1996 - 2021 SILVER JUBILEE YEAR

The Peninsula wishes its readers a joyous

TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021 10 DHUL-HIJJAH- 1442 VOLUME 26 NUMBER 8688 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

Amir exchanges Eid Al Adha greetings with leaders of Arab and Islamic countries

QNA — DOHA occasion of Eid Al Adha, in a tel- Amir to perform Eid prayer at Al Wajba prayer area ephone call His Highness Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin received yesterday. Hamad Al Thani exchanged QNA — DOHA The Deputy Amir H H cables of greetings with Their Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Majesties, Excellencies and Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will perform the Thani exchanged cables of Highnesses leaders of Arab and blessed Eid Al Adha prayer at Al Wajba praying area today greetings with Their Highnesses Islamic countries on the morning along with citizens. and Excellencies crown princes occasion of Eid Al Adha. and vice-presidents of Arab and H H the Amir also received Islamic countries on the cables of congratulations on this with President of the Islamic the Sultanate of Oman H H Fahd occasion of Eid Al-Adha. occasion from a number of Republic of Iran H E Dr. bin Mahmoud Al Said on the The Prime Minister and leaders of friendly countries. Hassan Rouhani on the occasion of Eid Al Adha, in a tel- Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Amir exchanged greetings occasion of Eid Al Adha, in a ephone call H H made, Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz with President of the Arab telephone call His Highness yesterday. Al Thani also exchanged cables Republic of Egypt H E Abdel made yesterday. Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin of congratulations with Their Fattah Al Sisi on the occasion of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani exchanged Excellencies heads of govern- Eid Al Adha, in a telephone call Hamad Al Thani exchanged greetings with the President of ments of Arab and Islamic H H received yesterday. greetings with Deputy Prime the State of Palestine H E countries on the occasion of Eid Amir exchanged greetings Minister for Cabinet Affairs of Mahmoud Abbas on the Al Adha. Afghan parties pledge to continue negotiations to reach a settlement

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Afghanistan government and Taliban thanked The Chairman of the High Council Qatar for its efforts to reach lasting peace. for National Reconciliation of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Abdullah Abdullah, has called on Abdullah Abdullah urges more flexibility both sides involved in the ongoing between Afghan negotiating parties. Afghan peace negotiations in Doha to show flexibility. Abdullah added: “It is time for the two sides State of Qatar for its efforts to reach military escalation and the high of the negotiations to talk about lasting peace in Afghanistan. death toll are pushing the two sides the real and important issues that Speaking to the Al Jazeera to speed up negotiations. This esca- lead to a political settlement.” channel, Abdullah indicated that the lation cannot resolve the situation After two days of talks in Doha, a two sides (the Taliban and the in Afghanistan. No one party can joint statement said that the two sides Afghanistan government) have not impose itself on an entire nation stressed the importance of reaching yet agreed on a specific road map through military progress.” a settlement that meets the interests to stop the fighting, expressing his He emphasised that the Doha Pilgrims move to Muzdalifa of the Afghans in accordance with hope that as long as negotiations negotiations have led to a clarifi- Pilgrims gather on Mount Arafat during the annual Haj pilgrimage outside the holy city of Islamic principles. The two sides continue between them, an ami- cation of views among the Afghan Makkah in Saudi Arabia, yesterday. After spending around 12 hours on the plains of Arafat also expressed their commitment cable settlement would be achieved. leaders, as they agreed to speed up for the most important part of Haj, 60,000 pilgrims went to Muzdalifah in preparation for to continue negotiations at a high “Washington supports the the negotiation process. But the the final stages of this year’s pilgrimage. `See also page 5 level until the settlement is com- Afghan negotiations in Doha, as well people were expecting more than pleted and will work to provide as the countries of the region,” that. “The pace of progress is slow, humanitarian assistance throughout Abdullah added. Regarding the mil- and unfortunately, this is the case,” QOC completes vaccination for international Afghanistan. They also thanked the itary escalation, Abdullah said: “The Abdullah said. `P2 athletes ahead of Tokyo 2020 Olympics

QNA — DOHA with the National Olympic To this end, last week, Committees, established two the QOC completed all The Qatar Olympic centers in Qatar and Rwanda vaccine doses for partici- Committee (QOC) has to provide additional oppor- pants of the countries who completed its vaccination tunities for vaccination joined the initiative. Partic- program for athletes who against the Coronavirus ipants arrived at Hamad were unable to be vacci- (COVID-19) pandemic for International Airport and nated in their home coun- groups of participants in the stayed at Doha’s training tries in advance of travelling Olympic and Paralympic camp. The QOC provided all to Japan for the Tokyo 2020 Games. necessary measures Olympic Games. After a group of countries required for the athletes and This initiative came joined this great initiative, the delegations in cooperation Minister of Foreign Affairs’ Special Envoy for Counterterrorism and Mediation in Conflict Resolution, H E Dr within the framework of QOC agreed jointly with the with Ministry of Interior, Mutlaq bin Majed Al Qahtani (centre); Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation of Afghanistan, QOC’s partnership with the IOC, Pfizer-BioNTech and Ministry of Public Health Abdullah Abdullah (left); and Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Taliban's deputy leader and negotiator during the International Olympic Com- Qatar Airways to provide and Hamad International negotiations in Doha. mittee, which, in coordination vaccinations Airport. `P2 Traffic department urges motorists Staycation an increasing trend in Qatar to ensure tyres are in good shape FAZEENA SALEEM During May, average occupancy “We all are in need of several vaca- THE PENINSULA of hotels in Qatar stood at 56 percent, tions, especially sometimes short breaks SIDI MOHAMED Failure to check and maintain tyres up 10 percent compared to same month from the routine. So from the second THE PENINSULA well may cause accidents, especially on Staycation is an increasing trend in last year, according to ValuStrat- a real day of Eid we are planning for a stay- major highways, so caution must be Qatar because it’s an easy way to take estate consultancy firm. cation for two days. We have teenage The Ministry of Interior (MoI), repre- taken during this period. Incidents of a break without travelling too far. Those Staycation offers vary from hotels, children so the hotel we choose is giving sented by the General Directorate of tyre burst while driving due to high who prefer to take a staycation in Doha but generally include up to 50 percent a 50 percent discount on second room Traffic, has advised motorists to be more speeds and overload remains a signif- during this Eid holiday season and discount on rooms and include for children under the age of 16 years,” cautious of their tyres during summer. icant problem among road users. during summer are offered several breakfast, discount on food and bev- Iliyas, a Tunisian resident in Qatar, said. With the high temperature, motorists The General Directorate of Traffic also choices by hotels such as to be by the erages, early check-in and late check- “The hotel also offers spa, dining, are enjoined to regularly inspect their urged motorists to use tyres that are in beach, explore the city, or to relax at spa. out, access to swimming pools, spa swimming pool and beach options,” vehicles’ tyres for any possible damage good condition, stating, “tyres in safe and Although the travel restrictions facilities, and discount for children he said. Staycation offers at hotels and ensure proper air pressure, espe- good conditions ensure durability and sta- due to COVID-19 are being relaxed, and many other such benefits. across Doha ranges from QR400 to cially for those who intend to drive to bility of the vehicle on the road, keeping many are spending their vacations in “We’ll never get sick of admiring QR3,500 depending on the services the beach during the Eid holidays. you safe from accidents.” Qatar. For such people to benefit, the views of the city from above, and and ratings of hotels. Safety of guests High temperatures can become a Speaking to The Peninsula, Lt hotels across the country have we could do it just without spending has become a prime focus for hotels severe problem for tyres, especially if Colonel Jaber Mohamed Rashid Odaiba, launched exciting offers throughout too much money. We got special rates amid the outbreak of COVID-19. they are not properly maintained. All Assistant Director of the Media and Eid holidays and summer months. at the hotel and it included breakfast, Hotels have applied the highest pos- tyres – including the spare ones — Traffic Awareness Department at the Staycation, a term coined by merging 20 percent off at all the food and bev- sible safety standards to make stay- should be checked regularly. General Directorate of Traffic, said: “In ‘stay’ and ‘vacation’, refers to a vacation erage outlets in the hotel,” said cations safe for guests. Health status “Before starting your drive, inspect such hot weather, attention must be paid spent in home country rather than Thahira Ismail, a long-time resident on Ehtraz should remain green for all your tyres for any damage and ensure to vehicles’ tyres, especially for those abroad. Along with revitalising the guests, of Doha. She and her family spent a guests. Also fully vaccinated adults proper air pressure,” the General Direc- who intend to drive in highway and these staycations will boost domestic weekend at one of the five star hotels, and children with vaccinated parents torate tweeted. external roads. `P2 tourism and stimulate the economy. with breathtaking city views. are allowed for Staycation. 02 HOME TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021

Qatar-US partnership strong, enduring: FM OFFICIAL NEWS QNA — INDIANAPOLIS Qatar strongly

