the importance formation to achieve sustainability the aspirational target of integrat- 36%, this fuel in 2019 accounted for the forefront, while the development completed in 2022-2023) and will be of cooperation amongst various goals. Thus, given a wide spread of ing 23% renewable energy in the 94% in Singapore, 61% in Thailand, of LNG-to-power supply chains used to fuel new power plants Nhon stakeholders to ensure the stabil- possibilities to meet surging electric- regional energy mix by 2025. Under 39% in Myanmar and 37% in Ma- and interconnectivity, including the Trach 3 & 4 (total capacity of 1.5 ity of gas markets and the security ity needs, the future configuration of this vision around 40 GW of renew- laysia, while it played a more modest Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline project, GW). Further down the pipeline, Bac of demand and supply of natural the power generation mix is open to able energy capacity are to be added role in Vietnam, the Philippines, and will be pivotal factors, facilitating Lieu LNG-to-power project (3.2 GW) gas. Given ASEAN’s aspiration to debates. by that date. Alongside this regional Indonesia, amounting to 23%, 23%, the attraction of LNG in the region. in the Mekong Delta region is being propel energy transition into more Historically, the sustained high target, individual countries envision and 20%, respectively. Coal-to-gas At the moment, there are nine LNG targeted for start-up in 2024. sustainable and resilient energy sys- increase in electricity demand has a further push for renewables-based switching potential as well as strong receiving terminals in five ASEAN tems using natural gas, the GECF been covered mainly by the ex- power and a myriad of measures, electricity demand growth mean that countries with a total capacity of The future for gas-fired genera- Countries as reliable suppliers are pansion of coal-fired generation, such as revising feed-in tariffs, net- natural gas could maintain or even 38.75 million tonnes per annum tion in ASEAN striving to support these efforts followed by natural gas and hydro- metering schemes, auction mecha- strengthen its position over decades. (mtpa) and regasification capacity In line with electricity demand and to cater for growing energy and power. In 2017, coal had already nisms, facilitating access to land and The key drivers will be the availabil- will grow rapidly. Moreover, Singa- increase, electricity generation in electricity demand in this important overtaken gas to become the pri- surface water for floating projects, ity of indigenous gas production, as pore is looking to become a leading ASEAN is forecast to grow 2.6-fold economic region of the world. QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Nadal holds off surging Sinner at Italian Open page 14

THURSday, MAY 13, 2021 Attiyah and Baumel face stiff competition at Andalucia Rally FIA Seville (Spain) Spanish newcomer EVENT marks start of FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies The Andalucia Rally (May 12-16) heralds the start of the 2021 FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies which, this year, has an expanded calendar and will take the con- tenders to new as well as more familiar territories for the sev- en round series. Andalucia Rally runs for the second time and this year marks its debut in the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies, providing a fresh chal- lenge for many of the crews on the impressive entry list of more than 80 competitors in the T1, T3 and T4 groups. Based around the bivouac at Hacienda El Rosalejo, near Villamartin in eastern Spain, the event takes in five selective sections covering 966 compet- itive kilometres over typical gravel Andalusian landscape. Nasser Al Attiyah and co- Nasser Al Attiyah and co-driver Matthieu Baumel head the provisional entry list and the multiple title-winning duo return to Spain as the victors of the first running of the event in 2020. driver Matthieu Baumel head the provisional entry list and for Cross-Country Bajas. The be hoping for better luck after the multiple title-winning Saudi Arabian driver, navigat- dropping way down the classi- duo return to Spain as the vic- ed by Dirk von Zitzewitz, also fication last year. tors of the first running of the stood on the 2020 Andalucía A host of other strong con- event in 2020. Rally podium last year with a tenders in T1 include Denis The Qatari/French crew, fine third place and is sure to Krotov/Konstantin Zhilt- driving a Toyota Hilux Over- be back on the pace in another sov in another MINI John drive, will however face stiff Hilux Overdrive. Cooper Works Rally and the competition from some of Vladimir Vasilyev also had X-Raid crew of Mattias Ek- their closest rivals who also a good start to the season, ström, 2016 FIA World Ral- contested last year’s candidate winning the opening Northern lycross Champion, and Emil event in anticipation of its in- Forest round of the FIA World Bergkvist. Laia Sanz is also clusion in the FIA World Cup Cup for Cross-Country Bajas supporting her home round for Cross-Country Rallies. in February. of the series and moves from Carlos Sainz, double FIA He and co-driver Alexey her more regular T4 machin- World Rally Champion and Kuzmich will be competing in ery into another X-Raid run winner of the Dakar Rally on their BMW X3 on the Anda- T1 MINI All 4 Racing. three occasions, also returns lucía Rally for the first time, The T3 category has an- to the Andalucía Rally. hoping to kick start their other impressive field with The Spaniard, with Lu- Cross-Country Rally campaign Leading entries no fewer than 25 crews on the cas Cruz alongside him in the in fine style. Nasser Al Attiyah/Mathieu Baumel (Toyota Hilux Overdrive) provisional entry list, while T4 MINI John Cooper Works Yasir Seaidan currently Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz (MINI John Cooper Works Rally) has attracted 22 entrants to the Rally, narrowly lost out on the heads the FIA World Cup for Yazeed Al Rajhi/Dirk von Zitzewitz (Toyota Hilux Overdrive) opening round of the series. win last year by just over three Cross-Country Bajas courtesy Vladimir Vasilyev/Alexey Kuzmich (BMW X3) Kees Koolen, Aron Domzala minutes after nearly nine of two wins from four events, Yasir Seaidan/Omar Allahim (MINI John Cooper Works Rally) and Khalifa Al Attiyah top the hours of competition and will and he and fellow Saudi Ara- Erik van Loon/Sébastien Delaunay (Toyota Hilux Overdrive) T4 entries, the trio finishing doubtless be looking to add a bian co-driver Omar Allahim Denis Krotov/Konstantin Zhiltsov (MINI John Cooper Works Rally) first, second and third respec- home win to an already im- will doubtless be looking to Mattias Ekström/Emil Bergkvist (MINI John Cooper Works Buggy) tively in last year’s FIA World pressive list of victories. better last year’s 10th place fin- Zala Vaidotas/Paulo Fiuza (MINI John Cooper Works Rally) Cup for Cross-Country Bajas. Yazeed Al Rajhi got his ish in