www.thepeninsula.qa Sunday 17 May 2020 Volume 25 | Number 8260 24 Ramadan - 1441 2 Riyals

BUSINESS | 01 PENMAG | 04 SPORT | 10

Credit Classifieds Sport could Agricole CIB, and Services rebel against VakıfBank join section pandemic rules, QFC platform included says Coe

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minutes from home with Qatarna 5G #Hadaya_Ooredoo *Terms and conditions apply Qatar ramps up care for elderly, most vulnerable

DOHA QNA — caused by the virus. Over the past few months over 1,000 families, are fearful of going “The COVID-19 symptoms virtual consultations have been outside at this time, stopping Hamad Medical Corporation can include high fever, persistent them from seeing a doctor then (HMC) has urged all citizens and dry cough, aches and pains and delivered to people over 60. they need to see one; and this residents in Qatar to take every extreme fatigue, and these can can lead to some minor ailments measure to keep the elderly be challenging for anyone, but Over 14,500 medication orders have deteriorating over time and population away and safe from often more so as we get older been dispensed by HMC and PHCC potentially becoming acute the coronavirus (COVID-19), and our resilience to deal with pharmacy teams. health problems needing emer- especially as we approach Eid the symptoms of an infection gency care. Al Fitr. weakens. The problems are The recently established telephone A specialised Elderly Day Global evidence has shown exacerbated when people have outreach service for the elderly has Care Unit has recently been that while COVID-19 can affect additional chronic health con- provided another important channel established in Rumailah Hos- people of all ages and health dition, such as diabetes, heart pital, designed to provide non- status, the elderly are much and kidney disease or similar; to connect with older patients more life-threatening or emergency more likely to experience severe many of which become more at risk. care in a more age-friendly symptoms and are therefore prevalent with increasing age,” environment where the teams more at risk from becoming seri- said Dr. Al Hamad. To date around 20,000 calls have can abide by safety regulation ously ill if they contract the The pandemic has necessi- been made by HMC and PHCC staff, concerning distancing. illness. In response to this evi- tated a change in the way many ranging from dispensing medical “In order to reduce the dence, HMC, in collaboration healthcare services are delivered advice and arranging a special home danger of having a relatively with the Ministry of Public to all people, and especially minor condition or issue dete- Health and Primary Health Care older citizens. This includes lim- visit to medication prescription. riorate and become more Corporation (PHCC), have estab- iting face-to-face exposure to serious, the Elderly Day Care lished a comprehensive plan to reduce the risk of infection HMC and PHCC pharmacy teams as any other illness, especially has become increasingly Unit delivers important yet help protect this vulnerable spread. The establishment of to ensure patients have the med- for vulnerable older people we important, there are times when routine medical interventions group of society. telemedicine facilities for a icines they need. have therefore set up a call a physical consultation is in order to manage them before The plan includes compre- variety of specialities has proven The recently established tel- center staffed with geriatricians essential and Home Health Care they become acute. `P2 hensive public education and very successful. Over the past, ephone outreach service for the and nurses. To date around service teams from HMC and awareness campaign to inform few months over 1,000 virtual elderly has provided another 20,000 calls have been made PHCC continue to make house Ramadan Timing elderly citizens and their fam- consultations have been important channel to connect by HMC and PHCC staff, ranging calls in urgent cases. Over ilies about adhering to important delivered to people over 60, with older patients more at risk. from dispensing medical advice, 12,000 visits have been con- guidelines for their safety. from medical consultation to Staffed by members from the arranging a special home visit ducted over the past few Today's Iftar: Dr. Hanadi Al Hamad, providing physiotherapy advice. Geriatric and Long-term Care to medication prescription. And months to provide necessary National Lead for Healthy Recognising the importance Department, the team proac- sometimes our teams merely services such as administering 6:15pm Ageing in Qatar and Medical for people with chronic condi- tively calls those aged 60 years provide psychosocial support insulin injections, dressing Director of Rumailah Hospital tions to continue taking their and over to offer advice and just a call to check up on an wounds or checking vital signs. Tomorrow's and Qatar Rehabilitation medication, the government has support on how to stay safe individual to see how they are Another outcome from the Institute, explained with supported the programme for during this period. feeling can provide a powerful pandemic has been a reduction Imsak: increasing age, peoples’ natural medication deliveries to people “We recognise that lone- boost to their overall well- in requests for older people to 03:12am immune system becomes less at home. Over 14,500 medication liness from social isolation can being,” added Dr. Al Hamad. see a specialist for an ailment. A able to cope with the symptoms orders have been dispensed by sometimes be as difficult to bear While virtual consultation number of older people, or their Qatar sends medical assistance to Somalia Qatar Airways’ initiative THE PENINSULA — DOHA evokes huge response The State of Qatar represented by Qatar Fund for Development SACHIN KUMAR COVID-19 pandemic. (QFFD) has sent urgent medical THE PENINSULA The registration process for aids to Somalia in cooperation the initiative, which began on with the Amiri Air Force fleet. Qatar Airways’ initiative to give May 12, will close at 11.59pm on Qatar Fund for Devel- free tickets to healthcare May 18. Healthcare profes- opment sent a shipment of 10 professionals has evoked huge sionals can register for this tonnes of urgent medical aid to response. Within just four days exclusive offer at qatarairways. Somalia yesterday to support after launching the initiative, com/ThankYouHeroes by sub- the efforts of brothers there to the airline has given almost mitting a form to receive a combat and contain the out- 50,000 complimentary return unique promotion code, offered break of the coronavirus pan- tickets to healthcare profes- on a first come, first served demic (COVID-19). sional around the world. basis. This shipment, which the “We’re halfway through our Under the initiative, Amiri Air Force fleet carried, #ThankYouHeroes initiative, healthcare professionals will includes medical equipment with almost 50,000 compli- also be offered additionally a and supplies such as masks and mentary return tickets given voucher with 35 percent dis- personal protective equipment away to healthcare heroes count to redeem at Qatar Duty for the medical staff, which will around the world. There are Free retail outlets at the air- benefit the Somali people not still three more days left to line’s state-of-the-art hub, only in Mogadishu but also in apply for the remaining Hamad International Airport in other regions that have urgent 50,000,” said the airline on its Doha, valid for use up to needs. Officials of Amiri Air Force and QFFD with the shipment to Somalia. official twitter account on December 31, 2020. Khalifa bin Jassim Al Friday. “It’s great to see such Kuwari, Director General of to combat the spread of this development projects, as QFFD injured were transferred to Under its ThankYouHeroes support for our #ThankY- Qatar Fund for Development pandemic, which is a threat to provided urgent humanitarian Doha for treatment. initiative, Qatar Airways is ouHeroes initiative to giveaway said: “The presence of the the whole world.” assistance during the floods that QFFD is also carrying out giving away 100,000 free 100k tickets to healthcare State of Qatar alongside its QFFD confirms that it will struck the country last year, and various development projects tickets to frontline healthcare heroes. We’ve tried our best to brothers and friends, espe- always stand with the Somali financial and medical assistance in Somalia, the most important professionals to say thank you make the process fair,” said cially in the light of this crisis, people by providing humani- to the victims of the recent of which is the Mogadishu Johar for their heroic work looking Qatar Airways in a tweet yes- is important to help countries tarian aid and supporting Mogadishu bombings as the Road, amounting to $165m. after people during the current terday. `P2

EXCLUSIVE MoPH: 242 more recover as one death reported COVID-19 QATAR UPDATES ON MAY 16, 2020

THE PENINSULA — DOHA said that 15 people were members who had been NEW CASES NEW ACTIVE admitted in intensive care due infected in turn at the work- ANNOUNCED RECOVERIES CASES The Ministry of Public Health to health complications place or through visits and 1,547 242 27,169 has recorded 1,547 new cases resulting from virus, bringing family gatherings. of COVID-19 and 242 people the total number of people In this context, the Ministry recovered, bringing the total receiving medical care in affirmed that the high number number of recovered in Qatar intensive care to 158 by of cases among citizens and res- TOTAL TOTAL to 3,788, yesterday. In addition yesterday. idents is due to the lack of com- DEATHS RECOVERIES the Ministry has also recorded The Ministry said in a pliance by some with precau- 15 3,788 Challenging a new death from COVID-19. statement that the new cases tionary measures, the most The total number of positive infected with the virus are important of which is social moments COVID-19 cases recorded in expatriate workers who were distancing. strengthen Qatar till now stands at 30,972 infected as a result of contact The Ministry reported that peak phase of the virus out- the importance for the elderly and there are 27,169 active with individuals who were pre- a 74-year-old resident, who break, which is seeing a rise in or those suffering from chronic Qatari nation cases under treatment. So far, viously infected, in addition to was receiving necessary the number of infections diseases and their family 15 people died from COVID-19 new cases of infection among medical care in intensive care, recorded daily. members to follow strict José A. Benzaquen in Qatar. groups of workers in different died. The Ministry has extended It is therefore more measures to reduce the Perea, Ambassador Ministry conducted 4,531 regions. its “sincere condolences and important than ever to strictly chances of infection with the of Peru to Qatar tests in last 24 hours taking the The incidence of cases great sympathy” to the family follow recommended pre- virus and to refrain from social total tests done so far to 152,704 increased among citizens and of the deceased. vention and social distancing visits during the rest of `P8 tests. residents, as a result of their The Ministry has said that measures. Ramadan as well as on the And the Ministry of Health contact with infected family Qatar has now entered the The Ministry also stressed occasion of Eid Al Fitr. `P3 02 HOME SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER TODAY

FAJR03.23 am SUNRISE 04.48 am o o Misty at some places at first becomes relatively hot daytime 26 C 36 C with some clouds, mild by night. ZUHR 11.30 am ASR 02.57 pm Minimum Maximum HIGH TIDE 00:29–16:05 LOW TIDE 09:00 – 18:50 MAGHRIB 06.15 pm ISHA 07.45 pm W ALRUWAIS: 25o↗31o W ALKHOR: 24o↗35o W DUKHAN: 20o↗32o W WAKRAH: 22o↗35o W MESAIEED 22o↗35o W ABUSAMRA 24o↗34o Ashghal opens new intersection, service road on Huwar Street

THE PENINSULA — DOHA and they will link Al Furousiya Ashghal is currently working Street and Al Luqta Street all to complete Khalifa Avenue The Public Works Authority the way to Al Gharrafa area project, which is one of the (Ashghal) has announced the which will improve the traffic. main new arteries that will partial opening of a new inter- Eng. Abdullah Qassim serve the east and west of the section and service road on stated as well that the Public country and link them to Huwar Street, as part of Khalifa Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ has central Doha, as well as the Avenue project. accomplished about 95% of the Education City Stadium, one of The new intersection will works on Khalifa Avenue the 2022 World Cup provide new entrances on project and that the project is stadiums. Huwar Street with Al Furousiya scheduled to be completed Road users coming from Al Street and Al Luqta Street along within the year. Furousiya Street in the with new connection to Al Luqta He pointed out as well that direction of Doha or Dukhan Area and Qatar Foundation, in most parts of the project have will be able to use the exit coordination with the General been opened to traffic, which leading to the Tilted Inter- A view of Ashghal's Khalifa Avenue project. Directorate of Traffic. contributed immensely to section, and road users will Engineer Abdullah Qasim, improving the traffic in the also be able to make a U-turn from the Highway Project area, since the project connects or turn left at the new inter- No. 5. Moreover, with the Interchange (east) and it is the construction of approxi- Department, confirmed that Al Rayyan road with Dukhan section to reach Qatar Foun- opening of the intersection and known as Khalifa Avenue, and mately 11.7km of dual car- the new signalised intersection road, as well as Al Gharrafa dation Gate No. 5. service road, the entry and exit also along Al Gharrafa Road riageway with four lanes in will be opened partially Street, Huwar Street and Al As for road users coming from Qatar Foundation’s Gate from Al Rayyan Street (south) each direction, over a length of alongside the service road on Furousiya Street, while serving from the Titled Intersection, No. 5 and Al Diyaa Street will to Thani Bin Jassim Street about 7.5 km, in addition to the Huwar Street to provide Al Rayyan, Bani Hajer, Al they will be able to use the exit also be available. (north), and this part of the construction of 5 new inter- entrances and exits to Al Luqta Gharrafa, Al Luqta and Ghar- to go to Al Furousiya Street, Khalifa Avenue project runs project connects with the Titled changes, including the Titled area from one side and Qatar rafat Al Rayyan areas. make a U-Turn or turn right from Al Wajba Palaca Inter- Intersection. interchange and Gharrafat Al Foundation from the other side Eng. Qassim explained that towards Qatar Foundation Gate change (west) to the Tilted The project works include Rayyan Interchange. QBG webinar explores role of medicinal plants in boosting immunity Qatar Airways’ initiative evokes THE PENINSULA — DOHA presentations on fungal plants good agricultural practices for reduce the growth and spread research in this field through in Qatar, their medical prop- growing medicinal plants, to of certain types of cancers. I collaboration with scientific huge response Qur’anic Botanic Garden (QBG) erties, and the State’s role in ensure that production of herbal would like to thank QBG for institutions. The Arab world, FROM PAGE 1 has hosted a webinar titled protecting them, as well as a medicines is of good quality, inviting me to this webinar and and the Gulf region in par- ‘Medicinal Plants and their lecture on medicinal plants and safe, sustainable, and poses no for the opportunity to partic- ticular, has a rich history in the This promotional offer is importance to the human related laboratory experiments threat to either people or the ipate in these informative use of traditional medicine, strictly available to medical immune system’, shedding light analysing their effect on environment, signaling the pro- discussions.” such as the use of senna and frontline professionals only. on the numerous ways immune diseases and cancer. jected increase in importance Commenting on the myrrh, in parallel with modern Eligible healthcare profes- medicinal plants can help boost The Holy Qur’an and Hadith of this topic. webinar, Fatima Al Khulaifi, medicine. QBG is delighted to sions include doctor, medical the immune system. mention many such plants with Dr Ala-Eddin Al Moustafa, Director, QBG, said, “Botanical have engaged the public on this practitioner, nurse, para- The discussion was mod- medicinal applications, among Professor of Cell Biology, gardens around the world rec- important topic and we look medic, lab technician, clinical erated by Ahmed ElGharib, QBG them nigella sativa (black seed), College of Medicine, Qatar Uni- ognize the importance of forward to continuing to host researcher, pharmacist. Assistant Researcher, and fea- ginger, fig, grape, garlic, lentil, versity, and one of the speakers medicinal plants and their role similar events in the future.” Professions associated tured experts in the field, who olive, onion, and in the webinar, said, in the prevention of disease and With an emphasis on plants with ‘Medical practitioner’ discussed the potential uses of pomegranate. “The webinar was an strengthening the body. Active mentioned in the Holy Qur’an include radiologist, anes- medicinal plants in the fight Traditional medicine and excellent opportunity to share substances extracted from and Hadith, as well as those thetist, physician, nurse against diseases, exploring case medicinal plants are increas- information about medicinal medicinal plants are considered located in Qatar, QBG is com- assistant, infection control studies on plants, foods, and ingly being brought into the plants and educate the public vital components of the modern mitted to documenting tradi- and quality assurance per- beverages that can be used to spotlight around the world. In about the central role that these medical industry. Hence, tional knowledge in light of sonnel, physical and occupa- strengthen the response of the fact, in 2004, the World Health plants play in laboratory botanical gardens play a signif- modern science, while also pro- tional therapist and assistant, immune system. Organization (WHO) released research, the activation of the icant role by preserving these moting awareness and preser- diagnostic and therapeutic The webinar also included standardized guidelines for immune system and helping plants and contributing to vation of the environment. technician and technologist, community health worker, EMTs, sanitarian, respiratory Awqaf Ministry therapist. Georgetown virtual event honours graduating seniors Healthcare professionals to hold Ramadan from every country in the THE PENINSULA — DOHA Ghanim Mohamed Alyafei offi- home, saying: “This ceremony “This year’s recipient is truly world are eligible for tickets. lectures online cially opened the ceremony honors the courageous aca- outstanding. She personifies To ensure the application Georgetown University in Qatar with a recitation from the demic struggles and honorable intelligence, perseverance, ded- process is fair and trans- THE PENINSULA — DOHA (GU-Q) honoured 55 seniors Quran, a long-held tradition of success of our graduating stu- ication, a hard work ethic, and parent, each country will who participated in the GU-Q’s Tropaia Awards, named dents. This year...turned out to above all, humility and receive a daily allocation of The Ministry of Awqaf and “Tropaia & Recognition of Grad- after the ancient Greek word for be a noble struggle, a battle we kindness,” said Dean Dallal. tickets, depending on its pop- Islamic Affairs has announced uates” virtual event on monuments raised in honor of waged together in our hearts, Dr. Victoria Googasian, ulation size, staggered over a to hold sixth Ramadan Thursday. victory. and minds, using-in addition to Assistant Professor of English, seven day period from 12 to program ‘Aminhum min al The ceremony also recog- And Sarah Muteb Al- our computers, our internet announced the recipients of 18 May. Khawf’ (secure them from nised student standouts from Mutoteh, the Senior Class access and learning software- certificates in a secondary aca- Healthcare professionals fear) remotely on social sties the Class of 2020, who were Speaker, addressed her peers the most heroic of weapons: our demic concentration and rec- that receive the promotion of the Ministry and electronic honoured for academic excel- by reminding them of the empathy, and our common ognised the students who have code can book up to two com- platform of the program. lence, extracurricular achieve- importance of higher education, humanity.” been admitted into the aca- plimentary Economy Class A group of Islamic scholars ments, and induction into pres- especially in times of crisis. Dr. Jeremy Koons, Associate demic honour societies return tickets on Qatar from Qatar and abroad will tigious honour societies. “The first lesson Georgetown Professor of Philosophy, Omicron Delta Epsilon, Pi Airways operated flights — discuss Islamic topics. The online awards cer- taught us was to expect the announced the Latin Honors for Sigma Alpha, and Phi Alpha one for themselves and one The topics of the dis- emony at the QF partner insti- unexpected. Georgetown has the graduating class. Theta. Dr. Koons announced the for a companion — to any- cussion include issuance of tution marked the successful prepared us for life.” One of the top honours of inductees into the Jesuit Honor where on the airline’s global fatwas during the epidemic, end of four years of study, and Dr. Ahmad Dallal, dean of the ceremony, the Dean’s Society, Alpha Sigma Nu, for network. Muslims and coexistence, Jeru- honored the faculty and staff GU-Q, also reflected on the Medal, which is given to the excellence in scholarship and The tickets will be fully salem and Palestine, Islam in members who have made a theme of heroism in his graduating senior who earns service to others, and Phi Beta flexible, with an unlimited Sub-Saharan Africa. Lectures lasting impact on the welcome address to the stu- the highest scholastic average Kappa, the oldest and most number of destination or date will be also delivered on dif- students. dents, proud family members, at GU-Q, went to multi-award prestigious honour society in changes allowed without any ferent religious topics. Graduating senior student faculty and staff watching from winner Noor Rajab Al Esmail. America. fees. Municipality records violations at homesteads