Deputy Prime Minister and condemns Minister of Foreign Affairs H E explosion in Iraq PRAYER Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul- TIMINGS rahman Al Thani met in Indian- DOHA: The State of Qatar PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING apolis on Sunday with Governor expressed its strong condem- of the US State of Indiana H E nation and denunciation of the explosion that took place in Al FAJR 03.28 am Eric Holcomb. The meeting reviewed Sadr City in eastern Iraqi capital SUNRISE 04.55 am aspects of the joint cooperation Baghdad, leading to deaths and DHUHR 11.40 am between the State of Qatar and injures. In a statement released ASR 03.06 pm the State of Indiana, especially on Monday, the Ministry of For- in the fields of trade, investment, eign Affairs reiterated the State MAGHRIB 06.27 pm agriculture and sports. of Qatar’s firm stance rejecting ISHA 07.57 pm "I had a great conversation violence and terrorism, regard- with Governor @GovHolcomb less of the motives and reasons. of the US State of Indiana today. The statement expressed the State #Qatar #USA partnership is of Qatar’s condolences to the fam- strong and enduring, and ilies of the victims, the government together we are working to scale and people of Iraq, wishing the up our bilateral cooperation in injured a speedy recovery. — QNA trade, investment and sports," Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani the Deputy Prime Minister later meeting with Governor of the US State of Indiana H E Eric Holcomb in Indianapolis, US, on Sunday. said in a tweet. Traffic department WEATHER TODAY urges motorists to Qatar-China ties in best period in history: Envoy ensure tyres are in good shape THE PENINSULA — DOHA FROM PAGE 1 The Ambassador of China to I am glad to see that under the leadership Lt Colonel Jaber Mohamed 33oC 40oC Qatar, H E Zhou Jian, has said of H H the Amir, Qatar has brought the Rashid Odaiba added: “These Minimum Maximum that Qatar and China relations days, especially during Eid, have been elevated in the last pandemic under control. Qatar’s many citizens and residents are Hot daytime with scattered clouds, few years. vaccination rate ranks among the top 10 preparing to go to the beaches humid by night. “Last year and in the first globally, and its economy and such as Sealine and Al Khor. quarter of this year, China Therefore, due to high temper- W ALRUWAIS : 32o → 37o became the largest trading social life are back on track. ature during the day, they have W ALKHOR : 32o → 40o partner of Qatar, marking the to pay attention to their tyres best period in the history of our to avoid accidents caused by W DUKHAN : 30o → 39o bilateral ties. China recently Zhou Jian tyre bursts. Lt Colonel Odaiba WAKRAH 32o → 39o W : celebrated the 100th anni- Ambassador of China to Qatar (pictured) stressed that W MESAIEED : 32o → 39o versary of the founding of the whoever is used to driving his W ABUSAMRA : 30o→ 41o Communist Party of China. cars for short distances and “We are ready to work then suddenly travels a dis- alongside Qatar on a new on the the top 10 globally, and its tance of 100km must check the HIGH TIDE occasion of economy and social life are tyres’ status to ensure they are 14:35–23:59 journey of Eid Al Adha, he said, “On the back on track. These achieve- in a condition to withstand this LOW TIDE 07:05 – 21:11 national devel- occasion of Eid Al Adha, I wish ments could not be made distance and speed. opment and to extend, on behalf of the without everyone’s support and revitalisation, Chinese government and cooperation with government write a new people, sincere greetings and policies, which is a vivid chapter of our best wishes to Amir H H Sheikh reflection of sacrifice in Islam. friendship and Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the “We hope everyone will cooperation, Father Amir H H Sheikh Hamad continue to follow the guide- and bring more bin Khalifa Al Thani and the lines of the government and welfare to both Deputy Amir H H Sheikh experts to help defeat the pan- countries and Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani demic at an early date,” he people,” he and to the brotherly Qatari added. On Qatar and China said. people and all the Muslim cooperation to fight the coro- Speaking people in Qatar.” navirus pandemic, he said, “Eid “Shortly after I arrived in Al Adha is a festival of unity. Qatar in 2019, it was during the Solidarity and mutual Eid Al Adha, I was deeply assistance are ideals of Islam impressed by the joyful scenes and also the fundamental MoPH: 124 new of Qatari people visiting friends strength of China-Qatar rela- and families, sharing food, and tions. In the fight against the COVID-19 cases exchanging greetings. This year pandemic, our two govern- is my third Eid Al Adha in Qatar. ments and peoples have shared THE PENINSULA — DOHA With the pandemic ongoing, I weal and woe and supported have a more profound under- each other. The Ministry of Public Health standing of this Eid,” Jian added. According to the Ambas- (MoPH) reported 124 new The Ambassador empha- sador, Eid Al Adha is a festival cases of COVID-19 yesterday. sised that Eid Al Adha is a fes- of harmony. He noted that there Among them, 38 were trav- tival of sacrifice. are more than 23 million ellers coming from abroad. “I am glad to see that under Muslims in China. They are cel- A total of 152 people the leadership of H H the Amir, ebrating this grand occasion recovered from COVID-19 yes- Qatar has brought the pan- just like Qatar and other terday, bringing the total demic under control. Qatar’s Muslims worldwide, the number of people recovered vaccination rate ranks among Ambassador said. in Qatar to 222,257. QOC completes vaccination for international athletes ahead of Tokyo Olympics

FROM PAGE 1 The QOC is proud to coop- erate with the IOC in pushing the Olympic Movement forward amid this COVID-19 and sup- porting the Tokyo 2020 organ- izers to host a safe and successful Games. The IOC, together with the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and government author- ities of Qatar and Rwanda estab- lished last June two further pre- Games vaccination opportunities for Olympic and Paralympic Games participants. An athlete gets the COVID-19 vaccination. These two vaccination hubs allow Games participants who will be unable to be vaccinated advance of travelling to Japan Paralympic Games Tokyo in their home countries in for the Olympic and 2020 to get inoculated. Afghan parties pledge to continue negotiations

FROM PAGE 1 to the Afghan crisis. He also parties closer. Naeem added Abdullah Abdullah revealed welcomed the statement of the that the meetings of the Tali- a serious commitment that diplomatic missions and NATO ban’s delegation with the gov- there will be future rounds, and urging the Taliban to stop their ernment delegation would con- “this in itself is a positive thing.” attacks in Afghanistan. tinue. In light of the military “The negotiating teams are Muhammad Naeem, progress achieved by the continuing their work in Doha. spokesman for the Taliban’s Taliban movement, 15 diplo- The senior leaders of the two political office and a member matic missions in Kabul issued sides will meet on a date to be of its delegation to the Doha yesterday a joint statement determined later,” he said. negotiations, said that the talks urging the Taliban movement Abdullah stressed that were a good opportunity to to stop military attacks across negotiation is the only solution bring the views of Afghan the country. TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021 HOME 03 04 HOME TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021 DFI to hold screenwriting programme for beginners AYENI OLUSEGUN ‘architecture’ of screenplays The programme will run from August 18 to 22 explaining your interest in this Doha Film Institute’s Training THE PENINSULA (storytelling, screenplay guide- Lab. and Development team, she lines, non-verbal storytelling, and would be held online for two hours daily. A group consisting of 8 to 10 works in filmmaking work- Doha Film Institute (DFI) will and characterization) and the Applications close on August 7. participants would be selected shops and labs focusing on hold a Screenwriting for ‘formatting’ of a screenplay per session. The schedule would feature film and series in Beginners Lab to help aspiring (visual grammar and Celtx/Final be Introduction to stories development. writers on their way to Draft).” scene for their screenplay. They Culture Pass members can (August 18), Building your char- On the other hand, Al Binali, achieving their goals. The The virtual classes would be will also have the opportunity include a copy of their Pass to acter (August 19), Story archi- a QU graduate, has been programme will run from offered in English, blending to continue their filmmaking enjoy the discount. To apply, tecture (August 20), Visual sto- working with the development August 18 to 22 and would be online lectures, assignments, journey with the DFI devel- applicants must be 18 years and rytelling (August 21), and team at Doha Film Institute held online for two hours daily. and group discussions to give opment team, working towards above and should submit an Writing for the screen (August since 2013. She directed her first Applications close on August 7. participants a comprehensive further education and grants. email to training@dohafilmin- 22). short film, ‘Doctor’s Office,’ at In an announcement on its and well-rounded under- The programme would cost stitute.com with the following Meanwhile, Anthea Devotta the La Fémis Gulf Summer website, the DFI stated, “This standing of screenwriting. participants QR300. However, information: original short film and Amna Al Binali would School in 2015. ‘The Notebook,’ fascinating lab will include the According to the DFI, the Qatar Museums Culture Pass logline and synopsis, applicant’s mentor the students. Devotta her second short film, showed foundations of screenwriting, Lab’s aim is for participants to members will receive a 10 CV or short bio, copy of appli- has over ten years of experience at the Ajyal Youth Film Festival with mentors covering the produce a minimum of one percent discount on the fee. cant’s ID, and a short paragraph in the film industry. Now with in 2015. Partial road closure at Lekhwair Intersection MME collects 1,262 tonnes of waste ahead of Eid THE PENINSULA — DOHA THE PENINSULA — DOHA The Ministry of Municipality The Public Works Authority and Environment (Baladiya), (Ashghal) has announced a lane represented by the General reduction at Lekhwair Inter- Cleanliness Department, section. collected 1,262 tonnes of It will also close two lanes waste as part of a campaign and the right turn lane at to clean public places in National Library Intersection preparation for Eid Al Adha. for those coming from Al The General Cleanliness Markhiya Street while keeping Department cleaned public one lane open for a left turn areas including prayer towards Corniche Street grounds, parks and beaches starting tomorrow (Wednesday) within ten days. for three days to complete Around 1,066 tonnes of infrastructure works. waste from payer sites was parks across the country, with workers. During this time, road users collected using 72 vehicles the help of 21 vehicles and 61 A total of 1,065 dumpsters coming from Al Markhiya Street and 234 workers. workers. Moreover, 175 tonnes were kept at beaches, prayer and wishing to turn right will Corniche Street then make a Intersection to reach their Another 21 tonnes of waste of waste was collected from grounds and parks to collect have to turn left towards Al U-turn at Sheraton destinations. was collected from public beaches by 29 vehicles and 96 garbage. ‘Children’s learning never ends, even during holidays’

