www.thepeninsula.qa Wednesday 29 April 2020 Volume 25 | Number 8242 6 Ramadan - 1441 2 Riyals

BUSINESS | 01 PENMAG | 06 SPORT | 12

GWC posts Classifieds Olympic QR50.3m and Services Games chief in net section rules out profits included further delay

Amir directs Amir approves three sending urgent medical aid to Cabinet decisions Algeria QNA — DOHA QNA — DOHA of Commerce & Industry. The decision is effective starting from its date of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al issues and is to be published in the Hamad Al Thani has directed Thani approved yesterday the Cabinet official gazette. sending urgent medical aid to decision No. 10 of 2020 to form a H H the Amir also approved yes- the sisterly People’s Demo- committee on real estate sector devel- terday the Cabinet decision No. 12 of cratic Republic of Algeria, in opment strategy. 2020 on the executive regulations of support of efforts of the The committee will be chaired by Law No. 1 of 2020 regarding the unified brothers in Algeria to fight the H E the Minister of Municipality and economic registry. outbreak of the pandemic of Environment. The decision is effective starting coronavirus. The committee will have the mem- from the day following the date of its bership of a representative from each publication in the official gazette. of Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Qatari committee Finance, Ministry of Justice, Ministry Al Thani approved yesterday the gives ‘Maskan of Municipality and Environment, Cabinet decision No. 11 of 2020, on reor- Ministry of Commerce & Industry, ganising Qatar National Commission Kareem’ project's Ministry of Administrative Devel- for Education, Culture and Science. opment, Labor and Social Affairs, The decision is effective starting first payment in Qatar Central Bank, Qatar Financial from its date of issue and is to be pub- Markets Authority and Qatar Chamber lished in the official gazette. Gaza Strip

QNA — GAZA

Chairman of Qatar’s Gaza 5 hospitals designated to treat COVID-19 patients Reconstruction Committee H E Ambassador Mohammed QNA — DOHA allowed to work in treatment Five hospitals and four health centers dedicated for development and innovation Al Emadi said that the institutions in the government COVID-19 services centers have provided Hamad Committee, in coordination Director of the Public Health sector in order to strengthen the Medical Corporation with some with Qatar Fund for Devel- Department of the Ministry of medical and paramedical staff Licensed practitioners in private sector allowed to of the equipment available in opment (QFFD) has delivered Public Health, Dr. Sheikh in the face of the coronavirus order to help speed up labo- the first financial payment of Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani, and provide more and faster work in government treatment institutions ratory testing procedures. the State of Qatar’s grant to a has stated that Qatar has so far medical and nursing services. He announced that Qatar number of beneficiaries from designated five hospitals to care Responding to a question Qatar Foundation is working on developing a test Foundation is also working on the Maskan Kareem (A Decent for COVID-19 patients along with related to the future plans of the that would help determine the presence of COVID-19 developing a test that would help House) project to renovate the four health centers for testing, Ministry of Public Health to handle in terms of determining the homes of the poor in Gaza Strip. examining and keeping the spread of the COVID-19 QF and Qatar Computing Research Institute to develop presence of COVID-19, in addition H E Ambassador Al Emadi suspected cases in addition to a disease, Dr. Al Thani said that the an application for diagnosis and monitoring to developing potential treatment explained that about 120 families hospital for medical isolation. goal of addressing this pandemic mechanisms. Furthermore, it is in Gaza Strip are expected to In an interview with Qatar was not only to slow the spread About 30 hotels are equipped with the highest working in cooperation with benefit from $1m grant for reno- News Agency (QNA), he has said of the virus to reduce the number standards of safety for quarantine Qatar Computing Research vating the homes of the poor. that five hospitals were designated of infected people and decrease Institute to develop an application H E pointed out that the to treat COVID-19 patients, which its burden on the health system, Health cadres have been trained and qualified for diagnosis and monitoring. process of selecting the bene- are the Communicable Disease but the main objective from the On a question regarding ficiary families was done in Center, Hazm Mebaireek General beginning was to prevent an remotely by WHO experts quarantine that was imple- cooperation with the Public Hospital, The Cuban Hospital, ascendant curve as much as 10 percent of those infected with the virus do not mented since the beginning of Works Ministry for those clas- Mesaieed Hospital, and Ras Laffan possible. the crisis, the Director of Public sified in the Ministry’s lists as Hospital, in addition to four health “We have faced a serious show clinical symptoms Health revealed that about 30 the worst cases economically centers for testing, examining and challenge since the end of Feb- hotels were equipped with the and most in need of restoration, keeping suspected cases, which ruary after the Qatari citizens equipment, the Ministry of which is monitored through highest standards of safety for which met the criteria for ben- are Gharafat Al Rayyan, Umm were evacuated from Iran, in Public Health accelerated the periodic reports. quarantine, where rooms were efiting from the project. `P3 Salal, Muaither and Rawdat Al addition to the return of citizens provision of medical, nursing He also pointed to the launch allocated for individual cases Khail health centers. from the affected countries to and technical cadres and of the “For Qatar” campaign by and for families, in addition to Ramadan Timing The Director of the Public Qatar, which contributed to the employed additional physicians the Ministry of Public Health clinics within hotels for medical Health Department added that increase in the number of infec- to support the medical and with the aim of attracting vol- and paramedical personnel for medical isolation hospital in tions and the rise in the nursing staff assigned to work unteers to help reduce the case management, evaluation, Today's Iftar: Umm Salal area was made numbers of new cases,” he said. in the field to respond to the spread of the pandemic. The vol- monitoring and follow-up. ready on April 9, 2020, with a On the medical teams’ corona epidemic. unteers were trained at the Edu- He stated that medical staff 6:06pm capacity of 12,500 beds, and it current handling of the corona- He added that the health cation City’s Student Center in perform daily medical evalu- is equipped with all the nec- virus crisis, the Director of the cadres have been trained and Qatar Foundation for Education, ation of the resident in quar- Tomorrow's essary health requirements, Public Health Department said qualified remotely by WHO Science and Community Devel- antine to detect his health status facilities and safety to receive due to the State’s keenness on experts, pointing out that opment (QF), and they have and measure the temperature Imsak: those infected with the virus. the right of everyone to health, quality and performance indi- embarked on their volunteering and ensure that no pathological 03:28am He also revealed that including providing the nec- cators have been developed to work with enthusiasm. symptoms appear as tests are licensed practitioners in the essary medical care for them measure the readiness of the Dr. Al Thani also said that done every two days periodically private sector were recently and the necessary supplies and hospital system in the country, Qatar Foundation’s research, to detect the virus. `P2 Number of COVID-19 recoveries Employers asked Restaurants start contactless to open bank home delivery to tackle virus reaches 1,134 as new cases decline accounts for SACHIN KUMAR to give exact amount of cash to — DOHA domestic workers THE PENINSULA and the recovery of 68 cases of Qatar till yesterday stands at THE PENINSULA the delivery person. the disease, bringing the total 11,921 and there are 10,777 THE PENINSULA — DOHA “All of our deliveries are now The Ministry of Public Health number of recovered cases to active cases under treatment. Stepping up efforts to ensure a completely contactless for your (MoPH) has announced the 1,134, yesterday. The Ministry conducted 2898 The Ministry of Administrative safe and clean dining expe- safety and that of our riders,” said registration of 677 new The total number of positive tests yesterday taking the total Development, Labour and rience for customers, the Pizza Hut on its website. “Our confirmed cases of COVID-19 COVID-19 cases recorded in tests done so far to 88,607 tests. Social Affairs has called on restaurants and online food drivers use mini-stools to place Most of the new cases regis- employers to open bank delivery platforms have started food on while they step back to tered are due to expatriate workers accounts for domestic workers. contactless home delivery help keep a safe distance from QATAR UPDATES working in different occupations This comes as part of service. KFC, Pizza Hut, your home entrance. Simply pick C VID-19 ON 28 APRIL 2020 who have been in contact with Qatar’s keenness to provide Talabat, Hardee’s and other up your order from our sanitised previously discovered cases, as banking services to all seg- restaurants and have started mini-stool, then enjoy your deli- well as recording new cases of ments of society, including offering contactless home cious meal,” it added explaining COVID-19 among groups of domestic workers, and Qatar delivery of food orders to limit the steps involved in contactless NEW TOTAL ACTIVE NEW CASES workers from outside the indus- Central Bank circular regarding the spread of COVID-19. home delivery. RECOVERIES RECOVERIES CASES ANNOUNCED trial area who were identified opening accounts and banking The idea behind the con- “In light of recent events with 68 1134 10777 677 through testing by the Ministry. services for domestic workers, tactless delivery is to avoid any the outbreak of COVID-19 (coro- This has contributed to the early said the Ministry in a statement kind of contact between the navirus), we’d like to keep you detection of new cases. on its official website. delivery person and the cus- informed of the steps we’ve The remainder of new cases The Ministry clarified that tomer receiving the food item. taken at Pizza Hut in partnership infected with the virus have the opening of bank accounts Once the customer has opted with the government to assure come from citizens and resi- will be free of charge and for contactless home delivery, you that our number one priority C VID-19 dents who have contracted the without minimum balance the delivery person keeps the is the health and safety of our NEW GLOBALLY virus from members of their through banking applications. food near the door at the des- customers,” added Pizza Hut. DEATHS families, who in turn had con- The Ministry also stressed ignated place and steps back to The move is aimed at 3,094,829 215,461 920,044 tracted the virus through their the importance of educating maintain a safe distance. If the increasing the trust of customers TOTAL TOTALTOTAL TOTALTOTAL 0 workplaces or other places the worker on how to use the customer has opted for cash and ensuring customer’s and POSITIVE DEATHSDEATHS RECOVEREDRECOVERED where they had been to exposed application to conduct banking payment instead of online rider’s safety by maintaining to infected people. `P3 transactions. `P3 payment, then he is required highest possible hygiene. `P3 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 Five hospitals designated to treat COVID-19 patients FROM PAGE 1 With regard to the increasing number of Health has been working since He also indicated that all positive COVID-19 cases in Qatar, Dr. Al Thani the beginning of the crisis to services are provided in hotels, accelerate the national efforts including Internet service to has said that the noticeable increase is due and enhance capabilities, allow residents to commu- to several reasons, including that the spread logistic supplies, proactive nicate with family and friends. precautionary preparations Room service is also provided, of the virus has begun to enter the peak stage and measures to curb the including cleaning on a daily (i.e. the highest wave that affects the country), spread of this disease, in coor- basis, while the hotel provides dination with WHO by taking laundry and delivery services. which may continue to increase for a period of into consideration COVID-19 He noted that leaving the room time before it begins to decline. guidelines and scientific evi- is forbidden if there is no dence released by the necessity in order to prevent organization. direct contact in accordance this advanced service allows pointing out that the Ministry On the regional level, Qatar with rules of social the collection of blood plasma has formed teams to trace and took part in the meeting of distancing. from people who have detect disease early, to coor- Health Ministers of the Gulf The Director of Public recovered from the corona- dinate with Department of Cooperation Council (GCC) that Health explained that residents virus and gives it to people who Laboratory Medicine and was held on March 14, via The Director of the Public Health Department of the Ministry of in quarantine are authorised are currently receiving Pathology and to approve the video conference to discuss the Public Health, Dr. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani. to leave after it is confirmed treatment for the virus, as the available data in the influenza measures followed by each that they are free of the virus, antibodies present in the blood surveillance system and related country to curb the spread of depending on the clinical organizations have adhered to which underlines the impor- plasma taken from the diseases and recommendations coronavirus, including the examination and the result of the directives of Amir H H tance of scanning and doing recovered can help patients and directives of the WHO. measures followed at entry laboratory analyses and the Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al- other laboratory tests. undergoing treatment to He added that the Ministry points, statistics related to the report by the treatment team. Thani, as well as the national He added that the medical enhance their resistance to the formed the National Pandemic virus, preparedness of the He said that the 14 day executive plan and instructions team performs medical exam- virus. Preparedness Committee to health sector, media and period is adequate for quar- of the Supreme Committee for inations and diagnosing the With regard to the number study the situation in the awareness-raising plans and antine, and it is calculated Crisis Management to fight case, studies the medical of examinations that are being country, develop plans and emergency plans, he added. starting from the last contact COVID-19. history of the patient and iden- implemented to detect the projects and follow up on the He said that Qatar’s great with an infected person. When He pointed out that all min- tifies their chronic diseases virus, Dr. Mohammed bin implementation of these plans efforts to combat the crisis of there is a positive case of istries have participated in this (heart and artery diseases, dia- Hamad Al Thani said that from to address the disease. The coronavirus did not stop it COVID-19 with clinical collective approach, along with betes, asthma), as well as the beginning, laboratories committee is composed of from lending a hand and help symptoms, the patient will be health, academic and research determines the stage of the affiliated with the Department active members of the MoPH to other countries, as the State transferred to isolation hos- institutions as well as the civil disease and complications, of Laboratory Medicine and and other relevant ministries of Qatar sent medical aids to pital, he said. society organizations and the especially difficulty breathing, Pathology at HMC have carried in coordination with the Higher the People’s Republic of China, With regard to the private sector in order to find in addition to estimating out the necessary medical lab- Committee for Crisis Man- the Islamic Republic of Iran, increasing number of positive the best ways to reduce the whether the patient is in need oratory tests, with the total agement and a group of the Italian Republic, the Leb- COVID-19 cases in Qatar, Dr Al social and economic impact of of an artificial respirator, so number of laboratory exams medical teams has been formed anese Republic, in addition to Thani has said that the this epidemic. that oxygen can be provided. exceeding 85,000 tests and to support the work of the financial support to the Pales- noticeable increase is due to As for the steps that are An X-ray (scanner) is also taken modern laboratory techniques committees. tinian people in Gaza Strip. several reasons, including that taken after finding a COVID-19 if necessary to detect whether are used. Several field medical Dr. Al Thani said that the the spread of the virus has case, the Director of the Public or not there is pneumonia, as Regarding the other possi- teams, including doctors, Ministry of Public Health is fol- begun to enter the peak stage Health Department explained well as a sample from the bilities offered by the Ministry nurses and technicians were lowing with interest what is (i.e. the highest wave that that once an infection is con- throat through the mouth and of Public Health (MoPH) to deal allocated from the MoPH, HMC being done by two leading uni- affects the country), which may firmed, the patient will be nose to search for the virus. The with the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Primary Health Care versities, namely University of continue to increase for a placed the isolation room at the test results can be available in the Director explained that Corporation to tackle the virus. Cambridge and Carnegie period of time before it begins Communicable Disease Center, less than 24 hours. since the emergence of severe Dr. Al Thani said that Mellon University (CMU) sep- to decline. It is also due to the which is a negative-pressure A serum sample is also acute respiratory syndrome within the context of cooper- arately, to develop apps that steady increase in the efforts room equipped with HEPA air taken for serological testing, in (SARS) in 2003 and swine flu ation of all sectors with the listen to users’ coughs and of the Ministry and its medical filtration system, which is a addition to prescribing 5-day in 2009, the Ministry has estab- MoPH, a smartphone app - voices to predict whether they teams to track the transmission standard technology used to chloroquine treatment and lished a system to monitor named Ehteraz - has been are infected with the chains of coronavirus and prevent the transmission of antipyretics, performing the influenza and influenza-like launched, with the aim of coronavirus. expand the surveillance pollution from a room to necessary tests for the patient’s illness (ILI). This system has strengthening the State’s pre- Updates related to coordi- process, including of groups of another, in order to avoid the family and monitoring the been linked to the Department cautionary efforts to tackle the nation between technology contacts with people who were transmission of the virus. The health of their family, close of Laboratory Medicine and coronavirus and to carry out giants such as Facebook, previously diagnosed with the patient can also be placed ones and all of those who have Pathology at HMC, which has multiple services to enhance Amazon and Google with the disease. under isolation at the Hazm been in contact with the case. been named as a National preventive measures and World Health Organization Dr. Thani also talked about Mebaireek General Hospital The Director of the Public Influenza Center by the World reduce the spread of the virus. (WHO) are also being followed the efforts made by various which has been designated for Health Department spoke Health Organization (WHO). On cooperation with up regarding the provision of sectors in the country to that purpose, or any other des- about the unit of plasma He said that this is the way regional and international digital epidemiology tools, chat combat the COVID-19, saying ignated health facilities. donation from the recovered on which the national surveil- authorities and organizations robots, rapid response test kits that all the governmental and He said that 10 percent of COVID-19 patients. The unit lance mechanism is being built to combat coronavirus, the and other technologies to non-governmental sectors as those infected with the virus do was opened at the Hamad in responding to the emerging Director of Public Health told reduce the epidemic and well as the civil society not show clinical symptoms, Medical Corporation (HMC) and coronavirus pandemic, QNA that the Ministry of Public address it. Protective plastic shields installed in Karwa cabs to beef up safety