THE PENINSULA — DOHA The action was taken fol- undesignated purposes like lowing the provisions of the running labor camps and Al Sheehaniya Municipality law No. 10 of 1987 regulating renting out for other has conducted inspection the public and private activities. campaign on homesteads properties. The purpose for granting (locally called ‘Beut Al Bar’) The legal action was taken permits for homesteads is at Rawdat Rashid to ensure against the beneficiaries of limited to the private housing that the facility is being used homesteads with undesig- not for any other purposes so for private housing not for nated activities, said the Min- the permit holders should other purposes. istry of Municipality and adhere to it. Under the campaign, the Environment in a statement. The Minister said that municipal inspectors The Ministry said that it permit for operating home- recorded 14 violations for had noted that the holders of stead will be cancelled in case turning homesteads from the permits of homesteads of using for undesignated private housing into stores. were found using it for purposes. Qatar ramps up care for elderly, most vulnerable

FROM PAGE 1 too soon, the rise in infections are all too evident. The added benefit of this service is to reduce “We fully understand that the situation with the risk or need of an elderly person having to the lockdown measures are a real burden on visit the Emergency Department if they do not families, especially during Ramadan. And we need to. To date nearly 100 patients have used appreciate that people want to get together with this facility,” said Dr. Al Hamad. family and friends especially during the Until better treatment options are found for upcoming Eid. But for now we need the support COVID-19 and the infection risks decrease, the from the whole community to stay home to stay need remains for observing physical distancing safe. to protect the more vulnerable groups in society. "This is the best way in which we can show As has been seen in countries around the world, the love we have for the elders in our family,” if these safety measures are disregarded or eased added Dr. Hanadi. SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020 HOME 03 NMoQ to hold four digital exhibitions featuring crowdsourced content

THE PENINSULA — DOHA This virtual exhibition will high- All interested in contributing toward one or light traditional and personal The National Museum of Qatar interpretations of Qatari food. all of these crowdsourced exhibitions can (NMoQ) has announced the The Museum asks for sub- send 1-3 photographs, illustrations, and/or launch of four crowdsourced missions of 2-3 photographs of sketches, as accompanied by a 100-word text virtual exhibitions and invited traditional Qatari cuisine — its digital audience to contribute from karak to gahwa to math- to [email protected]. toward developing the content rooba, harees and other dishes of each. — as well as a short statement The online exhibitions, explaining how the photog- to the COVID-19 pandemic. exhibition targets ages six which will eventually be posted rapher learned to make this NMoQ Creates Together through 18 and will be cele- on the NMoQ’s website, will dish. Throughout history, great art brated during children’s month feature themes that are Habitats & Shelters has emerged from hardship. in November. explored in the NMoQ’s per- Inspired by the National The current health crisis has Mal Lawal Home Edition manent installation, including Museum’s “Qatar Natural prompted remote learning and Mal Lawal (“of the past,” in Qatar’s Culinary Journey and Environment” and “Life in Al working practices, as well as Arabic) is a Qatari biennial exhi- Habitat & Shelters. The exhibi- Barr (Desert)” permanent gal- increased time at home for cre- bition that was first presented tions provide a platform for leries, this virtual exhibition ative exploration. at the QM Gallery ALRIWAQ in A poster for the NMoQ Virtual Art Exhibition which will feature the sharing creative responses amid will explore how humans and The Museum will launch the 2012. community’s artistic response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its the COVID-19 pandemic. Qatar’s wildlife take shelter NMoQ Virtual Art Exhibition It provides a public related lifestyle shifts. The National Museum’s in times of uncertainty to featuring the community’s platform to share personal col- digital exhibitions will include: survive. artistic response to the lections. The next edition, Mal Audiences are invited to par- crowdsourced exhibitions can Qatar’s Culinary Journey The Museum invites its COVID-19 pandemic and its Lawal 3, is scheduled to take ticipate by sending images and share 1-3 photographs, illustra- Intangible heritage is an digital audiences to share pho- related lifestyle shifts. place at the NMoQ in December a brief description of their per- tions, and/or sketches, as well as important theme explored tographs, sketches, or paintings Submissions can include 2020. At the same time, a sonal collection. a 100-word text responding to across the National Museum of of retreats they have created drawings, painting, sculptures, special home edition of Mal All interested in contributing the specified exhibition (s) to Qatar’s permanent galleries. within their homes in response photography and video. This Lawal will take place digitally. toward one or all of these [email protected]. Need to increase mental healthcare budgets: WHO expert at QF discussion MME shifts 78 THE PENINSULA — DOHA of the world, we can expect Dr. Kestel emphasised the during COVID-19 is expected turtle nests to that the number of people with importance of encouraging to be higher than for other A World Health Organization mental health conditions will people to speak about the groups, because they are likely expert on mental health says grow, so it is essential to be mental health-related chal- to be heavily affected by iso- safer place at the world may not be aware prepared to respond to these lenges they may be facing, lation as well as a cognitive of the full implications of the conditions and provide whether during COVID-19 or decline. Some may not be fully Fuwairit Beach COVID-19 pandemic on answers to this population beyond. aware of what is happening mental health, and budgets to about how they can safeguard “Issues surrounding around them, and we are not THE PENINSULA — DOHA tackle its impact on people’s their mental health.” mental health are still heavily entirely sure that all the infor- wellbeing need to be Despite the urgent need to stigmatized around the world mation they need is being pro- The team for the conservation increased. provide mental health services – sometimes, people with vided to them. of sea turtles at the Dr. Dévora Kestel, the amid the current pandemic, mental health conditions are “The World Health Organ- Department of Protection and organization’s Director of Dr. Kestel explained that made to feel as if it is ization has also developed Wildlife of the Ministry of Mental Health and Substance budgets create challenges and somehow their own fault,” guidance and advice for parents Municipality and Environment Abuse, was among the constraints. she explained. and healthcare providers on (MME) has shifted 78 turtle speakers in the latest online “We are in a situation “Just as we should not be how to provide care for children nests to the protected nests’ edition of Qatar Foundation’s where only two per cent of the ashamed when we break a during COVID-19, and how to site at Fuwairit Beach. Education City Speaker Series, healthcare system budget goes leg, we should not feel enable them to face this crisis The project of protecting held in collaboration with the toward mental health on a ashamed when we suffer from in the best way possible.” the endangered sea turtle, World Innovation Summit for global level, when the preva- a mental health issue”. Speaking about the role hawksbill, is being imple- Health (WISH), which focused lence of mental health issues Dr. Dévora Kestel, WHO Director She highlighted the need that WISH — Qatar Founda- mented smoothly following all on the challenges surrounding among populations is much of Mental Health and Substance to pay proper attention to tion’s global health initiative the precautionary measures people’s mental wellbeing higher than this percentage,” Abuse mental health among all — is playing in offering plat- to ensure the safety of the amid the ongoing lockdown she said. levels of society, including forms to tackle mental health- members of project team, said and how they must be “There is an urgent need mental healthcare at every level children and elderly people, related issues, Dr. Kestel said the Ministry in a statement. addressed. to increase this budget on the of the health system, such as where the focus may be more that “Any kind of advocacy, The necessary measure- She said: “Numbers have global level in order to make primary care and specialized on their physical wellbeing. locally and globally, is very ments of turtles were taken, it shown that, in an emergency sure that every country has care. Within that network of “The key components in important in fighting the was cleaned from snails and context, one in five people are the services to provide the services, there may be a need dealing with these groups are stigma around mental health, treatments were provided to likely to suffer from a mental necessary response and to conduct mental health more about proper commu- raising awareness, and ena- those with wounds. health condition. attention to people whose screening, but first we need to nication, which is essential to bling people to understand the The number of nests is “If we understand that a mental wellbeing is affected make sure that the services are the wellbeing of both children level of negative impact and expected more this year com- crisis such as this has the by this crisis. there, as they will identify and the elderly,” she said. the limitations that mental pared to the previous year potential to impact so heavily “We need to have a system what kind of care is needed “The impact of mental health issues can bring to their where it ached 92 nests. on people across a large part that provides community-based for each person.” health issues on elderly people lives.” So far, the number of nest this year reached 78. The nesting season will continue MME launches until the first week of the QRCS intensifies Ramadan assistance campaign month of June so more nests drawing contest are expected for this year. THE PENINSULA — DOHA The sea turtle conservation for children on project, under the supervision Qatar Red Crescent Society of the Ministry of Municipality COVID-19 (QRCS) is going on with its and Environment and funded Ramadan Campaign 1441 A.H., by Qatar Petroleum is being under the slogan of “It is Better implement by the Center for THE PENINSULA — DOHA and Greater in Reward”, which Environmental Sciences at has been widely received by Qatar University in cooper- The Ministry of Municipality the public, the media, news- ation with a team from the and Environment (MME) has papers, social media, and Department of Protection and launched a drawing contest for websites. Wildlife. children on health and behav- This year, the Ramadan ioural guidelines to curb the Iftar project involves the dis- spread of COVID-19. tribution of food baskets and MoPH: 242 more The contest was launched fresh meals, instead of the tra- under the volunteering work ditional Ramadan Iftar tents. recover as one initiative of MME to educate All health precautions are children about healthy prac- taken to prevent gatherings, as death reported tices to protect them, their part of QRCS’s large-scale FROM PAGE 1 families and entire community work to control coronavirus from the epidemic, the Min- (COVID-19), particularly at The reasons for the high istry has said. quarantine facilities and highly numbers of new cases are due The deadline for the par- populated districts. to the Ministry’s redoubling of ticipation is June 25, 2020. The The distributions of Iftar its efforts in tracking the tran- winners of the contest will get meals covers 15 main locations, sitional chains of the virus and valuable prizes. The idea including Fereej Bin Mahmoud, expanding the circle of behind the contest is to create Najma, Abu Hamour, Ain searching for infected people A Qatar Red Crescent Society official handing over food packs to people as part of QRCS food and awareness among the children Khaled, Fereej Al Manaseer, Al through intensive and Iftar distribution campaign in connection with the holy month of Ramadan. about the importance of pre- Khor, Al Wakra, Industrial proactive investigations of ventive measure in a simple Area, Mekaines quarantine large numbers of contacts with way. The entries should be facility, Al Dhakhira, and Al districts. For example, one Ramadan food assistance source of help for the vul- people who have been con- emailed to draw.contest@ Sailiya. donor paid for 36,000 Iftar projects conducted by QRCS nerable families. firmed with the virus recently. mme.gov.qa. The contest will Around 800 female volun- meals to be distributed to the include Ramadan Meera, A Secret Charity scheme is The Ministry said that the be held on social sites of the teers and 400 male volunteers inhabitants of the Industrial Clothe and Feed Them, and launched by QRCS to allow number of daily tests that it Ministry. Children from age 6 are engaged in the distribution Area. Hundreds of fresh meals Double Reward. These projects donation to charitable activities conducts on people depends to 12 can participate. of readymade Iftar meals, are also donated by restaurants are intended to meet the by deductions from mobile bill primarily on the number of The contestants are driven by a spirit of social and catering enterprises for the increasing demand for food on a daily, weekly, or monthly contacts with individuals con- required to make a drawing responsibility among the youth Ramadan Iftar project. items, especially amid the per- basis. You can donate QR 1 per firmed to be infected with the expressing key guideline in the face of Coronavirus QRCS welcomes in-kind sistent coronavirus day to the Dig a Well project virus, as it conducts random issued to curb the spread of crisis. donations through the mobile pandemic. (send “1” to 92496) QR 5 per day checks in different places of COVID-19 in the sector of per- So far, over 55,000 Iftar number 55884707. The To apply for food to the Treat a Patient project the country as a proactive sonal hygiene and those meals were given to benefici- donated readymade meals assistance, the needy families (send “5” to 92496), QR 25 per measure. This is in addition to required to maintain at public aries across the country. The would be distributed to the can call the hotline 16002, week to the Provide Food the tests performed on patients places. meals are sealed well and dis- beneficiaries in a manner that Sunday through Thursday, project (send “25” to 92496), QR in health centers and emer- The drawing will be made tributed in a safe manner. ensures both quality and safety. 8:00-11:00 a.m. 50 per month to the Relieve a gency departments. on a white paper A3 (30X40) Masks and gloves are used QRCS’s Humanitarian As per the work progress Person in Distress (send “50” to The number of tests per- using colours. A corner of the throughout the phases of Services Fund meets the needs reports, QRCS has achieved 92496), or QR 100 per month formed daily is not linked to drawing should have details implementation, from the of the vulnerable families neg- 80%, or QR9m, of its overall to the Support Livelihood the number of cases detected of the contestant like name, preparation of food to atively affected by the Coro- fundraising target of QR12m. project (send “100” to 92496). in terms of any rise or fall. age, nationality, telephone handover. navirus lockdown. A total of Individual and institutional On QRCS’s mobile app, you Anyone with symptoms of number and email. A con- These activities are gener- 27,500 food baskets are made donors are urged to give to can visit the page https://app. COVID-19 should either testant can participate with ously supported by many available to the eligible fam- charity, in order to enable qrcs.org.qa/sc/, select a lan- contact the 16000 helpline or more than one drawing but benevolent donors in Qatar, ilies through the branches of QRCS to implement more guage, select a project to donate go directly to one of the des- one drawing should be made some of whom donate the cost LuLu Hypermarket. social welfare projects, such as to, select the deduction system, ignated health centers for by only one contestant. of implementation in whole Examples of other Eid Clothing, an important and them press Confirm. testing. 04 HOME SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020 VCUarts Qatar hosts special online graduation social for Class of 2020