THE PENINSULA — DOHA research and think, without any limits. When children take a vacation, it does not need “Involving children in to mean taking a break from learning — daily life is a strategy that because learning is a never-ending path, where must be applied especially opportunities for exploration, innovation, and during the summer season, growth are part of the world that surrounds when children learn every- them. thing that goes on around As the school year ends and summer them, delve into daily expe- approaches, families prepare for a break from riences and by building a tasks and responsibilities, either by enjoying relationship between them leisure activities or travelling as COVID-19 and nature,” said Al Taweel. public health measures allow. A trip abroad, wherever And even as children pause learning in an possible amid the pandemic, academic sense, they are still preparing for is also a fun educational new journeys of learning in a fun and experi- experience for children, ential sense. giving them a chance to Noof Al Taweel, a teacher at Tariq Bin Ziad explore a different country School (TBZ), part of Qatar Foundation’s (QF) and enrich their knowledge. Pre-University Education, said, “As we prepare “While preparing to for the holiday season, we must allow our travel, we can involve our children to continue learning, whether by children in identifying the playing, asking questions, or exploring without destination country on the borders.” world map, and learn basic MME raises public awareness of Moving away from electronic devices and information about this games, and replacing them with recreational country,” said Al Taweel. safe slaughtering of sacrifices and useful activities, is the first step towards “And they can even learn providing a useful learning experience for from helping to prepare the A municipality official distributing pamphlets among shoppers children during the summer, according to Al period is an opportunity to unleash their abil- bags. Why should we choose at a supermarket. Al Sheehaniya Municipality has carried out Taweel. ities,” she said. warm clothes, or sports a campaign to raise public awareness of the necessary health “Children learn the rules and symbols of Within the IB curriculum used in QF shoes? What luggage do we procedures for selecting and slaughtering the sacrifices and how electronic games at an amazing speed, so why schools, learning is not limited to the alphabet need for a safari trip or to to store and cook them. The Municipality also urged people to not take advantage of their skills to direct them or grammar. Play is essential in children’s visit a museum? This slaughter the sacrifices inside the slaughterhouses that are under towards more useful activities, such as music, learning experience, as educators and aca- enhances a child’s the supervision of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment. horse riding, and swimming, where the summer demics constantly motivate them to question, curiosity. “At the airport, we can involve the child in all the experiences we go through – the passport checkup, the procedures on the plane before taking off, and the duties of the cabin crew. All of this integrates the child further into the travel expe- rience more.” Even staying in a hotel is also a new experience for a child. According to Al Taweel, a tour can be taken around the hotel, upon arrival to learn about its facilities, such as restau- rants, the swimming pool and recreational activities. Even letting them choose a room or what to have for lunch enhances their self- confidence and ability to make decisions. Social communication is another type of learning, as Al Taweel emphasises that it is better to let children safely communicate with strangers while travelling — under their parents’ supervision — or ask for what they need from the waiter or service provider. And she advises parents to always be close to their children during the vacation. “Make them observe things around them, help them discover something new, and answer their ques- tions about the places, sounds, smells and others,” she said. “All of this will extend their understanding and will also build useful family memories for them.” TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021 GULF / MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 05 Pilgrims pray at Arafat REUTERS — ARAFAT, SAUDI ARABIA Only 60,000 Saudi citizens and residents, aged 18 to 65, who have been fully vaccinated or have recovered from Thousands of face-masked Muslims gathered on Saudi the virus and who do not suffer from chronic diseases, Arabia’s Mount Arafat were selected for this year's Haj. yesterday, praying for an end to the pandemic and faster who lives in the Saudi capital to attend haj and for millions to vaccination as the annual haj Riyadh and said she lost four refill these holy sites,” said pilgrimage reached its climax. family members to the virus. Maher Baroody, a Syrian Saudi Arabia has barred At the Namira mosque, pil- pilgrim. worshippers from abroad for a grims sat two meters apart on In previous years, more second year running and their prayer mats, some than two million pilgrims would restricted entry from within the shedding tears and others cover the rocky mound on the kingdom to guard against the raising both hands as they Arafat plain, sitting close to each coronavirus and new variants. prayed at noon. other in the scorching heat of Only 60,000 Saudi citizens Karimullah Al Sheikh, from the desert city of Makkah, car- and residents, aged 18 to 65, India, said he was praying for rying umbrellas and fans to who have been fully vaccinated his country, which has seen a keep cool. or have recovered from the virus surge in infections, to get rid of The pilgrims, dressed in and who do not suffer from the virus and for everyone there white robes to signify purity, chronic diseases, were selected to get vaccinated promptly. observed social distancing and for the rite, a once-in-a-lifetime Hafiz Kadiku, an American wore face masks on Mount duty for every able-bodied working in Saudi, said he had Arafat, the hill where God tested Muslim who can afford it. broader wishes: “There is so Abraham’s faith by com- Pilgrims pray at Namira Mosque on the plain of Arafat during the annual Haj pilgrimage, outside the “It is an indescribable much racism ... I pray to Allah manding him to sacrifice his son feeling that I got selected among to make everyone love one Ismail, and where the Prophet holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia, yesterday. millions of people to attend the another.” Mohammad (peace be upon haj. I pray for God to put an end “The first prayer is to ask him) gave his last sermon. authorities to ensure safety and a few kilometres east of Muzdalifa by early today, the to these hard times the whole God to lift this pandemic, this Sheikh Bandar Balila, deliv- prevent the gathering from Makkah, are the main sites of first day of Eid Al Adha, or the world has gone through under curse and this grief for all ering the sermon during the becoming a focus of the Haj. feast of sacrifice. There they the coronavirus,” said Um humanity and for Muslims, so Haj’s most important rite, pandemic. After spending the day on gather pebbles to throw at stone Ahmed, a Palestinian pilgrim in the next years they are able praised the efforts of Saudi Arafat, Mina and Muzdalifa, Mount Arafat, pilgrims move to columns symbolising the devil. Algeria recalls IN BRIEF envoy to Morocco Bandit fire brings down Nigeria in row over air force jet, pilot survives Western Sahara ABUJA: Intense fire from bandits caused a Nigerian attack jet to REUTERS — CAIRO crash in northwestern Zamfara State, but the pilot survived by ejecting from the aircraft, the Nigerian air force said yesterday. The Algerian foreign ministry Zamfara and neighbouring Kaduna are among the states recalled its ambassador to worst-affected by a surge in criminality including mass abduc- Morocco on Sunday and tions of schoolchildren and armed robberies, often carried out hinted at possible further by large gangs of outlaws, locally known as bandits, who operate measures in the latest flare-up from remote hideouts. The air force said the crash occurred on of tension between the North Sunday as the Alpha jet, a light attack aircraft, was returning to African neighbours over the base from a mission on the Zamfara-Kaduna border. The jet “came disputed territory of Western under intense enemy fire which led to its crash,” an air force statement Sahara. said, but pilot Abayomi Dairo succesfully ejected, evaded several The move was linked to bandit hideouts and eventually made his way to an army unit under comments from the Moroccan cover of darkness. The government is increasingly turning to the air envoy to the United Nations force to counter banditry; the air force said that over the past two on Algeria’s Kabylie region, weeks, flights daily and nightly over Zamfara, Kaduna and Katsina the ministry said after the states had “neutralised” hundreds of bandits. -Reuters envoy drew the region into the decades-old row over Liberals in Israeli government to discuss Western Sahara, which is claimed by Morocco as well NSO spyware with defence minister as the Algeria-backed Polisario Front. Erdogan reviews guard of honour JERUSALEM; A liberal party in Israel’s governing coalition said The Moroccan envoy had yesterday it would ask the Defence Ministry about exports of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reviews a guard of honour with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin called at a meeting of the Non- Israeli spyware that media reports have linked to hacking of Tatar as he arrives to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in northern Nicosia, yesterday. Aligned Movement for “the phones of journalists, civil servants and rights activists worldwide. right of self-determination for Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz, head of the Meretz party the people living in the and a member of Prime Minister Naftali Bennett’s decision-making Kabylie region” in reference security cabinet, told reporters he would meet Defence Minister to Algeria’s Tamazight- Benny Gantz on Thursday to discuss the exports by NSO Group. speaking minority. He had Week-long lockdown in The Defence Ministry, which licenses the exports, did not immedi- suggested Algeria should not ately comment. An investigation by 17 media organisations pub- deny that while backing self- lished on Sunday said NSO’s spyware was used in attempted and determination for Western Tehran as virus surges successful hacks of 37 smartphones belonging to journalists, gov- Sahara. The Polisario Front is ernment officials and rights activists. Reuters was not able to verify fighting for the independence AP & AGENCIES — TEHRAN new surge, fueled by the fast- made sure that all the pilgrims the accusations independently. NSO has denied what it called “the for Western Sahara, a Spanish spreading delta variant. In had all received the necessary false allegations” raised by the media organizations and said it sells colony until mid-1970s now Iran yesterday imposed a sanctions-hit Iran, which has vaccines,” Al-Aly said. technology only to law enforcement and intelligence agencies of largely occupied and admin- week-long lockdown on the the highest COVID-19 death toll The second phase included vetted governments in order to fight terrorism and crime. -Reuters istered by Morocco. capital, Tehran, and the in the Middle East, less than 2% spreading awareness among surrounding region as the of the population of 84 million pilgrims and introducing pre- Lebanon: Consultations on new Ethiopia says country struggles with another has received both doses, mainly cautionary measures. surge in the coronavirus of the imported Russian and “Since the pilgrims are of government will start next week second filling of pandemic, state media Chinese vaccines. different nationalities, the reported. Meanwhile, Saudi health awareness campaign was BEIRUT: Lebanon’s presidency said parliamentary consultations giant dam on Blue The lockdown—the nation’s officials said that no cases of launched through various lan- to choose a new prime minister will begin on July 26 in another Nile complete fifth so far — will begin today COVID-19 have been detected guages,” he said. attempt to push Lebanon’s fractious political class to form the and last until next Monday. All during this year’s Haj, as the Saudi citizens must have country’s next government. Lebanese politician Saad Al Hariri REUTERS — ADDIS ABABA bazars, market places and pilgrimage got underway. received two doses of a abandoned his months-long effort to form a new government public offices will close, as well The coronavirus pandemic COVID-19 vaccine to be able to last week, dimming any immediate chance of a cabinet being Ethiopia has completed filling as movie theaters, gyms and means this year’s Haj has been travel abroad starting August agreed that could start rescuing the country from financial the reservoir of its huge dam restaurants in both Tehran reduced to 60,000 pilgrims 9, the state-owned SPA said meltdown. Hariri’s decision marks the culmination of months of on the Blue Nile river for a province and the neighbouring from within the Kingdom. yesterday. conflict over cabinet posts between him and Michel Aoun, the second year and the plant may province of Alborz. Security, health and Hajj Quoting a source at the Maronite Christian head of state who is allied with the Iran-backed start generating power in the Iran reported 25,441 new ministry officials told a press Interior Ministry, SPA said the Hezbollah. Hariri and Aoun blamed each other. There is no obvious next few months, a minister cases yesterday and 213 deaths conference in Makkah on decision was based on new alternative for prime minister. -Reuters said, a move that has already over the past day, bringing the Sunday that precautionary waves of infection globally, angered Egypt and Sudan. overall death toll to 87,374 from measures against COVID-19 new mutations, and the "low Gunfire, clashes in Iran’s restive Addis Ababa says the among more than 3.5 million had been fully implemented. efficacy of one vaccination dose oil-rich southwest kill one Grand Ethiopian Renaissance confirmed cases in the Health Ministry spokesman against these mutations.” Dam (GERD), a $4bn hydro- pandemic. Dr. Mohammed Al Abd Al Aly The decision was also made TEHRAN: An Iranian protester was killed during demonstrations power project, is crucial to its During an earlier surge in said no cases had yet been in accordance with the pre- against the government’s handling of water shortages and drought economic development and cases, in April, Iran reported the detected. Health protocols and ventive and precautionary in oil-producing, southwestern Khuzestan province, the semi- to provide power. highest daily number of cases, preventive measures, he said, measures recommended by the official Iranian Students’ News Agency (Isna) reported. The But it has caused concern 25,582. At the time, its daily could ensure a safe Hajj season. Ministry of Health, it added. 30-year-old man was struck by a bullet in Shadegan, near the border over water shortages and death tolls surged to around The first phase of protocols Those aged under 12 years with Iraq, on July 16, Isna reported, quoting Governor Omid Sabripoor, safety in Egypt and Sudan, 400, below the grim record of began before pilgrims started old will be exempted, provided who blamed “rioters and opportunists” for the death. Unverified which also depend on the 486 reached last November. arriving at the Grand Mosque they submit an approved video clips circulating on social media showed clashes between Nile’s waters. Iranian authorities have in Makkah on Saturday for the insurance policy before protesters and armed security forces. Several rounds of gunfire can “The second filling of the lately been warning about a start of Haj. “In this phase, we traveling. be heard in at least one of the clips. -Bloomberg Renaissance dam has been completed and the water is overflowing,” Seleshi Bekele, Ethiopia’s minister for water, Nigerian regulator tells TV stations to curb reporting on violence irrigation and energy, said on Monday in a Tweet. REUTERS — ABUJA decade-long Islamist insur- In a letter to “all stations”, analysts on programmes not to chilling effect. Buhari’s two “The next milestone for gency, the northwest hit by a seen by Reuters yesterday, the polarise the citizenry with spokesmen declined to GERD construction is to Nigeria’s broadcasting regulator wave of mass abductions of National Broadcasting Com- divisive rhetoric”, the letter comment on the matter, while realize the early generation in has asked TV stations to curb schoolchildren, and kidnap- mission (NBC) said broadcasters said. The civil society group the NBC did not respond to the next few months,” he said. their reporting of insecurity in pings for ransom rife in many should “collaborate with gov- Socio-Economic Rights and requests for comment. Sudan’s irrigation ministry the country by withholding states. ernment in dealing with the Accountability Project (SERAP) Buhari, a military ruler in said in a statement it rejected details of incidents and victims, Some experts say the surge security challenges” by toning called on President the 1980s who returned to “unilateral measures from in what a leading civil society in criminality is partly driven down reporting and Muhammadu Buhari to instruct power as an elected civilian in neighbouring Ethiopia and group described as a “sweeping by economic hardship caused commentary. the NBC to withdraw the 2015, has been accused of an policies of imposing a fait gag order”. by the COVID-19 shock in 2020, They should do this by “not document. assault on freedom of speech accompli and ignoring the Africa’s most populous while the World Bank has said giving details of either the SERAP said reporting on the over his government’s decision legitimate interests and nation is facing multiple the increase in conflict and security issues or victims of growing violence was in the in June to ban Twitter in Nigeria serious concerns of its river security crises, with the insecurity was a drag on growth these security challenges” and public interest, and the regula- after the platform removed one partners”. northeast in the grip of a and job creation. by “advising guests and/or tor’s instructions would have a of his posts. 