RAYNALD C RIVERA passenger who hired a Karwa receive the goods that you have THE PENINSULA cab to purchase groceries at a ordered,” said Mahmoud. hypermarket yesterday. For Cathy, another taxi Taxi passengers are quick to He also lauded the fact that passenger, the preventive praise the move of Karwa cabs drivers use face masks and measures being taken by taxi to further beef up safety and gloves as well as they make operators are very important security measures amid the sure to sanitise the hands of nowadays with the rise in the COVID-19 pandemic by passengers whenever they number of COVID-19 cases and installing protective plastic board the cab. since travelling is still inevitable shields that act as barrier Mahmoud, a frequent taxi for some who still go to work between passengers and rider, said it gives him “a specially the frontliners. drivers. feeling of extra security” “Everyone should take care The shields fitted between though he believes the best way of themselves when going out. the front and back seats of the to feel safe and secure is to stay And we should always follow vehicles provide additional home. simple preventive measures protection to taxi drivers and “The thing is I still have to from the government such as passengers from the corona- go out and buy important washing hands frequently, A protective plastic shield is installed in one of the Karwa taxis. PIC: RAYNALD C RIVERA/THE PENINSULA virus during journeys. things that I need like fresh avoiding touching the face and “Having the plastic shield vegetables, bread and meat. maintaining social distance,” gives everyone peace of mind I’ve tried to order groceries she said. As an additional payment in which a taxi pas- have always reminded the gatherings, maintaining social knowing that it protects both online but delivery slots are measure to support the coun- senger can pay using credit public to adhere to all nec- distance and following the passenger and the driver always full and processing also try’s efforts in reducing the risk card by registering it through essary measures to prevent the infection control practices to against possible COVID-19 takes time that you have to wait of COVID-19 infection, Karwa the Karwa Taxi App. spread of COVID-19 infection promote the safety of the indi- transmission,” said Martin, a for several days before you earlier introduced cashless Government authorities such as staying home, avoiding vidual and others. 'Connecting For Care' gets overwhelming response from workers FAZEENA SALEEM (QF), with the World Innovation declared a pandemic, we were one of and support,” he said. “The only way THE PENINSULA Summit for Health (WISH) – QF’s the companies locally that was quick this program has been able to launch global health initiative – playing an to respond. And because we operate so quickly is because of the true team Thousands have visited ‘Connecting important role; Education Above All in other countries, we were prepared spirit behind this project. The respon- For Care,’ an interactive online Foundation through its program Reach to address the COVID-19 situation sibility for taking the lead did not fall platform which provides social Out To Asia (ROTA) and Modaris (Dlala before it started to affect Qatar,” said on any one entity, and everyone con- support to quarantined workers in Smart), a local EdTech company that Al Haidari. tributed by harnessing their particular Qatar, offering members the oppor- was founded by an alumnus of QF “And with the right partners, we skills and strengths to meet the social tunity to talk to someone in their own partner university Texas A&M Uni- were able to find a project where we needs of the community,” he added. language. versity at Qatar. could use our experience and our Speaking about the timeframe of The page was launched in mid In terms of how it works Con- unique structure to build something the project, Al Haidari said that there April and resourced by trained volun- necting for Care, there is a page on that is meaningful and productive,” he is set timeline but they see it as a short teers who offer multi-lingual conver- Modaris where workers can log on, added. term project that can help people. sations with workers, and provide choose their language of preference, Al Haidari said that the idea of “The project is designed to help in government-approved information and then find the chatbox where they Connecting for Care came from QF ini- the battle against COVID-19, and we about protective measures against can connect with somebody. It’s a very tially, then discussed with Education will keep going until we come out of COVID-19. simple process. Above All’s Reach Out To Asia on how this victorious,” he said. “Thousands of workers have information regarding the current Through live one-on-one chats, to put together the plan, and the best According to Al Haidari, Modaris already visited the page and have con- COVID-19 situation in Qatar, which conversations will take place in way to roll it out. is a company that develops and inno- nected with volunteers. And this is only we did. And we regularly receive English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, Nepali, “The ministries then joined. They vates but not just for profit and the a start – we can accommodate more feedback from our volunteers, so the Bengali, Malayalam, Sinhala, Tamil, had a few questions at the start – most important thing is that they have people,” said Haitham Al Haidari (pic- platform is continuously updated. We and Tagalog. understandably, as if we were to been able to help the country. tured), Co-founder and CEO of try to update it in different languages “The reason this is different from launch on a nationwide project, we “Therefore, we believe that the Modaris, speaking about Connecting so that we are able to reach as many others is that for the past couple of needed to ensure that the project was biggest takeaway will be showing how for Care, and the contribution that people as possible,” he added. years Modaris has been growing in regulated and aligned with what the local companies can make a dif- Modaris is making to this initiative. Developed in response to the terms of connecting people. We’ve country was doing on a wider level. ference, that there are high-quality “There has been some feedback in current COVID-19 crisis, Connecting been recognized globally for our inno- Once these details were ironed out, local companies – across all indus- terms of the platform itself. We For Care is a digital community col- vations; for connecting people in order the ministries came onboard officially, tries – that have the capabilities, and received requests to add more laboration between Qatar Foundation to get a service. When COVID-19 was and have offered us a great deal of help can really help,” he said. WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 HOME 03 Qatar promotes multilateralism in UN virtual dialogue QNA — NEW YORK H E Sheikha Alia Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani said additional challenge that in the twenty-first century Jean Asselborn as well as Fab- requires the unification of depends on that. rizio Hochschild Drummond, The Ambassador H E Sheikha that the spread of the pandemic is an additional efforts, cooperation and inter- Her Excellency said that the Undersecretary-General of the Alia Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, challenge that requires the unification of national solidarity. The virus consultations will continue to United Nations and Special Permanent Representative of reached all countries in the communicate remotely, and Adviser on Preparations for the the State of Qatar to the United efforts, cooperation and international solidarity. world and did not distinguish that the main challenges will be Seventy-Fifth United Nations Nations, has affirmed that the The virus reached all countries and did not between them and became a built on, which are the ongoing Anniversary. 75th anniversary of the test for all, she added. conflicts, climate change, the The participants stressed founding of the United Nations distinguish between them and became a test She noted that this situation absence of confidence globally, the importance of multilateral is an opportunity to renew the for all, she added. comes at a time when work is and the positive and negative cooperation and the interna- principles and values estab- being done to plan for the future aspects of emerging technol- tional system based on the lished by the founders of the of the United Nations. She ogies. She also drew attention system in facing many chal- United Nations as well as to Meeting with the participation the “Global Challenges Foun- reviewed the process of consul- to the need to focus on the lenges facing the world in enhance multilateralism. of heads of State and gov- dation”; with the aim of high- tations on the statement of the COVID-19 crisis, with its dimen- various economic, environ- This came in a speech in ernment on the 75th anni- lighting the importance of high-level meeting of heads of sions and effects, and how to mental and legal fields. They which H E the Ambassador, in versary of the founding of the global governance and the cel- state and government in light deal with it, which has become also underlined the importance her capacity as facilitator in United Nations next September. ebration of multilateralism, of the developments of the pan- part of the political of the global response to the partnership with the Permanent And that was in the virtual dia- within the framework of the demic, stressing that the declaration. corona pandemic, taking into Delegate of Sweden, partici- logue held, under the title “The 75th anniversary of the political declaration is mean- The virtual dialogue was account the economic and pated in consultations between Future We Want - The United founding of the United Nations. ingful and not far from the suf- inaugurated by HE Minister of social impacts, as well as member States on the draft Nations We Need” and Her Excellency said that the fering and aspirations of people Foreign Affairs of Sweden Ann responding to the Secretary- political declaration to be organised by the Government spread of the pandemic of the around the world, as the effec- Linde, and H E Minister of General’s call for a global adopted at the High-level of Sweden in partnership with coronavirus (COVID-19) is an tiveness of the United Nations Foreign Affairs of Luxembourg ceasefire. Ooredoo backs Silatech’s MoI urges people to register their fundraising campaign national address THE PENINSULA — DOHA economic impact of the pandemic. THE PENINSULA — DOHA Ooredoo announced yesterday Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, that it is the "Official Telecom- Director PR at Ooredoo, said: The Ministry of Interior (MoI) munications Partner" of “As we all continue our efforts has urged people to register Silatech’s fundraising to fight the ongoing corona- their national address through campaign, to help young virus outbreak, and enter the Metrash2 or MoI website. people negatively financially Holy Month of Ramadan in “We remind people, cit- impacted by the ongoing these challenging times, we izens or expats and legal COVID-19 pandemic. encourage our customers and persons, of the need to register Silatech is an international communities to help support their national addresses non-profit organisation, vulnerable members of our through Metrash 2 and the helping young people access communities as much as pos- website of the Ministry,” the employment in order for them sible. For many young people Ministry tweeted. to be able to provide for them- with families to support, losing The Ministry said over one selves and support their fam- their source of income is likely million people in Qatar have ilies. Since its inception in to have a significant negative registered themselves in the 2008, until the first quarter of impact on both the person and national address while the reg- 2019, Silatech’s innovative pro- their family, and we’re proud istration process will continue grammes and initiatives have to be working with Silatech to The representatives of the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Tehran and Iran’s Assistant Minister of until July 26, 2020. succeeded in facilitating some mitigate this impact where we Health for International Affairs, Jalal Naeli, receiving the medical aid in Tehran. The registration started on 1.4 million jobs for young can. We thank everyone for January 27, 2020 and will con- people in more than 17 coun- their support, and wish you all tinue until July 26. Every tries in Africa and the Middle a safe and blessed Ramadan.” Third shipment of Qatari medical aid arrives in Iran applicant is responsible for East, and its aim is to link more Donations can be made QNA — TEHRAN has arrived in the Islamic novel coronavirus.The medical giving the correct information than 5 million with jobs by quickly and easily at silatech. Republic of Iran. aid was received by represent- and there is a fine of QR10,000 2022. org/donate. Silatech’s fund- In implementation of the direc- This medical aid comes atives of the Embassy of the for giving false information. Silatech is working to raising campaign is licensed by tives of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim within the framework of the State of Qatar in Tehran, in The fine also applies for not create employment for young the Charity Regulatory bin Hamad Al Thani, the third State of Qatar’s support for the addition to Iran’s Assistant Min- registering during the 6-month people who have been affected Authority under No. shipment of medical aid (16 efforts made by the Iranian ister of Health for International period. The fine can be recon- by job losses due to the 15-2020-2020-16-59-60. tonnes) from the State of Qatar government in combating the Affairs, Jalal Naeli. ciled to QR5,000 before reaching the court. The Ministry further said that the national address data Ehsan supporting elderly people during COVID-19 outbreak include one’s residence address in Qatar, landline and SIDI MOHAMED empower, he added. that receives calls from older to safeguard the mental and cell phone numbers, e-mail THE PENINSULA Ehsan supports older persons in the community and physical health in the coming address, and work address for Although confronting the coro- persons and their families in their families and provides them weeks and months. those who work in gov- navirus requires a ‘whole of many ways, including reaching with guidance, general psycho- It will activate remote day ernment or private sector. society’ approach and the out to all elderly people who are social support during this crisis, care programs for older persons It also said that the engagement of well-informed beneficiaries of Ehsan’s services and referral when needed. who are members of Ehsan national address is the data of and responsible citizens and (home-care, physical therapy, “We continue to care for Clubs, and engage them in using the individual or the company government, private, and civil and Ehsan clubs) through the older persons residing at Al-Iwa digital modes of communication for communicating with gov- society, it is a fact that older launching of a centre-wide tele- Residential home who do not on which they were previously ernmental and non-govern- persons are the most vulnerable community outreach service have any other shelter, taking trained by Ehsan with the aim mental agencies. population group who need the that regularly checks in with all necessary precautions health of occupying the time of older most protection and support. older persons to assess their measures to protect them and persons in a way that benefits In a statement to The overall condition and provide keep them well,” he said them and keeps them COVID-19 Peninsula, Mubarak bin advice, reassurance, and raise The Director added that connected. Abdulaziz Al Khalifa (pictured), community-based outreach and their morale. Text messages Ehsan is launching an Ehsan is one of the centres recoveries reach Executive Director of the Centre support for this particular age with key awareness raising awareness campaign entitled affiliated with Qatar Foundation for Elderly Empowerment and group a national and collective