THE PENINSULA — DOHA “Artists and designers feed off adversity. And

Virginia Commonwealth this has been known throughout the history University School of the Arts in of art and design. I reiterate the point that I Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), a Qatar Foundation partner university, count on all of you to come out of the current recently held a virtual social difficult situation, first of all healthy and strong, gathering to honour the grad- uates of the Class of 2020. This but also perhaps with a new perspective on year, 67 students will be grad- the world and how you can contribute to it in uating from the art and design university, which is located in meaningful ways, despite the circumstances,” Education City. said VCUarts Qatar’s Dean, Amir Berbic. The virtual gathering, which was organised by Student Development Senior Specialist the first University at Qatar Qatar. “It is important to rec- Sarah Faheem, brought together Foundation, was founded in ognise those who contributed the graduating students from 1998, and has a long tradition to your success. Of course we VCUarts Qatar students and faculty attend an online event to honour the graduates of the Class of 2020. VCUarts Qatar’s Art History, of producing graduates who are are here to celebrate you, but Fashion Design, Graphic Design, creative problem solvers. you had help, you had parents, Interior Design, MFA in Design, “Artists and designers feed you had siblings, you had other impact on a student. Congrat- ever imagined that we would place many of the programs for and Painting and Printmaking off adversity,” Berbić said, "and family members who were sup- ulations. You made it. I am bid farewell to VCUarts Qatar students that didn’t exist when programs. this has been known throughout portive of you, and have being super proud of you.” like this, virtually. I would like she joined VCUarts Qatar, said, It was also attended by the history of art and design. I cheering you on for all of these The Class of 2020 includes to congratulate all of my fellow “It’s amazing to be together in VCUarts Qatar’s Dean, Amir reiterate the point that I count years, and it is important to say 18 Graphic Design graduates, 18 graduates for making it to the spite of the fact that we are not Berbić; Interim Associate Dean on all of you to come out of the thanks to all of them. Interior Design graduates, nine end without failing or giving up together, and to have this pre- for Academic Affairs, Dr. Cherif current difficult situation, first “It is also an opportunity to Painting and Printmaking grad- despite the unprecedented celebration of an amazing cel- Amor; Dr. Valerie Jeremijenko, of all healthy and strong, but recognise your professors and uates, nine Art History grad- circumstances. ebration that will happen in the Assistant Dean for Student also perhaps with a new per- all of the faculty and staff who uates, eight Fashion Design "I believe that it is a tes- future.” Affairs; the chairs of the Univer- spective on the world and how have stood by you and have graduates, and five MFA in tament that we all have matured Dr. Jeremijenko’s consid- sity’s many programs and you can contribute to it in guided you throughout this Design graduates. enough to deal with the diffi- erable legacy as a preeminent departments; and the faculty meaningful ways, despite the journey. I know how much The acknowledgement of culties of life with a better sense member of VCUarts Qatar can and staff, some of whom wore circumstances.” heart is involved in the work momentous times and of being and with the attitude of a be seen across Education City, their traditional graduating Berbić also reminded the that our faculty and staff do, so on a journey was felt strongly warrior.” such as with the collaborations regalia of gown and cap to Class of 2020 to thank all those take the time to reach out and by everyone, and those senti- Dr. Valerie Jeremijenko, the with other Education City uni- honour the Class of 2020 who who supported them along the offer them your gratitude. I can ments were emphasised by Val- long-serving Assistant Dean for versities, and the exchanges have not yet had the chance to way, including their family, tell you this as a teacher that edictorian and Art History Student Affairs, who is retiring with students from the Univer- wear theirs formally. friends, colleagues, and the nothing will make them happier graduate Daniah Farooq, who this year after joining VCUarts sity’s home campus in VCUarts Qatar, which was faculty and staff of VCUarts to hear they had a positive said, “I know that none of us Qatar in 2002, and who put in Richmond, Virginia. Toys4Me delivers gifts to children in quarantine

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

The novel coronavirus pandemic has caused global Ooredoo delivers Ramadan gifts to economic, social, and psycho- logical turmoil. Its ramifications Fahad Bin Jassim Kidney Center have greatly impacted our lives, adults and children alike. THE PENINSULA — DOHA Ooredoo arranged Although the adults of this delivery of the gifts to world struggle to come to grips Qatar’s leading telecommuni- patients undergoing with the world’s new normal, it cations operator yesterday is truly the children who find announced it has delivered treatment at the themselves grappling to deal Ramadan gifts to patients at the Kidney Fahad Bin with these abrupt changes. Fahad Bin Jassim Kidney Jassim Kidney Center Amid the pandemic, and in line Center as part of its CSR in order to continue with their social responsibility programme, in spite of the initiatives, Toys4Me has part- logistical challenges presented its longstanding nered with Global Shippers to by the ongoing COVID-19 tradition of carrying deliver a number of gifts to outbreak. out CSR activities in children in quarantine that aim Ooredoo arranged the community during to help them develop healthy delivery of the gifts to patients behavioural patterns and to undergoing treatment at the Ramadan. enrich their lives. Kidney Fahad Bin Jassim This initiative comes in Kidney Center in order to con- accordance with the state of tinue its longstanding tra- munity in a practical way. Ashraf Abu Issa (left), Chairman of Abu Issa Holding and its subsidiary, Toys4Me, with other officials Qatar’s National Health dition of carrying out CSR "We are delighted to visit distributing gifts among children who are in quarantine. Strategy. activities in the community and continue our support for The gifts and toys delivered during Ramadan. All necessary the Fahad Bin Jassim Kidney by Toys4Me were developed as “In line with our social Holding, and its subsidiary, ities and engage them in a pro- precautions were taken to Centre, and we hope everyone a means of expanding the chil- responsibility, we are pleased Toys4Me. ductive manner.” ensure the safety of delivery enjoyed receiving their gifts. dren’s mental and learning to announce our partnership “These toys and gifts will The private sector has a staff and gift recipients. We are determined to continue capabilities, and to help engage with Global Shippers, which will not only alleviate some of the great social responsibility to Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, to support our local commu- them in a productive manner, see us deliver mentally- hardships felt by our children uphold, along with all the Director PR at Ooredoo, said of nities during the Holy Month instead of wasting their time engaging, and developmental due to the current global pan- state’s other institutions that the event: “Ramadan is the of Ramadan in any way we engaging in unproductive activ- gifts and toys to the children of demic, but it will also help aim to limit the spread of the perfect time for us to find can, while complying with all ities that weaken their mental this great nation,” said Ashraf entertain them, expand their COVID-19 in the State of opportunities to show our government safety and creative skills. Abu Issa, Chairman of Abu Issa mental and learning capabil- Qatar. support for the local com- directives.” Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Most intelligent executive sedan

THE PENINSULA — DOHA carefully composed is the E-Class are its seats. Their ergo- Active Multicontour Seat colour concept with various nomic, sculptural form com- package is also available as an With its distinct, emotive design, shades of brown, including bines Mercedes-Benz’s option for the front seats. This exclusive interior and attractive colour combinations hallmark suitability for long includes functions such as ener- impressive number of innova- such as nut brown/macchiato journeys with a refined, sporty gizing massage, dynamic seat, tions, Mercedes-Benz is taking and saddle brown/macchiato. look, featuring a unique design multicontour backrest and the a big step into the future with A further highlight of the for each line. Furthermore, active cushion. the E-Class. The car is available now in Qatar at the showroom of Nasser Bin Khaled Automo- biles, the authorised distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar. Marking the world premiere of numerous technical innovations that enabled comfortable, safe driving on a new level, plus a new dimension in driver assistance, the E-Class sees while its extended powerful segment. As the entire cockpit Mercedes-Benz taking another vehicle body is characterised by is fully digital, the driver is free step closer to its goal of short overhangs, a long to configure the information accident-free and autonomous wheelbase, large wheels and and views of relevance for them driving. taut well-defined flanks that and thus create their own per- The E-Class is the core of display a fresh, stylish and sonal cockpit. Mercedes-Benz brand, and in dynamic interpretation of the In a first for a car, the the past has repeatedly rede- feature line. steering wheel features touch- fined the standards in the exec- The muscular front end sensitive Touch Controls that, utive-class segment. Now it boasts a different look for each like a smartphone interface, carries this tradition into the design and equipment line — respond precisely to horizontal future with a wealth of top-class Exclusive and Avantgarde Line and vertical swiping move- innovations that take safety, models — with each of the ments. In keeping with the stress relief and comfort to a radiator grill designs lending the motto “hands on the wheel, eyes new level. It is without doubt E-Class a distinct character. on the road”, this allows the most intelligent sedan in the The interior of the E-Class minimum driver distraction to executive class. embodies the synthesis of be achieved. The design of the E-Class is emotion and intelligence. High-quality materials characterised by hallmark Mer- Optional extras include the define the interior style. They cedes-Benz sedan proportions. Widescreen Cockpit with two include open-pore woods, The elongated bonnet coupled brilliant next-generation high- wood in a yachting look with with a coupé-esque roof and resolution displays, each with flowing lines as a contemporary broad-shouldered tail end a wide screen diagonal of 12.3 interpretation of inlaid wood creates an exciting silhouette, inches — unique in this and a novel metal fabric. Just as SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020 MIDDLE EAST 05 Iran reports 35 new coronavirus deaths, lowest since March 7 AFP — TEHRAN “Despite the its counties. The key oil-producing Iran yesterday reported 35 new unfortunate loss of province on the border with deaths from the coronavirus - 35 of our compatriots Iraq has become Iran’s new the lowest number since March coronavirus focal point, labelled 7 despite infections rising — and in the past 24 hours, “red” on Iran’s colour-coded announced a further relaxation this number is the risk scale. of COVID-19-related closures. Khuzestan is the only “Despite the unfortunate loss lowest in the past province so far where author- of 35 of our compatriots in the 70 days,” Health ities have reimposed shutdowns past 24 hours, this number is the on businesses after a coun- lowest in the past 70 days,” Ministry spokesman trywide relaxation in April. Health Ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour The renewed closures in Kianoush Jahanpour said. said adding: “We are more than half of the province’s The new deaths brought the counties were extended until overall toll to 6,937, he added. in no way in a normal Monday, Iran’s ISNA news Iranian President Hassan Rouhani makes a statement at National Coronavirus Combat Board Meeting But in an ominous sign, Iran situation yet.” agency reported. in Tehran, yesterday. on Friday reported its highest Governor Gholamreza number of new infections in Shariati warned of “fatigue” allowed to attend Friday Rouhani said that from May distancing until further notice... more than a month. “We are in among medical workers as prayers next week. 24 restaurants will be allowed (this epidemic) can last for no way in a normal situation the Shia holy city of Qom in Feb- cases rise and appealed to res- They would also be allowed to reopen. months,” the president yet,” Jahanpour said. ruary, 93,147 have recovered idents to stay home. to join annual Jerusalem Day Pilgrims will be allowed to cautioned. He said 1,757 new corona- and been discharged, according At a meeting of Iran’s coro- rallies in solidarity with the visit the outdoor areas of Shiite He said that temporary virus cases had been confirmed to the health ministry. navirus task force on Saturday, Palestinians. shrines but only during six leave for prisoners will be across Iran in the 24 hours to Jahanpour said the south- President Hassan Rouhani In Tehran, which is deemed hours of the day. extended until June 20. Saturday, bringing the overall western province of Khuzestan announced a timetable for high-risk, a “symbolic cer- On June 6, universities, which Iran’s judiciary began pro- total to 118,392. had the highest number of new further relaxations. emony” would be performed have been closed since early gressively granting detainees Of those hospitalised since hospitalisations and that the sit- He said that in 218 low-risk with a motorcade supervised by March, will hold their final exams. furlough in March and more Iran announced its first cases in uation was “critical” in most of counties people would be the Revolutionary Guards. “We must respect social than 100,000 are now on leave. Iran warns US against any move on fuel shipment to Venezuela Over 250 global artists urge