06 ASIA TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021 Leaked letters put Thai government’s AztraZeneca vaccine claim under cloud REUTERS — BANGKOK Opposition AstraZeneca also explained at the September meeting that AstraZeneca Plc has told lawmaker Wiroj Thailand had an opportunity to Thailand it should be able to Lakkhanaadisorn procure more via the interna- supply around 6 million doses said Thai authorities tional COVAX vaccine-sharing of its COVID-19 vaccine per scheme, Hubben said in the month, leaked correspondence were prepared for letter. showed, contradicting asser- neither a global Thailand, which never made tions by Thai officials that the supply deals with COVAX, government had been promised supply shortage nor instead decided in January to 10 million. the severe impact of buy 26 million doses from Thailand’s push for 10 AstraZeneca and another 35 million monthly doses comes variants of concern. million doses in May, the letter as it considers imposing vaccine showed. export curbs on Thai-manufac- The director-General of the tured vaccine to shore up “I hope you will be pleased Thai Disease Control Public health officers travel by boat to bring coronavirus disease swab testing to residents living in domestic supplies, a move that that this is nearly twice the Department, Opas Karnkaw- remote communities, in Samut Prakan, near Bangkok, Thailand, yesterday. could create problems for its volume we discussed during our inpong, confirmed on Sunday neighbours, some of which are meeting,” AstraZeneca’s vice that the letter was authentic. He agreed on a monthly basis. million doses to Indonesia, 30 when making these plans,” he battling similar or more severe president of global corporate told reporters the 3 million AstraZeneca had no million to Vietnam, 16.5 million said yesterday. “They have been coronavirus crises. affairs, Sjoerd Hubben, said in figure had been a rough comment yesterday on the to the Philippines, 10 million to very slow and careless.” But a June 25 letter by Astra- the letter, referring to a Sep- estimate and Thailand had for- leaked letter. Taiwan and 6.4 million to Thailand has inoculated just Zeneca to Thailand’s health tember 2020 meeting with Thai mally asked AstraZeneca in The letter also detailed Malaysia, the letter showed. 5.2% of its population so far. minister showed that the Anglo- officials. April 2021 to provide 10 million AstraZeneca’s supply commit- Opposition lawmaker Wiroj A source with knowledge Swedish drugmaker had offered At that meeting, the gov- monthly doses. ments of nearly 114 million Lakkhanaadisorn said Thai of Thailand’s AstraZeneca to supply just 5-6 million doses ernment officials estimated He did not say whether doses elsewhere in Asia — a authorities were prepared for agreement said 61 million doses, a month to Thailand from a Thailand required around 3 AstraZeneca had agreed to supply chain that has become neither a global supply shortage or about a third of the local fac- local plant, or one third of the million doses per month, that, and said it was under- uncertain due to potential nor the severe impact of var- tory’s agreed output, would be amount produced by its partner Hubben wrote. The corre- stood that vaccine availability export restrictions by the Thai iants of concern. delivered to Thailand overall, Siam Bioscience, which is spondence was first reported depended on output and government. “The government was over- but no monthly volume com- owned by Thailand’s king. by Isara news agency. volume might need to be It planned to supply 50 confident about the situation mitment had ever been agreed. IN BRIEF Australia prolongs lockdown in Victoria Two Chinese workers trapped in REUTERS — SYDNEY Victoria, the country’s down from 105 a day earlier. tourist spots of Bondi and second most populous state, At least 20 of the new cases Manly. flooded tunnel found dead Australian authorities said yesterday reported 13 locally were infectious while still in the And controversial British Victoria state would extend a acquired cases, down from 16 community. NSW state Premier commentator Katie Hopkins BEIJING: Two of 14 workers who have been trapped in a flooded COVID-19 lockdown beyond a day earlier. All new local cases Gladys Berejiklian said during was set to be deported after highway tunnel for five days so far in the southern Chinese city today to slow the spread of the are linked. a televised media conference posting a video on Instagram in of Zhuhai were found dead, the city government said yesterday. highly infectious Delta variant, Nearly half of Australia’s 25 that the “closer we get that which she joked about Early on Thursday, water suddenly leaked into the Shijin- despite a slight drop in new million people are living under number to zero, the sooner we answering the door naked and gshan tunnel, which is being built under a reservoir, trapping the infections in the state and lockdowns imposed to quell an can end the lockdown.” maskless to people delivering workers more than a kilometre from the entrance. nationwide. outbreak fuelled by the highly There are currently 82 meals while she was in quar- Yesterday afternoon, rescuers found the two dead workers Victoria state Premier transmissable Delta variant, people in hospitals, with 24 in antine in a Sydney hotel. at about 1,060 metres and 1,070 metres from the tunnel’s entrance, Daniel Andrews said lockdown which has become the worst intensive care, seven of whom “To think that she could the Zhuhai government said on its official WeChat account. rules would not be lifted as this year. require ventilation. think that the measures we are As of 9am (0100 GMT) yesterday, rescuers were 732.9 metres cases were still being detected Sydney, the country’s Berejiklian said the state taking to keep our community into the tunnel, but were still 427.1 metres from where the workers in the community, promising largest city and the state capital would not see the effects of the safe can be treated with such were trapped, the official Xinhua news agency said. The vast tunnel, more details would be provided of New South Wales, is set to hard lockdown for “another juvenile, imbecile behaviour is while still under water, had seen its overall water level drop by on Tuesday, when the lockdown end a five-week lockdown on four or five days” and pleaded mind boggling,” NSW state a total of 15.5 metres by then, Xinhua said. had been due to end. July 30, though the end-date with people not mingle with Health Minister Brad Hazzard Divers have been conducting searches for a total of 16 hours, “It would be perhaps a few has been pushed back twice extended family as most infec- told reporters. it added. - Reuters days of sunshine and then there already. tions are occurring within South Australia state is a very high chance that we’d New South Wales reported families. tightened restrictions yesterday Singapore sees virus cases double be back in lockdown again. the death of a woman in her 50s Breaches of social dis- afternoon, cancelling large That’s what I’m trying to avoid,” yesterday, taking the state’s tancing rules in Sydney events and closing indoor overnight as testing ramps up Andrews told a news con- death toll to five during the prompted state police to begin dining, gyms and non essential ference in Melbourne, the state latest outbreak. The state logged “high-visibility patrols” along retail, one step short of issuing SINGAPORE: Singapore yesterday saw new local coronavirus capital. 98 new locally-acquired cases, the coast, including the popular a full lockdown. cases almost double from the previous day to 163, the highest daily tally in 11 months, driven by clusters of infections linked to a fishery port and karaoke centres. The rising cases has prompted Modi used spyware the city-state to tighten some restrictions on social gatherings from yesterday, just a week after easing them. on Rahul Gandhi: “We should continue to expect many reported cases in the coming days, and must be prepared to make adjustments or even Indian opposition take decisive actions to suppress the cases,” Ong Ye Kung, the health minister, said on Facebook. BLOOMBERG — NEW DELHI The health ministry said 106 of the cases were linked to the Jurong Fishery Port cluster and 19 to the KTV cluster. Prime Minister Narendra Fishmongers across the city-state were being tested, adding Modi’s government targeted to more than 5,000 staff, hostesses and patrons linked to the KTV his political rival Rahul Gandhi outbreak, from which new cases were declining. for surveillance using Israeli He said, genetically, the cases differ from the Delta variant company NSO Group Ltd’s found in previous recent outbreaks.- Reuters Pegasus spyware, according to India’s largest opposition Philippines challenges Chinese party. Phones belonging to warship in South China Sea Gandhi and India’s chief election commissioner, Ashok MANILA: The Philippines Coast Guard said it drove away a Chinese Lavasa, were identified as warship in the South China Sea, in another sign of tension between potential targets using the the two nations in the disputed waters. spyware in the lead up to the In a statement yesterday citing a July 13 report, the Coast Guard 2019 general polls, the Indian said it had sent a verbal challenge to Chinese warship spotted at National Congress alleged. It Marie Louise Bank. The Chinese vessel eventually moved away cited media investigations into from the area, the statement said. a leaked list of potential targets The foreign vessel sent a radio message identifying itself as of NSO, whose spying tool “Chinese Navy Warship 189” and asked the Philippine ship tailing Pegasus allows clients to infil- it to keep distance, the Coast Guard said. trate phones and monitor text The two nations’ vessels have been locked in a standoff in the messages, camera feeds and Nepal administers J&J vaccine South China Sea for months, after hundreds of Chinese ships microphones. swarmed disputed territory earlier this year. The Philippines has “Is spying on India’s A man receives a dose of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine against the coronavirus disease at repeatedly protested the ships’ presence and has been backed by security forces, judiciary, the US, while Beijing has said its actions were normal and legit- Nepal Disabled Association Khagendra New Life Centre in Kathmandu, Nepal, yesterday. Cabinet ministers, opposition imate. - Bloomberg leaders including Rahul Gandhi, journalists and other activities through a foreign entity’s spyware not treason Myanmar marks anniversary of killing of independence hero and an inexcusable disman- tling of national security?” AP — BANGKOK relationship of Suu Kyi and the security forces, also paid tribute public activities stop for a seen in public since the Congress spokesman Randeep military to her father, whose to those who have lost their minute in memory of the nine takeover apart from one photo Surjewala said at a press con- Myanmar’s military-installed legacy they both claim. lives protesting the February martyrs. shown on state television in ference in New Delhi. government and those seeking There were protest marches military takeover that ousted An official memorial cer- May taken inside a court at the Surjewala raised questions to topple it yesterday marked yesterday in several cities Suu Kyi and her elected gov- emony was held, as every year, start of criminal proceedings about whether Modi or Home the 74th anniversary of the across the country commemo- ernment. According to the at Martyrs’ Mausoleum in against her. The legal actions Minister Amit Shah had con- assassination of independence rating Aung San, six Cabinet Assistance Association for Yangon, near the foot of the are seen as a calculated move tracted NSO and how much hero Gen. Aung San, the father colleagues and two other offi- Political Prisoners, at least 919 famous Shwedagon Pagoda. The by the military to permanently money had been spent on the of the country’s recently ousted cials who were killed at a protesters and bystanders have service this year was low key, remove her from politics. spyware. leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. Cabinet meeting less than six been killed by the security attended by neither Suu Kyi, The state-run Global New The government addressed The separate commemora- months before Britain formally forces, though the government who is under arrest, nor Senior Light of Myanmar newspaper the issue in parliament today. tions by the contending groups handed independence to calls that figure an General Min Aung Hlaing, who had a rare front-page graphic The nation’s newly- were a reminder of the tragic Myanmar, then called Burma. exaggeration. took over as the country’s leader. with an illustration of the appointed technology minister political turmoil that has Aung San was 32 years old In Yangon, some neighbor- Religious Affairs Minister Ko memorial, a photo of Aung San Ashwini Vaishnaw, whose marked much of the country’s when he died. A political rival, hoods heard a cacophony of car Ko was the highest-ranking and a quote from him. phone was among those listed history, including dysfunctional former Prime Minister U Saw, horns at 10.37am, the time of official in attendance. Toe Aung, Inside, an editorial said as compromised in a Wash- parliamentary rule, armed was tried and hnged for plotting the 1947 attack. About a decade a Yangon city official, laid a Aung San’s speeches remain ington Post report, denied any struggle by ethnic separatists the attack. ago, pro-democracy activists wreath on behalf of Suu Kyi’s relevant today and suggested surveillance attempts by the and military repression. It also The protests, generally brief revived a tradition in which fac- family. his words justified the military’s government. highlights the complicated to avoid confrontations with tories sound their sirens and Suu Kyi, 76, has not been steering of the country. TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021 ASIA / EUROPE 07 Foreign missions in Afghanistan call for Taliban truce REUTERS — KABUL Yesterday’s statement also condemned rights and media outlets in areas possible independently verify to tackle COVID-19 pandemic,” recently captured by the the information provided by the he said on Twitter. Fifteen diplomatic missions and violations, such as efforts to shut schools and Taliban. The militants have pre- military. In a statement late on Sunday, the Nato representative in media outlets in areas recently captured by viously denied such actions. President Ashraf Ghani yes- the Taliban said: “Both sides agreed Afghanistan urged the Taliban The Taliban said yesterday terday visited the provincial upon the need for expedition in the yesterday to halt their military the Taliban. The Taliban have previously denied they had captured the capital of Herat province in the peace talks, in order to find a fair offensives just hours after the such actions. Dehrawood district in Uruzgan west. The Taliban have captured and permanent solution for the rival Afghan sides failed to province, southwest of Kabul, all 17 of the province’s districts current issue in Afghanistan as agree on a ceasefire at a peace after heavy clashes with gov- in recent days, barring the soon as possible.” meeting in Doha. and the Nato representative ceasefires, saying they wanted ernment forces the previous capital, Herat city, which is Peace talks between the A delegation of Afghan said, referring to today’s Muslim to let Afghans spend them in night. Provincial officials con- under siege. Taliban and prominent Afghans leaders met the Taliban’s holiday in Afghanistan. peace. firmed the Taliban advance. In Doha, political leaders from the government side - the political leadership in the Qatari The statement was sup- This time there has been no In the northern province of and the Taliban discussed a militants have refused to rec- capital over the weekend but ported by Australia, Canada, the such announcement as the Samangan, security forces political settlement to end the ognise or talk to the US-backed the Taliban, in a said in a Czech Republic, Denmark, the Taliban make swift territorial managed to wrest Dara-e-Sof conflict, the chairman of a government —started in Sep- statement late on Sunday, made European Union delegation, gains in near-unprecedented Bala district back from insurgents, council for peace, Abdullah tember last year but have failed no mention of a halt to Afghan- Finland, France, Germany, Italy, levels of fighting nationwide as the military in the area said, Abdullah, who took part in the to make any progress. istan’s escalating violence. Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, US-led foreign forces complete adding that 24 Taliban fighters, talks, said yesterday. The Taliban’s spokesman “This Eid Al Adha, the Spain, Sweden, Britain and the their withdrawal after 20 years including a shadow district gov- “We agreed to continue the in Doha, Mohammed Naeem, Taliban should lay down their United States and Nato’s senior of fighting. ernor and two commanders, had talks, seek a political settlement denied media reports that the weapons for good and show the civilian representative. Yesterday’s statement also been killed. Clashes were going to the current crisis, avoid civilian insurgent group had agreed to world their commitment to the Over recent Eid holidays, condemned rights violations, on there yesterday. casualties, facilitate humanitarian an Eid ceasefire in exchange for peace process,” the 15 missions the Taliban have called short such as efforts to shut schools It was not assistance and medical supplies the release of its prisoners. With no summit, South Korean president to skip Olympics