Spain in their MINI John Martin Kaczmarski/Tapio Suominen (Toyota Hilux Overdrive). cross-country campaign off Cooper Works Rally. Erik van Thursday May 13 – Leg 1/2 to a great start this season Loon and Sebastien Delau- Rally Details: Total distance: 1,566 km Start of SS2 (206 kilometres): with victory on the Dubai In- nay also return to the event as Selective section distance: 966 (61.69%) The Andalucia Rally (May 12-16) heralds the start of the 2021 FIA World 10:56hrs Number of selective sections: 5 ternational Baja, the second team-mates to Al Rajhi, and Cup for Cross-Country Rallies. First car arrives bivouac: round of the FIA World Cup the Dutch/French pairing will 15:37hrs. Serena loses in 1,000th career match as Osaka also crashes out DPA/WTA champion to serve to stay in ing actually too good in the This is our life on tour now, Berlin the match. firstfew service games on my so we get through all of these She never came close to serve,” Kerber said after the situations the last year, espe- Serena Williams made doing so as Williams was bro- match. cially now. an unsuccessful return to ken to love, a miscued fore- “In the second set I knew, “We played also doubles the WTA Tour as she joined hand long giving Podoroska ‘Okay, now I have to fight for in Miami, so it’s also a lot of Naomi Osaka in crashing out one of the biggest wins of her every ball, I have to move bet- fun we had there. When you’re of the Internazionali BNL career. ter, and maybe not overthink getting older, I think it’s also d’Italia in the second round on Earlier in the day, Osaka everything.’ Also not looking a little bit easier for us [to be Wednesday. was defeated in straight sets on the scoreboard. Just play- friends]. Williams was playing the by Jessica Pegula. ing point by point. I was focus- “We are very good friends. 1,000th match of her glittering Osaka has made no secret ing more on my service game, That’s why I’m really also not career against Nadia Podoros- of her discomfort on clay, hav- because I start to play better really feeling great when I ka, her first since losing in the ing never gone beyond the in the second set. Then sud- see something like this what’s Australian Open semi-finals to third round at Roland Garros. denly she called the trainer. I happen today. I hope that she Osaka in February. All of her 10 WTA singles know that Simona is not call- recovers soon.” The American has expe- titles have come on the hard ing trainers just like this. Kerber will next face an- rienced significant success in court and she was undone on American Serena Williams returns a shot to Argentina’s Nadia Podor- “I knew, ‘Okay, something other former French Open Rome, winning the title four the red dirt once more as Peg- oska during their match of the women’s Italian Open at Foro Italico happened.’ But I really didn’t champion, Jelena Ostapenko, times, but was always likely ula prevailed 7-6 (7-2), 6-2. Japan’s Naomi Osaka in action on in Rome, Italy, on Wednesday. (AFP) see the moment, so I don’t for a spot in the quarterfinals. to be tested by a player who Rising star Podoroska add- against Jessica Pegula of the US know what exactly happened The Latvian took out Aus- reached the French Open ed another name to a growing in Rome on Wednesday. (AFP) come from a set down to beat Most notably, No.3 seed in the moment. But, of course, sie qualifier Ajla Tomljanovic semi-finals last year. list of big career wins in Serena. Germany’s Laura Siegemund and defending champion Si- I was feeling so bad with her, in second-round action, 6-2, And that proved the case The victory over the World tant for me. I think it was a in her opener. mona Halep was forced to because this is not the way I 7-6(3). as she slumped to a 7-6 (8-6), No. 8 is the Argentinian’s third very good match, high level. I “Since Roland Garros, I retire with a left calf injury in would like to finish a tough No.15 seed and reign- 7-5 defeat despite threatening career win over a Top 10 play- knew that I have to play every think for sure it’s the best ten- the second set of her match match against also a friend on ing French Open winner Iga a second set fightback. er, all in the last eight months. point, fight for every ball. She nis that I play on clay, no? It’s against fellow former World the other side.” Swiatek came through a tough Having won the first set on “It’s special win. [To] play didn’t play a tournament for also my first tournament [on No.1 Angelique Kerber. “I was trying to help- match against former Rome a tie-break, Podoroska con- against her, it’s an honor for a while, so I knew that maybe clay] after that. I played a few Halep was leading, 6-1, ing her as much as I can, but and US Open finalist Madison tinued to dominate the longer me. I saw her playing when she did too many mistakes weeks ago the Billie Jean (King 3-3, before getting injured yeah, I hope that she will get Keys, 7-5, 6-1. exchanges and went 5-2 up in I grew up, so it was a special at the beginning or I have to Cup against Kazakhstan), but I mid-game. very soon back and it’s not too However, after missing the second. match for me,” Podoroska said push her to do them. But I wasn’t comfortable playing on “In the first set I think bad,” Kerber said of their post- Madrid, No.4 seed and 2020 From there, Williams won after the match. think I played a great match.” clay at that moment. So, yeah, I my start was a little bit slow. match moments. Australian Open champion 12 straight points to level mat- “But most of all, I’m happy It also marked just the think it’s the best tennis I play.” I was not moving too good. I “I think over the time, I Sofia Kenin was beaten in ters at 5-5, but Podoroska then the way I played. I felt again second time that Podoroska Elsewhere, there were know that I have to move good mean, we share the tour to- straight sets by Barbora Kre- claimed a nervy service hold to comfortable on clay, on my has won consecutive matches mixed fortunes for other against Simona, that the ral- gether. We know each other jcikova, 6-1, 6-4, to drop to 0-3 force the 23-time grand slam game, and that’s most impor- this season, having previously Grand Slam champions. lies are long. I was not serv- very well on and off courts. on clay this season. Sports Thursday, May 13, 2021 13

Wanda Doha Diamond League Pole Vault world championships’ podium trio to be reunited in Doha

Tribune News Network Doha