REUTERS — DUBAI that both are deeply at odds according to vessel tracking need of gasoline and other Israel to end Gaza blockade with the United States - are data from Refinitiv Eikon on refined fuel products to keep An Iranian news agency close under tough US sanctions. The Wednesday, which could help the country functioning amid AFP — PARIS to the elite Revolutionary Trump administration official ease an acute scarcity of petrol an economic collapse that Guards said that there would declined to specify the in the South American country. has occurred under socialist More than 250 global artists and writers including rocker Peter be repercussions if the United measures being weighed but The Iran-flagged medium President Nicolas Maduro. It Gabriel, director Ken Loach and actor Viggo Mortensen have States acts “just like pirates” said options would be pre- tanker Clavel earlier on produces crude oil but its appealed to Israel to stop the “siege” of Gaza. against an Iranian fuel shipment sented to Trump. Wednesday passed the Suez infrastructure has been The coronavirus epidemic could have a devastating effect in to Venezuela. “If the United States, just Canal after loading fuel at the end crippled during the economic “the world’s largest open air prison”, the artists said in an online A senior official in President like pirates, intends to create of March at Iran’s Bandar Abbas crisis. letter. “Long before the global outbreak of COVID-19 threatened Donald Trump’s administration insecurity on international port, according to the data. A Venezuelan official said to overwhelm the already devastated healthcare system in Gaza, said on Thursday the United waterways, it would be taking “News received from last month that Venezuela the UN had predicted that the blockaded coastal strip would be States was considering a dangerous risk and that will informed sources indicate that had received refining mate- unliveable by 2020,” the letter said. “With the pandemic, Gaza’s measures it could take in certainly not go without reper- the US Navy has sent four war- rials via plane from Iran to almost two million inhabitants, predominantly refugees, face a response to Iran’s shipment of cussion,” the Nour news agency ships and a Boeing P-8 help it start a unit at the mortal threat in the world’s largest open-air prison,” it added. fuel to crisis-stricken said early yesterday. Poseidon from the VP-26 310,000 barrels-per-day Other signatories included poet Taha Adnan, Canadian writer Venezuela. At least one tanker carrying squadron to the Caribbean Cardon refinery, which is Naomi Klein and British group Massive Attack. The oil sectors of Iran and fuel loaded at an Iranian port region,” Nour said. necessary to produce The Gaza Strip has been under an Israeli blockade since 2007 Venezuela — members of OPEC has set sail for Venezuela, Venezuela is in desperate gasoline. when the Islamist movement Hamas took control of the enclave. Israel argues the measures are necessary to isolate Hamas, considered a terrorist organisation by most Western countries. Iran sentences It says that restrictions on some imports to the coastal strip are designed to deny Hamas materials that could be used to enhance its French academic fighting capabilities. Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since the group took control of the enclave, but reached a tentative truce to six years in in late 2018 that was renewed after successive flare-ups last year. “Well before the ongoing crisis, Gaza’s hospitals were already prison: Lawyer stretched to breaking point through lack of essential resources denied by Israel’s siege. Its healthcare system could not cope with REUTERS — DUBAI the thousands of gunshot wounds, leading to many amputations,” the artists said. Iran has sentenced French- Iranian academic Fariba Adelkhah to six years in prison on national security charges, Vehicles to mark Iran’s her lawyer said yesterday, drawing protests from the French government which annual anti-Israel rally demanded her immediate REUTERS — DUBAI release. “The court has sentenced Rallies next week in Tehran to mark the annual Al Quds Day her to six years,” said Saeid Iraqi PM tries out a military uniform against Israel will involve Iranians driving in vehicles not marching Dehghan. through the streets, to avoid spreading the coronavirus, Iranian “The branch 15 of Tehran’s Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi wears a military uniform of Popular Mobilization Forces during President Hassan Rouhani said on state television on Saturday. Revolutionary Court has sen- his meeting with Head of the Popular Mobilisation Forces, Faleh Al Fayyad, in Baghdad yesterday. The elite Revolutionary Guards would be in charge of organ- tenced her to five years jail for ising the rallies, Rouhani said, adding that those joining in could gathering and conspiring still chant slogans from their vehicles and wave flags. against Iran’s national security. Rallies to mark Quds Day, which uses the Arabic name for She was also sentenced to one Yemeni govt claims Houthis seized WHO medical aid Jerusalem, are held in towns and cities across the country and year jail term for propaganda aim to show of support for the Palestinians. Typically those against the Islamic Republic.” ANATOLIA — YEMEN seized them in order to send the capital of Sana’a. The crisis marching chant “Death to Israel” and burn the Israeli flag. Dehghan said he would appeal them to their own supporters,” escalated in 2015 when a Saudi- Rouhani said Quds Day, held each year on the last Friday of against the sentence. Yemen Information Minister Al Iryani said on Twitter. led military coalition launched the fasting month of Ramadan which falls on May 22, would go France’s Foreign Ministry Muammar Al Iryani claimed He asked the UN to a devastating air campaign ahead as normal in 218 other towns and cities, where the coro- said Adelkhah’s conviction yesterday that the Houthi group condemn the move by the aimed at rolling back Houthi navirus outbreak has been less severe than the capital. was politically motivated. seized medical equipment aid Houthis and demanded the territorial gains. “The coronavirus danger is still there, but our situation is better “This sentencing is not sent by the World Health group be forced to send the Since then, tens of thou- than before,” he said. “We have crossed the main peak.” As of Sat- based on any serious element Organization (WHO). medical supplies to hospitals. sands of Yemenis, including urday, Iran’s death toll from the pandemic stood at 6,937 with or fact and is thus a political “Medical equipment aid Yemen has been beset by civilians, are believed to have 118,392 diagnosed cases, the health ministry said. decision,” the ministry said in provided by WHO were sent to violence and chaos since 2014, been killed in the conflict, while Shia shrines dotted around the country are due to reopen for a statement. “We are urging hospitals in regions where when Houthi rebels overran another 14 million are at risk of six hours a day after Ramadan, which is based on the lunar cal- Iranian authorities to imme- Houthis are present, but they much of the country, including starvation, according to the UN. endar and is expected to end around May 24 this year. diately release Mrs Adelkhah.” Iran has rejected France’s pre- vious calls to release the 60-year-old anthropologist ‘Lockdown may cause behavioural changes among children’ who has been detained since June 2019, saying the demands ANATOLIA — ANKARA added that adolescents may feel Basak Karateke, a psychol- enough to reach the points that the pandemic, she said. were an interference in introverted and unhappy as ogist at Ufuk University in may negatively affect children’s “These children, who Tehran’s internal affairs. Children may exhibit behav- they are somehow separated Ankara, said that changing rou- development processes, she cannot experience their needs Tehran does not recognise ioural and emotional changes from their friends and spend tines amid the pandemic is a added. such as communication and dual nationality. due to the extended lockdown more time with the family at difficult situation for people of Karateke added that the activity appropriate for their Spying charges against situation in the wake of the home. all ages. group that will experience the age, will likely have a slowdown Adelkhah had been dropped, coronavirus pandemic, Turkish Not all children react the “When we look at children, most difficulties in this process in all areas of cognitive, emo- Dehghan said in March, but psychologists have said. same, she said, stressing the in particular, the areas they will will be the children who have tional, physical and social she remained in jail on other “Especially toddlers and importance of the family’s express themselves, the people lost a parent as well as the development,” Karateke said. security-related charges. preschool children may not feel attitude amid the pandemic and they will communicate with and children of healthcare workers. “Preschool children can In March, Iran released safe because they are in a new the personality of the child. the ways of communication are “Interrupting the rela- express their anxiety and fear Adelkhah’s partner, French and uncertain routine. Within “In some families, it can also restricted. Numerous options tionship with the parent and most easily in games,” Ozcan academic Roland Marchal, this period, children can uncon- beneficial for children to do such as going to school, spending trying to deal with this emo- said, adding that It is important who was detained along with sciously show some regression child-oriented activities while time at gardens or parks with tional loss in quarantine condi- to follow the games that children her. Marchal was released in their behavior as a coping spending time together at friends, going for a walk, tions can be an unforgettable set up and direct on their own. after France freed Iranian skill, returning to a develop- home,” she said, adding that it hugging, playing games have experience for these children,” She recommended parents to engineer Jalal Ruhollahnejad, mental stage where they feel could be a good opportunity to been firstly restricted for hygiene she said. play games with their children as detained over alleged viola- safer,” Selin Ozcan said. observe the child’s games and and then in the form of home The children who are left at it could help families to under- tions of US sanctions against Ozcan, an expert on child behaviours when they are quarantine,” Karateke said. home alone and have a stimulus stand what their children are Tehran. and adolescent psychology, afraid or worried. This situation is serious deficit are also vulnerable amid experiencing and concerning. 06 AFRICA SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020 Rwanda genocide suspect Kabuga held near Paris after decades on the run REUTERS — PARIS/KAMPALA Kabuga was indicted Kabuga today is a reminder that those responsible for genocide Rwandan genocide suspect in 1997 on seven can be brought to account, even Felicien Kabuga, who is criminal counts twenty-six years after their accused of funding militias that including genocide, crimes,” the IRMCT’s Chief massacred about 800,000 Prosecutor Serge Brammertz people, was arrested yesterday complicity in genocide said in a statement. near Paris after 26 years on the and incitement to He added the arrest was the run, the French justice ministry result of cooperation between said. commit genocide, law enforcement agencies in The 84-year-old, who is all in relation to France and other countries Rwanda’s most-wanted man including the United States, and had a $5m US bounty on the 1994 Rwanda Rwanda, Belgium, the United his head, was living under a Kingdom, Germany, the Nether- genocide, according Truck drivers are seen near their parked vehicles as they await test results, amid the spread of the false identity in a flat in lands and others. coronavirus disease outbreak at the Namanga one-stop border crossing point between Kenya and Asnieres-Sur-Seine, according to the UN-established Rwanda’s justice minister, to the ministry. International Residual Johnston Busingye, said that a Tanzania, in Namanga, Kenya. French gendarmes arrested Mechanism for statement on the arrest would him at 0530 GMT yesterday, the be issued but did not specify ministry said. Criminal Tribunals. when. Kenya closes borders with Tanzania, Kabuga was indicted in Kabuga, who controlled 1997 on seven criminal counts Kabuga, known to have been many of Rwanda’s tea and including genocide, complicity the financier of Rwanda gen- coffee plantations and factories, Somalia to stem spread of virus in genocide and incitement to ocide, had with impunity stayed was part-owner of Radio Tel- commit genocide, all in relation in Germany, Belgium, Congo- evision Milles Collines which REUTERS — NAIROBI The same measures would out of the capital Nairobi, to the 1994 Rwanda genocide, Kinshasa, Kenya, or Swit- ran a radio station that fanned apply on the border with Mombasa, Kilifi and Kwale on according to the UN-estab- zerland,” the French ministry ethnic hatred against Rwanda’s Kenya’s President Uhuru Somalia, he said. the Indian Ocean coast and lished International Residual statement said. Tutsis, told Hutus where Tutsis Kenyatta yesterday banned Kenyatta also extended by Mandera in the northeast in Mechanism for Criminal Tri- His arrest paves the way for were to be found and offered movement across the country’s 21 days an existing dusk-to- April. bunals (IRMCT). the fugitive to come before the advice on how to kill them. borders with Tanzania and dawn curfew and a ban on The east African nation has Rwanda’s two main ethnic Paris Appeal Court and later be He is accused of being a Somalia to help curb the spread movement in and out of areas also imposed bans on public groups are the Hutus and Tutsis, transferred to the custody of the main financier of the genocide, of the coronavirus. of Kenya worst hit by the coro- gatherings, large funerals and who have historically had an international court, which is paying for the militias that He exempted cargo trucks navirus outbreak. shuttered schools. antagonistic relationship and based in the Hague, Netherlands carried out the massacres. but said drivers would have to “I know there is growing Kenya has 830 confirmed fought a civil war in the early and Arusha, Tanzania. He would His arrest “is an important be tested for COVID-19. global pressure for easing of cases of the novel coronavirus, 1990s. then be brought before UN judges, step towards justice for hun- “There will be a cessation measures against this disease with 50 deaths. A Hutu businessman, an IRMCT spokesman said. dreds of thousands of genocide of movement of persons and and for all of us to get back to Kenyatta said authorities Kabuga is accused of funding Two other Rwandan gen- victims...survivors can hope to any passenger-ferrying auto- normal,” he said. had so far prevented 78 truck the militias that massacred ocide suspects, Augustin Biz- see justice and suspects cannot mobiles and vehicles into and “We are going to step up our drivers from neighbouring some 800,000 Tutsis and their imana and Protais Mpiranya, expect to escape accounta- out of the territory of Kenya defence by employing stricter, countries, including Tanzania moderate Hutu allies over a are still being pursued by inter- bility,” Mausi Segun, Africa through the Kenya-Tanzania more localised prevention and Somalia from entering span of 100 days in 1994. national justice. director at Human Rights international border,” Kenyatta actions.” Kenya first imposed Kenya after they tested positive “Since 1994, Felicien “The arrest of Félicien Watch, said. said in a televised address. restrictions of movement in and for COVID-19. Zimbabwe to ease South Africa’s mass testing hits limits; virus spreads virus curbs, but

AFP — JOHANNESBURG our country,” President Cyril lockdown to Ramaphosa said during an With an expert flick of the wrist, address this week. remain for now South African nurse Bhelekazi But labs have been strug- Mdlalose collected throat swabs gling to keep up and medical REUTERS — HARARE from young men lining up for staff say it can now take up to coronavirus testing at a two weeks for test results to Zimbabwe will keep its coro- run-down hostel in downtown arrive, up from an initial two to navirus lockdown for the time Johannesburg. three days. being, though businesses will Health workers were sent “The labs are being filled with be allowed to open for longer to the overcrowded block of community testing,” said doctor and the restrictions will be single-room flats — mainly Ian Proudfoot, MSF clinical edu- reviewed every two weeks, occupied by men from rural cator in Khayelitsha. President Emmerson Mnan- areas doing odd jobs in the city “With longer and longer gagwa said yesterday. — as part of a mass community turnaround times... someone The southern African screening and testing (CST) somewhere has got to make a nation, which has reported 42 campaign launched by the gov- decision about where the cases and four deaths from the ernment last month. (testing) priority lies,” he added. novel coronavirus, went into Mdlalose, who is employed by Health department lockdown on March 30 and Doctors Without Borders (MSF), spokesman Popo Maja admitted has been gradually easing the left her family and usual job in the that labs were “struggling”. measures to help revive its northwestern town of Rustenberg “We expected this,” hesaid. troubled economy. in March to support community “This is by far the largest pan- Economic fallout from the work in Johannesburg. demic known to humankind.” coronavirus outbreak will Aged 51, she trains gov- Mdlalose sighed in frus- exacerbate climate-induced Health personnel wait in line to be tested for COVID-19 at the Vlakfontein Clinic in Lenasia, Johannesburg, ernment health workers to tration earlier this week as she shocks and monetary woes on Wednesday. handle suspected coronavirus pulled on protective gear and afflicting an economy battling patients correctly, checking in on counted up swab kits to test the shortages of foreign exchange, CST teams deployed to town- picks up pace — with confirmed approaching capacity in what “We had to have a more 20-odd workers of a community food electricity and ships, offices and shopping malls. cases creeping over 13,500, we can do, both to detect cases proactive approach and go out clinic outside Johannesburg. medicines. “We identify those that are including 247 deaths — but also to follow them up.” there.” Around 28,000 health She was sent after the clinic “Zimbabwe will... continue COVID-19 positive and those Mdlalose and other health South Africa’s aggressive workers have been mobilised manager failed to submit swab on the level two lockdown for that have symptoms,” said experts are beginning to see the COVID-19 screening and testing over the past month, aiming to samples from staff, who as an indefinite period. The Mdlalose. limits of the country’s lauded approach is modelled on years test 10,000 people per day. medical workers should all be country needs to ease out of the “These are vulnerable community screening strategy. of experience fighting tubercu- They have screened over tested. “They didn’t have lockdown in a strategic and people,” she added, pointing out “It’s definitely a very high losis and HIV. nine million people so far, enough test kits,” said Mdlalose. gradual manner,” Mnangagwa that most would not even think resource activity,” admitted “We decided that we around 15 percent of the popu- The small facility was said in a live broadcaast. to visit a clinic when sick. “By MSF doctor Claire Keene, who shouldn’t just wait in hospitals lation, and tested more than already struggling to swab an He said informal street being here we actually target monitors CST in Cape Town’s for patients to arrive,” said the 420,000. “This is the largest and average of four suspected cases markets, where millions of Zim- the right group.” But as South sprawling Khayelitsha government’s top coronavirus most extensive public health per day coming from the sur- babweans eke a leaving selling Africa’s coronavirus outbreak township. “I think we are advisor Salim Abdool Karim. mobilisation in the history of rounding township. everything from used clothes to vegetables, will remain shut while the government consults Senegalese return to mosques health specialists on how to Burundi defies COVID-19 for reopen them safely. Businesses such as manu- after restrictions eased facturers, supermarkets and banks, which have been AFP — DAKAR of West Africa’s largest and election ending divisive rule allowed to continue operating, belongs to the powerful will now be able to work Some Senegalese mosques Mouride brotherhood. AP — KAMPALA by critics of downplaying the pan- April 27, according to SOS between 8am and 4.30pm opened their doors on Friday Mosque spokesman Mor demic and citing divine protection. Medias Burundi, a group of compared with the six-hour after the government eased Daga Sylla said that religious Burundi is pushing ahead with But the government appears to be independent journalists. Police day imposed previously. coronavirus restrictions, but authorities had insisted the an election on Wednesday that using virus measures to limit spokesman Pierre Nkurikiye Shared taxis will remain others judged the rate of faithful wash their hands and will end the president’s divisive election observers, warning the has accused Rwasa of making banned, forcing commuters to infection too high and stayed keep one metre away from one and bloody 15-year rule. East African regional bloc on May “incendiary and defamatory” use buses operated by the shut. another. “We were uncompro- When President Pierre 8 that arriving foreigners face a remarks and inciting revolt. state, which have struggled to Senegalese President mising,” he said. Nkurunziza hands over power, 14-day quarantine. Rwasa, the deputy par- cope with demand. Macky Sall said this week that A similar scene played out it could be the first truly More than the virus, liament speaker, has drawn Mnangagwa said the hun- public prayers could resume in in the Dakar suburb of Mbao, peaceful transfer of authority however, it’s the fear of vio- large crowds despite the risks dreds of Zimbabwean migrants the West African country, pro- where water and soap were in the East African nation since lence that weighs on many of of openly supporting him, returning home every week, vided that mosques obey placed in front of the local independence in 1962. the more than 5 million people according to an online group of mainly from South Africa and social-distancing rules. mosque, and the majority of But the coronavirus poses a eligible to vote. activists known as i-Burundi. Botswana, will have to undergo More than 90 percent of worshippers wore facemasks. threat to the May 20 vote. Burundi Government agents have The group worries that a a 21-day quarantine in school Senegal is Muslim and most of Inside, the mosque’s imam, has kicked out World Health been accused of harassing the rigged election could spark the and college buildings set aside the faithful follow Sufi broth- Pape Moussa Seck, preached a Organisation workers after con- main opposition party, the CNL, kind of street demonstrations that for the purpose. erhoods, which retain consid- sermon calling the coronavirus cerns were raised. The WHO Africa whose leader Agathon Rwasa marked the previous vote in 2015. The president said only erable influence in the nation a “divine ordeal” caused by director messaged the Africa is believed to be in a close race “The ruling party was students writing final exami- of 16 million people. religious infractions such as Centers for Disease Control and with Nkurunziza’s chosen suc- hoping to use this post-Nku- nations this year would be In the seaside capital Dakar “the indecent clothing of young Prevention chief about political cessor in the ruling CNDD-FDD, runziza election to gain a sem- allowed to resume classes but on Friday, according to jour- girls, assaults and murders”. rallies the day that Burundi’s cam- Evariste Ndayishimiye. blance of legitimacy, but given did not say when. The gov- nalists, thousands of wor- Senegalese authorities have paigning launched and images of More than 145 CNL what’s happening we might end ernment is still working on shippers flocked to Massalikul recorded 2,310 cases to date, crowds circulated online. members have been arrested up with more violence,” plans of phased re-opening of Jinaan mosque — which is one including 25 fatalities. Authorities have been accused since campaigning began on i-Burundi said in an interview. schools. SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020 ASIA 07 India’s total infections surpass China; contagion slowing