AP — SEOUL on Saturday summoned Jap- The South Korean gov- anese Ambassador Koichi ernment delegation at the South Korean President Moon Aiboshi to protest remarks Olympics will be led by Hwang Jae-in has decided not to visit made by another senior Jap- Hee, the minister of culture, Japan for the Tokyo Summer anese diplomat who, according sports and tourism. Olympics, citing a failure to set to a local broadcaster, used “The Tokyo Olympics are a up a summit with Japan’s prime lewd language with its reporters festival of peace for people minister that would produce to ridicule Moon’s hopes about around the world, and we hope meaningful results in improving using the Olympics to improve that Japan holds the Olympics relations. relations. safely and successfully,” said Moon’s office said yesterday When asked whether the Park Soo Hyun, Moon’s spokes- that officials from Seoul and incident influenced Moon’s person, reading a statement on Tokyo held talks over long- decision not to go to the TV. “We also hope our athletes, standing disputes about Olympics, a senior South despite the difficult conditions, wartime history and a “future- Korean presidential official fully display the skills they have oriented” development of their acknowledged that the “internal developed in competition and relations, but did not find atmosphere” at the Blue House return home healthy.” enough common ground to “shifted toward scepticism” Relations between Seoul and support a summit between their after the JTBC report. Tokyo have been strained since Omor Belil, an asylum seeker who is among several hundred migrants requesting to be regularised leaders. The official, who spoke on South Korea’s Supreme Court in by the Belgian government to have access to healthcare, is transported to a hospital as he takes The countries had been dis- condition of anonymity during 2018 ordered some Japanese part in a hunger strike for more than 7 weeks, at the ULB University campus in Brussels, yesterday. cussing the possibility of Moon a background briefing, did not companies to compensate visiting Tokyo to participate in provide details about the dis- Korean forced labourers for the Olympics’ opening cer- cussions with Japan on setting their ordeals during Japan’s emony and having talks with up Moon’s visit. 1910-1945 colonial rule of the Migrants’ hunger strike alarms UN experts Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga Suga told reporters he Korean Peninsula. The rulings about repairing bilateral ties hopes to “continue to commu- led to further tensions over trade AP — BRUSSELS church in the Belgian capital. received is alarming, and that have sunk to postwar lows nicate firmly” with South when Japan imposed export Some said they have been living several of the hunger strikers in recent years with disputes Korea’s government in order to controls on chemicals vital to Two United Nations represent- and working in the European are between life and death,” over history, trade and military restore a healthy relationship South Korea’s semiconductor atives urged Belgian authorities nation of 11.5 million for a decade. said De Schutter, the U.N.’s cooperation. between the neighbours. He industry in 2019. Monday to offer temporary resi- In recent days, some of the special rapporteur on extreme It was unclear how close said Soma’s comments were Seoul accused Tokyo of dence permits to several migrants have also started refusing poverty and human rights. they came to setting up a “very inappropriate and weaponising trade and hundred migrants who are on a water. UN Special Rapporteurs Gonzalez, the U,N.’s special summit. Seoul said their talks regrettable.” threatened to terminate a mil- hunger strike in Brussels, some Olivier De Schutter and Felipe rapporteur on the human rights were damaged by a “last- Japanese Chief Cabinet Sec- itary intelligence-sharing of whom with failing health. Gonzalez wrote an open letter to of migrants, said the Belgian minute obstacle.” retary Katsunobu Kato said no agreement with Tokyo that was The migrants desperate to Belgian Secretary of State for government should clearly rule The announcement by decision has been made on a major symbol of their tri- obtain legal residency papers Asylum and Migration Sammy out the possibility of deporting Moon’s office came after the whether Soma will be removed lateral security cooperation began their hunger strike on May Mahdi asking for urgent measures. the migrants, given the state of South Korean Foreign Ministry from his current position. with Washington. 23 at two universities and a “The information we have their health. IN BRIEF Russia says it successfully Bus and truck collision in Pakistan tested hypersonic leaves 30 dead missile LAHORE: Thirty people were killed and 74 injured when a passenger bus and truck collided in Punjab province early AP — MOSCOW yesterday morning, rescue and hospital officials said. Rescue officials said the accident occurred when a bus was The Russian military reported in collision with a container truck at about 5.40am in Dera Ghazi another successful test launch Khan district 466km south east of Lahore. of a new hypersonic cruise The injured and dead were taken to a nearby hospital by the missile yesterday. rescue service. Russia’s Defence Ministry “As many as 30 people have died and 74 have been wounded,” said the Zircon missile was Dr. Najeebur Rehman, Medical Superintended of Dera Ghazi Khan launched from the Admiral Teaching Hospital, told Reuters, adding the toll might rise as several Groshkov frigate in the White injured are in serious condition. - Reuters Sea. The ministry said the Cyber attack on parliament carried missile flew at a speed seven times the speed of sound and out from China, says Norway successfully hit a designated practice target more than 350 OSLO: Norway said yesterday that a March 10 cyber attack on km away on the coast of the parliament’s e-mail system was carried out from China, calling Barents Sea. Bangladesh cameramen pay tribute to Danish Siddiqui on authorities there to take steps to prevent such activities. Russian President Vladimir “This is a serious incident which has hit our most important Putin has said Zircon would be Bangladeshi photographers lit candles, hold placards and a photograph of Reuters journalist Danish democratic institution,” Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Soereide capable of flying at nine times Siddiqui, who was killed while covering a clash between Afghan security forces and Taliban fighters, said in a statement. the speed of sound and have a as they pay tribute at the University of Dhaka, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, yesterday. An investigation by the country’s intelligence services had range of 1,000km. Putin has revealed the attack came from China and several of Norway’s emphasized that its deployment allies, the European Union and Microsoft, had also confirmed this will significantly boost Russian conclusion, she added. military capability. Politicians in Hungary demand The Chinese embassy in Norway was not immediately The Russian navy has con- available for comment. Chinese officials have previously said ducted several previous test China is also a victim of hacking and opposes all forms of cyber launches of the new missile, inquiry into alleged spying attacks. The attack had utilised a security hole in Microsoft’s including one on Putin’s Exchange software. - Reuters birthday in October, and offi- AP — BUDAPEST — including at least 10 lawyers, that the surveillance described cials said the tests are to be one opposition politician and by the investigation is “not per- Taiwan approves Medigen’s completed later this year. Opposition lawmakers in at least five journalists. missible in a state governed by Zircon is intended to arm Hungary’s parliament have The results of the investi- the rule of law.” COVID-19 vaccine candidate Russian cruisers, frigates and demanded an inquiry into gation, headed by the French The committee will submarines. It is one of several findings by an international nonprofit journalism organi- question Hungary’s national TAIPEI: Taiwan’s government yesterday approved the use and hypersonic missiles under investigation that the country’s zation Forbidden Stories, were security and intelligence production of Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp’s COVID-19 vaccine development in Russia. right-wing government used published on Sunday, agencies on the allegations, he candidate, a major step in the island’s plans to develop its own Nato responded to yester- powerful malware to spy on prompting three members of said, adding that a majority of vaccines to protect against the coronavirus. day’s test with a statement that critical journalists, politicians Hungary’s parliamentary seats on the committee are held Taiwan-based Medigen said last month it was seeking a speedy claimed Russia’s missile devel- and business figures. national security committee to by governing party lawmakers emergency use authorisation, or EUA, from the government for opment “create a greater risk of The investigation by a call for an emergency session who could potentially block the its vaccine candidate after safely completing Phase II trials. escalation and miscalculation.” global media consortium sug- to question government inquiry by boycotting the Developing its own vaccine has been a major goal of Taiwan’s “Russia’s new hypersonic gested that military-grade agencies on their potential session. government, though it also has ordered some 20 million shots from missiles are highly destabi- spyware from Israel-based NSO involvement in the spying. “Our perspective is that Moderna Inc, AstraZeneca and the COVAX global sharing scheme. lizing and pose significant risks Group, an infamous hacker- Janos Stummer, the com- staying silent would essentially The health ministry said in clinical trials in Taiwan the antibodies to security and stability across for-hire outfit, was used in mittee’s chairman and a law- be an acknowledgement that created by Medigen’s vaccine candidate have been proven to be the Euro-Atlantic area,” the Hungary to infiltrate the digital maker from the right-wing the government is indeed “no worse than” those created by AstraZeneca PLC vaccines, and statement said. devices of a range of targets opposition party Jobbik, said involved in this,” Stummer said. that there were no major safety concerns. - Reuters 08 VIEWS TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021 Global spyware such as Pegasus is a threat Established in 1996 to democracy. Here’s how to stop it CHAIRMAN DAVID KAYE, MARIETJE SCHAAKE DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI THE WASHINGTON POST