In a stacked field deserving of a global pole vault final, Anz- helika Sidorova (ANA), Sandi Morris (USA) and Katerina Stefanidi (Greece) - the 2019 World Championships med- allists - will meet again in the Qatari capital at the Wanda Doha Diamond League on May 28. Sidorova, who won the world title in a lifetime best of 4.95m, is a two-time world indoor silver medallist (2014 Katerina Stefanidi of Greece. and 2018). She was European outdoor champion in 2014 and when I open my Wanda Dia- European indoor champion in mond League season in Doha,” 2015 and 2019. said Sidorova. “I achieved my Morris – Olympic silver personal best of 4.95m at the medallist in Rio 2016 – was 2019 World Championships runner-up to Sidorova in Doha so I have happy memories of 2019 and to Stefanidi in Lon- competing in this city.” don 2017. She won the World Morris, the US national Anzhelika Sidorova, an ANA athlete, during the women’s pole vault at the 2017 Oslo Bislett Games. Indoor title in 2018. record holder with a best of Sandi Morris (USA) set a Meeting Record of 4.84m in the women’s Stefanidi is the reigning 5.00m, said: “I can’t wait to Stefanidi, the Greek na- bodes well, and looking ahead Championships, the impres- pole vault event at the Doha 2018 IAAF Diamond League meeting. Olympic champion. She backed get back to international com- tional record holder with a to the Olympic Games makes sive Doha line-up includes Ca- up her Rio gold with a World petition. In spite of the pan- best of 4.91m, said: “The last it special. Competing against nadian national record holder Bradshaw. days in Zurich at the end of Championship title in Lon- demic I’ve been fortunate to year has been hard for athletes my toughest competitors is and Commonwealth Games The 2021 Wanda Diamond the season. Each meeting will don 2017, but had to settle for enjoy a number of competitive at all levels of the sport. We exactly what I need to bring champion Alysha Newman; League comprises 14 meet- be broadcast globally in a live bronze in Doha two years later. opportunities in the US, but all thrive through competi- out the best in myself and just European Indoor champion ings - starting with Gateshead two-hour programme. “I’ve made some good pro- the prospect of lining up with tion and starting this year with thinking about it makes me Angelica Moser (Switzerland); (replacing Rabat as the first The 2021 calendar remains gress throughout the indoor these girls in Doha is what the Doha Diamond League - excited.” and British record holder and host city on this year’s circuit) subject to change depending season and I’m looking for- makes us tick, especially going the location of our last major In addition to the top three European Indoor Champion- on Sunday 23 May - leading on the global health situation ward to building on that form into an Olympic summer.” championship back in 2019 - from the 2019 World Athletics ships bronze medallist Holly to a single final across two in the coming months. Klopp congratulates Japan public opinion will change ‘best manager in the once Tokyo Olympics start: IOC world’ Guardiola DPA London

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp has called Pep Guar- diola the best manager in the world as he congratulated Manchester City on an “excep- tional” title success. Manchester United’s 2-1 defeat to Leicester on Tuesday night confirmed Guardiola’s third Premier League title and City’s fifth in the last decade as they succeeded Liverpool as Big applaud champions. It was a very difficult year Guardiola called it the “hardest” of his successes giv- for the whole world, for en the difficult circumstances football teams as well, and President of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics Organising Committee Seiko of the pandemic, and a poor what they achieved so far Hashimoto answers a question during a news conference in Tokyo on start to the season which left this year is exceptional. Wednesday after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) executive City eighth on Christmas Day, (Manchester) City has an board meeting. (AFP) and Klopp agreed as he said their achievement stood out. incredible squad and the DPA board meeting Wednesday “A great achievement, con- best manager in the world Berlin that the IOC and Japanese gratulations,” Klopp said. so that makes it a good organizers are “moving full “I texted Pep last night and recipe. The International Olympic steam ahead.” Ilkay (Guendogan, a player Committee (IOC) is confident He said they are commit- Athletes of Japan’s team A compete in 4 x 100m universal relay category during a para-athletics test event Klopp managed at Borussia Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp it can swing public opinion in ted to safe Games amid a strict for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics at the National Stadium in Tokyo on Tuesday. (AFP) Dortmund). Japan once the Tokyo Games hygiene protocol, that recent “It was a very difficult year have started. test events have gone well, a it will be reflected. We are us at the test events that the served as Olympic quali- for the whole world, for foot- ago - as he added his own con- The latest polls show that large majority of athletes will confident we can deliver good Games can and will go ahead fier and featured 225 athletes ball teams as well, and what gratulations. some 60 per cent of Japanese be vaccinated and that the Games,” Adams told report- ... A huge majority of athletes from 46 nations. “We got a lot they achieved so far this year “[City] had a fantastic sea- believe the July 23-August 8 World Health Organization ers. say they are looking forward to of positive feedback from ath- is exceptional. son, playing really well, with a Games should be cancelled has also expressed confidence “When the Games happen the Games and we hope that letes and international federa- “City has an incredible lot of consistency,” the Italian owing to the ongoing coro- in the detailed Games plans. and the Japanese can be proud also gives the Japanese people tions,” Adams said. squad and the best manager said. “They were strong defen- navirus crisis, with a state of “There is always a dip hosts of an event which will confidence. Adams said that 7,800 in the world so that makes it a sively also, and so they deserve emergency in Tokyo extended ahead of the Games. We take be historic moment I am very Adams said that 12 test athletes are now qualified and good recipe.” to win, and congratulations. to May 31. note of public opinion. We confident of public opinion events have been carried out that by a June 29 deadline the It is a ninth European “I think that the Premier But IOC spokesman Mark think games can go ahead and being hugely in favour of the in Japan since April, includ- remaining places will be filled league title as a manager for League is the most difficult na- Adams said after an executive if there is an amazing moment event.” “Everyone was telling ing a diving World Cup which via rankings and qualifiers. Guardiola, who won three tional competition in Europe La Liga crowns with Barce- for sure, because there are a lot lona and the Bundesliga three of teams with a lot of quality.” times with Bayern Munich. City – who beat Totten- The Catalan has described ham in the League Cup final the Premier League the most last month – hope they are Haaland in Dortmund squad for Cup final against Leipzig difficult of the leagues to win, not done yet, chasing a treble a verdict backed by Everton when they face Chelsea in the DPA Wednesday. the trophy and qualify for the boss Carlo Ancelotti - a title