guidance are also being dissem- ‘Their health is precious to us’ for Social Work. From March 15 1,134; new Care (Ehsan), said that “In order social responsibility.” inated to the mobile phones of through social media platforms to 31, Qatar Foundation for to continue empowering and They are the dearest to our registered families, said the to disseminate information and Social Work and the centres cases decline supporting older people and hearts- they are our parents, Ehsan Director. raise awareness about the virus affiliated with it have provided FROM PAGE 1 their families during this crisis uncles, aunts, and grandparents, He also said among other and its consequences, and more than 10,000 services. and home quarantining phase, the older population that Ehsan ways to help elderly people is empower older persons with About 5,080 people have ben- All the new infected cases Ehsan sees its role in is dedicated to serve and establishing a helpline service knowledge and advice on how efited from these services. have been quarantined where they are receiving the nec- essary medical care. The Min- Employers asked to open bank istry has said that most infected cases being identified accounts for domestic workers are in people who are showing FROM PAGE 1 only mild symptoms of the protect customers’ data and virus. One of the most prominent money. The circular mentioned The Ministry stated that the electronic banking services is to that the employer can cancel the noticeable increase in the transfer the worker’s salary worker’s bank card immediately number of confirmed new easily to their accounts, as this is after the end of the contract cases of coronavirus is due to compatible with the wage pro- period between them, and the several reasons, including that tection system. remaining balance in the card is the spread of the virus has Likewise, the ability to liquidated for the benefit of the begun to enter the peak stage transfer funds electronically, pay worker. To provide safety and where numbers are expected expenses, use the card for pur- adherence to the instructions of to continue to increase before chases and make withdrawals the Ministry of Public Health, the they begin to gradually from ATMs by the domestic worker’s bank card will be sent decline. worker. Banks are keen to by post to the employer’s home The reason for recent high provide these electronic services address without the need to visit numbers of positive cases is in safe and secure ways to the branch. that the Ministry has redoubled its efforts in tracking corona- Restaurants start contactless home delivery virus transmission chains and FROM PAGE 1 expanded the search for Staying at home guarantee that your food is kept infected people by conducting With COVID-19 regulations in place, roads and streets in Qatar are seen almost deserted. A view of “Customers are strongly safe and clean, we are intro- extensive and proactive tests the empty Corniche road. PIC: ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA encouraged to pay with debit/ ducing the contactless delivery of groups of contacts with credit cards online for a smooth service, where your food is people who have been con- contactless delivery experience. dropped at your doorstep with firmed with the disease previ- If you are paying with cash, zero contact,” said KFC Qatar on ously. This early detection of please prepare the exact amount, its website. Last week, the Min- many cases of infection helps Qatari committee gives ‘Maskan Kareem’ otherwise, your delivery will not istry of Municipality and Envi- reduce the spread of the virus be contactless,” Hardee’s wrote ronment (MME) had launched a further. The Ministry has project’s first payment in Gaza Strip on its website explaining about campaign to educate children called on all members of FROM PAGE 1 contactless home delivery. about the importance of society to stay at home and not priority given to widows, offices in Gaza for about 60 of Last month, the Ministry of receiving home delivery services go out except in cases of The criteria suggests that orphans and chronic disease the families who have met the Commerce and Industry had safely. The campaign ‘Junior necessity and to implement the beneficiary must not have patients. H E Ambassador Al necessary procedures to begin instructed delivery companies Home Inspector’ provides basic preventive measures and a stable source of income and Emadi said that the first the restoration, while the rest to follow strict precautionary information to children about maintain physical distancing, that there must be at least seven financial payment was will be distributed to the rest of measures to preserve the safety receiving home delivery services including in the workplace and family member or more, with delivered through the post the families in the coming days. of citizens and residents. “To safely. public places. 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 HOME 05 06 HOME WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 Sharq Village & Spa, The Ritz-Carlton Doha, Al Messila Resort & Spa, Sheraton Grand launch unique Iftar, Suhour delivery menu THE PENINSULA — DOHA Hofer, General Manager of Al Messila, a Luxury Collection While celebrating a true spirit Resort & Spa, Doha. of unity and sharing this Belal Al Kadry, General Ramadan, Sharq Village & Spa, Manager of Sheraton Grand The Ritz-Carlton Doha, Al Doha Resort & Convention Messila Resort & Spa and Hotel, said: “As Sheraton Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Grand Doha is Qatar’s iconic Convention Hotel have hotel and the most recog- launched Ramadan Weyakum, nizable social landmark in the a unique Iftar and Suhour menu country, we always seek to for home delivery. incorporate the heritage and Talented and passionate local element into the experi- chefs came together and ences we put forth for our created a culinary journey guests. We always say, ‘our curated with beloved traditional FROM LEFT: Ziad Mallah, Hotel Manager at Sharq Village & Spa Hotel; Christian Sack, General Manager The Ritz-Carlton Doha; Patrizia heritage is your heritage.’ We recipes from four of the most Hofer, General Manager of Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha; Belal Al Kadry, General Manager of Sheraton Grand Doha aim to make the essence of the iconic restaurants: Parisa, Resort & Convention Hotel. Holy Month come alive in par- B-Lounge, Veritas and Al allel with Al Messila Resort & Hubara. “The Holy Month of Grand Doha Resort & Con- “We are honored to collab- Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Spa, Sharq Village & Spa, and From B-Lounge Chicken Ramadan is a much revered vention Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton orate all together to create a Doha. Ritz-Carlton. Every single Salad and Veritas’ Lasagna tradition with age-old customs Hotel and Al Messila Resort & memorable experience “Here at Al Messila Resort & detail has been designed to Bolognese, to Parisa’s Chelo that resonate deeply”, said Spa to unite in crafting new “Ramadan Weyakum” which Spa our mission is to go above make the Ramadan experience Kabab e Koobide and Al Hubara Ziad Mallah, Hotel Manager at traditions with the four provide you, a safe and intimate and beyond to create Authentic with us more memorable con- famous Um Ali, customers will Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz- culinary maestros from four of celebration with your family in Moments for our guests. This sidering the unprecedented be able to enjoy an Iftar and Carlton Hotel in Doha. “Sharq the most beloved restaurants the comfort of your home. beautiful initiative allows us to times; Ramadan Weyakum has Suhour experience in the Village & Spa has over the in Doha, creating memorable Indulge yourself through an enliven our Epicurean excel- been created in the spirit of comfort of their private home years cultivated this heritage Iftars & Suhours, delivered to authentic culinary journey with lence associated with Michelin- solidarity and we hope that while indulging in a unique and sought to revive fond the doorstep of our valued international flavors prepared starred Executive Chef Pino our guests enjoy their much- menu that offers Arabic classics memories and spread goodwill. guests. Ramadan Weyakum by our culinary team to cele- Lavarra while combining a sig- loved signature menu items and the most appreciated sig- In these unprecedented we gives a new meaning to this brate the spirit of the season”, nature menu together with our from B-lounge, Al Hubara, nature dishes. join hands with Sheraton celebration!” said Christian Sack, General sister properties.” said Patrizia Veritas and Parisa”. Ehsan publishes 51st issue Positive change in family behaviour as a result of of its periodical magazine staying at home longer: Wifaq Executive Director THE PENINSULA — DOHA QNA — DOHA provided by each department, among Elderly Empowerment others. and Care Center (Ehsan) Executive Director of the Family Consulting Wifaq, he said, allows its clients to has issued the 51st issue Center (Wifaq), Rashid bin Ahmed Al Dosari, benefit from its specialized consulting of its periodical magazine said that there is a significant positive services remotely offered by a consulting that covers the affairs and change in the behaviour of the family in team specializing in various fields, through issues of the elderly. general, in light of the requirements telephone advice via the call center 16003 The issue addressed imposed by the procedures to confront the or via electronic advice through the Center’s various topics and coronavirus (COVID-19) for families to stay website. devoted a specific section at homes longer. He added that the document of pre- to talking about the In an interview with Qatar News Agency ventive and precautionary measures against COVID-19 pandemic and (QNA), Al Dosari added that the current the new coronavirus, included preparing its health and psycho- crisis has raised the sense of responsibility a detailed working procedures guide logical implications on and the ability to prioritise the family in according to each section of the center, the elderly. society, noting that the consultants and where client calls were diverted from land- It mentioned the pre- mentors at the Center have touched through lines to employees’ mobile phones to cautionary methods and their communication with Wefaq’s clients provide consulting service to clients measures taken by the a noticeable change in the nature of family remotely by activating the JABBER appli- center to reduce the problems as a result of staying at home and cation. Also, the remote work system has spread of the disease in spending more time with families. The current crisis has raised been applied to provide the services of the addition to the awareness He pointed out that the rapprochement Family Reconciliation Section for cases campaigns launched by the amount of sleep, relaxation and between family members while staying at the sense of responsibility transferred from the court. center to educate the elderly and spending sometime in practicing homes raised a sense of responsibility and the ability to prioritise With regard to providing remote alleviate the severity of psycho- activities with other family towards family stability, and contributed family in society. The parental care service, coordination has been logical implications of the spread members. effectively to overcoming some challenges, made with clients to implement visits and of COVID-19 news. It also highlighted the impor- as consultants monitored a remarkable rapprochement between take them out of the center for the current The issue also included tance of communicating with development in choosing appropriate family members while cases, not the new ones, he said, adding medical, health and psycho- others and included many topics methods to solve many family problems, that a mechanism for handing and receiving logical topics prepared by spe- related to the activities imple- and the adoption of communication and staying at homes raised those staying in the Parental Care Section cialists from the center on how mented by the center during the dialogue between spouses to reach solu- a sense of responsibility through the home was established and to protect the elderly from the last period. The issue included tions when any dispute occurs. defined. coronavirus and general advice an interview with lawyer and He explained that one of the important towards family stability, He pointed out that the specialists in regarding the social and psycho- former judge Yussif Al Zaman family behaviours that were monitored and contributed effectively the Parental Care Section undertake, during logical aspect such as taking a that covered part of his career through dealing with clients is what have the current circumstances, telephone and break from watching the news and family life and his partici- been seen in terms of the parties’ efforts to to overcoming some continuous communication with all clients and the importance of exercising pation at Ehsan’s seminars, in reconcile and cooperate with the Center to challenges. of the Parental Care Section in order to urge and meditation, having a good addition to elderly rights. reach positive solutions that maintain the them or their representatives to cooperate stability of marital and family life. in implementing the home visit to preserve Al Dosari revealed that the Center Rashid bin Ahmed Al Dosari the safety of those in the Center and achieve MoCI recalls Sea-Doo GTX, RXT, achieved a success rate of 74 percent in Executive Director of the Family their interests, given that the home is the family reconciliation cases, during the natural and typical environment for the period between March 15 to April 15, 2020, Consulting Center (Wifaq) child’s development. WAKE PRO jet ski model of 2019 as it provided its services in the same period In effective cooperation with parents, THE PENINSULA — DOHA to more than 10900 beneficiaries, and also a large number of visits were implemented held in the same period 1494 counseling He pointed out that the center fol- successfully through the home, and that The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), in cooperation sessions as well as about 1800 parental care lowed procedures for remote work in there were cases that preferred to stop with Speed Marine, dealer of Sea-Doo jet ski in Qatar, announced services. crises and institutional risks, including a implementation during this period both the recall of Sea-Doo GTX, RXT, WAKE PRO jet ski model of 2019 About the action plan of the Wifaq set of measures such as urgent precau- through the Center and the home, he noted. over the intake grate possibility to detach from the vehicle while Center within the new precautionary tionary health and safety measures, and In response to a question about the pro- riding at a speed of 88 km/h, which could lead to serious injuries. measures, the Executive Director said that remote work procedures to support cedures of working remotely for the new The recall campaign comes within the framework of the Min- the Center had taken since March 8, 2020 employees in dealing with the crisis, as cases, Al Dosari said that these cases are istry’s continuous efforts to protect consumers and ensure that a set of precautionary measures, and well as precautionary administrative divided into two types: cases that come to dealers follow up on vehicle defects and repairs. adopted a remote work system, allowing measures towards employees and clients the Centre through the Family court, and The Ministry said that it will coordinate with the dealer to employees to carry out their work and according to levels of risks, in addition others that communicate with the Centre follow up on the maintenance and repair works and will com- manage their meetings from their homes to the procedures of the system of pro- via telephone and request parental care municate with customers to ensure that they carried out the nec- by using the electronic digital platforms viding services to remote beneficiaries services amicably, which are provided essary repairs. available to them. to ensure the continuity of the service throughout the week. Qatar Charity facilitates Zakat calculation and payment service