REUTERS — NEW DELHI with fewer restrictions. So far the death rate in India appears far better, A third of the infections are recover overall,” Shamika Ravi, So far the death rate in India from the western state of a Brookings expert and former India’s total novel corornavirus appears far better, according to according to health ministry data, with 2,752 Maharashtra, with Mumbai the member of the Indian Prime cases rose to 85,940 yesterday, health ministry data, with 2,752 fatalities reported, compared with China’s worst hit, followed by Tamil Minister’s Economic Advisory taking it past China, where the fatalities reported, compared Nadu, Gujarat and Delhi. Council, said. pandemic originated last year, with China’s 4,600. The toll in 4,600. The toll in the United States, United These are also the most One area of concern has though a strict lockdown the United States, United Kingdom and Italy is much higher. important economic centres of been India’s low testing in enforced since late March has Kingdom and Italy is much the country, complicating the relation to its large population, reduced the rate of contagion. higher. government’s task as it tries to public health officials say. The State leaders, businesses Health Minister Harsh “Clearly the situation has Indian officials say the low re-open without triggering a big country has ramped up testing and working class Indians have Vardhan was also encouraged improved due to lockdown. We death rate could be because a spurt in infections. since the beginning of April to called on Prime Minister by the slowing rate of infection, have utilised this period of majority of people infected with “India is still in the growth 100,000 this week, but with 1.3 Narendra Modi to reopen the as it now takes 11 days for the lockdown to accelerate public the virus were either asymto- phase, since total cases are still billion people on a per capita battered economy, but the gov- number of cases to double, health measures such as case matic or had mild symptoms rising. Active cases are growing basis it is trailing far behind ernment is expected to extend whereas before the lockdown detection, contact tracing, iso- and that the vast shutdown at 3.8% (daily) — and this needs other major countries such as the lockdown, which would cases were doubling every 3 1/2 lation and management of imposed early on had helped to fall to 0% and decline subse- the United States, the United otherwise expire today, though days. cases,” Vardhan said. avoid a major catastrophe. quently for the country to Kingdom and Italy. 30 migrant workers dead Thailand extends ban on incoming in road accidents in India overseas flights AFP — NEW DELHI lime powder which suffocated many of those who died, all of until end June At least 30 Indian migrant whom were men, he added. workers were killed yesterday Prime Minister Narendra REUTERS — BANGKOK in road accidents as they tried Modi called the accident to return to their home villages “extremely tragic” in a Twitter Thailand yesterday extended during a nationwide corona- post and said relief work was a ban on international virus lockdown, officials said. in “full swing” at the scene. passenger flights until the end The accidents, in central A drunk driver was blamed of June, the country’s aviation and northern India, were the for the second accident, in regulator said, as new cases latest involving some of the mil- Madhya Pradesh, when a truck in the country dwindle. lions of labourers left stranded bringing labourers back from The Civil Aviation Author- and jobless by the seven-week neighbouring Maharashtra state ity’s ban extends a previous shutdown. overturned, local official Shashi order that was set to run until Scores have died in road Mishra said. the end of May. and rail accidents and even Four of the five dead were The announcement comes from exhaustion walking home. women and 17 people were as the country begins to relax In the most deadly incident, injured, he added. local restrictions after a truck carrying about 40 The millions of labourers, reporting single-digit labourers struck another who live off subsistence wages, increases of infections from vehicle also carrying workers have become a major concern the new coronavirus this and their families that was for the government as it pre- month. parked at a roadside cafe in pares to ease the lockdown Migrant workers board on a truck to return to their hometowns after the government eased a The government will Uttar Pradesh, local magistrate from tomorrow in a bid to get nationwide lockdown, on the outskirts of Hyderabad, India, yesterday. allow malls and department Abishek Singh said. the economy moving again. stores to re-open today. It will At least 25 were killed and The government has back home and provide food lions suddenly out of work. trucks. also shorten a nighttime 30 injured. responded to criticism of its rations. Desperate to return to their Sixteen were killed this curfew by one hour, to 2300 It is thought the driver of the handling of the migrant worker Many businesses shut down home states, many migrants month when a train ran over to 0400, from 2200 to 0400. truck had fallen asleep, Singh crisis by promising extra overnight after the lockdown have walked hundreds of kilo- them as they slept on a railway The aviation regulator said. The vehicle was carrying finance to get those stranded began on March 25, leaving mil- metres or hitched rides on track. first introduced the sus- pension of international flights in April in a bid to curb Singapore the spread of the Australia's Victoria state battles coronavirus clusters coronavirus. reports 465 new Thailand yesterday REUTERS — MELBOURNE populous state, has been people to meet for recreational pandemic is not over,” Mikakos reported no new coronavirus virus cases, one hardest hit by COVID-19, but purposes in parks, at play- said during a televised briefing. cases or deaths as the country Struggling to curb the spread of new cases there have subsided, grounds or for barbecues. “It is important people take began to reopen businesses additional death the coronavirus while the rest with just three reported Australia has recorded just every possible precaution.” and ease restrictions. of Australia has begun relaxing yesterday. over 7,000 COVID-19 cases, Two of Victoria’s new cases "Today there are two REUTERS — SINGAPORE a two-month lockdown, For the first weekend since including 98 deaths, signifi- were connected to a cluster at zeros ... thank you all Thais Victoria state yesterday mid-March, restaurants and cantly below levels reported a meat factory, where 98 people who have given their cooper- Singapore registered 465 new reported 11 new cases, including cafes were re-opening in most in North America and Europe, have been infected so far. ation," a spokesman for the coronavirus infections, its some linked to known clusters parts of Australia, including but health officials continued Another new case was linked government's Centre for health ministry said yesterday, at a meat factory and a McDon- New South Wales, but Victoria to urge vigilance and to a McDonald’s restaurant in COVID-19 Situation Admin- taking the city-state’s total to ald’s restaurant. retained most of its lockdown encouraged people to stay Melbourne, bringing the total istration, Taweesin 27,356 cases. The nationwide tally of new measures. home. number of cases in that cluster Wisanuyothin, said. The vast majority of the cases had still to be compiled The northeast state of Victoria state health min- to 11. This is the second day newly infected people are for yesterday, but on Friday the Queensland, where just one ister, Jenny Mikakos, said that Earlier this week, Australia since March 9 that the country migrant workers living in dor- southeastern state had case was reported yesterday, it was “inevitable” that there reported record high job losses has reported no new daily mitories, the health ministry accounted for 20 of the 31 new also eased its restrictions over will be more coronavirus as a result of the lockdown and cases. The country has said in a statement. Four are cases reported across the the weekend, allowing restau- outbreaks. Prime Minister Scott Morrison reported a total of 3,025 cases permanent residents. country. rants, cafes and beauty salons “It’s important that eve- warned that worse was still to of the coronavirus and 56 Singapore also reported New South Wales, the most to reopen, and groups of 10 ryone understands this come. fatalities from the virus. one more death, bringing the virus-related death toll in the island nation to 22. Intruder snaps selfies in Indonesia to closed Australian museum host US firms AFP — SYDNEY inside the jaws of a Tyranno- saurus skull and searching relocating Police in Australia are hunting cupboards. a man who took a late-night The man eventually left the from China tour of a closed Sydney museum with the hat and a museum, posing for selfies with picture from a wall, officers a dinosaur skull before making said. ANATOLIA — JAKARTA off with a cowboy hat and a The Australian Museum has picture. been closed since last year for Indonesia is clearing up 4,000 The intruder climbed up renovations and police believe hectares of land in Central Java scaffolding into The Australian the refurbishment work made to accommodate US Museum at around 1:00 am last his entry easier. companies planning to Sunday and went on a leisurely Other museums and gal- relocate from China in the wander through the empty leries around Australia are also wake of the coronavirus building, local police said. closed as part of coronavirus pandemic and an escalating “He was in there for about shutdowns. trade war, a top official said. 40 minutes... he certainly “It’s very serious, we Central Java Governor enjoyed his night at the shouldn’t make light of this,” Ganjar Pranowo said the plan museum,” New South Wales Heaney said, as he appealed for was a follow-up of a phone Police Detective Chief witnesses to help catch the call between Indonesian Pres- Myanmar health checks Inspector Sean Heaney said on man. ident Joko Widodo and his US Friday. “We’re lucky he hasn’t A military health worker (left) wearing protective gear takes the body temperature of a worker counterpart Donald Trump. Security cameras caught damaged any historical arti- from the Tsang Yih Foot Wear company during a health check-up operation at the Hlaing Thar Yar “But we have not had any the man taking photos with dis- facts or anything that is report of the companies’ industrial zone in an effort to contain the spread of the coronavirus, in Yangon, Myanmar, yesterday. plays, posing with his head expensive in there.” names so far,” Ganjar told Anatolia. On April 25, Trump in a phone call with the Indonesian Cambodia says all COVID-19 patients recovered, no new cases President discussed plans to purchase ventilators and pos- REUTERS — PHNOM PENH Cambodia’s last reported new case was on was released from the Khmer in large groups. sible investment in the April 12. A total of 14,684 tests have been done Soviet Friendship Hospital in “We think that most of the country, especially for Cambodia’s last patient with the the capital, Phnom Penh, and cases, generally, are imported, pharmaceuticals. new coronavirus has recovered since January. Cambodia has reported 122 was presented to the media in so we must be careful with all In the first quarter of 2020, and left hospital, leaving the cases of the virus that causes COVID-19 and no a livestream yesterday, checkpoints at the border, at some $141bn were invested in Southeast Asian country with thanking the health airports, at ports, at land check- Indonesia, of which more than zero cases, the health ministry deaths from the disease. authorities. points,” Mam Bunheng told 46% was foreign investment, said yesterday, while urging Cambodia’s last reported reporters. according to the country’s continued vigilance. new case was on April 12. A total “People who travel from investment body BKPM. No easing of restrictions Cambodia has reported 122 more than 4.5 million and of 14,684 tests have been done abroad must have a certificate Meanwhile, Indonesia's related to the virus — including cases of the virus that causes killing about 300,000 since since January, the ministry said. confirming that they don’t have health ministry yesterday school closures and border COVID-19 and no deaths from January. Health Minister Mam COVID-19. Only then would we reported 13 new deaths from entry checks and quarantines the disease since it emerged in A 36-year-old woman from Bunheng urged people to allow them in, and once they COVID-19, taking the toll to — were included in the Ministry China and started spreading Cambodia’s northwestern remain vigilant and take pre- are in, they will be quarantined 1,089. of Health statement. around the world, infecting province of Banteay Meanchey cautions such as not gathering for another 14 days,” he said. 08 VIEWS SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected]

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected] EDITORIAL A view of Qatar Fund for Development’s urgent medical aid to Somalia in cooperation with the Amiri Air Force fleet to assist in containing the spread of the coronavirus disease outbreak, at the Aden Abdulle International Airport in Mogadishu, Somalia, yesterday. Face masks compulsory AS PART of the measures being taken by the gov- ernment to curb the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, Challenging moments the Cabinet passed on Wednesday a decision that made wearing face masks compulsory for all citizens and res- idents upon leaving house for any reason. The enforcement of the decision starts from today (May 17, 2020), and will remain effective until further notice. As strengthen Qatari nation the Cabinet continue to issue decisions and reaffirms continuation of the precautionary measures taken to t is with gratification and reaffir- Information and Communication Tech- combat the virus, it has also eased lockdown in some mation that we would like to express nology Conference and Exhibition areas which was under lockdown such as Industrial our feelings of appreciation to all the (QITCOM 2019); World Summit on Area to control infection. doctors, nurses, paramedics, medical Innovation for Education (WISE2019); The a decision compel all citizens and residents to staff,I and health care workers, and to all Doha Forum 2019, with the partici- wear the face mask at the time they come out of their the people who directly and indirectly pation of 250 participants from more houses for any reason, with some exceptional cases are fighting daily to protect us, making than 100 countries, including the presi- such as driving alone. The law effective from today has sure that this infectious disease; dents of Rwanda, Armenia and El Sal- stipulated severe punishment in case of non-compliance COVID-19 stops spreading all our world. vador and others; International Con- with this decision. The penalties are stipulated in Decree In addition, we would also like to ference on Social Media Challenges and Law No. (17) of 1990 on the prevention of infectious thank Heads of State, Ministers and all Ways to Promote Freedoms and Protect diseases which stated that violator shall be subject to the leaders and decision makers whom Activitis; and the High Level Meeting of imprisonment for a period not exceeding three years we follow for their wisdom and gift of the World Network of Judicial and a fine not exceeding QR (200,000), or one of these good people, as well as reliving their Integrity-UNCAC. two penalties. inexhaustible energy and courage to In the ‘Diplomacy of Sports’, Qatar The decision also mentioned that the Ministry of held the following: XVII World Athletics protect the people of Qatar during these JOSÉ A. BENZAQUEN PEREA, Interior takes the necessary measures to enforce the difficult circumstances, especially, every- Championship; I World Championship of AMBASSADOR OF PERU TO QATAR decision; the Ministry yesterday urged people to strictly thing developed by Qatar, Peru and all Beach Games Doha 2019; World Table abide by the cabinet decision which is basically made the countries that make up the interna- Tennis Championship; International to ensure safety of the society. Despite earlier precau- tional community. led me to learn more about the history Olympic Shooting Grand Prix; and FINA/ tionary measures taken and high quality healthcare, the Heads of State and Heads of Gov- of this great country, Qatar with its CNSG Marathon Swim Series Doha 2020 cases of infections have entered the peak phase, and ernment have all shown an effective legacy of thousands of years; and, its in which we have received in Lima a del- this is mainly happening due to lack of awareness and way to direct an appropriate strategy in visionary “Leader”, Sheikh Jassim bin egation that participated in the Pan non-compliance to the health rules and health advices order to overcome this unprecedented Mohammed Al Thani, who left an American Championship organized by according to the health authorities. difficulty that no one imagined could example of life, as well as those who Peru. Taking the situation into account, the MoI paid much happen, internally and internationally, came after him to forge a great On the Peruvian side, we celebrated attention to the importance of awareness as one of the where - in this last scenario - a com- country. our National Anniversary on July 28, the factors behind the spread of the virus, especially among petent Qatari diplomacy launched a I can positively testify that we will 30th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations the expatriate workers in certain areas, and those not com- cooperative action on foreign policy, overcome these difficulties and Peru-Qatar; we had the pleasure to mitted to social distancing in particular during this Holy unwanted circumstances that nature has receive the Mayor of Lima, Mister Jorge month of Ramadan. In order to reach this segment of the We have successfully imposed on us, leading us at the same Munoz, who was invited by the Minister society and prepare for the enforcement of the decision, coordinated a shipment to time to protect the environment of the of Municipalities of Qatar H E Abdulla bin the Ministry launched an aggressive awareness campaign planet. We are sure that we will return Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie. using different languages including Arabic, English, Urdu, Peru, via Doha-Amsterdam, to live in a new world, more caring, Malayalam and other languages. carrying medical equipment more responsible and more peaceful; I would like to highlight the intense The Ministry reiterated that adherence to the Cabinet because we know today that a micro- international activity of the Amir H H decision and all precautionary measures taken by the and supplies from Shanghai, scopic virus can do so much damage, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, with government to curb COVID-19 “embodies the concept China through Qatar Airways- without confronting ourselves - the the sole purpose of seeking peace, devel- of joint responsibility and enhances public safety. Cargo with the assistance of sapiens - many times with unjustified opment and collaboration between Therefore everyone must comply with these measures arguments. As a result, we will keep countries and international organiza- and health instructions including biding “to the quar- the Qatari authorities. working to comply with all the provi- tions. The 74th Session of the UN General antine requirements will enhance public safety and sions or precautionary measures dic- Assembly, in which H H the Amir met avoids legal accountability”. Negligence or lack of tated by the government and the Qatari with his counterparts from the different awareness or ignorance of the rules does not forgive authorities to ensure and safeguard the countries; United States, Germany, India any violators from legal accountability. safety of its citizens. and Sudan; the XVIII Summit of Move- In addition, we will also continue in ments of Non-Aligned Countries, held in Qatar relating and strengthening our ties Baku, Azerbaijan. considering that the efforts and cooper- of friendship, with our community that In addition to the valuable support of ation granted by the State of Qatar is the also resides in this generous country, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR definition of a truthful and sincere while highlighting its development in the of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani EMAIL: [email protected] diplomacy, illustrated through a human- sectors of health, education, cooperation, itarian generosity. The main instrument economy, security and investment, as and other heads of sectors such as of its foreign policy, of which we have well as media. Defense, in relation to the North Atlantic EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 been aware of since we took office in The dynamism that comes with the Treaty Organization (NATO) and the par- FAX: +974 4455 7758 Doha, Qatar. international context, marked by the glo- ticipation of Qatar in the World Organi- This pandemic has made the world balization, where countries such as the zation of Trade (WTO). MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 unify. People became stronger, sup- State of Qatar, constitute important It is also worth mentioning the coop- portive and without borders, especially actors on the international table for the eration offered by Qatar Charity, DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 under the guidance of leaders who have good of all, developing a widely appre- standing out for being one of the first made timely and firm decisions, led by ciated leadership. organizations, invited by the World LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 professional health and safety teams, We reiterate that after solving this Health Organization (WHO) in the among others, in the face of an active and global challenge, we will return to those current circumstances. BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 invisible antagonist virus. world meetings in Doha, of which we As far as I am concerned, I believe Meanwhile, it is worth mentioning participated in a few months of per- that we will gradually move towards a SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 that we have successfully coordinated a manent showing, both bilaterally and normality of our activities, necessary for shipment to Peru, via Doha-Amsterdam, multilaterally, which leads us to rec- the good of all, with a strengthened, ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 carrying medical equipment and supplies ognize the importance of collective united and more supportive international email: [email protected] from Shanghai, China through Qatar action and promote dialogue in favor of community, aware of having been living Airways-Cargo with the assistance of the peace and democracy, and advance witnesses to a complex pandemic that PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 Qatari authorities. Thus, we would like to human-centered sustainable devel- must never return. email: [email protected] thank Qatar local authorities as well as opment, good governance, the rule of All together we will achieve the Qatar Airways for facilitating this law, and the protection and promotion of desired goal and we will gradually get ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 process. human rights. back to where we left off stronger; FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] In the meantime, during my stay in In this context, it is worth high- understanding that the future will Doha, I had the pleasure to meet with lighting some of the most important demand a new will to resume and order CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 many people from higher authorities meetings and conferences held in Doha a better way of life. email: [email protected] from the various sectors. I was before the appearance of the pandemic: We thank Qatar for this experiential impressed by their professionalism as The 140th General Assembly of the coincidence of residing in Doha, in these SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 well as their personal quality which Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU); Qatar moments. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar We hope Tokyo Olympics will be a place where humanity will gather with triumph against COVID. It /Peninsula_Qatar is in our hands, but it is not easy. If we do our best, especially with national unity and global solidarity, I /ThePeninsulaNewspaper think it’s possible. +974 6698 6188 Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020 ASIA 09 HK returnees say quarantine unfairly targets South Africa