Champions League final on Berlin However, Terzic didn’t Champions League,” Reus said. winner with Chelsea 11 years May 29. guarantee the striker will play: Apart from those with Borussia Dortmund top “After the session in the sta- long-term injuries – Marwin scorer Erling Haaland is part dium and with more time to- Hitz, Mateu Morey, Axel Wit- of the squad travelling to morrow, we’ll see if it’s enough sel, Dan-Axel Zagadou, Yous- Berlin for the German Cup for him to go.” soufa Moukoko and Marcel final against RB Leipzig on Captain Marco Reus Schmelzer – all other players Thursday. pointed out that Dortmund will be in Berlin. Haaland has recovered are not only fighting for the Around 20 Dortmund fans from a thigh injury that forced Cup title, but are also still try- were in the airport ahead of him to miss two weeks of ac- ing to qualify for the Champi- the team’s departure to the tion, including the cup semi- ons League. German capital. final against Holstein Kiel and They currently sit in the The club are seeking their a Bundesliga match against last qualification spot in the fourth Cup title in history. Leipzig. league, but only one point “It’s a mix of anticipation “Erling was back on the ahead of Eintracht Frankfurt. and tension. Borussia Dort- pitch with us for the first time “We want to win all three mund has won the cup four in almost two weeks, and he Dortmund’s Norwegian forward Erling Braut Haaland gestures during remaining games. We wanted times. Tomorrow we want to Manchester City’s Spanish manager Pep Guardiola gestures on the looked good,” coach Edin Ter- the training session, a day ahead of the German Cup (DFB Pokal) final to start a winning streak, we win the cup for the fifth time,” touchline during the English Premier League match against Chelsea zic told a news conference on against RB Leipzig in Berlin on Wednesday. (AFP) did that. Now we want to win Terzic said. at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, England, on May 8. (AFP) 14 Thursday, May 13, 2021 Sports FIFA and Qatar invite associations to discuss human rights with international experts ahead of World Cup 2022

IFA, on Monday, held The exchanges with mem- a virtual meeting with ber associations focused on several member asso- the concrete steps towards full ciations and confed- implementation of the changes Ferations to discuss workers’ introduced, and the expansion welfare reforms and broader of the measures put in place human rights in Qatar in con- within Qatar’s construction nection to the country’s host- sites to the service sector that ing of the FIFA World Cup will become more involved as 2022™. the competition approaches. The virtual event was or- The international organi- ganised in collaboration with sations, human rights or- the Supreme Committee for ganisations and workers un- Delivery & Legacy (SC), FI- ions that have been directly FA’s local partner in Qatar. involved in Qatar’s labour Member Associations that had reform programmes since expressed an interest in the 2010 welcomed the national matter heard from the SC’s reforms and the work specifi- Secretary-General HE Hassan cally being conducted by the Al Thawadi, as well as presen- SC and FIFA on the country’s tations from industry experts World Cup projects. from independent interna- The same organisations tional organisations, human also outlined the need for rights organisations and work- strict implementation of the ers unions (Amnesty Interna- new and existing legislation tional, BWI, ILO, ITUC1) with and pointed to some addition- direct knowledge of the situa- al reforms that are expected tion on the ground. later this year. The meeting provided The virtual event was organised in collaboration with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), FIFA’s local partner in Qatar. Member Associations that had expressed an The meeting followed a an opportunity to clarify a interest in the matter heard from the SC’s Secretary-General HE Hassan Al Thawadi, as well as presentations from industry experts from independent international organisations, series of previous exchanges number of facts related to the human rights organisations and workers unions (Amnesty International, BWI, ILO, ITUC1) with direct knowledge of the situation on the ground. with individual member as- country’s labour reforms pro- sociations on the same topic, gramme, look at the important legacy of the FIFA World Cup topic,” said FIFA President tive social change. to ensure that any debate on conditions on the FIFA World and FIFA and the SC commit- progress achieved since Qatar 2022™ in the field of workers’ Gianni Infantino. “We know there is still this complex matter should Cup construction sites have ted to continue to engage with was awarded the tournament welfare and human rights in “We all want to ensure work to be done, but we need be based on verified facts,” reached the highest global the global football community in 2010 and discuss the chal- the host country. the protection of everyone to recognise the significant he added. safety standards, and that the to keep its stakeholders regu- lenges that still remain, while “I very much welcome engaged in the delivery of the progress achieved in a very “It is important for our recent landmark legislative re- larly informed on prepara- stressing the role that FIFA the constructive engage- FIFA World Cup, and we are short time, thanks to the com- member associations to hear forms have already benefitted tions for the FIFA World Cup, and football can continue to ment with our member as- confident the event can serve mitment of the highest au- directly from independent in- tens of thousands of workers and to address any concerns play in promoting a lasting sociations on this important as a catalyst for broader posi- thorities in the country, and ternational experts that the across Qatar.” that may arise. Nadal holds off surging Sinner in thrilling clash Spaniard to face 13th seed A view of Raland Garros in Paris. Shapovalov next French Open set to ATP Rome welcome spectators, For a second week in a row, Rafael Nadal went toe-to-toe with a talented and fast-rising night session to debut NextGenATP star – and once again, the World No. 3 man- DPA ing to the coronavirus and are aged to hold off the youth Hanover scheduled for May 30-June 13. surge in style, fighting past With restrictions slowly 19-year-old Jannik Sinner in The French Open hope to being eased the tournament an electrifying battle at the In- welcome around 118,000 fans can have more attendance ternazionali BNL d’Italia. for the upcoming tennis grand than last year when it was held Last week in Madrid, Na- slam in Paris if all goes well, or- in September and October in dal similarly found himself fac- ganizers said on Wednesday. front of 15,000 fans. ing off against the future of the Organizers said that a little All players will be in a bub- sport when he faced Carlos Al- more than 5,000 fans would ble again in two hotels and caraz in his opening