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF For years, the global spyware DR. KHALID MUBARAK AL-SHAFI industry has operated in the shadows, exposed only by [email protected] human rights organizations and journalists. The industry MANAGING EDITOR claims it’s in the business of MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI fighting crime and terrorism. But its members often sell to [email protected] governments that equate “criminal” and “terror” with “critic” and “dissent.” Over the weekend, a global EDITORIAL consortium of news organiza- tions, including The Wash- ington Post, joined Forbidden Stories, a Paris-based jour- nalism nonprofit, to reveal Celebrating Eid Al Adha how hollow the claims of fighting crime and terror are. MUSLIMS around the world are celebrating Eid Al The consortium reports that Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, for the second year Israel’s NSO Group has sold under precautionary measures to contain the spread its marquee spyware, of COVID-19. Therefore, this year Haj is limited to Pegasus, to clients that have 60,000 pilgrims of Saudi citizens and residents in the deployed it against the very proper or transparent due dil- Pegasus Project as one of NSO the surveillance industry. The country. Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani pillars of democratic life: igence. We are on the prec- Group’s clients shows why persistence of transnational exchanged Eid greetings with the leaders of the Arab press freedom, the ipice of a global surveillance only addressing the trade in repression is such that indi- and Islamic World. H H the Amir will perform the presumption of innocence, tech catastrophe, an ava- these spyware systems is not viduals often are harmed by blessed Eid prayers with citizens at the Al Wajba privacy, and freedom of lanche of tools shared across enough. It is, after all, hypo- actors operating beyond their prayer ground this morning. expression and association. borders with governments critical for European leaders borders, but domestic law After the Eid prayers in the early morning, people Pegasus, like other tools, failing to constrain their to seek curbs in the trade in often presents barriers to will greet each other and exchange gifts as a mark of turns the phones of jour- export or use. spyware systems when Euro- accountability. Those barriers forgiveness, friendship, brotherly relations and to reit- nalists, opposition politicians The international com- peans sell the methods of should be removed. erate the concept of equality. and peaceful activists into munity should take action to choice. It is even harder to be Finally, the companies The two main aspects of Eid Al Adha is the Haj, real-time spying devices. A constrain the global spyware credible when the latest themselves need to be subject which is one of the five pillars of Islam, and the leaked list of phone numbers industry. The effort should spyware systems are used in to multi-stakeholder con- ritual of animal sacrifice, which signifies obedience identified as targets for the include the following. the EU to track dissent. straint. The NSO Group claims to Allah and concern for the fellow beings, espe- spyware includes hundreds of First, governments should The double standard on to adhere to the United cially the less-privileged and the marginalised journalists and politicians implement a moratorium on the part of Israel is particularly Nations Guiding Principles on people. from Hungary, India, Mexico, the sale and transfer of striking. The country is home Business and Human Rights, a Yesterday, on the 9th day of Dhul-Hijja, the twelfth Morocco and elsewhere. spyware technology until a to NSO Group as well as other global standard for corporate month of the Islamic calendar, pilgrims from across Hundreds of companies global export regime can spyware companies, including human rights practice. But it the world assembled on the Mount Arafat and the globally are vying for a piece identify and place these tools Candiru, which Microsoft last does not subject its policy to whole day praying to Allah for the forgiveness of their of the lucrative private sur- under global restraint. week accused of selling tools any independent scrutiny. sins. In the evening, they left for Muzdalifa for the veillance pie. Some enable During this pause, gov- to hack into Windows. Taking a page from the Magrib and Isha prayers. intrusions into one’s phone ernments should negotiate a It is essential that Israel effort to restrict the private During Haj, all the pilgrims wear Irham, a white or tablet. Others develop regime that, among other reins in its spyware sector mercenary industry, the dress, making everyone appear the same and to tools for computer surveil- things, carefully defines the and joins democratic nations international community signify that in front of Allah there is no prince or lance, for malicious uses of technologies at issue; requires in pushing back against the should work toward a global pauper. All of them are brothers and sisters joined facial recognition, for direct transparent human-rights proliferation of technologies code of conduct and stop the together to worship Allah the Almighty. access to Internet traffic, and assessments for the devel- that operate like commercial proliferation of spyware for Eid Al Adha marks the culmination of Haj and is user data and opment and transfer of any intelligence services. repression. celebrated to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s communications. such tools; involves a public Second, export control is The new revelations about devotion and his readiness to sacrifice his son Ismael. They sell and service their registry of tools, companies not the only tool available to the reach and harms of NSO’s After Eid prayers, which is performed in community, products for government and clients: and enables constrain the spread of Pegasus software are the people sacrifice animals, the meat of which is divided clients without regard to public comment in the case of spyware. Governments using latest, and hopefully final, among the family offering the sacrifice, friends and those governments’ patterns any application for export. these technologies must put wake-up call to rein in the relatives and the needy. All theses rituals are also a of repression, and without If a global regime fails to in place transparent, rule-of- private spyware market. manifestation of compassion and equality preached be ambitious enough, demo- law based requirements for - David Kaye teaches law by Islam. The international cratic nations should agree to any use of spyware. Any gov- at the University of California Islam gives a lot of importance to equality and ban spyware - both its ernment that fails to develop at Irvine School of Law and well being of everyone, wherever they are, as in front community should domestic use and its export. such requirements - or that previously served as the U.N. of Allah there are no divisions like rich and poor, able take action to The European Union has a pattern of abuse - special rapporteur on and disabled and privileged or otherwise. Islam recently took a modest step should be on a global no- freedom of expression. places a lot of emphasis on practising what is being constrain the global toward regulating the trade in transfer list. Democracies and Marietje Schaake is Interna- preached, so it is a practical religion which strives spyware industry. surveillance technologies, not authoritarian states will tional Policy Director at for the welfare of everyone irrespective of nation- only for the risk to national probably part ways quickly. Stanford University’s Cyber ality or ethnicity. security, but also to human Third, the victims of Policy Center, president of the It is also a religion of tolerance which is evident rights. But the fact that Viktor spyware must be granted the CyberPeace Institute and a from its concern for others as is mandated by Allah. Orban’s government in ability to sue governments former member of the So, as we celebrate, let us dig deep into the meaning Hungary is revealed in the and companies involved in European Parliament. of Eid Al Adha and try to live that spirit. As the pan- demic is still not over, following health measures will keep everybody safe. Anger at Heathrow as Johnson’s French U-turn adds unwanted grief LAURA WRIGHT, CHRISTOPHER Russell said before boarding a that they’re still at 25% or less must self-isolate, he said. JASPER — BLOOMBERG British Airways flight with her of pre-pandemic levels. While some Heathrow pas- husband and baby. “What’s The French and British sengers expressed frustration London’s Heathrow airport most frustrating is that they governments have sparred on at the rapidly changing travel was thronged with travelers chop and change. They a number of fronts since the rules, others were waiting to D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR Monday as the U.K. eased announce something then U.K.’s exit from the European board in the knowledge that EMAIL: [email protected] travel curbs - but pre-holiday rapidly change tune so Union took effect at the start they’d no longer face time enthusiasm was replaced quickly.” Heathrow, Europe’s of the year, including fishing cooped up at home on their with anger for some after busiest hub before the coro- rights and Northern Ireland. return from medium-risk des- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 FAX: +974 4455 7758 last-minute rule changes navirus hit, said passenger There has been press specu- tinations on the Britain’s so- added unexpected complica- numbers remained steady lation that restrictions on called amber list. MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 tions to their trip. after picking up last week, Britons traveling into the EU Peter Phillips, an adminis- While fully vaccinated though without the six-hour may have factored into the trator at University College DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 tourists headed for the Medi- lines for incoming travelers creation of the “amber plus” London, booked a holiday terranean were cheered by seen then. Immigration category that includes only with his wife and daughters LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 the removal of quarantine Services Union spokeswoman France. on the Greek island of Rhodes BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 requirements on their return, Lucy Moreton reported no The new rule for France last December and said the people bound for France hit major disruption at the U.K. drew an angry response from removal of quarantines for SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 out at a decision late Friday border, with a peak wait of tourism bodies and airlines fully vaccinated travelers that means they’ll still need to two hours, about standard for over the weekend, with Inter- came as a relief after months ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 self-isolate. the airport amid checks on national Air Transport Associ- of concern about whether email: [email protected] Madeline Russell, a the testing and vaccination ation Director General Willie they’d get to fly, and on what PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 London-based dentist flying status of arrivals. Walsh saying Britain had “no terms. email: [email protected] to the southern French city of Airlines stocks fell after coherent policy on interna- “The lead-up has been Toulouse to visit her mother, trading for the first time since tional travel.” “The measure stressful with cases going up,” MARKETING: TEL: 4455 7657 said she was skeptical that the Johnson’s announcement on that was taken by the U.K. isn’t he said. “You wonder if you’re email: [email protected] spread of the beta variant of the French restrictions. completely grounded in doing the right thing. We Covid-19 was the sole moti- wo major markets, slipped science,” France’s European want to be as safe as possible ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 857 vation for reinstating the 4.3% and Air France-KLM was Affairs Minister Clement as we are both double vacci- FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] quarantine, as Prime Minister down as much as 4.6%. Beaune said in an RMC radio nated. It feels like it is worth CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 Boris Johnson’s government London Luton airport, the interview. France is using “sci- the risk.” The family booked a email: [email protected] has maintained. home base of EasyJet, said entific and health criteria” that separate break on England’s “There are obviously there’s been a marginal allows vaccinated people from bracing North Sea coast in SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 underlying political reasons increase in passenger Britain to enter without quar- case their journey to Greece FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected] why they singled out France,” numbers since last week but antine, while those who aren’t became impossible.