BLOOMBERG — HONG KONG I would go as far Residents arriving from coun- established procedures,” consulate didn’t return an home quarantines and do not as to suggest that tries like the US and the UK, according to the statement. email seeking comment need to go to government quar- Several Hong Kong residents which have many more deaths The authority noted that outside of business hours antine facilities when, without who returned from South Africa the ignorance and and confirmed cases, are the number of tests performed yesterday. a doubt, they are clearly the this week lashed out at the prejudice in the allowed to isolate at home. is about 6,800 per million pop- Embree said his family is highest risk groups?” Yip-Hors- government’s decision to put “The government stresses ulation in South Africa, com- under a lot of stress, especially field said in a text message. “We them in quarantine camps, decision has now that the quarantine pared with about 32,000 in after a seven-week lock down would gladly accept our fate if saying the move is unfair given resulted in a direct arrangement targets the risk of both the UK and the US. South in South Africa. The apartment the numbers and facts correlate South Africa’s low rate of threat to our health infection but not the ethnicity Africa has recorded just 247 they’re staying in lacks basic to the policy.” confirmed COVID-19 cases. of the returnees,” it said in a deaths, well below the more appliances like a fridge and Hong Kong’s 23-day streak About 10 returnees were and even our lives: statement yesterday. “We will than 87,000 fatalities in the US microwave, and is full of dust without a case of local corona- sent to a government-run Colin Embree closely monitor the situation and 34,000 in the UK, data and mold, he said in a phone virus transmission came to an centre after they landed on locally and overseas, and will from Johns Hopkins University interview. He and his family end last week, reflecting the Thursday and weren’t allowed review the arrangement as we show. were tested for the virus at the challenge of eradicating a virus to self-isolate at home. They are managing director at NBC gain more understanding about The South African consul airport and the results were that can spread undetected being charged $26 a head per Financial Markets Asia Ltd, a the test findings of recent general in Hong Kong has said negative. through carriers with no day in an apartment complex unit of National Bank of Canada. returnees from South Africa.” the decision is discriminatory Other returnees from South symptoms. with no hot water or fridges, He is staying in a camp in the When asked about the living and urged the government to Africa share similar frustrations. The case of a 66-year-old and given food they say is Yuen Long area with his family. conditions, the health remove it from the quarantine Delphine Yip-Horsfield, an woman with no recent travel “unedible.” Hong Kong is requiring res- department said the quarantine list given the country’s success architect, who came back to history dashed hopes that the “I would go as far as to idents returning from South centers are operated in com- in containing the virus, the Hong Kong on the same flight city had successfully contained suggest that the ignorance and Africa, India and three other pliance with infection control South China Morning Post as the Embree family via Doha, the virus after nearly four prejudice in the decision has countries to remain in these measures. reported. questions the government’s months of school closures and now resulted in a direct threat camps for 14 days, arguing that “Cleaning, disinfection and Other countries on the list decision. social distancing measures. The to our health and even our the testing rate per capita in waste disposal will be carried include Pakistan, Bangladesh “Why do returnees from the city has recorded just four lives,” said Colin Embree, a these areas is relatively low. out in accordance with the and Nepal. The South African US, UK and Europe get to do deaths from the virus.

104-year-old woman from South Korea Pakistani doctor indicted recovers from virus in US on terrorism charge BLOOMBERG — SEOUL AP — MINNEAPOLIS pandemic. Masood and one of A South Korean hospital the informants then developed released a 104-year-old A Pakistani doctor and former a plan for him to fly from Min- woman after her battle against Mayo Clinic researcher has neapolis to Los Angeles to meet the coronavirus, making her been indicted on one count of with that informant, whom the country’s oldest patient to attempting to provide material Masood believed would help recover from the disease. support to a foreign terrorist him travel in a cargo ship into The woman, surnamed organisation after authorities IS territory. Choi, was admitted in March say he told paid FBI informants Court documents do not after showing symptoms of that he pledged allegiance to name the clinic where Masood COVID-19 and released this the IS militant group and worked. The Mayo Clinic has week after testing negative wanted to carry out lone wolf confirmed that Masood for- twice, the Pohang Medical attacks in the US. merly worked at the medical Center said in a statement on The indictment against centre, but said he was not its website. She joins other Muhammad Masood, 28, was employed there when he was centenarian survivors of the announced on Friday by US arrested. According to an affi- outbreak, from Singapore and Attorney Erica MacDonald. davit supporting the criminal Iceland, as well as a 107-year- Masood was initially charged complaint, Masood said in Feb- old Dutch, all of them women. by criminal complaint and has ruary that he was going to notify A shopper (left) waits for her turn while another stands inside a disinfection channel installed at Choi would have been born been in custody since his March his employer that his last day of the entrance of a shopping mall as a preventive measure against the COVID-19, in Manila, yesterday. before the 1918 Spanish flu pan- 19 arrest at the Minneapolis-St work would be March 17. demic that killed as many as 50 Paul International Airport. The affidavit said the FBI million people worldwide. Prosecutors said Masood began investigating in January, Manila malls reopen, discourage lingering was in the US on a work visa. after learning that someone, They alleged in court docu- later determined to be Masood, Pakistan-Afghan AFP — MANILA prevent the spread of the coro- While authorities have ments that from January to had posted messages on an navirus included walk-in begun to ease lockdown restric- March, Masood made several encrypted social media border at Torkham, Malls in Manila set air condi- booths filled with clouds of dis- tions in the capital, confinement statements to paid informants platform indicating an intent tioners to warm and switched infectant, distanced queues, measures vary in severity in — whom he believed were to support IS. Chaman opened off free WiFi to stop people temperature checks and man- other parts of the country. members of the IS group — On January 24, Masood INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD lingering as many of them datory masks. Filipinos have been allowed pledging his allegiance to the contacted one of the informants cautiously reopened yesterday, Only a selection of shops to return to work at half group and its leader. He also on the encrypted platform and The government has after a two-month lockdown were allowed to open, including capacity in many industries, expressed a desire to travel to said he was a medical doctor announced opening of that brought the sprawling hubs those selling clothing, books after news that the nation’s Syria to fight for IS and carry with a Pakistani passport and Pakistan-Afghan border at of community life to a halt. and electronics — but salons, economy shrank 0.2 percent in out lone wolf attacks in the US, wanted to travel to Syria, Iraq Torkham and Chaman posts Just a trickle of customers cinemas and eat-in restaurants January-March this year — the they said. or northern Iran near Afghan- round the clock for six days per showed up at the huge com- remained closed. first contraction in over two Masood messaged an istan “to fight on the front line week. mercial centres in the Phil- In mid-March a strict decades. informant “there is so much I as well as help the wounded The border was closed on ippine capital, which usually lockdown was imposed that did Malls are essential eco- wanted to do here .. .lon wulf brothers,” the affidavit said. March 27 as a precautionary attract millions of people each not even allow most of the city’s nomic engines but are typically stuff you know ... but I realised Roughly three dozen Min- measure to contain spread of day and often contain churches, 12 million residents outdoors crowded, sparking fears that I should be on the ground nesotans — mostly men from COVID-19 virus. Both the restaurants, gyms and event for exercise, although short their opening will cause a spike helping brothers sisters kids,” the state’s large Somali com- borders will remain open 24/7 spaces. trips to buy food were allowed. in infections from the 12,000 according to an FBI affidavit. munity — have left since 2007 for six days except from Sat- “This is good for me, this is These restrictions on currently recorded. Prosecutors said Masood to join Al Shabab in Somalia or urday which will be reserved good for our economy,” said movement were loosened yes- Mall operators said they had planned to leave for Amman, militant groups in Syria, for pedestrian move only. Yuki Alvie Merano, 31, among terday to give a boost to an turned up the air conditioning Jordan, and go on to Syria at including the IS group. Several During six days when the the first in line to enter one economy battered by the by three degrees to 26 Celsius the end of March, but on March others have been convicted on border is open, proper SOPs mall, joking that shopping was COVID-19 pandemic, which has (79 degrees Fahrenheit) to dis- 16 he had to change his travel terrorism-related charges for and guidelines are being “therapeutic”. killed more than 800 people in suade people from sticking plans because Jordan closed its plotting to join or provide implemented. Measures in place to the Philippines. around too long. borders due to the coronavirus support to those groups. No special favours: New Zealand Crowds at Wuhan clinics fear virus testing could rekindle disease

PM turned away from cafe REUTERS — WUHAN had just reached the front of the queue quizzed medical workers AP — WELLINGTON As Wuhan, the Chinese city on whether they had changed where the COVID-19 pandemic their gloves between each test. New Zealand’s leader found out began, revs up a massive testing When they said they disinfected there are no exceptions when campaign, some residents their gloves but did not switch it comes to social distancing crowding the test centres them, she said she no longer after she was initially turned expressed concern yesterday wanted to take the test. away from a cafe because it that the very act of getting Residents said the author- was too full under coronavirus tested could expose them to the ities have not told them when guidelines. coronavirus. they would get the results of Prime Minister Jacinda Safety has become a hot their tests. Ardern (pictured) and her topic on social media groups To cope with the surge in fiance, Clarke Gayford, decided among the 11 million residents work, more Wuhan hospitals to get brunch yesterday at of Wuhan, people said as they have been asked to set up Olive, a restaurant in the converged on open-air test sites testing points, and other insti- capital, Wellington. That was Joanne, chimed in: “This has to at clinics and other facilities. tutions have been roped in to two days after the country be the most Kiwi tweet I’ve ever Many said, though, that they help process tests, said a doctor relaxed many of its lockdown read ... love it, love NZ.” support the voluntary People wearing face masks wait in line to be tested for the COVID-19 involved in the exercise who rules, including reopening Asked for comment, a campaign. on a street in Wuhan, in China’s central Hubei province, yesterday. asked not to be named as he restaurants. spokesperson from Ardern’s Wuhan health authorities was not authorised to speak to But social distancing rules office said in an e-mail that sprang back into action after “Some people have Wuhan, a volunteer was the media. still apply, requiring groups to waiting at a cafe is something confirming last weekend the expressed worry in the (social patrolling and spraying disin- “We are now working 24 remain at least 1 metre apart that anyone can experience central Chinese city’s first media) groups about the tests, fectant at a long line of people. hours a day,” he said. “There is from each other. Many restau- during New Zealand’s virus cluster of new infections since which require people to cluster, Many people observed a lot of pressure.” rants have limited their seating restrictions: “The PM says she it was released from virtual and whether there’s any social distancing, such as China has confirmed 82,941 to comply with the rules. just waits like everyone else.” lockdown on April 8. infection risk,” said one Wuhan queuing 1 metre apart, and cases of COVID-19 as of Friday What happened next played Ardern has been widely The new cases — all of them resident who asked not to be there were signs to remind and 4,633 deaths. The gov- out on Twitter: praised for her swift and people who had previously named. “But others rebutted them. But just as many did not. ernment does not include “Omg Jacinda Ardern just decisive response to the pan- shown no symptoms of the those worries, saying such com- In some cases, volunteer people found to be asympto- tried to come into Olive and demic. New Zealand closed its disease — spurred Wuhan ments are not supportive of the workers were not insisting that matic carriers of the virus in its was rejected cause it’s full,” borders and instituted a strict authorities to launch a citywide government.” they comply. tally and does not publish a wrote one Twitter user, Joey. lockdown in March, and has search for asymptomatic car- The unprecedented scale of At another open-air testing cumulative number of asymp- Gayford took the time to been largely successful in its riers of the virus, aiming to testing indicates the official kiosk, where throat swabs were tomatic cases. respond: “I have to take respon- goal of eliminating the virus. gauge the level of COVID-19 risk. level of concern, some experts taken, yellow and black stickers National Health Com- sibility for this, I didn’t get Health authorities have Although Wuhan’s cinemas say. Others say it is an extremely on the ground kept people from mission spokesman Mi Feng organised and book anywhere. reported just a single new case and banquet halls remain shut costly exercise and question its converging. But at the back of told reporters 194 asympto- Was very nice of them to chase over the past five days. to curb large gatherings, the effectiveness. the long queue, about 40 people matic carriers were confirmed us down st (street) when a spot The country has confirmed testing requires people to wait At a testing kiosk set up at gathered with no guidance from in the first half of May, down 62 freed up. A+ service.” a total of 1,498 cases, including in long, sometimes messy, the side of a busy road in officials or volunteers. percent from the second half of Another Twitter user, 21 deaths. queues. Jianghan district in central At a third site, a woman who April. 10 EUROPE SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020 UK firm on phased reopening of schools despite backlash