match. He be allowed on the Roland can only access Roland Garros was tested in the early exchang- Garros grounds on the first premises on days when they es, but ultimately eased past the 10 days, 1,000 on each of the play, along with two addition- 18-year-old in straight sets. three show courts and the oth- al people. He had an even bigger bat- ers on outside courts. The 2021 edition will also tle on his hands on Wednes- The remaining five days see the debut of a night ses- day against 19-year-old home with play only on the show sion, with a retractable roof favourite Sinner, who recently courts would see 5,000 fans on centre court and flood- reached his first ATP Masters allowed per court. lights. Two women’s and 1000 final at the Miami Open The French Open were men’s matches each are to be presented by Itau. Spain’s Rafael Nadal returns a backhand to Italy’s Jannik Sinner during their match of the men’s Italian Open at Foro Italico in Rome, Italy, on pushed back by a week ow- scheduled. Contesting the highly an- Wednesday. Nadal won 7-5, 6-4. (AFP) ticipated last match of the evening on Centre Court, Na- Sinner set the tone early on tered it with the forehand to dal drew from his long experi- with a break in Nadal’s open- seal the opening tilt. ence to wear down Sinner and ing service game. The Italian The second seed was in Poland waives quarantine rules fight through 7-5, 6-4. was aggressive from the start, danger in the second set as Nadal will face 13th seed and troubled Nadal with his Sinner again surged to an early for Man Utd fans ahead of EL final Denis Shapovalov in the third top spin and ability to change break with a 2-1 lead as Nadal’s round. Shapovalov took down direction of the ball in the ral- unforced error count began to DPA quarantine on their return another Italian, wild card Ste- lies. But Nadal replied in kind, climb. But it would prove to London to the UK as Poland is on the fano Travaglia, 7-6(2), 6-3 levelling the score a game be the only break point that Government’s amber list, an in an hour and 35 minutes to later as both players settled Nadal allowed in the set, and Polish authorities have update on the Gdansk Airport book his fourth meeting with into a returners’ battle. The the Spaniard recentred him- waived quarantine rules for website has confirmed there the Spaniard. Nadal owns a pair traded breaks twice in the self and reeled off the last four Manchester United fans going will be need to isolate upon ar- 2-1 ATP Head2Head lead over opening set, with Nadal going games to close out the battle. to the Europa League final in rival in the city. Shapovalov, and won their for the occasional drop shot Meanwhile, Aslan Karatsev Gdansk. “Each person who has a only previous encounter on to break Sinner’s rhythm to continued his breakthrough Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s ticket for the Europa League clay at this venue in 2018. much success. season by taking out third seed side head to the Gdansk Sta- final in Gdansk, arriving Sinner showed no sign of Still on serve but with Daniil Medvedev 6-2, 6-4 in dium on May 26 looking to from the United Kingdom, nerves against the 13-time Ro- Italian Jannik Sinner wipes his face during his match against Spain’s scoreboard pressure on his one hour and 18 minutes. In secure their first trophy since does not have to take the test land Garros champion in the Rafael Nadal at the men’s Italian Open in Rome on Wednesday. (AFP) side, Nadal dialled up the pres- what is just his fourth tour-lev- winning the competition in after arrival,” a statement second round. He had already sure on Sinner as he served to el clay appearance, he moves 2017. read. pushed Nadal to a tie-break in four games in his last four cure the victory in two hours stay in the set. Nadal created into the third round where The stadium will be re- “According to the decision their only previous encounter Rome openers. Sinner was and 10 minutes. seven break points at the end Reilly Opelka awaits. stricted to 25 per cent capacity of Polish authorities 9,500 at last year’s Grand Slam in determined to flip the script, With the victory, Nadal of the set: three at 5-4 and four “I’m super happy,” Karat- for the final due to Covid-19 football fans can take part in Paris, where Nadal ultimately pushing the Spaniard to the improved to 7-0 against Ital- more at 6-5. Sinner raised his sev said. “It was a really tough regulations, with United re- the event. Most of them will prevailed with a 7-6(4), 6-4, brink and taking an early ian opponents in Rome, and level on serve when it mattered match. Against Medvedev you ceiving 2,000 tickets for a arrive from abroad. 6-1 win. lead with a break in both sets. extended his winning record most to extend his stay in the never know, he’s a big server. match that will be played out “Travelling by air is subject Coming into the match, But the nine-time champion in opening matches to 16-1 at set, but when Nadal finally got It’s tough to return, but I man- in front of 9,500 people. to many restrictions caused by Nadal had only lost a total of fought back both times to se- the Foro Italico. a look at a second serve he bat- aged it well.” While fans will have to the coronavirus pandemic. Sports Thursday, May 13, 2021 15 Al Maraghi pips Elkhoully to top Qatar Digital Motosports C’ships 2nd round

Tribune News Network Doha

Khalid Al Maraghi upstaged Ahmed Elkhoully to win the second round of the Qatar Dig- ital Motosports Championship held online on Tuesday. The virtual Gran Turismo Sport PlayStation 4event has been organised by the Qatar Motor and Motorcylce Federa- tion (QMMF). Al Maraghi showed great control and driving skills to finish on top with a time of 18:04.315secs. Elkhoully, who had won the opening round, this time fin- ished +01.321secs behind the winner. Sheikh Soud Jassim Al Thani (+02.351) was third but Action from the second round of the Qatar Digital Motosprots Championships held on Tuesday. The championship will see a total of six rounds with the third round being held after Eid. his good show saw him finish second in the overall rankings. round will be held after Eid. Qatar Digital Motorsports 3. Sheikh Soud Jassim Al Thani 8. Raza Gillani +12.240 C’ship Points Faesal Alyafei 14 From among the 24 partic- The dates for the remaining Championship +02.351 9. Zaid Al Bani +21.329 Ahmed Elkhoully 43 Rashid Almannai 13 ipants, 12 had qualified for the dates will be announced soon, 2nd Round Results 4. Faesal Alyafei +05.436 10. Rashid Almannai +25.523 Sheikh Soud Jassim Al Thani 33 Zaid Al Bani 12 first and second round. said Qatar Motor and Motor- 1. Khalid Al Maraghi 5. Mansour Dbeissy +05.473 11. Omran Yahya Krama Khalid Al Maraghi 29 Khalid Al Abdulla 7 The championship will see cylce Federation. 18:04.315secs 6. Hade Ahmed +10.704 +26.011 Hade Ahmed 23 Omran Yahya Krama 6 a total of six rounds. The third 2. Ahmed Elkhoully +01.321 7. Khalid Al Abdulla +11.514 12. Basil Jamalulden DNF Mansour Dbeissy 18 Raza Gillani 4.