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Whether a benefactor by email address or username To strengthen its relations looks for a piece of created on the app. with the donors and facilitate the Qatar Charity (QC) has facili- Zakaty provides a smart and receiving of donations, Qatar tated the Zakat calculation and advice about Zakat, easy approach to calculate your Charity has allocated several payment service through its ask for a calculation, or Zakat. Regardless of the Zakat channels, which are the official website, mobile apps, type, this service is the way to following: especially the “Zakaty website seek an expert’s help, go. The Zakat calculator covers Financial Pledges Service: and app”, in addition to calling the Zakaty app comes cash, stocks, cattle, and Zakat If a person wishes to donate an the Zakat expert, contacting on gold and silver. amount, can send a text customer service employees, in very handy. The app The zakat-calculator message containing the amount and requesting the ‘Home offers smart and secure enables people to calculate the to be donated to 92124, and the Collector’. solutions for those who Zakat amount on their savings person will be contacted to So, there is no longer a need Zakat website money, stocks, gold and cattle receive the donation directly. to exert more efforts and spend want to give their Zakat. to know the percentage of the The person can directly additional hours to calculate payable zakat. Zakaty offers a contact the customer service and give Zakat or inquire about Or 44290152 website. Zakaty ensures the detailed guide about Zakat for center at 44667711. The center it, as Qatar Charity has made it professionals, self-employed Whether a benefactor looks privacy and confidentiality of companies, and comes out with has an automated interactive easier for benefactors to accom- and property owners, etc.), and for a piece of advice about Zakat, all its users to protect them from a list of frequent and common voice response (IVR) system to plish your Zakat-related tasks analyses the company’s budget ask for a calculation, or seek an identity theft and internet fraud. Fatawas on Zakat payment. answer incoming calls, provide while they are at home. to pay its Zakat. expert’s help, the Zakaty app Zakaty allows Zakat givers Through its mobile app, instructions to customers, and Rabea Mohamed Mojahed, Benefactors can contact the comes in very handy. The app to log in to their accounts using Qatar Charity offers a service manage donor relations profes- an expert in the field of Zakat, Zakat expert by sending a offers smart and secure solutions biometric data such as finger- to request a home collector. sionally, in addition to offering responds to Zakat-related ques- message to the email ID: rmo- for those who want to give their print and facial recognition, or Upon the request, it sends a rep- a service to complete donation tions, calculates Zakat (for indi- [email protected], or calling Zakat. The app can be down- through their social media resentative to the donor’s place processes and receive reports viduals, companies, him at the phone No: 55035744 loaded from the Qatar Charity accounts, or simply logging in to collect donations. automatically. WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 HOME 07 AEB presents Creative Achievement and Potential and Design Excellence Awards THE PENINSULA — DOHA The awards were instituted such individuals for their hard work by Jaidah to encourage and and to help them kick start their The Arab Engineering Bureau (AEB) assist graduating students careers,” Jaidah said. presented the awards for Creative as they start their careers “I also must commend the high Achievement and Potential and Design level of education being offered at Excellence to junior and graduating as designers in Qatar VCUarts Qatar. I had the pleasure of senior students from VCUarts Qatar’s and the region. Jaidah is working closely with several strong Graphic and Interior design depart- recognised as a pioneer students who came to us as interns, ments during a virtual ceremony held but also several graduates who have in honour of the students of a new architectural joined our team. I consider that recog- Arab Engineering Bureau presented movement that combines nizing and supporting design talent is the 2020 awards for Design Excellence, the far-reaching influences not only a responsibility of practicing and Creative Achievement and of Islamic art with modern professionals as individuals, but that Potential, to two graduating and two of the industry too. It is our responsi- VCUarts Qatar students and officials during the virtual ceremony. junior students from Virginia Com- styles to create memorable bility to support our younger genera- monwealth University School of the landmark structures that tions in gaining new knowledge and Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), a Qatar are shaping Qatar. experiences; and it is our responsibility their senior year. Nikšić (2007) who has been at AEB since Foundation partner university, in a to nurture the leaders of tomorrow. So, VCUarts Qatar’s Dean Amir Berbić 2010; Zlatan Pejdah (2012) is a Design virtual ceremony that took place on I take this opportunity to congratulate said the university was hugely grateful Manager at Cambridge Interiors in the April 19. Jaidah to encourage and assist gradu- once again all of the award winners on for the continued support from AEB UAE; Amira Natsheh (2017 and 2018) is AEB’s Group CEO and Chief ating students as they start their careers their achievements.” and Jaidah, who has been a longtime a Product Design Specialist at Qatar Architect, Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah, a as designers in Qatar and the region. The Arab Engineering Bureau Award friend and speaker at the university Foundation; and Noha Fahmy (2014 and longtime supporter and friend of Jaidah is recognised as a pioneer of a for Creative Achievement and Potential for over a decade. 2015) is a Regional Retail Design Manager VCUarts Qatar, awarded the Arab Engi- new architectural movement that com- for a rising junior was awarded to “I am really pleased that we have at L’Oreal UAE,” he added. neering Bureau Award for Design bines the far-reaching influences of Graphic Design student Zainab N. Al- arranged this virtual ceremony to mark Dean Berbić noted that the awards Excellence for a graduating Senior to Islamic art with modern styles to create Shibani, and the Arab Engineering Bureau the recognition of four of our leading recognised the students’ commitment Interior Design student Farzana Abu- memorable landmark structures that Award for Creative Achievement and students by one of VCUarts Qatar’s to their future careers in what is a very backer Velliyattil, and the Arab Engi- are shaping Qatar. Potential for a rising junior was awarded most enduring industry partners, Mr. competitive and demanding envi- neering Bureau Award for Design “Over the years VCUarts Qatar to Interior Design student Aia Zaina. Ibraham M. Jaidah, Group CEO of Arab ronment. Besides the awards, AEB and Excellence for a graduating Senior to graduates have proven to be at the These awards aim to help the junior Engineering Bureau,” Dean Berbić said. Jaidah continue to partner with Graphic Design student Marwa A Al forefront of various art and design students realize and achieve their true “The students who won this award VCUarts Qatar by offering internship ZKalbani. industries in Qatar, and it is our potential and encourage them to con- in the past have gone on to leading posi- opportunities to VCUarts Qatar The awards were instituted by absolute pleasure to be able to award tinue developing their skills through tions all over the GCC, including Lejla students. Al Jazeera, Wondery announce QU-CPH MSc student proves the impact and value of strategic partnership and launch collaborative model of care on diabetes outcomes in Qatar flagship podcast in Arab World THE PENINSULA — DOHA the thesis was meticulously THE PENINSULA — DOHA Wondery’s visionary content written to the highest quality. to the Arab World” said Dr. Qatar University’s College of The real contribution to health Al Jazeera Media Network and Yaser Bishr, Executive Director Pharmacy (QU-CPH) MSc is that the findings can poten- Wondery are pleased to of Digital at Al Jazeera. student in Clinical Pharmacy tially help to reduce the health announce a strategic part- “Wondery is a leading podcast and Practice, Sara Hamdi and economic burden of dia- nership to bring Wondery’s organization that brought us Abdulrhim, has conducted a betes by decreasing workload, immersive audio storytelling to shows like Business Wars and real-world study on the impact reducing the frequency of the Arab World. Dr Death. We’re committed to and value of the collaborative emergency department visits, With the Arabic podcast serving our audience with model of care on diabetes improving diabetes-related market rapidly growing, Al informative content and we are outcomes in Qatar in her outcomes, and ultimately Jazeera came out strong and therefore excited to be working master’s thesis. decreasing the morbidity and entered the market in 2019 with Wondery on growing the In which she defended mortality associated with dia- with four leading Arabic shows Arabic podcast market.” recently virtually due to sus- betes in Qatar and the Middle including the Arab world’s first Declan Moore, Wondery’s pension of classes for students East”. daily news podcast. This part- Head of International, and precautionary measures to Sara added: “Due to the nership brings Wondery’s remarked “We are honored to prevent novel coronavirus current global public health flagship “Business Wars” show partner with Al Jazeera in (COVID-19). The project titled crisis and closure of academic Qatar University College of Pharmacy MSc student in Clinical to Arabic-speaking markets. expanding the global reach of “Exploring the Impact and institutions, conducting MSc Pharmacy and Practice, Sara Hamdi Abdulrhim, with Dr. Ahmed Business Wars gives you the our chart topping, critically Value of Collaborative Care defence online was a new and Awaisu, Associate Professor. unauthorized, real story of acclaimed show, Business Model in Diabetes Care at a smooth experience, thanks to what drives major companies Wars. Business Wars examines Primary Healthcare Setting in healthcare professional collab- collaborative care model. This all my supervisors’ support and and their leaders, inventors, the rivalries of well-known Qatar” which aimed to explore orators at Dukhan Medical project will describe the com- motivation. I am grateful for the investors and executives to new organizations and we are the impact of the collaborative Center: Mohamed Abdelazim ponents of the Collaborative time and energy I have invested heights — or to ruin. Seasons excited to share these stories care model on several diabetes- (Head Pharmacist); Dr. Care Model provided by in the MSc, and the value I include Pepsi versus Coca Cola with Arabic audiences.” related outcomes and to Mohammed Thahir Ismail healthcare professionals in gained from it. I have gained and Facebook versus Snap. Business Wars in Arabic is determine key stakeholders’ (Head Physician); and Hend Al Qatar Petroleum Diabetes Clinic work-related skills and expe- “Al Jazeera is committed to now live on all podcasting apps. perspectives on the value of Raey (Head Nurse Diabetes in Dukhan, which can guide the rience through being a class leading the way in Arabic pod- More information is available such model in primary Educator). implementation of this model representative, Pharmacy Post- casting and I am proud to bring on podcast.aljazeera.net. healthcare settings. This project is the first of its in other ambulatory settings, graduate Society President, and The research project was kind conducted in Qatar that and ultimately help in reducing Graduate Teaching Assistant.” supervised by CPH Professors investigates and reports the diabetes complications, risks of This project was presented of Clinical Pharmacy and positive perspectives of patients hospitalizations, and medi- in the 8th College of Pharmacy Practice: Drs. Ahmed Awaisu, and healthcare professionals on cation overuse associated with Research Forum at Qatar Uni- Sowndramalingam Sankaral- the value of the Collaborative the disease.” versity and won first place in ingam, Mohamed Izham Care Model for managing dia- Dr. Ahmed Awaisu said: the poster presentation. The Mohamed Ibrahim, and betes in primary healthcare “Sara has demonstrated evi- findings are promising and at Mohammad Issam Diab. The settings. dence of outstanding per- the focus of many more confer- research project was supported Sara Abdulrhim said, “Inef- formance in all areas of schol- ences in the future. Sara has by the Qatar Petroleum Health ficiencies in delivering diabetes arship and academic endeavor successfully produced one pub- Department and involved care in primary healthcare set- during the MSc program. This lication from her thesis, and is fruitful collaboration between tings can be circumvented by MSc study is novel, the meth- in the process of publishing four the CPH professors and the integration of the odology used was robust and more articles. HEC Paris in Qatar to run online information session beIN Sports launches sports ‘On Demand’ service on its International EMBA & Specialized Master’s THE PENINSULA — DOHA THE PENINSULA — DOHA beIN Sports yesterday announced the launch of an HEC Paris, ranked #3 worldwide incredible new sports archive for Executive Education and #1 service available on beIN On for the International Executive Demand, featuring a wide MBA by the Financial Times in selection of classic matches, 2019, is running an online infor- exclusive documentaries, behind mation session about its degree the scenes features, as well as programs on Monday, May 4 official FIFA World Cup films for 2020, from 2pm to 3pm, Qatar fans to easily enjoy across the time. Middle East & North Africa During this session, pro- MBA is a practical and intense - Project Accelerator. The next (MENA) at a time that suits them. spective participants can meet 16-month program developed to intake of the Executive MBA is With most global live sport HEC Paris in Qatar admissions provide participants with an February 2021. unfortunately on pause due to team remotely to learn more understanding of the social, eco- The HEC Paris in Qatar Spe- the coronavirus crisis, house- about accelerating their career nomic and environmental cialized Master’s comprises three holds across the MENA region episodes with football legends Demand on their beIN box. path by studying in one of the aspects of international business, stages, starting with the core cur- will now be able to relive the such as Sami Trabelsi, Hatem Commenting on the launch world’s most prestigious business as well as the skills to implement riculum focused on strategy, most legendary moments in Trabelsi, Arsène Wenger and of the new sports On Demand schools. their vision. The curriculum is finance, leadership and change. sport history, with re-runs of Marcel Desailly and the official service, Jonathan Whitehead, Apart from providing useful built around three components: Participants can also personalize FIFA World Cups, the UEFA FIFA World Cup films from 1954 Head of Sports at beIN Sports career tips, this online session is 11 core courses covering key their learning journey further by Champions League, English to 2002. The service also include MENA said, “beIN has made a also intended to give profes- business areas, a specialization choosing one of the three tracks: Premier League, and El Clasico the memorable 2018 FIFA World proud commitment to offer the sionals and entrepreneurs from (major), and a final strategic General Management, Digital matches easily available at their Cup final between France and best programming ever the private and public sector in- business project (capstone Innovation & Transformation, fingertips. Croatia which saw France lift the scheduled during this holy month depth insights into how they can project). The comprehensive core and Entrepreneurship & Business Fans will also get the chance trophy for the first time in twenty of Ramadan, and this includes enhance their leadership skills courses include modules on Development. Furthermore, the to enjoy exclusive beIN in-house years, a four-part series on some our sports programming and through HEC Paris’ renowned strategy, analysis and implemen- professional thesis enables par- documentaries on topics ranging of the greatest UEFA Champions services too. We’re therefore International Executive MBA tation, as well as leadership and ticipants to focus on a specific from Wael Gomaa and Mohamed League games ever to be played, delighted to launch our new ‘on (EMBA) and Specialized Master’s human resources management. challenge related to their Aboutrika’s finest games, to the the 2017 and 2018 El Clasico demand’ sports service so that Degree in Strategic Business Unit Participants will choose one of industry and provide detailed rise to fame of icons Mohamed clashes between Real Madrid and fans across MENA can watch and Management (SBUM) degree the eight specializations, and well-researched solutions. Salah, Neymar, Lionel Messi, Barcelona and celebration of share some of the greatest programs. delivered in different locations. The program reflects HEC Paris’ Baghdad Bounedjah, Serena Wil- Arsène Wenger’s 20th Anni- matches ever played at a time Prospective participants are These specializations are Energy; commitment to contribute to the liams and Novak Djokovic. versary at Arsenal. that suits the whole family, as requested to confirm their Innovation & Social Business; development of a knowledge- Some of the most anticipated At no extra cost, subscribers well as learning more about attendance by registering them- Entrepreneurship & Innovation; based economy in Qatar and to clashes and documentaries to be can access the new sports on sporting legends such as selves for the hour-long session Differentiation & Innovation strengthen corporate competi- released on beIN Sports’ new On demand library by connecting Mohamed Salah in special beIN through the following link: REG- through Services; Leading Digital tiveness in the region. The next Demand service include the story their set top box to the home documentaries. All of this ISTER NOW. Transformation; Luxury; intake of the Specialized Master’s of Mohamed Salah’s career, internet and watch all of this thrilling sports entertainment is The International Executive Finance; and Entrepreneurship is November 2020. exclusive ‘Behind the Scenes’ content by visiting beIN On just a click of the button away.” 08 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 Qatar committed to providing conducive environment