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar What we could read so far – and this has to be verified, but if it is the case – using spyware /Peninsula_Qatar against journalists is totally unacceptable. Against

/ThePeninsulaNewspaper any kind of rules we have in the European Union. Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission Chief +974 6698 6188 TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021 EUROPE 09 England’s ‘freedom day’ marred by surging infections

REUTERS — LONDON Johnson’s bet that he can get one of Europe’s Where the industry will see the largest economies firing again because so pain is in the supply chain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s because logistics runs tight ‘freedom day’ ending over a many people are now vaccinated marks a anyway to be efficient.” year of COVID-19 lockdown new chapter in the global response to the British society appears split restrictions in England was on the restrictions: some want marred yesterday by surging coronavirus. If the vaccines prove effective in tough rules to continue as they infections, warnings of super- reducing severe illness and deaths, Johnson’s fear the virus will keep killing market shortages and his own decision could offer a path out of the worst people and overwhelm hos- forced self-isolation. pitals, but others have chafed Johnson’s bet that he can get public health crisis in decades. at the most onerous restrictions one of Europe’s largest econ- in peacetime history. omies firing again because so Johnson faced an outcry on many people are now vacci- abandon a plan to dodge the peak of above 1,800 seen in Sunday when he and finance nated marks a new chapter in 10-day quarantine requirement January. minister Sunak tried to dodge the global response to the for himself and finance minister From midnight, laws in quarantine with a special coronavirus. Rishi Sunak. England requiring masks to be scheme for senior ministers and If the vaccines prove “This is the right moment worn in shops and other indoor civil servants. effective in reducing severe but we’ve got to do it cautiously. settings lapsed, along with He will now isolate at his illness and deaths even while We’ve got to remember that this capacity limits in bars and res- country residence at Chequers infections reach record levels, virus is sadly still out there.” taurants, and rules limiting the after health minister Sajid Javid Johnson’s decision could offer Britain has the seventh number of people who can tested positive. a path out of the worst public highest death toll in the world, socialise together. As the dawn rose over health crisis in decades. If not, 128,708, and is forecast to soon Johnson sets COVID-19 London, clubbers danced more lockdowns could loom. have more new infections each restrictions for England, with through the night at one of the But Johnson’s big day was day than it did at the height of devolved administrations in first rule-free live music events marred by “pingdemic chaos” a second wave of the virus Scotland, Wales and Northern since the pandemic began last as a National Health Service app earlier this year. On Sunday Ireland making their own year. ordered hundreds of thousands there were 48,161 new cases. policy. “I have not been allowed to Demonstrators scuffle with police in Parliament Square, in London, of people to self-isolate - But, outstripping European As businesses across dance for like what seems like yesterday. prompting warnings super- peers, 87% of Britain’s adult England faced a shortage of forever,” said Georgia Pike, 31, market shelves could soon be population has had one vacci- workers due to the NHS app at the Oval Space in Hackney, emptied. nation dose, and more than 68% pinging people and telling them Marks & Spencer CEO Steve cases, so we’re seeing that east London. “If we don’t do it now we’ve have had the two doses which to isolate, supermarkets warned Rowe said. “Our COVID cases growing exponentially.” “I want to dance, I want to got to ask ourselves, when will provide fuller protection. Daily they faced strain. are roughly doubling every “If there’s shortages we’ll hear live music, I want the vibe we ever do it?” Johnson said just deaths, currently at around 40 “It’s a major issue across week and the pinging level is have to manage it by changing of being at a gig, of being around hours after he was forced to per day, are just a fraction of a every industry at the moment,” about three to one of COVID hours of stores, reducing hours. other people.” France, South Pacific nations to combat ‘predatory’ fishing IN BRIEF REUTERS — PARIS actively expanding their activity after a video conference with whether the policy was aimed home. They have ventured into Italy reports 7 in the Pacific to counter China’s the leaders of Australia, the at China’s expansion, a French disputed waters, causing dip- French President Emmanuel influence. Though tiny in land Marshall Islands, Papua New presidential adviser said it tar- lomatic rows with countries virus deaths, Macron said yesterday France mass, Pacific islands control Guinea and representatives of geted illegal fishing that was around the South China Sea but and South Pacific nations would vast swaths of resource-rich New Zealand and other Pacific “for the most part due to private also as far away as Argentina. 2,072 new cases launch a South Pacific coast- ocean called Exclusive Eco- nations. actors”. France, which has island guard network to counter nomic Zones, forming a formi- “We are going to launch a China’s fishing fleets — from territories spanning the Indo- ROME: Italy reported seven “predatory” behaviour, which dable boundary between the network of coastguards for the privately owned craft to com- Pacific including Reunion in the coronavirus-related deaths an adviser said was aimed at Americas and Asia. South Pacific around three main mercial trawlers belonging to Indian Ocean and French Poly- yesterday against three the day illegal fishing, as China expands “To better cope with the objectives: information sharing, publicly listed companies — nesia in the Pacific, has boosted before, the health ministry its maritime reach. predatory logic we are all operational cooperation and have headed deeper into defence ties with Australia and said, while the daily tally of The United States and allies victims of, I want to boost our training,” he said. Southeast Asian waters in India as part of a move to new infections decreased to including France, Japan, Aus- maritime cooperation in the Macron did not name China search of new fishing grounds counter Chinese influence in the 2,072 from 3,127. tralia and New Zealand, are South Pacific,” Macron said in his final remarks. Asked as stocks thin out closer to region. Italy has registered 127,874 deaths linked to COVID-19 since its outbreak emerged in February last year, the second- German Interior Minister highest toll in Europe after Britain and the eighth-highest in the world. The country has rejects criticism over reported 4.29 million cases to date. lack of flood warnings Patients in hospital with COVID-19 — not including REUTERS — STEINBACHTAL DAM step down. those in intensive care — stood Seehofer said in response at 1,188 yesterday, up from German Interior Minister Horst that the German National 1,136 a day earlier. -Reuters Seehofer rejected criticism the Meteorological Service (DWD) government had failed to suffi- issues warnings to Germany’s EU agency to police ciently warn people of last 16 states and from there to dis- week’s floods, as the death toll tricts and communities that Lithuania-Belarus from the country’s worst natural decide at a local level how to frontier disaster in almost six decades respond. rose above 160. “It would be completely VILNIUS: European Union Flooding has devastated inconceivable for such a catas- border agency Frontex will parts of Western Europe since trophe to be managed centrally deploy 60 border guards to last Monday, with the German from any one place. You need police Lithuania’s frontier with states of Rhineland Palatinate local knowledge,” Seehofer Belarus next week after a surge and North Rhine-Westphalia, told journalists yesterday. in migrants crossing illegally, as well as parts of Belgium, “It’s not Berlin that its executive director said among the worst hit. declares a state of emergency, People carry items in an area affected by floods caused by heavy rainfall in Bad Muenstereifel, yesterday. In the Ahrweiler district that is done locally,” he said, Germany, yesterday. In response to EU sanc- south of Cologne, at least 117 adding that criticism of the tions, President Alexander people were killed, and the emergency response was messages had been sent. Merkel on Sunday described as Rhineland-Palatinate, and also Lukashenko has said Belarus death toll is expected to rise as “cheap election campaign Local authorities said yes- “terrifying” scenes. in Bavaria and Saxony, where will no longer stop people the clean-up continues. rhetoric”. terday that the Steinbachtal The DWD weather service there were fresh floods over the trying to enter Lithuania. The high death toll has The devastation of the dam, which had been at risk of had warned on Monday last weekend. Vilnius has accused Minsk raised questions around why so floods, attributed by meteor- breach for several days, week that heavy rain was One government source said since then of flying in migrants many people seemed to have ologists to the effects of prompting the evacuation of heading to western Germany yesterday that immediate relief from abroad to send illegally been surprised by the flash climate change, could shake thousands, had been stabilised and that flooding was very worth around 400 million euros into the 27-nation bloc. flooding. Michael Theurer, a up Germany’s federal election and that residents could return likely. On Wednesday morning, ($340m) was being discussed, Almost 2,100 migrants senior member of the oppo- in September, which until now home later in the day. it said on Twitter that the risk half of which would be paid by have entered the EU member sition Free Democrats (FDP), had seen little discussion of The worst of the flooding of flooding was increasing and the federal government and half state from Belarus illegally this said in an interview with news climate. Accompanying See- saw entire communities cut off called on the population to seek by the states. year, including 1,400 this agency DPA that the toll hofer on his tour of flood- without power or communica- guidance from local The relief package, which is month alone, the Lithuanian revealed a “systemic failure” in stricken areas, disaster man- tions. Residents were trapped authorities. also expected to include billions border guard service said. the emergency response. agement agency head Armin in their homes by fast-rising The German government is of euros for longer-term -Reuters Susanne Hennig-Wellsow, chief Schuster said that warning floodwaters and a number of readying a relief package for rebuilding efforts, is due to be of the left-wing Linke party, on systems had functioned per- houses collapsed, leaving what hard-hit communities in North presented to the cabinet Red Cross staff Sunday called for Seehofer to fectly: over 150 flood warning German Chancellor Angela Rhine-Westphalia and tomorrow. to join migrant EU says use of spyware on journalists is unacceptable rescue boat ROME: A France-based migrant REUTERS — PRAGUE led by the Paris-based non-profit that he had asked the head of the investigation. rescue organization soon will be journalism group Forbidden Hungarian Information Office, a The social media giant getting medical and other The European Union yesterday Stories, said spyware made and secret service under his super- Facebook filed a suit in 2019 assistance aboard its charity condemned any spying on jour- licensed by the Israeli company vision, to investigate. Israeli Health accusing NSO of facilitating gov- ship in the Mediterranean. nalists, after reports that Israeli NSO had been used in attempted Minister Nitzan Horowitz, head ernment hacking sprees in 20 The International Feder- software had been used to hack and successful hacks of 37 smart- of the liberal Meretz party and a countries, after Facebook’s instant ation of Red Cross and Red the smartphones of journalists, phones belonging to journalists, member of Prime Minister Naftali messaging platform WhatsApp Crescent Societies, known as government officials and rights government officials and human Bennett’s decision-making said NSO had exploited a flaw in IFRC, said yesterday that its activists worldwide. rights activists. security cabinet, said he would the program to help governments teams will go aboard the Ocean “What we could read so far — NSO said its product was meet Defence Minister Benny spy on more than 1,400 people Viking rescue ship starting in and this has to be verified, but if it intended only for use by vetted Gantz to discuss NSO’s exports. worldwide, including diplomats, August in the central Mediter- is the case — it is completely unac- government intelligence and law In January 2020, Reuters dissidents, journalists and senior ranean Sea. That’s an area ceptable. Against any kind of rules enforcement agencies to fight ter- reported that the US FBI had since government officials. heavily used by traffickers who we have in the European Union,” rorism and crime. 2017 been investigating NSO’s role Other tech giants including launch unseaworthy boats European Commission President In a statement on its website, website Direkt36, part of the con- in possible hacks on American Microsoft, Google, Cisco and Dell crowded with migrants toward Ursula von der Leyen (pictured) it said the information provided sortium, said the more than 300 residents and companies as well joined the case last December. Italy’s southern shores. The said during a visit to Prague. by the consortium’s sources “has targets in Hungary included jour- as suspected intelligence gath- NSO denied the allegations in Geneva-based organization will “Freedom of media, free press no factual basis”. nalists, businesspeople, lawyers ering on governments, according the suit “in the strongest possible be providing first aid and other is one of the core values of the EU. The investigation, which and critics of Prime Minister to four people familiar with the terms”, saying it would fight them medical care, psychological It is completely unacceptable if Reuters did not independently Viktor Orban’s government. inquiry. The US Justice vigorously. An attempt to argue support, dry clothes and food to this (hacking) were to be the case.” confirm, did not reveal who had Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto Department at the time restated in court that NSO should benefit rescued migrants aboard the An investigation published on attempted the hacks or why. said Hungary was unaware of the its policy of neither confirming nor from sovereign immunity failed ship operated by the charity SOS Sunday by 17 media organisations, The Hungarian investigative reported surveillance attempts but denying the existence of any at the first instance. Mediterranee. -Reuters 10 AMERICAS TUESDAY 20 JULY 2021 US and allies accuse China of global hacking spree