ANATOLIA — LONDON Education Secretary “The poorest children are the ones who will fall furthest Headlines in British news- Gavin Williamson behind. They will be the ones papers yesterday were domi- said there would who will miss out on the nated by a row between the opportunities,” he said, and government and trade unions be “a limited return noted: “So we are asking some over reopening of schools, as to school for some children to come back.” health authorities announced Class sizes will be reduced 468 new deaths from corona- pupils” as early as and children kept in small virus in the UK over the last 24 next month, due to groups to create a “protective, hours. the rates of infection small bubble around them.” The Department of Health Schools will also be “rigorous” tweeted: “As of 9am 16 May, falling. regarding hygiene and there have been 2,489,563 hand-washing. tests, with 136,486 tests on 15 He added that this was in A man is led away by police officers at an anti-coronavirus lockdown demonstration in Hyde Park in May. 1,742,028 people have Speaking at the daily press line with what other countries London, yesterday, following an easing of lockdown rules in England . been tested of which 240,161 briefing, Education Secretary were doing. tested positive. Gavin Williamson said it had The National Education see sustained rates of infection “We know there are thou- children and families.” “As of 5pm on 15 May, of now been eight weeks since Union said: “We want to begin across the UK,” sands of vulnerable children Scotland and Wales have those tested positive for coro- schools closed to students, to re-open schools and colleges Nagpaul said. “Until we who need to be in school. We already ruled out following navirus, across all settings, except those whose parents as soon as we can. But this have got case numbers much know that the longer schools are England’s timetable to reo- 34,466 have sadly died.” were key workers. needs to be safe for society, for lower, we should not consider closed the greater the impact pening schools. The government has said it He said there would be “a children and their families and reopening schools.” will be on social mobility and The pandemic has claimed aims to begin a phased reo- limited return to school for the staff who work in them.” Anne Longfield, the chil- that many children are really nearly 309,000 lives in 188 pening of schools from June 1, some pupils” as early as next Dr Chaand Nagpaul, the dren’s commissioner for struggling without seeing their countries and regions since but unions have hit back saying month, due to the rates of chair of the British Medical England, said: “I am disap- friends and the structure that originating in China last it is still not safe to do so. infection falling. Association, the UK’s largest pointed that the debate about school brings. December. Prime Minister Boris John- “I know some parents and doctors’ union, sent a letter to when some primary school kids “We cannot afford to wait for More than 4.57 million cases son’s spokesman said: “Safety teachers are anxious,” he said, Kevin Courtney, his NEU coun- can return has descended into a a vaccine, which may never have been reported worldwide comes first, but we must also adding: “There are some that terpart, backing his stance. squabble between government arrive, before children are back and over 1.65 million people be aware of the potential would like to delay — but there “We cannot risk a second and the teaching unions. All sides in school. It’s time to stop squab- have recovered to date, damage to a child’s education is a consequence to that. Children spike or take actions which need to show a greater will to bling and agree a staggered, safe according to figures compiled from not getting them back in who have not played with would increase the spread of work together in the interests of return that is accompanied by by the US’ Johns Hopkins the classroom.” another for the last eight weeks.” this virus, particularly as we children.” rigorous testing of teachers, University. Europe sees multiple cases of COVID-19-linked syndrome in children French Riviera beach reopens REUTERS — LONDON elderly and those with chronic heart inflammation. three days, with elevated about this inflammatory syn- health conditions, but reports “I call on all clinicians markers of inflammation. drome,” said WHO epidemiol- with new rules A new life-threatening inflam- about the syndrome in children worldwide to work with your The children also showed at ogist Maria Van Kerkhove. matory syndrome associated have raised fears it could pose a national authorities and WHO to least two of the following In France, doctors said a REUTERS — NICE with COVID-19 has affected 230 greater risk to the young than first be alert and better understand symptoms: rash or signs of nine-year old boy died a week children in Europe and killed two through. At a briefing in Geneva, this syndrome in children,” said inflammation around the mouth, ago in the southern town of Mar- Bathers took a dip in the sea or so far this year, a regional health the World Health Organisation WHO Director General Tedros hands or feet; shock or low blood seille after developing a syn- strolled Nice’s Promenade des body said on Friday, as medics (WHO) urged clinicians to be alert Adhanom Ghebreyesus. pressure; heart problems; evi- drome akin to Kawasaki disease Anglais on the French Riviera worldwide were told to be on to the rare syndrome, but cau- On Friday, the WHO issued dence of bleeding disorder; and and being in contact with the yesterday, many wearing alert. tioned that links to COVID-19 a preliminary definition of the acute gastrointestinal problems. coronavirus though not suffering protective masks, as the beach The Swedish-based were still unclear. syndrome, which it said had The case definition pertained its symptoms. He was hospi- reopened to the public for the European Centre for Disease Pre- The condition, known as become more frequent during to children who had contracted talised on May 2 after scarlet first time since a nationwide vention and Control (ECDC) said paediatric inflammatory mult- the current pandemic but has COVID-19 or had had likely fever had been diagnosed. Back coronavirus lockdown in mid- in a risk report that two children isystem syndrome (PIMS), also appeared in children who contact with COVID-19 patients, home, he suffered from a severe March. had succumbed to the condition: shares symptoms with toxic did not test positive for and had no other obvious heart ailment and was rushed People living in low- one in Britain and one in France. shock and Kawasaki disease COVID-19. The condition affected microbial cause of inflammation, back to Marseille’s Timone hos- infection zones of France, so- The new coronavirus has so including fever, rashes, swollen children and adolescents it said. pital’s intensive care unit, where called green zones, were able far taken its greatest toll on the glands and, in severe cases, showing fever for more than “We know so far very little he died. to hit the beach after the gov- ernment began easing restric- tions on Monday. Local officials reopened selected beaches in Spain PM to seek Northern France and Mediter- ranean coasts yesterday. But there are new rules: one-month extension individual activities such as swimming, fishing or surfing are allowed, provided social- distancing is respected, but of state of emergency sunbathing or staying on a beach for hours is not AFP — MADRID than 230,000 cases. permitted. Sanchez said if Spain had “I’m a bit annoyed. We Spain’s government will seek a followed a “herd immunity” could swim this morning. We fresh extension of its state of strategy — allowing the virus to could enjoy the sea which we emergency that will last “about freely circulate to let the popu- had not seen for nearly two a month” until the transition out lation develop mass immunity months. Now, we cannot yet of lockdown is completed, — deaths and infections could sunbathe and lounge. We’re Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez have been vastly higher. semi-free,” said a local bather said yesterday. “If we had taken this path, sporting a straw hat as he If such a measure is the number of people infected strolled the rather empty approved by lawmakers, it could have been more than 30 pebbly beach. would mean the state of emer- million. And it could have cost Interior Minister Christophe gency that is currently set to the lives of around 300,000 Castaner went to Veules-Les- expire on May 24, would last people,” he said. Roses beach in the northern until late June. Renewed four times, the region of Normandy to check People queue up to get a free food ration, in Madrid, yesterday. “The Spanish government state of emergency has let the on the situation. will ask parliament to approve government impose some of the “The virus is still around. We a new extension of the state of world’s tightest restrictions on with cafe terraces reopening regional authorities who have us decades to build up,” he said. must learn to live with it. One emergency.. it would be the last Spain’s nearly 47 million pop- and people allowed to meet in accused the central government And Sanchez didn’t rule out can go fishing but not linger on state of emergency and would ulation, although it has since groups of up to 10 people. of playing politics and even a further appeal to the euro- the beach for hours. We are all continue until the end of the begun a cautious rollback which And by tomorrow, fully threatened to take legal action. zone’s rescue fund, the responsible in the fight against rollback,” Sanchez said in a tel- is due to finish by late June. three-quarters of the popu- Despite calls to restart the European Stability Mechanism COVID- 19,” he said. evised address. The latest data showed a lation will be able to enjoy such economy, with particular (ESM). “If the rules are not “For that reason.. instead of further fall, with the number of freedoms although these emphasis on tourism, which “If the Spanish government respected, we will reverse our being a 15-day (extension) it will overnight deaths dropping to measures have not yet been accounts for 12 percent of needs to use this, it will do so, “ decisions (to open some be for about a month.” 102 in what was the lowest rolled out in the worst-hit areas Spain’s GDP, Sanchez defended he said. The last time Sanchez’s beaches),” he warned. The lockdown was first figure in two months — and a such as the Madrid region and the government’s cautious government sought to extend The easing of France’s declared on March 14 to slow far cry from the 950 of April 2 Barcelona. approach. the measure, he faced a wave eight-week lockdown, one of the spread of the virus in Spain, when the epidemic peaked. The government’s decision “If we go too fast, and we of opposition from his rightwing the strictest in Europe, started which has suffered one of the Since May 11, half of Spain’s to keep Madrid in the so-called make a wrong move, we could opponents who vowed to block on May 11, allowing non- world’s most deadly outbreaks population has benefited from preparatory phase zero has pro- risk jeopardising the interna- the move, although it was ulti- essential shops, factories and with 27,000 deaths and more an easing of the restrictions, voked a backlash from the tional credibility that has taken mately passed. other businesses to re-open. Income key factor in coronavirus cases, says research AFP — PARIS Of that sample, the more than were more than four times outcomes of individuals testing “We found an association symptom of the novel corona- 660 people living in the most likelier to test positive than those positive for virus is an important between increasing deprivation virus -- and therefore may be People living in the most deprived deprived areas, 29.5 percent of white ethnicity -- 62.1 percent contribution to our wider under- and increased odds of a positive more likely to get tested even areas of Britain are more than tested positive, compared with vs 15.5 percent. standing of how COVID-19 is test, independent of household when not sick. four times likelier to test positive just 7.7 percent of those in richer The authors, however, cau- affecting people of different size, urban location, and It is also possible that for COVID-19 than those living areas, the study showed. tioned that the cohort of black demographic groups.” The study smoking,” the authors said. smoking affects the efficacy of in the richest neighbourhoods, Those aged 40-64 were at the people tested in the study was has a number of limitations as it The results showed current current COVID-19 swab tests. new research showed yesterday. highest risk, with 18.5 percent of small —only 58 people. relies only on test results from smokers were in fact less likely “As well as the well-docu- A University of Oxford study that age group testing positive “With each day that passes routine testing programmes, to test positive than non-smokers mented harms to overall health looked at more than 3,600 compared to just 4.6 percent of our knowledge of COVID-19 which may skew the demo- (11.4 percent vs 17.9 percent). from smoking, there is potential COVID-19 test results from under 17s. improves,” said Gayatri Amirth- graphics of people included in the But that does not mean for smoking to increase the national programmes and found A greater percentage of men alingam, from Public Health research. smoking protects an individual severity of COVID-19 disease,” that deprivation, age and chronic (18.4 percent) tested positive than England and co-author of the Nevertheless, lower income from COVID-19. said Simon de Lusignan, director liver disease all increased the women (13.3 percent). study printed in The Lancet. appeared to be a significant For one thing, smokers are of the Royal College of GPs Sur- likelihood of testing positive. And people of black ethnicity “This analysis of primary care COVID-19 risk factor. more likely to cough -- a key veillance Centre. SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020 EUROPE / AMERICAS 11

Slovakia lifts Curbs to be eased in Budapest from tomorrow quarantine on last REUTERS — BUDAPEST Two weeks after easing the lockdown in maintained for the over-65s to head off deeper and more Roma settlement other parts of the country, Prime Minister do their grocery and pharmacy lasting harm to the economy, Hungary will start lifting coro- shopping. which is expected to shrink by REUTERS — BRATISLAVA navirus restrictions in Budapest Viktor Orban said authorities had succeeded Wearing a mask in shops about 4% this year based on a from tomorrow, though resi- in controlling the spread of COVID-19 in the and on public transport will be Reuters survey. The central Slovakia lifted a quarantine on dents returning to shops or mandatory and social dis- European country of 10 million the last of five Roma settle- travelling on public transport capital too. tancing must be maintained. people imposed a nationwide ments that were closed off in will have to wear face masks, Public parks, the city zoo, lockdown in March. April to contain the spread of officials said yesterday. “Therefore, we can shift to gradually open up Budapest as swimming pools and baths will Some key sectors including the new coronavirus, a member Two weeks after easing the the second phase of defence in the number of infected people also be able to operate as usual tourism ground to a virtual of the European Parliament and lockdown in other parts of the Budapest as well, cautiously... has substantially declined, from tomorrow while wedding standstill, and car makers’ tem- the country’s permanent crisis country, Prime Minister Viktor and thus we lift the lockdown.” adding that the government had parties with less than 200 par- porarily halted production in committee said. Orban said authorities had suc- From May 4, the government consulted first with medical ticipants will be permitted in March and April. “I would like to thank you ceeded in controlling the spread lifted some restrictions outside experts. Budapest from mid-June. As of yesterday, Hungary for enduring this and for being of COVID-19 in the capital too. Budapest and its outskirts, He said restaurants and Despite the significant had reported 448 deaths among patient and responsible. Stay “It has become clear that allowing shops and restaurant cafes would be able to reopen relaxing of the lockdown, a total of 3,473 cases of careful,” Peter Pollak, who is we’ve managed to curb the epi- terraces to reopen. their terraces from tomorrow. schools will remain closed at COVID-19, the disease caused himself a Roma, told inhab- demic in Budapest as well,” he Orban’s chief of staff All shops will also be allowed least until the end of May by the new coronavirus. Some itants at the settlement in a said in a video on his official Gergely Gulyas said on state tel- to open, but a special three- nationwide. A phased reopening 1,655 of the infections were in Facebook video posted on Facebook page. evision that it was now time to hour window will be is the government’s strategy to Budapest. Friday. Residents of the Zehra set- tlement in the country’s east were quarantined for 37 days. Slovenia calls an end to The quarantine was lifted on Friday, Pollak said. epidemic but anti-govt The crisis committee decided to lift the quarantine after testing all inhabitants and protests continue moving 16 infected people and their families to a temporary REUTERS — LJUBLJANA significantly slow down quarantine centre, which was important construction, like the already housing 26 infected Thousands of cyclists took over building of factories or power people and their relatives. the centre of Ljubljana once plants. Quarantines in one set- again on Friday to protest “I am here because the gov- tlement ended on April 25 and against Slovenia’s centre-right ernment disgustingly abused the in another three on May 1. government of Prime Minister coronavirus crisis to reduce peo- Roma communities across Janez Jansa, less than a day after ple’s rights and freedoms,” envi- eastern Europe are impover- the government called an end to ronmentalist Rok Rozman, who ished, plagued by high unem- the coronavirus epidemic, while was among protesters, told ployment and historically the loosening restrictions. Reuters. Protests have taken target of discrimination, Protesters blew whistles and place every week since last making the coronavirus out- honked bicycle horns as they month when the national TV break another challenge for waved Slovenian flags in the Slovenia reported government the ethnic minority. capital city. Many wore face officials unlawfully favored masks. They claimed the gov- some companies while pur- ernment is clamping down on chasing face masks and venti- Virus infects 38 civil rights by attacking the lators. The government denies Citizens gather with their bicycles outside the Slovenian National Assembly building in Ljubljana, media and limiting the rights of any wrongdoing. yesterday, during a demonstration to protest against the centre-right government. indigenous environmental groups. Some Police said packed protests called for the government to should not be held due to the prohibited from gathering in on his Twitter account. He is media is biased against his gov- groups in Brazil resign. coronavirus restrictions. groups of more than 50 people. known for calling two female TV ernment. He also said that the Among other changes, the Slovenia has so far reported All shops, bars and restau- journalists “prostitutes” back in protests violate legislation on AFP — SAO PAULO government is pushing for legal 1,465 coronavirus cases and 103 rants will be allowed to open 2016 when he was the leader of infectious diseases, which amendments that will limit the deaths. It is the first European starting Monday, while some the opposition. The govern- obliges people to keep a distance The coronavirus pandemic has rights environmental nonprofits country to call an official end to students will also return to ment’s communication office from one another. hit 38 indigenous groups in in participating in the adminis- its coronavirus epidemic. school next week. Most shops, has recently linked Slovenian The police, which fenced off Brazil, raising fears for popula- trative review of infrastructure Although many restrictions apart from food and drug stores, media to the previous com- the government and the par- tions that have a history of being projects. that have been imposed in the and all schools have been closed munist regime, causing public liament buildings in the centre decimated by outside diseases, The government claims the middle of March have been since the middle of March. uproar. of the capital, was unable to the Brazilian Indigenous change is necessary to speed up lifted, people are still obliged to Many of Friday’s protesters In a Monday statement, immediately give an estimate of Peoples’ Association (APIB) said Slovenia’s economic devel- wear masks in indoor public also fear that the government Jansa said he supports more the number of protesters. on Friday. opment, saying present legis- spaces, disinfect their hands will reduce media freedom as media competition, which is a Smaller protests were held in “The virus is reaching indig- lation enables even small envi- upon entering such spaces, stand Jansa has over the past weeks “precondition to democratic other cities. No violence has enous territories across Brazil ronmental organisations to at least 1.5 meters apart and are called several journalists “liars” social order,” suggesting most been reported so far. with frightening speed,” the association said in a statement. An APIB survey found 446 cases of the new coronavirus Colombia to work together with Brazil to fight virus on border and 92 deaths among the affected groups, mainly in the REUTERS — BOGOTA He made no reference to the State capital Manaus, a city requiring people there to stay for coordinating with local Brazilian Amazon. resignation on Friday of Bra- of 2 million people located in home even as it allows some authorities along the border, The grim news came a day Colombia will work with zil’s health minister, whose the heart of Brazil’s Amazon, industries to return to work in Duque added. after the indigenous community hard-hit Brazil to increase the predecessor was fired last has been hit particularly hard other parts of the country. Overall Brazil has registered of Parque das Tribos, outside the military presence along their month. Brazil’s President Jair by the virus, with mass burials “We had already 218,223 confirmed coronavirus northern city of Manaus, held a Amazonian border and share Bolsonaro has been widely crit- needed to keep up with soaring strengthened military presence cases and 14,817 deaths. funeral for its chief, Messias information in an effort to fight icised for shrugging off the deaths. on the border in Amazonas The country confirmed Kokama, who died of COVID-19. an increasing number of coro- severity of the pandemic, telling Across the border, Colom- province, now the authorities 15,305 new cases on Friday, a Kokama, who was 53, was navirus cases in the area, Brazilians to ignore quarantine bia’s identically named Ama- in Brazil are going to join that record for a 24-hour period, as buried in a closed casket Colombian President Ivan restrictions and pushing for the zonas province - one of its most effort to have controls and well as 824 related deaths, wrapped in plastic to avoid Duque said on Friday. states to re-open their sparsely populated with just special supervision above all of according to data from its spreading the virus. The series of measures was economies. 66,000 inhabitants — has informal crossings,” Duque said health ministry. Brazil, the Latin American agreed during a virtual meeting Brazil’s Amazonas state said around 1,000 reported cases of during his nightly television Colombia has more than country hit hardest in the pan- between Colombia’s health, in April its health system was coronavirus and at least 30 broadcast. 14,200 cases and more than 540 demic, has seen its death toll defense and foreign ministers overwhelmed by the pandemic, deaths. Colombia has already The two countries have deaths. It began a nationwide spiral. It has registered nearly and Brazilian officials, Duque with all available intensive care put in strict quarantine established daily communi- lockdown in late March which 15,000 deaths and 220,000 said. beds and ventilators occupied. measures in the province, cation protocols and a system is set to end on May 25. cases so far, though experts say the real figures could be 15 times Greeks return to beaches higher or more. Montenegro frees in heatwave, but keep priests arrested their umbrellas apart for violating curbs AFP — PODGORICA REUTERS — ATHENS to nab their spot in the sunshine. Montenegro released a Serbian Greeks flocked to the seaside “This is the best thing for us Orthodox bishop and seven yesterday when more than 500 elderly... to come and relax a bit priests yesterday days after beaches reopened, as the after being locked in,” said they were held for violating country sought to walk the fine Yannis Tentomas, who is his coronavirus lockdown line between protecting people 70s, as he settled down under measures by organising a from COVID-19 while reviving an umbrella. procession. the tourism sector that many He said he was complying Their detention on depend on for their livelihoods. with distancing rules, adding: Wednesday sparked protests For many people, it was “It’s like a gun to the head.” At throughout the tiny Balkan their first foray into a big public a neighbouring beach a drone nation, ending in clashes in two venue since Greece began buzzed over sun-loungers with towns with more than 50 pro- easing its lockdown earlier this loudspeakers urging people to testers arrested and 26 police month, and it also coincided keep safe distances from each officers slightly injured. with the first heatwave of the other. Police in Nikisc fired tear year. The lifting of the lockdown gas to disperse a crowd that was Sun-seekers were required comes as countries around throwing stones and bottles. to respect distancing rules, Europe and the world look to People are seen at at a street amid the coronavirus epidemic, in Athens. “Your support is the con- which even stipulated how far ease restrictions imposed to tinuation of our fight for our umbrellas must be kept apart. curb the pandemic, and res- people is one of the most across mainland Greece and to shutdown of much of the world, sacred things,” Niksic bishop No more than 40 people urrect their economies. dependent in Europe on Crete will be allowed, and from and most air travel, is likely to Joanikije told the crowd waiting were allowed per 1,000 square Greece has reported a tourism, which generates about May 25 to the islands. have a profound effect on a for his release in front of the metres, while umbrella poles fraction of the COVID-19 cases a fifth of its economic output. “This is a crucial turning country only just starting to local police station. had to be four metres apart, of neighbouring countries - Following the reopening of point in our efforts and we must recover from a decade of The crowd chanted “We with canopies no closer than more than 2,800 infections with Greek beaches, people will be succeed,” said Nikos Hardalias, financial turmoil and don’t give up our sacred things!” one metre, according to a gov- 160 deaths. permitted to attend Church Greece’s civil protection austerity. and “We don’t give up on you ernment-issued manual, com- From May 4, it began a Mass from May 17, while minister. Authorities expect anything Bishop!” Several thousand plete with diagram. phased-in easing of the archaeological sites, including Tourism officials say they between a 5 percent and 10 people took part in the pro- At Alimos, a popular beach lockdown that had been in the Acropolis, will reopen for hope to welcome back foreign percent decline in economic cession held on Tuesday just south of Athens, people place since mid-March. visitors on May 18. holidaymakers in July. output this year, before recov- evening in Niksic, after which queued up from early morning The country of 11 million From tomorrow, travel Greece’s lockdown, plus the ering in 2021. the eight priests were detained. 12 AMERICAS SUNDAY 17 MAY 2020 Trump ousts watchdog probing Pompeo