Established in 1996 to youth participation in development process CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI QNA — NEW YORK The State of Qatar has reaf- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF firmed its commitment to DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI continue efforts to provide an [email protected] environment conducive to youth participation in the development process, noting ACTING MANAGING EDITOR at the same time the unprece- MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED dented challenges posed by [email protected] the emerging coronavirus especially since the youth category was not isolated DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR from its catastrophic effects, MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI pointing to its efforts to [email protected] provide education services for children and youth. This came in a statement sent by H E Ambassador Sheikha Alia Ahmed bin Saif EDITORIAL Al Thani, Permanent Repre- sentative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations and to Championing a global cause the UN Security Council, H E Ambassador Sheikha Alia Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, Permanent Representative of the State of which held a virtual meeting Qatar to the UN, attending a virtual meeting "Towards the fifth anniversary of the youth and peace QATAR is yet again on the world stage playing its indis- "Towards the fifth anni- and security agenda: Accelerating implementation of resolutions 2250 and 2419". pensable role in charting a long-lasting solution for a crisis, versary of the youth and which has affected every nook and corner of the globe peace and security agenda: Higher Education, and has Affairs, in cooperation with on comprehensive peace without any discrimination. H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, accelerating implementation activated electronic platforms the Qatar Foundation for paths for youth. UN Sustainable Development Goals Advocate, Chairperson of resolutions 2250 and 2419". for that, while working to take Education, Science and Com- She added that the holding of Education Above All and Silatech, joined prominent Her Excellency stated that into account the comprehen- munity Development, of the conference comes leaders in a global advocacy effort, ‘Rise for All’. Their com- Qatar was one of the first siveness of education for all organized the second youth within the framework of con- bined action will support the UN Secretary-General’s call countries in the region to students in the distance edition of the Doha Forum in tinuing efforts and building on for solidarity and urgent action in response to the socio- respond by taking precau- learning process, including November 2019, in which in- the achievements of the first economic impacts of COVID-19 and to save lives and tionary measures with social students with disabilities of all depth discussions were international conference on protect livelihoods, urging leaders around the world to distancing to limit the spread groups. launched on the current youth participation in the address the human crisis of the pandemic. of the virus, Qatar was also at She noted that the State of issues of concern to youth , as peace paths held in Helsinki The group of woman leaders from across the world the forefront of countries at Qatar has not neglected the the forum provided an open in 2019. was convened UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina the regional level that took provision of laptop computers platform for youth to express In this context, she Mohammed to gather international support and political early measures for a smooth and tablets for some groups of their views on contemporary expressed her appreciation to commitment to “build back better” and to ensure people transition to distance edu- students in the event that it is issues, including peace and the partners of the State of have access to essential services and social protection, cation, through Internet in not available to ensure that no security issues, in preparation Qatar, Finland and Colombia including support for the UN COVID-19 Response and response to current one is left behind in the dis- for the Doha Forum held in and the Office of the Sec- Recovery Fund, a mechanism to help alleviate the diffi- conditions. tance education process. December 2019. retary-General's envoy on culties facing the low-and middle-income countries and Her Excellency stressed On the international level, The Ambassador added, youth for their efforts and people, who are suffering economic hardships and social that the protection and pro- Her Excellency praised the "Combating the pandemic of cooperation in preparing for disruption as a result of the pandemic. motion of the right to edu- intensified efforts by the State the coronavirus requires, in the next conference, which H H Sheikha Moza said in a very thoughtful message: cation is one of the priorities of Qatar to provide devel- addition to cooperation and comes to commemorate the “Before COVID-19, our world was already contending of the State of Qatar, whether opment and relief assistance collaboration on the interna- five-year anniversary of the with other pandemics. They are called poverty, hunger, under normal or emergency that takes into account the pri- tional level, provision of a safe adoption of Security Council unemployment, illiteracy, war and conflict. COVID-19 is conditions, explaining that the ority of education and the environment and remove all Resolution 2250 and the exacerbating these current predicaments exponentially. State of Qatar has worked for importance of access to tech- obstacles and conditions that passage of 20 years since the We cannot turn a blind eye from the long-term conse- several years to harness tech- nology in learning operations, would prevent a strong and adoption of Security Council quences that will likely imprint in our children and youth.” nology to develop the educa- through development effective response, as well as Resolution 1325, as well as 25 These words, though few, are enough to prove the tional process and ensure its assistance provided by Qatar require activating and sup- years since the adoption of farsightedness and vision of H H Sheikha Moza, who continuity and keep pace with Fund For Development porting the pivotal role of youth the Beijing Declaration and always looks at the future and foresee the probable sit- challenges. (QFFD) in various parts of the in this response. " In this Platform for Action, as the uation and difficulties lying far off. There are telling She pointed to the mech- world, which accompanies the context, HE the Ambassador conference will focus, among examples for this thought process, such as Qatar Foun- anism of work for distance challenges arising under the stressed the support of the other topics, on the partici- dation for Education, Science and Technology and its education developed by the difficult circumstances caused State of Qatar to the interna- pation of young women in affiliated institutions in Qatar, the Education Above All, Ministry of Education and by social distancing, quar- tional calls for ceasefire in con- peace processes, whether Silatech etc, which have drawn praise from around the antine and school closures. flict areas, which would through panel discussions, or world for their roles in making lives of the margninalised H E Sheikha Alia She referred to the Qatari provide an opportunity to focus by taking into account gender people prosper the world over. institutions, including Edu- on efforts to face the Covid equality in all stages of pre- H H Sheikha Moza is seeing an opportunity even in stressed that the cation Above All Foundation, 19-pandemic. She reaffirmed paring for the conference, this pandemic as Her Highness said: “Let’s not waste this protection and which is working to develop the State of Qatar on the pivotal besides implementing it and moment in time to merely react to combat COVID-19. promotion of the pilot programs to facilitate the role of youth in peace proc- following its outputs. Instead of working from fear, we must take this oppor- process of distance education esses, which the international Concluding the statement, tunity to narrow the digital gap and bring innovative solu- right to education is in homes, including the early community unanimously Her Excellency reiterated the tions to our children and youth”. Yes, this is no time to one of the priorities emergency response of the agreed five years ago when commitment of the State of weep and wail, but to look at the future and try our level Foundation by collecting dis- adopting Security Council Res- Qatar to continue its efforts to best to turn this malady into an opportunity by making of the State of Qatar, tance learning resources in olution 2250 (2015) and on provide a stimulating envi- maximum use of modern technology and training others whether under different languages in order to their important role in acti- ronment for youth participation to use it. Let us join this call of a true leader who, realising assist parents in distance vating UN calls for ceasefire. in the development process, and the indomitable power of education, champions and chan- normal or emergency learning process. Her Excellency also to provide support at the nelise all the energy and resources to promote education conditions. Ambassador Sheikha Alia expressed the pleasure of the national, regional and interna- and thus make the world a better place to live in Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, Per- State of Qatar to host, in tional levels to enable them to peacefully. manent Representative of the cooperation with the Office of contribute effectively to peace- State of Qatar to the United the Special Envoy of the Sec- building and to actively engage Nations, also noted that the retary-General for Youth, the in efforts to meet the challenges Qatari Ministry of Foreign high-level global conference facing our world today.