REUTERS — WASHINGTON The United States was joined by Nato, the European Union, Britain, Australia, Japan, New The United States and its allies accused China yesterday of a Zealand and Canada in condemning the spying, global cyberespionage which US Secretary of State Antony Blinken campaign, mustering an unusually broad coalition of said posed ‘a major threat to our economic and countries to publicly call out national security.’ Beijing for hacking. The United States was joined by Nato, the European Union, Adam Segal, a cybersecurity Microsoft Exchange earlier this Britain, Australia, Japan, New expert at the Council on Foreign year to hackers affiliated with Zealand and Canada in con- Relations in New York, called China’s Ministry of State demning the spying, which US yesterday’s announcement a Security. Microsoft had already Secretary of State Antony “successful effort to get friends blamed China. Blinken said posed “a major and allies to attribute the action US officials said the scope threat to our economic and to Beijing, but not very useful and scale of hacking attributed national security.” without any concrete follow- to China has surprised them, Simultaneously, the US up.” Some of yesterday’s state- along with China’s use of Department of Justice charged ments even seemed to pull their “criminal contract hackers.” four Chinese nationals — three punches. While Washington and “The PRC’s Ministry of State security officials and one con- its close allies such as the United Security (MSS) has fostered an tract hacker — with targeting Kingdom and Canada held the ecosystem of criminal contract dozens of companies, univer- Chinese state directly respon- hackers who carry out both sities and government agencies sible for the hacking, others state-sponsored activities and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken delivers remarks at the unveiling of a model of the Statue of in the United States and abroad. were more circumspect. cybercrime for their own Liberty at the French Ambassador's residence, in Washington, DC, US. The Chinese Embassy in Nato merely said that its financial gain,” Blinken said. Washington did not immediately members “acknowledge” the US security and intelligence respond to a request for allegations being leveled against agencies outlined more than 50 senior Chinese officials. “We’re States will impose conse- Department said. Victims were comment. Chinese officials have Beijing by the US, Canada, and techniques and procedures that not ruling out further action to quences. The defendants and in Austria, Cambodia, Canada, previously said China is also a the UK. The European Union “China state-sponsored actors” hold the PRC accountable,” the officials in the Hainan State Germany, Indonesia, Malaysia, victim of hacking and opposes said it was urging Chinese offi- use against US networks, a official said. Security Department, a regional Norway, Saudi Arabia, South all forms of cyberattacks. cials to rein in “malicious cyber senior administration official The United States and China state security office, tried to hide Africa, Switzerland, the United While a flurry of statements activities undertaken from its said. have already been at logger- the Chinese government’s role Kingdom and the United States. from Western powers represent territory” — a statement that left Washington in recent heads over trade, China’s mil- in the information theft by using “These criminal charges a broad alliance, cyber experts open the possibility that the months has focused heavy itary buildup, disputes about the a front company, according to once again highlight that China said the lack of consequences for Chinese government was itself attention on Russia in accusing South China Sea, a crackdown the indictment. continues to use cyber-enabled China beyond the US indictment innocent of directing the Russian hackers of a string of on democracy activists in Hong The campaign targeted trade attacks to steal what other coun- was conspicuous. Just a month espionage. ransomware attacks in the Kong and treatment of the secrets in industries including tries make, in flagrant disregard ago, summit statements by G7 The United States was much United States. The senior admin- Uyghurs in the Xinjiang region. aviation, defence, education, of its bilateral and multilateral and Nato warned China and said more specific, formally attrib- istration official said US con- Blinken cited the Justice government, health care, biop- commitments,” Deputy US it posed threats to the interna- uting intrusions such as the one cerns about Chinese cyber activ- Department indictments as an harmaceutical and maritime Attorney General Lisa Monaco tional order. that affected servers running ities have been raised with example of how the United industries, the Justice said in the statement. US A-G issues broad ban against seizing media records IN BRIEF REUTERS — WASHINGTON York Times, CNN and the Wash- journalists in the course of their California launches largest free ington Post revealed that their job. However, it does contain US Attorney-General Merrick reporters’ records had been some limited exceptions. school lunch program in US Garland formalised a new policy seized during the Trump era in A journalist who is the target yesterday that broadly prohibits an effort to identify their confi- or subject of a criminal investi- SAN FRANCISCO: When classrooms in California reopen for the prosecutors from subpoenaing dential sources for national gation, for instance, can still fall term, all 6.2 million public school students will have the option reporters’ phone and email security stories. have his or her records seized to eat school meals for free, regardless of their family’s income. records, an abrupt shift after the Last month, the Justice in matters not connected to their The undertaking, made possible by an unexpected budget Trump administration secretly Department’s Inspector General “newsgathering activities,” as surplus, will be the largest free student lunch program in the seized records from several Michael Horowitz announced can someone who has used country. School officials, lawmakers, anti-hunger organizations major news outlets in an effort his office had launched an “criminal methods” to obtain the and parents are applauding it as a pioneering way to prevent the to root out leaks. inquiry into the seizure both of information. stigma of accepting free lunches and feed more hungry children. In addition to the new policy, reporters’ records, as well as the However, the policy makes “This is so historic. It’s beyond life-changing,” said Erin Primer, Garland reiterated that the Justice US Attorney-General Merrick records of top Democrats in US. it clear that prosecutors cannot director of food services for the San Luis Coastal Unified School Department would also throw its Garland House of Representatives subpoena a reporter’s records District on California’s central coast. Several US cities including support behind new media shield including House Intelligence merely because the reporter New York, Boston and Chicago already offer free school meals legislation to make the policy Committee Chairman Adam possesses or publishes classified for all. -AP permanent. records of members of the news Schiff and committee member information. “A free and independent media acting within the scope of Eric Swalwell. The protections also do not Fauci says US is ‘pleading’ with press is vital to the functioning of newsgathering activities.” The Justice Department pre- extend in cases where a person our democracy,” the memo says. The Justice Department last viously said it would stop the or entity is an agent of a foreign people to get shots as delta spreads “The Department of Justice month held meetings with media practice, but the details of the government, a member of a ter- will no longer use compulsory executives to discuss formulating new policy had not been made rorist organization or if a per- WASHINGTON: Top US infectious-disease expert Anthony Fauci legal process for the purpose of a new policy, after several media public until yesterday. son’s life is in “imminent risk of said the delta variant of the coronavirus is causing a significant obtaining information from or companies, including the New The memo largely protects death or serious bodily harm.” increase in infections and the Biden administration is “practically pleading” with people to get vaccinated. Delta is much more capable of spreading from person to person In a first under than earlier variants, Fauci said in an interview on Bloomberg Haiti’s interim PM to step down TV’s “Balance of Power with David Westin,” stressing that vac- Biden, detainee cines can protect people from clinically significant disease. AP — PORT-AU-PRINCE truth could one day be restored,” Monique Clesca, a Haitian “You are highly protected against severe disease if you are transferred out of Henry said. writer, activist and former U.N. vaccinated, whereas if you are unvaccinated, you have a rea- Haiti’s designated Prime Minister “Now it is up to all the official, said she doesn’t antic- sonable chance of getting into trouble,” said Fauci, director of the Guantanamo Bay Ariel Henry will replace the national leaders to walk together ipate any changes under Henry, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Shots provide country’s interim prime minister in unity, towards the same goal, whom she expects to carry on far stronger protection against clinically apparent illness than REUTERS — WASHINGTON to honour the wishes of the coun- to show that they are respon- Moïse’s legacy. But she warned against infection, he said. -Bloomberg try’s slain president, an official sible.” The political turnover fol- Henry might be viewed as tainted President Joe Biden’s admin- said yesterday. lowed a statement Saturday from because of the Core Group’s Canada surpasses US in COVID-19 istration said yesterday that it It wasn’t had transferred its first immediately clear vaccinations after slow start detainee from the US military how quickly prison at Guantanamo Bay, a interim Prime OTTAWA: Canada has fully vaccinated 48.8% of its population Moroccan man who had been Minister Claude against COVID-19, overtaking the US rate for the first time after imprisoned since 2002, Joseph, who has a delayed start caused by procurement troubles and distribution lowering the population at the been leading Haiti bottlenecks. facility to 39. with the backing In the US where vaccinations are plateauing in some regions, Set up to house foreign of police and the 48.6% of the population is fully inoculated. suspects following the Sept. 11, military since the Of those old enough to get the vaccine in Canada, 55% have 2001, attacks on New York and July 7 assassi- now received two doses, according to calculations by CTV News Washington, the prison came nation of President based on provincial and federal government data. Health author- to symbolise the excesses of Jovenel Moïse, ities have approved the Pfizer Inc. shot for children 12 years and the US “war on terror” because would step down. older. Rapid progress in the vaccine campaign — Canada had fully of harsh interrogation “Negotiations vaccinated about 3% of its population by the middle of May — is methods critics say amounted are still in course,” opening the way for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government to torture. While former Pres- Haiti Elections to relax travel restrictions on the eve of a likely election cam- ident Donald Trump kept the Minister Mathias paign. -Bloomberg prison open during his four Pierre said, adding years in the White House, that Joseph would US judge hands down man 8-month Biden has vowed to close it. go back to being Abdul Latif Nasir, 56, was minister of foreign prison term in Capitol attack case repatriated to Morocco. He affairs. A file photo of Interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph giving a press conference a had been cleared for release Joseph could week after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. WASHINGTON: A federal judge yesterday handed down an eight- in 2016. not be immedi- month prison sentence to Floridian Paul Hodgkins for his role in “The (Biden) adminis- ately reached for comment, and a key group of international dip- involvement. “If he accepts this, the January 6 attack on the US Capitol, making him the first among tration is dedicated to fol- Henry did not return a message lomats that appeared to snub there is not only a perception, but hundreds of accused rioters facing prosecution to be incarcerated. lowing a deliberate and for comment. However, he Joseph as it called for the creation the reality that he has been put Hodgkins, 38, pleaded guilty on June 2 to obstruction of an thorough process focused on released an audio recording in of “a consensual and inclusive there by the international com- official proceeding, as Congress was in the process of formally responsibly reducing the which he referred to himself as government.” munity, and I think that’s his certifying Joe Biden’s election last November as US president when detainee population of the prime minister and called for “To this end, it strongly burden to carry,” she said. supporters of former President Donald Trump rampaged through Guantanamo facility while also unity. encourages the designated Prime “What we’re calling for is for the building. safeguarding the security of Henry said he would soon Minister Ariel Henry to continue Haitians to really say this is unac- At a sentencing hearing yesterday, prosecutor Mona Sedky the United States and its announce the members of what the mission entrusted to him to ceptable. We do not want the told US District Judge Randolph Moss that Hodgkins, a Tampa allies,” State Department he called a provisional consensus form such a government,” the international community stating resident, donned goggles before entering the Senate chamber spokesman Ned Price said in government that would lead the statement from the Core Group who ought to be in power and during the riot and “proudly posed for selfies,” which he texted a statement. country until elections are held. said. what ought to be done. It is up to to friends. Morocco’s general prose- “I present my compliments The Core Group is composed us.” The US Embassy issued a Sedky acknowledged that Hodgkins did not destroy any cutor said in a statement that to the Haitian people who have of ambassadors from Germany, brief statement saying it property “and he did not injure anyone.” In a statement to the Nasser would be investigated shown political maturity in the Brazil, Canada, Spain, the U.S., encouraged civil society to play court, Hodgkins said he was “remorseful and regretful” for his for suspected involvement in face of what can be considered France, the European Union and an active role in building con- actions in Washington and acknowledged that these actions may terrorist acts, and a police a coup.... Our Haitian brothers representatives from the United sensus in Haiti, adding that it was have emboldened others to engage in destructive acts. source said he had been taken gave peace a chance, while Nations and the Organization of essential to strengthening “This was a foolish decision on my part that I take full respon- into custody in Casablanca. leaving the possibility that the American States. democracy. sibility for,” Hodgkins told the court. -Reuters