AFP — WASHINGTON Trump notified House president. In recent months of Representatives Pompeo, 56, has moved US US President Donald Trump’s foreign policy forcefully to the move to fire a government Speaker Nancy Pelosi right — encouraging a drone watchdog reportedly investi- on Friday that he strike that killed a top Iranian gating Secretary of State Mike general and promoting a theory, Pompeo amounted to a poten- planned to dismiss discounted by mainstream sci- tially illegal act of retribution, State Department entists, that the COVID-19 pan- according to senior Democrats Inspector General demic originated in a Chinese leading an angry backlash laboratory. yesterday. Steve Linick. It was his Linick, a longtime prosecutor, Trump notified House of third abrupt dismissal was appointed in 2013 by Representatives speaker Nancy Trump’s predecessor Barack Pelosi on Friday that he planned of an official tasked Obama to oversee the $70 bn jug- to dismiss State Department with monitoring gernaut of US diplomacy. Inspector General Steve Linick. He played a small role in It was his third abrupt dis- governmental Trump’s impeachment saga last missal of an official tasked with wrongdoing since year, handing to Congress docu- monitoring governmental ments by Trump’s lawyer Rudy wrongdoing since April. April. Giuliani with unproven claims Democrats denounced it as about Democratic presidential part of what they said was a trou- CNN, citing a senior State candidate Joe Biden and Marie bling pattern of the president Department official, reported that Yovanovitch, whom Trump undermining the traditionally it was Pompeo himself who had removed as the US ambassador independent watchdogs. recommended the firing and who to Ukraine. Trump repeated the Eliot Engel, who heads the hand-picked Stephen Akard, a charges to Ukraine’s president US President Donald Trump gives a thumbs up as he poses with a nurse who is currently working in House Foreign Affairs Com- former aide to Vice President and pressed him to dig up dirt, New York City during the coronavirus pandemic at an event, in Washington, DC, on Friday. mittee, said he had learned that Mike Pence, to succeed Linick. with his administration freezing Linick had opened an investi- By law, the administration military aid to the ally which is gation into Pompeo. must give Congress 30 days’ world on his government plane comment on the reason or on Pelosi said Linick was “pun- battling Russian-backed separa- “Mr Linick’s firing amid such notice of its plans to formally ter- with his wife, who has no official whether Pompeo was under ished for honourably performing tists. Since his acquittal by the a probe strongly suggests that this minate an inspector general, in role. CNN reported last year that investigation. his duty to protect the Consti- Senate, Trump has fumed against is an unlawful act of retaliation,” theory giving lawmakers time to a whistleblower had complained A State Department spokes- tution and our national security.” a “Deep State” he sees as out to the congressman said in a study and potentially protest the that the Bureau of Diplomatic person also confirmed that the “The president must cease his get him. statement. move. Security, which guards US mis- new inspector general would be pattern of reprisal and retaliation He has removed or demoted A Democratic congressional But previous such firings sions overseas as well as the sec- Akard, an attorney who served against the public servants who inspectors general for the Pen- aide, speaking on condition of have gone through unimpeded, retary of state, had been assigned as a foreign affairs advisor to are working to keep Americans tagon, the intelligence com- anonymity, said Linick was and inspectors general previously questionable tasks for the Pence when the latter was gov- safe, particularly during this time munity and the Department of probing complaints that Pompeo dismissed have been replaced by Pompeos, such as picking up ernor of Indiana. Akard since last of global emergency,” she said. Health and Human Services, as misused a political appointee to political allies of the president. takeout food or tending to the year has led the State Depart- Pompeo is one of Trump’s well as a senior health official perform personal tasks for Pompeo, Washington’s top family dog. ment’s Office of Foreign Missions, most trusted aides — and a rare who questioned Trump’s pro- himself and his wife, Susan diplomat, has raised eyebrows The State Department con- which handles relations with dip- one never to come publicly into motion of unproven drug ther- Pompeo. for frequently travelling the firmed Linick’s firing but did not lomats in the United States. the crosshairs of the mercurial apies for COVID-19. Trump considers restoring some funding to WHO Burr submits final report

REUTERS — WASHINGTON and that US funding for the and open. Fox News, citing a amount of about $400 million global health agency remained draft letter, reported late on per year. on Russia probe before US President Donald Trump frozen. Friday that Trump was poised Responding to criticism said yesterday his adminis- Trump suspended US con- to restore partial funding to about resuming payments, stepping down as tration was considering tributions to the WHO on April the WHO, matching China’s Trump said, “This is just one numerous proposals about the 14, accusing it of promoting assessed contribution. of numerous concepts being World Health Organisation, China’s “disinformation” about The United States was the considered under which we Senate panel chairman including one in which Wash- the coronavirus outbreak and WHO’s biggest donor. would pay 10 percent of what ington would pay about 10 saying his administration If the United States matches we have been paying over AP — WASHINGTON Russia that was still active. percent of its former level. would launch a review of the China’s contribution, as the Fox many years, matching much Burr worked closely with the In a posting on Twitter, organization. WHO officials report indicated, its new lower China payments. Have Senate Intelligence Committee top Democrat on the panel, Vir- Trump underscored that no denied the claims and China funding level will be about not made final decision. All Chairman Richard Burr on ginia Senator Mark Warner, on final decision had been made has insisted it was transparent one-tenth its previous funding funds are frozen.” Friday submitted the final report a bipartisan basis to uncover in the panel’s three-year Russia Russia’s attempts to sow chaos investigation to the intelligence in American elections. The com- community for a declassification mittee had particular success in New COVID-19 review. pushing social media companies The move came hours before to publicly reveal that Russia had cases in NY coming he was to temporarily step aside used their platforms for misin- as chairman of the panel. formation and to make subse- from people leaving The report on the panel’s quent reforms to prevent such counterintelligence findings — interference in the future. home: Cuomo including whether President Committee members have Donald Trump’s campaign coor- remained quiet on the panel’s REUTERS — NEW YORK dinated with Russia — marks the conclusion on whether Trump’s conclusion of its Russia probe, campaign coordinated with New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said which it first launched in January Russia. But Burr has said several yesterday the state’s new confirmed 2017. But the panel did not times that he has seen no evi- COVID-19 cases are predominantly coming immediately release any of the dence of such collusion, a con- from people who left their homes to shop, findings and instead asked the clusion that would be in line with exercise or socialise, rather than from intelligence community to the House Intelligence Commit- essential workers. quickly allow the release of a tee’s own Russia report in 2018. “That person got infected and went to the declassified version of the report. It is unclear if the panel’s hospital or that person got infected and went Burr said on Thursday that Democrats would endorse such home and infected the other people at home,” he would temporarily give up his a determination, even though the Cuomo said during his daily news conference chairmanship after federal first four reports from the Senate on the coronavirus outbreak. agents examining his recent committee were bipartisan. State data showed the number of new stock sales showed up at his Former special counsel cases statewide has fluctuated between 2,100 home on Wednesday with a Robert Mueller also investigated and 2,500 per day. Yesterday, the number of New York City Mayor Bill De Blasio gives away facemasks to a man in the Queens borough warrant to search his cellphone. whether the Trump campaign new cases decreased to 2,419, from 2,762 on of New York City, yesterday. Friday was his last day in the coordinated with Russia. Muel- Friday. position. ler’s report, released in April Cuomo said while last week he had the- order to limit further outbreaks. the state has accounted for more than one- The Justice Department is 2019, identified substantial con- orized that new cases were coming from Cuomo said the five regions of the state third of the nearly 80,000 American who investigating whether Burr tacts between Trump associates essential workers, “that was exactly wrong. that were allowed on Friday to reopen for have died from COVID-19, the illness caused exploited advance information and Russia but did not allege a “The infection rate among essential business — out of 10 total regions — were by the coronavirus, according to a Reuters when he unloaded as much as criminal conspiracy between his workers is lower than the general population required to have a certain number of tracers tally. Statewide, the outbreak is ebbing, with $1.7m in stocks in February, days campaign and the Kremlin. and those new cases are coming predomi- proportionate to their populations. coronavirus hospitalisations falling to 6,220, before the coronavirus pandemic Mueller also examined about nantly from people who are not working and “The tracing operation is tremendously more than a third of the level at the peak one caused markets to plummet. a dozen possible instances of they are at home,” he said. large and challenging,” he said. month ago, state data showed. Burr has denied any obstruction of justice and said he The state’s budget director, Robert Mujica, New York state, home to both bustling In the five regions where restrictions were wrongdoing. could not exonerate the pres- said officials expect to “learn a lot more” about Manhattan and hilly woods and farmland that eased on Friday, in central and upstate New The final submission brought ident on that point. the genesis of new cases from contact tracing stretch hundreds of miles north to the York, construction and manufacturing work an unceremonious end to the The Senate panel also sent over the next week. Canadian border, has been the global epi- was allowed to resume, and retail businesses yearslong investigation that its other four reports to the intel- Cuomo has said that New York was hiring centre of the pandemic, but rural areas have offering curbside pickup or in-store pickup occasionally landed Burr, a North ligence community for declassi- thousands of workers to trace the contacts of not been nearly as badly affected as New York for orders placed ahead were allowed to Carolina Republican, in trouble fication and in some cases waited people who test positive for the coronavirus. City, the country’s biggest city at roughly 8.4 reopen. A broader pause on activity in New with his own party. It had been years for a response. In the other Health experts say contact tracing is critical million people. York City and elsewhere was extended until the final known investigation of cases, however, the panel to isolating potentially contagious people in Driven by the impact in New York City, at least May 28. Trump’s 2016 campaign and released its general findings first. Mexico moves toward restarting economy; infections soar AP — MEXICO CITY return to work Monday. and get approval they can open Assistant Health Secretary Hugo the General Health Council, said ventilators purchased by private “We’re at the point where we any time before June 1. There López-Gatell. on Tuesday it had decided to companies and donated to As Mexico moves toward a begin to have fewer cases,” were 2,437 new coronavirus test “This is the most difficult classify them as “essential Mexican hospitals arrived gradual reactivation of its López Obrador said Friday. confirmations on Friday, the moment.” Health officials have activities.” aboard a flight from Chicago, economy tomorrow, the number “But in these days we have highest daily total yet and the said the real number of infections There were signs that hos- Illinois. The machines are made of new coronavirus infections to be more careful, not relax the second straight day with over is far higher. Mexico has a lower pital capacity was nearing its by Royal Philips, a Dutch grows higher every day, raising discipline, don’t trust 2,000 new cases. There were rate of testing for the virus than limit Mexico City, the hardest- company with plants in the US, fears of a new wave of infections ourselves.” 2,409 on Thursday. any of the world’s largest econ- hit area. The Health Department and were acquired by major that other countries have seen The comments came on the The numbers suggest the omies, according to the Organi- reported that 73 percent of the Mexican companies. after loosening restrictions. same day the government clar- pandemic has not yet peaked in sation for Economic Cooperation city’s general care hospital beds There is concern in the President Andrés Manuel ified guidelines for the con- Mexico, while the daily number and Development. were full; the percentage was medical community that talk of López Obrador is straddling the struction, mining and auto- of deaths rose by 290, below the The country’s lockdown — lower for intensive-care beds, relaxing social distancing issue, telling the public that the motive industries to return to one-day peak of 353 deaths which began in March — will but that was partly because of measures is coming too soon and fight against the virus depends work tomorrow. The next two reported on Tuesday. Mexico has remain in place, but those par- the expansion of improvised ICU could lead to a devastating on continued social distancing weeks will serve as a period to seen a total of 4,767 deaths so far. ticular industries will be allowed units at hospitals and other second wave of infections as in many places while describing formalise their protocols to keep “We are at the moment of the to resume because Mexico’s top venues. resources dwindle and medical how other areas will begin to workers safe, but if they do so fastest growth in new cases,” said advisory body on the pandemic, On Friday, about 2,000 personnel are running on fumes.