D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR EMAIL: [email protected] World doesn’t want to pick between the US and China

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 ISHAAN THAROOR allowed “to come here and States, whose “ambitious pol- likened this moment to the FAX: +974 4455 7758 THE WASHINGTON POST study Shakespeare and the iticians” are willing to risk the 1956 Suez crisis - an interna- Federalist Papers, that’s what lives of the public by opening tional standoff in Egypt that is MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 The coronavirus pandemic they need to learn from up the economy sooner than remembered as an inflection has spiked tensions between America,” Cotton said. “They public health experts think point in Britain’s decline as a DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 China and the United States. don’t need to learn quantum wise. global power. The 2020 pan- In Washington, hard-line computing and artificial intel- Observers elsewhere are demic may one day represent LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 lawmakers in Congress are ligence from America.” not impressed. China pursued the same for the United pushing punitive legislation Chinese officials, mean- “very authoritarian measures, States. BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 against Beijing, while using while, keep stoking corona- while in the US, the virus was China, though, is hardly their grievances over China’s virus counter-narratives. On played down for a long time,” filling the void and may not SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 handling of the outbreak to Monday, the Twitter account German Foreign Minister want to - an argument often justify a more sweeping of the Foreign Ministry Heiko Maas said in an ignored in Washington, where ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 transformation of the rela- spokesperson reiterated interview earlier this month an emerging bipartisan con- email: [email protected] tionship between the world’s claims that the Trump admin- with Der Spiegel. “These are sensus casts Beijing as Amer- two biggest economies. istration is participating in a two extremes, neither of ica’s inexorable 21st-century PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 Over the weekend, Sen. coverup and obscuring infor- which can be a model for great power competitor. email: [email protected] Tom Cotton, R-Ark., one of mation about how the virus Europe.” “China has no desire to run the most strident anti-Chinese spread. Some European critics the world in the way the ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 voices on the Hill, argued that Also in a tweet, Hu Xijin, have bemoaned President Americans or the West have FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] the thousands of Chinese stu- the editor in chief of the Trump’s divisive management done,” former Singaporean dents given visas to attend US Global Times, an English-lan- of the crisis and abandonment diplomat Kishore Mahbubani CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 universities should be guage state-run tabloid, of global leadership amid the told the Asian Nikkei Review. email: [email protected] restricted from enrolling in argued that China is reck- pandemic. Nathalie Tocci, “The Chinese are happy to science and technology pro- oning more responsibly with who advises E.U. foreign play their part, but most of all SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 grams. Instead, they should be the virus than the United policy chief Josep Borrell, has want to take care of China.” FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar It will be all the more important that if we set up economic stimulus /Peninsula_Qatar programmes, we must always keep a /ThePeninsulaNewspaper close eye on climate protection.

+974 6698 6188 Angela Merkel, German Chancellor WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 MIDDLE EAST 09 Violent unrest rocks Lebanon, protester killed REUTERS — BEIRUT The man who died was in his 20s and it was Violent protests erupted in not immediately clear who was responsible for Lebanon’s Tripoli again yesterday, with more banks set his death, the source said. An army statement ablaze after a night of rioting said 40 soldiers were wounded in Tripoli and that left one protester dead, elsewhere after patrols looking to reopen cut according to security and medical sources, in demonstra- roadways were hit by stones. tions renewed by growing economic despair. Protesters returned yes- patrols looking to re-open cut A collapse in the Lebanese terday, lighting two commercial roadways were hit by stones. pound and soaring inflation and banks on fire and smashing Three banks and several unemployment are com- their facades, prompting the ATMs in Tripoli were burned pounding hardship in Lebanon, army to re-deploy. Dozens of and nine protesters were which has been in deep soldiers positioned themselves arrested, the statement said. financial crisis since October. A in a main commercial street The banking association shutdown to curb the spread of lined with several banks, and declared all banks in Tripoli the new coronavirus has exac- some fired rubber bullets and shut until security is restored, A protester smashes the facade of a bank at Al Nour Square following the funeral of a fellow protester erbated economic woes. tear gas to repel protesters. saying they had been targeted in Lebanon’s northern port city of Tripoli, yesterday. Overnight, protesters in the The army said that over- in “serious attacks and northern city of Tripoli set night a fire bomb was thrown rioting”. several banks and an army at one of its vehicles and a hand “There is a lot of anger “We are surely heading to a for big protests against Leba- pound has since lost more than vehicle on fire. Soldiers fired grenade was hurled at a patrol among people because of the much worse place...If it is not non’s ruling elite during coun- half its value, fuelling inflation into the air and used tear gas and blamed the trouble on “a economic situation they are solved with politics, this situ- trywide demonstrations that in a country heavily dependent and rubber bullets, a security number of infiltrators,” calling experiencing and the crazy ation will surely keep on dete- erupted last October. on imports. source said. on peaceful protesters to rise in dollar price. The pur- riorating,” said Diblis. The long-brewing crisis Lebanon’s banks have been The man who died was in quickly leave the streets. chasing power of Lebanese Tripoli, a port city some 80 came to a head last year as a frequent target of protesters his 20s and it was not immedi- A later army statement said has become non-existent,” km north of Beirut and long capital inflows to Lebanon angered by capital controls that ately clear who was responsible 40 soldiers were wounded in said Samer Diblis, an activist dogged by chronic poverty and slowed and protests erupted have frozen savers out of their for his death, the source said. Tripoli and elsewhere after from Tripoli. unemployment, was the stage against its political elite. The deposits.

Kuwait reports 152 new COVID-19 cases Oman allows select bringing total to 3,440 businesses to reopen QNA — KUWAIT REUTERS — DUBAI malls and dine-in restaurants and cafes to operate at 30% The Kuwaiti Ministry of Health Oman has allowed a limited capacity and instructed people yesterday confirmed 152 new number of commercial busi- to wear face masks while cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) nesses to reopen, including outside or at public venues. in the country during the last 24 money exchanges, state media UAE capital Abu Dhabi hours, bringing the total to 3,440 said yesterday, as some Gulf issued guidelines for malls to cases. Arab countries moved to ease prepare for resumption of A new death was reported, restrictions imposed to combat business, including testing staff said Kuwait News Agency, the novel coronavirus. for COVID-19 and installing adding that the deceased was Car and fishing boat repair thermal scanners, but gave no a resident who was receiving and spare parts stores, and timeline for when that would treatment at ICU in the last shops selling electronic goods happen. Coronavirus cases in three days. are among those that can the Gulf region were initially Earlier yesterday, the min- resume operations, said a gov- linked to travel but countries istry announced 164 new recov- ernment statement carried on ramped up testing after eries from COVID-19, brining the state news agency ONA. reporting an increasing number total recoveries in the country Some of the six Gulf Arab of infections among low- to 1176. states, where the total infection income migrant workers living Kuwait’s Health Minister Sheikh Basil Al Sabah (centre) meets with members of a Chinese health The Omani Ministry of count has surpassed 50,000 in cramped quarters. delegation visiting Kuwait to exchange experiences on strategies, plans, and procedures to contain Health announced the regis- with more than 280 deaths, Gulf governments are still coronavirus disease. tration of 82 new positive cases have eased curfews to coincide repatriating citizens from with coronavirus (COVID-19) in with the start of the fasting abroad. Bahrain said it had the Sultanate. This brings the total number The Ministry also pointed adhere to social distancing month of Ramadan on Friday. flown home more than 3,800 Forty of the new registered of positive COVID-19 cases in out that 364 cases have instructions issued by the In the United Arab nationals from Arab states, Iran, cases are Omanis and 42 cases the Sultanate to 2131, in addition recovered. Supreme Committee and the Emirates, business hub Dubai India, Russia, Pakistan and for non-Omanis. to 10 deaths. MOH calls upon all to fully Ministry of Health. on Friday allowed shopping Turkey. 71 more virus deaths and 1,112 new cases in Iran Iran and China emphasise AFP — TEHRAN fallen to 991 — below 1,000 for the first time since March 10. cooperation in Iran yesterday announced 71 Doubts have been cast over deaths from the novel corona- Iran’s coronavirus casualty COVID-19 battle virus, and said there were also figures by experts and officials more than 1,000 new cases of both at home and abroad. REUTERS — TEHRAN infection in the Islamic republic. State television yesterday The fatalities recorded in aired footage from Tehran Iranian President Hassan the past 24 hours brought to grocery stores where posters Rouhani and Chinese President 5,877 the overall death toll from urged customers to observe Xi Jinping emphasized the the illness in the Middle East’s social distancing rules. need to cooperate in the battle hardest-hit country. “The majority do not respect against the new coronavirus Health ministry spokesman these instructions,” a salesman outbreak and to expand trade Kianoush Jahanpour said 1,112 told the channel. ties in a call, according to Iran’s people tested positive for the A bus driver complained official presidency website. virus that causes COVID-19. about passengers who were Rouhani also asked Xi for That took to 92,584 the failing to abide by government help in ending US sanctions total number of infections guidelines. which Iranian officials recorded in Iran since it “People always pay in maintain have hampered the announced its first cases in cash,” he said, expressing Islamic Republic’s efforts to mid-February. concern over a method of Rafiqa Ibrahim Radi, who gave birth in the Iranian city of Ahvaz and left her child in the neonatal combat the coronavirus. Iran says 72,439 of those payment discouraged by the intensive care unit due to premature birth, watches a recorded video of her newborn son, with her Iran is one of the Middle admitted to hospital with the authorities as it increases the family, after she returned to Iraq, as the borders between the two countries remain shut due to the Eastern countries hardest hit virus have recovered and been risk of the virus spreading. coronavirus disease, at her home in Basra, Iraq, yesterday. by the pandemic. The death discharged. Iran’s government ordered toll from COVID-19 in Iran has Its latest figures came a day the closure of schools, univer- March in order to halt the reopening of shops and has 11. Mosques remain closed even risen to 5,806, Health Ministry after the ministry announced sities, cinemas and stadiums spread of the virus. lifted restrictions on movement as the Islamic republic observes spokesman Kianush Jahanpur its daily infection count had among other public spaces in But it has allowed a phased within the country since April fasting month of Ramadan. said in a statement on state TV. Shrines and religious sites will not open before the end of the holy month of Ramadan, Turkey flies medical aid to Iraq says IS targets intelligence bureau Deputy Health Minister Alireza Raisi said, according to the YJC AP — BAGHDAD driver, sped away from the the anonymity because they were news agency which is affiliated coronavirus-stricken US scene. not authorized to talk to the with state TV. A militant wearing a suicide There was no claim of media. “With the current situation REUTERS — ANKARA support America’s fight against vest struck an intelligence responsibility by the Islamic The attack was the first that we have, the possibility the coronavirus,” Turkey’s bureau in northern Iraq State group, which was largely attempted suicide bombing in doesn’t exist to open these sites A Turkish military plane Communications Directorate yesterday, wounding at least defeated in Iraq in 2017 but still recent months, coming amid until the end of the month of carrying medical supplies and said. three members of the security maintains sleeper cells to target minor IS attacks in the prov- Ramadan,” he said. Rouhani protective equipment was The aid comes at a poten- personnel, Iraqi officials said, Iraqi forces. Suicide bombings inces of Kirkuk, Diyala and said on Sunday that the country heading for the United States tially pivotal time in US- blaming the attack on the were a hallmark of the militant Salahaddin. The provinces’ would be divided into red, yesterday to deliver aid to its Turkish relations, which have Islamic State (IS) group. group, which at the height of its rugged terrain is difficult to yellow and white regions Nato ally battling the corona- been strained by disputes over Iraqi security forces had power in 2014 controlled nearly police and a territorial dispute depending on the rates of virus outbreak. Iran sanctions, Syria policy spotted two men, one wearing a third of both Iraq and Syria. between the federal gov- infection and number of coro- The United States, which and Turkey’s acquisition of an explosive vest and a driver, A senior Iraqi intelligence ernment in Baghdad and Iraq’s navirus deaths. has the highest death toll and Russian missile defence approaching the gate of the official said that the department semi-autonomous northern Activities in each region reported cases in the global systems. Intelligence and Counter-Ter- “had knowledge that Daesh Kurdish region has led to will be restricted accordingly, pandemic, welcomed the “gen- Turkey had planned to rorism Directorate in the would carry out a suicide oper- security gaps in the area. so an area that has been con- erous donation” of 500,000 deploy the S-400 missile Qadisiyah neighbourhood in ation against the Intelligence The US-led coalition sistently free of infections or surgical masks, 4,000 overalls, defences this month, but a the northern city of Kirkuk, a Directorate, but we did not recently withdrew troops from deaths will be labeled white as well as disinfectant, goggles senior Turkish official said that security official said. know on which day.” its bases in the region, including and mosques could be reo- and face shields. Ankara will delay the move - The man hurled a grenade Daesh is an Arabic acronym in Kirkuk, in line with a planned pened and Friday prayers “We are proud to announce which would likely trigger US and then detonated his explo- for the Islamic State group. Both drawdown of forces that would resumed, Rouhani said, that Turkey will deliver medical sanctions - while it tackles the sives vest before entering the the security official and the reduce the coalition’s presence without giving a date for when supplies to the United States, coronavirus and tries to premises, the official said. The senior intelligence official to bases in Baghdad and the the restrictions could be lifted upon our Nato ally’s request, to support the economy. other man, apparently the spoke on condition of western Anbar province. in specific areas. 10 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 Haftar’s unilateral declaration unacceptable: EU, Russia