NBA If England players stand together, they’ll With LeBron still out, play in rescheduled IPL, feels Pietersen

ANI Lakers rally to beat New Delhi Ashley Giles, the manag- ing director of England men’s team, had hinted that Three Lions’ players might not be available for the remainder of Knicks in OT thriller this edition of the Indian Pre- mier League (IPL) if it gets TCA/DPA sive game. Randle, alongside rescheduled for some time Los Angeles the resurgent Derrick Rose, later this year. But former has the Knicks in good shape skipper Kevin Pietersen be- The optimism that flowed out for the approaching playoffs, lieves if the England players of the Lakers’ camp following the team knowing exactly who stand together they will play Kevin Pietersen. the weekend was a little muted it is and what it has. in the tournament. Tuesday, the presumed return For the Lakers, that kind The IPL Governing Coun- England’s Future Tours Pro- of LeBron James put on hold of knowledge still requires a cil (GC) and Board of Control gramme (FTP). for at least another game while vivid imagination. for Cricket in India (BCCI) in “We’ve got a full FTP he gave his injured ankle an- Before the Lakers’ game an emergency meeting had schedule. So if those tours to other day to rest. with the Knicks, Vogel wouldn’t unanimously decided to post- Pakistan and Bangladesh [in Following a full practice commit to James making his pone IPL 2021 season last September and October] are Monday - a practice seemingly return Wednesday in their reg- week. BCCI is now looking to going ahead, I’d expect the held explicitly for James to get ular-season home finale. tap the September window be- players to be there,” ESPN- back on the court - team doc- “We’ll continue to look at it fore the T20 World Cup to fin- cricinfo had quoted Giles as tors told coach Frank Vogel day to day,” Vogel said. “He’s ish the league. “It’s going to be saying. that James would be unable going to, again, do some more v interesting to watch how the “The New Zealand scenar- to play against the New York rehab work today and we’ll ECB handle this issue around io was very different. Those Knicks on Tuesday, ensuring evaluate the response to that not allowing its best players Test matches were formal- the Lakers would again have work tomorrow and make a to play IPL if it’s rescheduled. ised at the end of January, by to play short-handed. decision on tomorrow tomor- When I went up against ENG, which time all those contracts Scoring was a struggle, row.” Vogel said James came I was alone. This time, it’s all and NOCs [no objection cer- but the Lakers were up for the out of Monday’s practice with- their best-branded players! tificates] were signed for full fight, with Wesley Matthews out a setback, but team doc- If they stand together, they’ll involvement in the IPL,” he sending the game to overtime tors decided it would be best play IPL,” Pietersen tweeted. further said. with a tip-in and Talen Hor- to hold him out. When Pietersen was Giles said England’s sched- ton-Tucker sending the Knicks “He’s going to come back signed up by Royal Challeng- ule for the summer is “incredi- home with a game-winning when it’s safe to and when it ers Bangalore (RCB) in 2009, bly busy” and the management 3 in overtime, capping a wild makes sense to,” Vogel said. questions were raised in the wants to look after their play- 101-99 win. The Lakers have three English cricketing circles on ers. “None of us knows what Already missing James Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks is trapped by Anthony Davis #3 and Kyle Kuzma #0 of the Los more games following Tues- him playing in the league. a rearranged IPL looks like at and starting point guard Den- Angeles Lakers during a 101-99 Laker win in overtime at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, on day, hosting Houston before But now as years have passed, the moment; where it’s going nis Schroder, the Lakers also Tuesday. (Getty Images/AFP) traveling to Indiana and New England cricketers have seen to be or when. But from when lost fill-in starter Alex Caruso Orleans for the final weekend their stock rise and more play- we start this summer against in the first half, the sore foot The stretches without him ging things up with their pres- enough offense without their of the season. ers from the country are being New Zealand, our programme that’s bothered him for the last were particularly rocky, the sure and physicality. usual ballhandlers, a miser- Reaching the top six in given IPL contracts. is incredibly busy,” said Giles. two games finally catching up Lakers trying to split playmak- Luckily for the Lakers, able second half defined by the conference seemed un- Earlier this year, ECB “We’ve got a lot of impor- with him. ing duties with Kentavious Kuzma returned after missing scoring droughts and stand- likely before the Lakers lost had received flak for rotating tant, high-profile cricket in- The playmaking duties Caldwell-Pope, Kyle Kuzma, one game with back soreness still offensive possessions. Caruso, and watching re- its players in the Test series cluding the T20 World Cup all fell onto Horton-Tucker’s Anthony Davis, Marc Gasol to help ignite the offense in For the Knicks, seeing peated turnovers and wasted against India and many for- and the Ashes. And we’re go- shoulders, the second-year and Ben McLemore. stretches, scoring 16 points in his former team did nothing offensive sets in the fourth mer cricketers had given their ing to have to look after our guard taking on the greatest Predictably, the offense the first half. to slow Julius Randle down, quarter with the Lakers’ top opinion, saying the board is players,” he added. offensive responsibility of his was clunky, especially with the For long stretches, the the All-NBA lock showing his three point-guard options allowing its players to play in Moreover, India and Eng- young career. defense-minded Knicks clog- Lakers didn’t have nearly blossoming all-around offen- out wasn’t too inspiring. the IPL while ignoring inter- land are slated to lock horns national cricket. in the five-match Test series Any rescheduling of the in the UK this year. The series IPL 2021 is likely to clash with would commence in August. La Liga failure won’t constitute a ‘bad season’: Zidane DPA be deemed a poor campaign brought to the referee’s at- Ban vs SL: Kusal Perera to Berlin even if they do not win LaLiga. tention by a VAR review, his “Everything can happen,” decision to bring play back lead visitors in ODI series Zinedine Zidane does not he told reporters. “We can win subsequently robbing Madrid think 2020-21 will automati- it just like we can lose it. of a penalty of their own at the ANI National Stadium in Dhaka. cally be considered a “bad “The most important thing other end after Karim Benze- Colombo Sri Lanka will arrive in season” if Real Madrid fail to is to give everything and how ma had been brought down by Dhaka on May 16, and then the successfully defend their La we act on the pitch. We’ve Yassine Bounou. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on side will complete a three-day Liga title. played good games and the Zidane was not prepared Wednesday announced an quarantine. The visitors will A 2-2 draw at home to Se- season is long. to get into the discussion 18-member squad for the up- then play a practice match on villa at the weekend left Ma- “I am not going to say that again, accepting things could coming three-match ODI se- May 21. After the conclusion of drid two points adrift of lead- it is a bad season, because get “messy” if he did. ries against Bangladesh. the ODI series on May 28, the ers Atletico Madrid with three that’s when you don’t give eve- “I’m not going to get into The team will depart for Sri Lankan team will depart on games to go, the stalemate rything on the pitch. the polemics. Things should Bangladesh on May 16 and the the following day. meaning title success was no “2017 was a phenomenal be clear to everyone,” he said. Minister of Youth and Sports, Sri Lanka ODI squad: Kusal longer in their hands. season and we could have lost “The VAR will always help to Namal Rajapaksa gave his ap- Perera (C), Kusal Mendis (VC), They go to Granada on in the last game. The most im- improve football but specific proval for the squad. Sri Lan- Danushka Gunathilaka, Dhanan- Thursday having beaten the Real Madrid’s French coach Zinedine Zidane (L) shakes hands with Span- portant thing is what you can plays must be clarified. ka will be led by Kusal Perera jaya De Silva, Pathum Nis- Nazaries in 17 of their 18 La- ish referee Juan Martinez Munuera as Real Madrid’s German midfielder control, and then whatever “In the end, everyone does while Kusal Mendis will be his sanka, Dasun Shanaka, Ashen Liga meetings, that sole defeat Toni Kroos walks past during the match against Sevilla FC at the Alfredo happens will happen.” The fo- their job. I’m not going to talk deputy for the three-match Bandara, Wanindu Hasaranga, coming in 2013 as a result of di Stefano stadium in Valdebebas, near Madrid, on May 9. (AFP) cus after that Sevilla draw was about these things anymore. I ODI series. Isuru Udana, Akila Dananjaya, the only own goal Cristiano on the officiating, as Zidane trust football. The three-match series Niroshan Dickwella, Dush- Ronaldo has ever scored in streak over a single opponent tively end their title hopes as publicly criticised referee Juan “We will do our job and which is a part of the ODI Su- mantha Chameera, Ramesh Europe’s top five leagues. in LaLiga. they will be five points behind Martinez Munuera for giving the referee his. I’m not going per League will be held on May Mendis, Asitha Fernando, Their run of 11 successive If Atletico beat Real Socie- with two games to go. a penalty against Eder Militao to say something because it 23, 25, and 28, within a bio- Lakshan Sandakan, Chamika league wins over Granada is dad on Wednesday, a shock Zidane is not losing faith, for handball. makes a mess. We are going to bubble stretching between the Karunaratne, Binura Fernando, their best current winning defeat for Madrid will effec- though he does not think it can The infringement was control our work.” team hotel and Shere Bangla Shiran Fernando. 16 Thursday, May 13, 2021 The Last Word Envoys advise all to be hopeful and optimistic on occasion of Eid Al-Fitr Ailyn Agonia taris and all residents in Qatar, der for this Eid to really bring suhours in order to contribute DOHA Eid Mubarak. May the grace of us all, not just joy and love, but to a greater good -- protect- Allah light up our heart with also all the opportunities for ing other’s health and wellbe- A NUMBER of diplomats, happiness and peace. After 30- a full recovery and success af- ing. While I am aware of how in their messages, have ex- days of Ramadan fasting and ter the difficult times we have challenging this Ramadan has pressed hope and optimism as with the celebration of the Eid, been living in. Once again, I been to all Muslims in Qatar Muslims across the world cele- I do hope we can become bet- wish you peace, love, joy and and elsewhere, I am also ap- brate Eid Al-Fitr. As the global ter Individuals. The celebra- prosperity and, of course, Eid preciative of the endurance community grapples with the tion of Eid this year indeed is Mubarak!” and resilience the holy month coronavirus pandemic for the a very challenging one. This is Ambassador of Mexico brings about to those who ob- second year, the officials also the second year we live with HE Graciela Gómez Gar- serve it. Now, Eid is a deserved stressed the importance of co- the COVID-19 pandemic. It is cia stressed the importance moment to cheer and to laugh operation of Qatar residents definitely not easy. However, of solidarity and generosity with all your heart; an occasion in the programmes of the host we don’t have to lose our op- at this time. The envoy said, to be grateful for all the bless- country aimed at safeguarding timism and confidence for a HE Alessandro Prunas HE Graciela Goìmez Garcia HE Ridwan Hassan “During my second Ramadan ings we continue to have even the lives and welfare of all. brighter future.” in Doha under COVID-19, at times things seem to be fall- In his official statement on The envoy also stressed Alessandro Prunas underlined perity and happiness to eve- mind everyone how important our Qatari friends had taught ing apart. Let this Eid bring the occasion, Indonesian Am- the commitment and support the importance of adherence ryone’s life. On this festivity it is to follow the provisions me a wonderful lesson on hu- fresh hope, a renewed spirit of bassador HE Ridwan Hassan of the Indonesian community to the safety measures put in that ends the Holy Month of that the government has put in man solidarity and generosity. human collaboration, and un- said, “On the celebration of Eid to the programmes of Qatar in place by the Qatar govern- Ramadan, allow me to wish place for our safety. It is very Their willingness to sacrifice expected opportunities to be Al-Fitr, I would like to wish all the fight against COVID-19. ment. The envoy said, “I hope you all happy holidays. In do- important that we follow very their own longing for fam- grasped with open minds and my brothers and sisters, Qa- Italian Ambassador HE this Eid will bring peace, pros- ing that, I would also like to re- carefully these measures in or- ily gatherings for iftars and noble thoughts. Eid Mubarak!” Moderation in eating Riyasat to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr in partnership with MoPH and HMC is key to healthy Eid, The restaurant will donate 200 meals to frontline doctors and nurses Tribune News Network says HMC’s dietician Doha As a tribute to the frontline doctors Tribune News Network meal schedule is maintained. Five and nurses who are fighting the on- Doha to six small meals and two to three going COVID-19 pandemic, Riyasat snacks a day, rather than three Doha will donate 200 meals to Hazm Moderation and a little extra large meals, can help to keep por- Mebaireek General Hospital on the planning are the keys to a safe and tion size and sugar levels in check. first day of EidA l-Fitr. healthy Eid Al-Fitr, especially for High-carbohydrate foods, such The initiative comes as part of the individuals with chronic medical as grains, cereals, pasta, rice and restaurant’s special partnership with conditions, Senior Clinical Dieti- foods high in natural sugar like the Emergency Health Preparedness cian at Hamad Medical Corpora- dates are not forbidden, but they Department at the Ministry of Public tion (HMC) Ra’ed Alalaween has should be eaten in moderation. Health (MoPH) and Hamad Medical said. Regular exercise is also important Corporation (HMC) to honour medi- He said foods high in sugar, fat for individuals with diabetes as it cal caregivers on the frontlines of the and salt are easy to be over-con- helps keep glucose levels under pandemic. sumed and can wreak havoc on the control,” said Alalaween. Since its opening in October body’s digestive system, leading He added that eating in moder- 2020, Riyasat Doha, located in the to vomiting, diarrhea, cramps and ation is also essential for individu- opulent Al Gassar St. Regis Resort, stomach pain, as well as uninten- als with a heart condition. has been driven by a strong sense Since its opening in October tional weight gain. He noted that large meals can of engagement in charitable causes. 