AFP & ANATOLIA — TRIPOLI In a video message, the Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar of seeking to parliament elected in 2014, but GNA claimed his latest Khalifa Haftar, whose forces are fighting stage a new coup after he did not say whether it supported announcement was an attempt Warlord Khalifa Haftar’s claimed to have a “popular his move. to “conceal the defeat of his unilateral declaration of the UN-recognised government in Tripoli, mandate” to govern the country. He also did not say whether militias and mercenaries” and becoming the ruler of Libya is said he “accepted the popular mandate” to Accused by critics of that parliament, which was “the failure of his dictatorial unacceptable and will never wanting to install a new military forced to move its headquarters project”. provide a sustainable solution govern the country, using as a pretext street dictatorship, Haftar, who con- after violence ripped apart According to Hamish for the country, a spokesman demonstrations in the areas under his control. trols swathes of eastern Libya, Tripoli six years ago, would be Kinnear, an analyst at Verisk for the EU’s foreign policy said announced his self-styled dissolved. A source close to Maplecroft, “Haftar’s decision to yesterday. “army” was “proud to be man- Haftar said he was preparing to formalise his direct control of “Any attempt to push UN auspices “remains the viable international community. dated with the historic task” of announce a new government eastern Libya is a sign of his rising forward a unilateral solution, framework for a political Russia also warned Libyan leading Libya. in eastern Libya. desperation in the face of GNA even more by force, will never solution in Libya until amend- warlord Khalifa Haftar against Analysts said his move was Haftar also announced the successes in western Libya”. provide a sustainable solution ments or replacements are using the Libyan crisis to make a sign he wanted to consolidate end of the Skhirat Agreement, “By sweeping aside the for the country. Such attempts found.” “unilateral” moves. his power after a series of set- a 2015 United Nations-mediated authority of the (parliament) can’t be accepted”, Peter Stano Signed in 2015 in Morocco, Moscow opposes both the backs earlier this month, when deal signed in Morocco that and electing himself as undis- said. the agreement set up the Gov- Libyan Government of National GNA forces captured a string of produced the Tripoli-based puted leader in the east, Haftar In a video message, the ernment of National Accord Accord’s (GNA) unwillingness strategic towns west of Tripoli. unity government. is making himself central to any warlord, whose forces are (GNA) to manage the transition to hold talks with Haftar and The oil-rich North African Haftar previously negotiated solution to the civil fighting the UN-recognised gov- process in Libya. Haftar’s self-declaration as nation has been gripped by announced the end of the war,” Kinnear added ernment in Tripoli, said he Stano also reiterated the Libya’s unilateral ruler, Foreign chaos since the ouster and Skhirat Agreement in 2017 and In the past fortnight, “accepted the popular mandate” previous EU calls for an Minister Sergey Lavrov told killing of longtime dictator three years earlier also said on pro-GNA forces aided by Turkey to govern the country, using as inclusive Libyan-led peace reporters after a meeting with Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, with television that he was taking have captured two strategic a pretext street demonstrations process to find a political his counterparts from Brazil, rival administrations in the east power in Libya. towns west of Tripoli and are in the areas under his control. solution with the participation India, China, and South Africa. and west vying for power. Pro-Haftar forces been now encircling Haftar’s main Stano pointed out that of all parties involved in the Libya’s UN-recognised gov- Haftar claims legitimacy fighting to try and seize Tripoli rear base at Tarhunah, 60km Skhirat agreement signed under conflict and the help of the ernment yesterday accused n from an eastern-based since April last year, and the southeast of the capital. Relief mixes with Ivory Coast oppn leader sentenced to worry as Nigeria orders 20 years in absentia lockdowns eased AP — ABIDJAN AFP — LAGOS numbers of poor who depend Ivory Coast opposition poli- on daily earnings to survive. tician Guillaume Soro vowed Tailor Morenike Alabi was Bus driver Taju Olonade to press ahead with his presi- convinced Tuesday that a said the latest move showed the dential candidacy in the decision to ease a lockdown on president had finally listened October election after being Nigeria’s largest city Lagos was “to the cries of the people”. sentenced yesterday in the right call — but other resi- “For almost one month I absentia to 20 years in prison dents feared the move could see have not earned a penny. My on charges of embezzling coronavirus cases rocket. family has been surviving on the public funds and money laun- “One thing is sure: The suf- little money my wife made,” dering. fering, hunger, idleness and Olonade said. “I hope life will Soro, who has been living uncertainties of the past one soon return to normal.” in Europe, diverted his plane month will ease,” the 33-year- While there was plenty of in the air instead of returning old said as she waited to sell a joy at the decision to roll back home to Ivory Coast last pile of hand-made facemasks. the restrictions— some living in December when it became “At least, people can go out the sprawling megacity insisted clear that Ivorian authorities to look for money to feed.” it came too soon. had issued an arrest warrant A police officer tries to apprehend a fleeing overloaded motorcycle taxi, popularly called Okada, for President Muhammadu “Lifting the lockdown for him. failing to comply with the spacing and sit-at-home order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, on the Buhari on Monday ordered a under any guise is not rea- The former prime minister Lagos Ibadan expressway, Nigeria, yesterday. “phased and gradual easing” sonable at a time we continue and National Assembly pres- from next week of a lockdown to post rising infections and ident also faces charges of covering Africa’s biggest city, deaths from the disease,” com- infection figures in Africa’s most between regions. The aim, he dilemma weighing the health attempting to destabilize the neighbouring Ogun state and plained engineer Alani Amusa. populous nation of 200 million insisted, was “to balance the risks against the social pain. West African economic pow- the national capital Abuja. “The government should people may seem tiny com- need to protect health while “Those are very difficult erhouse in a separate criminal For a month now, millions have devised other means to pared to other countries — but also preserving livelihoods”. health and economic decisions case. of people have been ordered to cushion the impacts of the the curve is steepening. Officials have pledged to to take,” he said. The shutdown Soro quickly reiterated his stay home under the measures lockdown on the people.” Testing has been severely step up testing but there are had been “devastating” for the plans Tuesday to run anyway aimed at curbing the spread of Authorities had pledged a limited and there are fears the major concerns about capacity informal sector which includes in October, and he lashed out a virus that has caused 1,337 raft of food handouts and loan true numbers are higher. after the head of Nigeria’s some 70 percent of workers. at Ivorian President Alassane confirmed infections and 40 deferrals to try to help the poor Buhari said the lockdown disease control agency issued “Does the lifting of the Ouattara, a one-time political deaths in the country. through the measures -- but would be replaced by a an appeal for kits. lockdown mean that we will see ally whom Soro now accuses The restrictions have seen even officials admitted these nationwide night-time curfew, PwC chief economist for an explosion of COVID cases? of trying to eliminate him usually bustling streets emptied were a “drop in the ocean”. mandatory mask wearing, and Nigeria Andrew Nevin said the We don’t know, no one knows through politically motivated and taken a huge toll on the vast For now, the official a ban on non-essential travel authorities faced a huge at this stage.” charges.

HRW urges Uganda to probe MP’s Pandemic forces wedding ceremonies go online in Kenya