2020, Riyasat Doha, located in Alalaween said cases of food Ra’ed Alalaween adversely affect the heart as eating The outlet is considered more than the opulent Al Gassar St. Regis poisoning also tend to spike during and digesting large quantities of just a royalty inspired Indian res- Resort, has been driven by a the summer months, underscoring Alalaween. food increases the heart rate and taurant; it represents a focused core strong sense of engagement in the need to be careful about stor- For those who are following blood pressure, creating an extra business philosophy on giving back ing, preparing and serving foods. a special diet, Alalaween recom- burden on the heart. to the community. charitable causes. The outlet is “Many of the foods tradition- mended bringing their own food He urged individuals with a Hazm Mebaireek General Hos- considered more than just a roy- ally eaten during Eid feasts are when invited to a gathering. history of heart disease to eat pital, located in Ar-Rayyan, is one of alty inspired Indian restaurant; it high in fat, salt and sugar. It is a He said most hosts will appre- small portions during meals and HMC’s latest facilities with an inten- represents a focused core busi- time of year when families eat a ciate an additional dish at their limit fatty, salty and sugary foods sive care unit for COVID-19 patients ness philosophy on giving back range of delicious foods that are celebration, noting that many tra- such as salted nuts, cheese and and over 200 dedicated medical staff not normally consumed through- ditional dishes can be prepared in smoked meats. working around the clock. to the community out the year and this can lead a healthier way, with lower fat and He also recommended reduc- Riyasat will be preparing 200 to overindulgence. It is there- calories, but with the same deli- ing the consumption of tea, coffee heart-warming Biryani meals at the India, a television personality and fore important to focus on being cious flavour. and other caffeinated beverages. restaurant’s kitchen with the help culinary consultant with over two healthy and practice discipline “Simple alterations to popular For individuals with peptic ul- of all its staff members. The meals decades of experience in the hospi- and self-control when eating,” recipes can make a big difference cers, Alalaween said careful plan- will be packed in boxes, ensuring all tality industry. said Alalaween. in terms of the amount of fat and ning is required, adding that while safety measures and precautions are Riyasat Doha continues its take- He said that while weight gain, calories without negatively impact- no single food causes ulcers, spicy taken, and delivered straight to the Chef Jolly away service for Eid al-Fitr, in addi- indigestion, heartburn and abdom- ing the flavour,” said Alalaween. food, citrus fruits and foods high hospital’s frontline workers. tion to its delivery service through inal bloating are the usual discom- He said that while Eid is an oc- in fat might make symptoms worse Chef Jolly commented: “These their face and lift their stress away. It Talabat, Foodak Premium and forts associated with overeating in casion to celebrate and enjoy a va- in some people. doctors and nurses are the heroes of is a privilege to be able to offer some Snoonu, delivering straight to your a person in good general health, riety of dishes, moderation should He urged people to be mind- our society. For the past 15 months form of comfort to those who have doorstep. For more information, overindulging can have serious always be the goal. ful of food choices, eating several they have been constantly putting been working literally nonstop.” contact Riyasat on WhatsApp on consequences for those with exist- He recommended limiting con- small meals a day, taking medica- their lives before others in the contin- Surjan Singh Jolly, known as +974 5053 4103 or visit their website ing health problems. sumption of soda, sugary bever- tion as directed, and maintaining a uous fight against the virus. Serving Chef Jolly, along with Anjan Chat- www.riyasatdoha.com. “Overeating during Eid feasts is ages and highly processed carbo- well-balanced diet. them a heart-warming meal for Eid terjee, founder and chairman, are The restaurant will be operating unfortunately very common. It can hydrates such as chocolate, cakes, As part of re-adjusting to a is the least we can do. They deserve the men behind this restaurant’s for deliveries from 12pm to 12am. be challenging to say no to a gra- jams and biscuits, adding that this normal eating pattern, Alalaween to be honoured in every way possi- incredible passion, vision and mis- Riyasat is one of the many verti- cious host; however, consuming recommendation is particularly recommended consuming smaller ble. There is a chance they might not sion. From the nobility and royal cals of Speciality Restaurants Lim- large quantities of food and drink important for individuals with a portions and eating more fre- be able to go home and spend a nice court kitchens to humble street food ited, which is an Indian restaurant can have serious consequences for chronic medical condition. quently. He also recommended home-cooked meal with their fami- of popular cities in India, Chef Jolly company that owns multiple chains individuals who have chronic con- “Diet plays an important role in starting the day with a good break- lies for Eid, and hence the idea came is known to be a prominent figure on of fine and casual dining restaurants ditions such as high cholesterol, staying healthy, especially for peo- fast, stressing that it is important up. We are sure serving them a meal the global culinary scene. He is most in Indian and international loca- high blood pressure, cardiovas- ple with diabetes. Blood sugar lev- to stay hydrated by drinking plenty prepared with love and care straight notably an Indian celebrity chef who tions. Anjan Chatterjee is the found- cular disease or diabetes,” said els are more stable when a regular of water. from our kitchen will put a smile on has been Chef Judge for Master Chef er and chairman of the company. Over 30 winners receive prizes in first week of MoQ’s ‘Scratch & Win’ festival

Tribune News Network glamorous crystal chande- Doha Running until June 30, liers reflect the occasion’s es- 2021, the festival allows sence and tradition to ensure Mall of Qatar (MoQ) has shoppers to enter the big a series of authentic shopping delivered Mall of Qatar Gift raffle draw on Range Rover experiences. Cards prizes to more than Velar 2021 and leverage To participate in the shop- 30 winners in the ‘Scratch ping festival at the Mall of Qa- & Win’ campaign, with total from a wide range of tar, visitors need to purchase value worth QR10,000 in the instant gifts, including Mall QR200 and above in any of first week. of Qatar Gift Cards and in- the mall outlets to be eligible The biggest value prizes in kind gifts from various for the draw. They can redeem a week are granted to shop- stores in the mall their receipts with coupons pers allowing them to leverage from the mall’s customer ser- from immediate in-kind and vice desks and put them in the cash gifts presented by Mall of ning instant valuable prizes of dedicated box to enter the big Qatar and several stores in the total value worth QR1 million. raffle draw on Range Rover mall. Just a week before Eid Running until June 30, Velar that will take place on Al-Fitr, the recently delivered 2021, the festival allows shop- July 1 at the Oasis stage. prizes will give winners an ide- pers to enter the big raffle Besides, customers will re- al support to buy their needs draw on Range Rover Velar ceive ‘Scratch & Win’ tickets and leverage from those prizes 2021 and leverage from a wide as per the number of coupons in the best way. range of instant gifts, includ- issued for the ‘Shop & Win’ The winners received their ing Mall of Qatar Gift Cards to win instant prizes. ‘Scratch prizes from Customer Service and in-kind gifts from various & Win’ winners of MoQ Gift Desks located next to the Oasis stores in the mall. Cards and MoQ items can stage in the Mall. Mall of Qatar continues move to a dedicated desk to The ‘Scratch & Win’ fes- to welcome visitors during collect their instant prizes with tival is simultaneous to the Eid days with the highest the value range from QR200 current ‘Shop & Win’ festival, precautionary measures to to QR10,000, while winners of which was recently launched offer them a safe and com- tenants’ vouchers can redeem by Mall of Qatar, granting cus- fortable shopping experience. their prizes directly from the tomers the opportunity of win- Besides, the decorations and tenant’s stores at the mall.