torture claims ANATOLIA — NAIROBI of wedding receptions in the bands, and videographers went said father Maina. The groom come from the virus stronger. ANATOLIA — KAMPALA wake of lockdown, the couple down to inviting just nine Kevin Maina said all they We also saved a lot of money,” While most of Kenyans are tried ingenious way and live- people. needed was a priest and a said Veronica, the bride. The Human Rights Watch awaiting the COVID-19 or coro- streamed the ceremony for “The wedding was going to person to handle the camera to Janet Nzioka is a wedding (HRW) yesterday urged navirus pandemic to go away parents, other relatives, and cost us millions. It has now cost ensure the wedding goes online. planner who said that her Ugandan authorities to hold an to return to pompous and costly friends. us only 80,000 Kenyan shillings The couple is not the only company Nzioka Weddings has urgent investigation into marriage rituals, many couples “The wedding brought us ($800). All my friends watched one who navigated into the been hit hard due to pandemic claims that a recently arrested have turned to invite minimum two together. At the church, we and applauded us online from uncharted waters. At many and the people preferring frugal opposition lawmaker was guests and live streaming cere- had three witnesses, the two of the comfort of their homes, “she places, couples are using online weddings. tortured in jail. monies. us and the priest and some said. Tom Maina, father of the platforms to solemnize wed- “With people planning small Francis Zaake was arrested In the central town of other friends. It was crazy and groom, also saw the wedding dings. They also invite media to weddings and inviting friends after he distributed food to his Muranga, Kevin Maina and fun to see our parents watching on his computer screen at his cover their unique big day with to join them online, it has electorates in Mityana town. Joyce Wanjiku walked down the us from hundreds of miles away home in Mombasa 569km from a smaller budget. become hard for us to survive. Police say he violated the aisle at the Presbyterian Church from their home on a virtual Muranga town. Francis Gitonga and We do also arrange online wed- social distancing guidelines of East Africa (PCEA), with nine platform,” said the bride “We were around 300 Veronica Njeri also similarly dings but the budget is too small put in place to curb the spread guests, seated three meters Wanjiku. people watching online. Things tied the knot and shared their to survive,” she said. Last week of coronavirus. apart all wearing masks to sol- She said that her plans for were done differently due to the pictures and video on social authorities arrested 39 Kenyan- “An opposition member of emnize their marriage. The arranging an ostentatious cer- pandemic. We along with the media. They had invited just six Somali women and then put parliament was reportedly tor- entire ceremony cost them just emony with 30 bridesmaids, family of the bride could not guests to accompany them to them in a 14-day quarantine tured after security forces 80,000 Kenyan shillings expensive bridal accessories attend ceremony physically due church. “Even during this pan- after they had attended a arrested him for distributing ($800). and attires, hotel bookings, pho- to travel restrictions. We thank demic, we can find love, seal pompous wedding party in the food to constituents on April Amid rampant cancellations tographers, florists, music God that everything went well,” that love, and prove that we will capital Nairobi. 19, 2020,” the rights group said in a statement. “Uganda should urgently investigate the claims by wit- Virus could double food nesses that Francis Zaake was tortured and hold those responsible to account.” insecurity in nine African The development came days after, the HRW claimed, countries, warns UN Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni on March 30 AFP — GENEVA still counted in the dozens or “directed the police to arrest hundreds. politicians who distribute food The spread of COVID-19 risks However, due to their often after he banned public and devastating countries across weak economies and poor health private transport, suspended East Africa, where food inse- infrastructure they are considered non-essential services, and curity could more than double highly vulnerable to the impacts closed non-food markets to in just three months, the United of the mounting crisis. prevent the spread of Nations warned yesterday. “WFP projections are cur- COVID-19. The government The UN’s World Food Pro- rently that the number of food said that food donations had gramme (WFP) estimates that insecure people in the region is to go through a government- some 20 million people cur- likely to increase to 34 or up to organized task force.” rently do not have secure pro- 43 million during the next three “Police brutality is always visions of food across nine coun- months due to the socioeco- prohibited, pandemic or no tries in the region: Burundi, Dji- nomic impact of COVID-19,” pandemic,” said Oryem Nyeko, bouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, spokeswoman Elisabeth Byrs A Mr D Food delivery worker delivers grocery items from a local food market to a customer, during Uganda researcher at HRW Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan told journalists in a virtual a nationwide lockdown aimed at limiting the spread of the coronavirus disease, in Midrand, South was quoted as saying in the and Uganda. briefing. Africa, yesterday. statement. “Uganda’s author- Compared to other parts of In the worst-case scenario, ities should urgently look into the world, these countries have “food insecurity will have more projected 43 million people She said the WFP urgently months to scale up its opera- these allegations and hold so far registered few confirmed than doubled,” she stressed, affected were expected to be needed more than $500 million tions in the Horn of Africa and those responsible to account. COVID-19 cases, with numbers adding that nearly half of the acutely food insecure. for just the next three to six wider East Africa. WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 ASIA 11

South Korea says Singapore says COVID-19 cases absent Kim may be trying to avoid coronavirus may be higher than official tallies REUTERS — SEOUL

REUTERS — SINGAPORE The nation of 5.7 Fear of catching the corona- million people virus could have kept North Singapore said yesterday that Korean leader Kim Jong Un the number of migrant workers has nearly away from state ceremonies for infected with coronavirus in the 15,000 confirmed a key holiday in mid-April, a city-state may be higher than South Korean minister said official tallies as symptomatic coronavirus yesterday as speculation patients had been isolated in infections, one swirled over Kim’s wherea- dormitories with mass bouts and health. outbreaks before testing. of the highest in The speculation about The nation of 5.7 million Asia, largely due Kim’s health erupted after his people has nearly 15,000 con- to infections in unprecedented absence from firmed coronavirus infections, ceremonies marking the April one of the highest in Asia, cramped bunk-bed 15 birth anniversary of his largely due to infections in accommodation grandfather and founder of the cramped bunk-bed accommo- country, Kim Il Sung. dation housing more than housing more than South Korea’s Unification 300,000 mostly South Asian 300,000 mostly South Minister Kim Yeon-chul, who workers. oversees engagement with the Yesterday, Singapore Asian workers. North, said it was plausible that reported 528 new infections — Kim decided against attending its lowest in almost two weeks eventually be ironed out as because of the coronavirus, — but authorities said the real these workers would need to be given the stringent steps his number could be greater due to tested before they could leave government has taken to head a lag in testing. isolation and return to work. He off an outbreak. “When we report figures... declined to say how many “It is true that he had never A migrant worker undergoes a nose swab test as medical workers look on at a dormitory amid the of confirmed and verified infec- workers were in such a position. missed the anniversary for Kim coronavirus disease outbreak, in Singapore, yesterday. tions, the number of foreign “The numbers will rec- Il Sung’s birthday since he took workers that are in the dormi- oncile. It’s not an issue of power, but many anniversary tories that we are keeping a fudging or dodging or trying to April to more than 8,000. and recovering patients in exhi- dormitories, many of which the events including celebrations close eye on with respiratory hide numbers. It is really to Authorities say they have bition halls and other temporary authorities have sealed off, the and a banquet had been can- symptoms may in fact be bigger make sure that our priorities in tested 2,100 people per facilities. spread in the community apart celled because of coronavirus than the actual number that we testing match the needs that we 100,000, compared with 1,600 Yesterday it said it wants to from the migrant workers has concerns,” the unification min- report,” the health ministry’s have on the ground,” Mak said. per 100,000 in the United scale up that capacity from been much slower, with an ister told a parliamentary director of medical services, Singapore said it has been States, and 1,000 per 100,000 around 18,000 beds currently average of 20 new cases a day hearing. Kenneth Mak, said at a media scaling up its testing capacity in Britain. to more than 40,000 in the over the past week. “I don’t think that’s partic- briefing. across the island, including in Amid the surge in cases, the coming months. Fourteen people have died ularly unusual given the Mak said any discrepancy dormitories, from an average city-state has also been rapidly While the coronavirus has of the coronavirus in current (coronavirus) situ- in the official numbers would of 2,900 tests a day in early building bed space for low risk been spreading rapidly in the Singapore. ation,” the minister said, though North Korea has said it has no confirmed cases of the coronavirus. UN labour agency calls on Bangladesh to protect workers The South Korean minister noted that there were at least ANATOLIA — DHAKA “As some industries begin guidelines, together with the second-largest exporter of gar- Home Minister Asaduzzaman two instances since mid- to slowly resume operations, Department of Inspection for ments worldwide after China. Khan Kamal said “efforts are January when Kim Jong Un had The International Labour the ILO has developed a three- Factories and Establishments Meanwhile, about 1,000 being made to prevent workers been unsighted for nearly 20 Organization (ILO) yesterday pronged strategy to ensure a (DIFE),” Tuomo Poutiainen garments factories have reo- from coming from outside days. urged Bangladesh to adopt safer return to work in the added. pened on Monday and yes- Dhaka, and government is The last time official media protective measures in order to Bangladesh context. The first ILO country director rec- terday after the government taking necessary measures so in the secretive North Korean prevent and control COVID-19 step is the adoption of several ommended that employment and Bangladesh Garment Man- that workers don’t leave Dhaka state reported on Kim’s where- in the workplace, with active safety and health measures at retention through work-sharing ufacturers and Exporters Asso- again during Eid.” abouts was when he presided dialogue with employers’ and work based on dialogue and reskilling, in addition to ciation (BGMEA) gave positive The minister made the over a meeting on April 11, but workers’ organisations. between employers and essential social protection nod to gradually reopen fac- assurance in Dhaka yesterday there have been near-daily All employers need to carry workers, and a shared under- measures to ensure access to tories amid the countrywide after holding a meeting with the reports of him sending letters out risk assessments and ensure standing of coronavirus risks,” subsistence allowance, basic lockdown. concerned people, including and diplomatic messages. their workplaces meet strict said Tuomo Poutiainen, country healthcare and income security The reopening has created BGMEA leaders, factory owners South Korean officials occupational safety and health director of ILO Bangladesh. for formal and informal sector fear of further spread of the and government officials, to emphasise they have detected criteria beforehand, to min- “To prevent transmission of workers. coronavirus in the country due discuss maintaining discipline no unusual movements in imise the risk to workers of the virus and safeguard Bangladesh boasts 4,500 to movement of workers across in factories, and ensuring wages North Korea and have cau- exposure to COVID-19, the ILO workers, the ILO has developed garment factories employing 4.1 the country. of workers, according to local tioned against reports that Kim said in a statement. COVID-19 specific OSH million workers and is the However, Bangladesh media. may be ill. Hong Kong civil servants to India discusses return to work as lockdown easing lockdown eases REUTERS — HONG KONG amid record virus toll Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam ANATOLIA — NEW DELHI As it currently stands, the said yesterday most civil nationwide lockdown will servants will gradually return In a video conference with the remain in place until May 3. to work from May 4, but the chief ministers running each of Urging states to work to government had not yet the country’s 28 states, India’s lower risk levels in their decided whether to ease travel prime minister discussed how respective jurisdictions for and and social distancing restric- to ease ongoing lockdown formulate careful exit strategies, tions that are due to expire restrictions amid the highest Modi said: “We have to be brave next week. national single-day death toll and bring in reforms that touch The financial hub reported of 62 due to the novel corona- the lives of common citizens.” no new coronavirus infections virus. Despite the request to for a third day yesterday, During the meeting, the extend the lockdown and the bringing some relief as the city chief ministers requested that rising death toll, some states grapples with economic ruin premier Narendra Modi extend have allowed certain services triggered by the disease that the lockdown until May 21 amid to continue. comes hot on the heels of efforts to slowly and gradually In an earlier letter, the months of crippling anti-gov- lift the precautions Internal Ministry said that all ernment protests. The South Asian nation of independent shops, as well as Stranded students from various districts arrive to board a bus to reach their home towns during a Looking to ease the way around 1.3 billion population those in residential complexes, government-imposed nationwide lockdown, in Allahabad, yesterday. out of a lockdown, Lam said now suffers a total of 29,451 would be allowed to open in outdoor sports facilities, confirmed COVID-19 cases, urban areas after April 27. that after reviewing the situ- including 54 deaths. country. In the southern Kerala libraries and museums would including 939 deaths, with over The Delhi government yes- ation, certain services could be The Western state of state, 12 more people tested also reopen from Monday 1,500 testing positive for the terday allowed veterinarians, allowed. Maharashtra recorded 522 positive for the virus as of although they would still be virus in the last 24 hours alone. plumbers, electricians and The city, however, has cases in the last 24 hours as the Monday, including one subject to a ban on gatherings Yesterday marked the 14th water purifier technicians to opened two more containment total reached 8,590 yesterday teenager who returned from of more than four people. day since the lockdown, origi- resume work. zones since Sunday, raising the morning. the US. Social distancing restric- nally planned to last until April The Delhi Disaster Man- total to 99. The state, which contains The state total has reached tions have led to a lull in pro- 14, had been extended once agement Authority, in an order The total cases rose by 190 India’s financial hub Mumbai, 481 with as many as 355 people tests in the Chinese-ruled city before. issued on Monday, confirmed on Monday, rising to 3,108, has the highest number in the recovering. in recent weeks, with some democracy activists expressing concern the rules could be used to curb demon- Medics feel strain even as coronavirus cases decline in Thailand strations, a suggestion Lam rejected. REUTERS — BANGKOK “Sometimes when I wake Care Unit. The hospital pays infectious diseases specialist to single digits since March 14. “When considering and my throat hurts, I get close attention to preventing Opass Putcharoen. Despite having some of the whether to continue the For Bangkok nurse Kanjana worried and wonder if I made infections among staff. “It makes us worry that if earliest coronavirus cases, restrictions or not, the major Kamoun, the coronavirus mistakes at work or not,” Patients who arrive for the we have a lot of severe cases Thailand has reported only consideration is firstly to safe- Intensive Care Ward is not only Kanjana, 36, said. first time see the doctor only on we will use up a lot of resources 2,931 cases in total — ranking guard public health and to where she works all day, it is “All I can do is think that I a screen. Consultations are and increase the chance of 58th worldwide. ensure citizens’ health, sec- where she thinks she is when did my best.” Since March 9, the carried out remotely. infection.” It has seen 52 deaths, while ondly to consider the impact she wakes up in the middle of King Chulalongkorn Memorial The Intensive Care Unit is But unlike in China or parts 2,609 patients have recovered. of these measures on the the night, anxious and afraid. Hospital in Bangkok has treated behind double barriers of glass. Europe and the United States, Onthong recalled a patient economy and different indus- Even as the number of new nearly 200 coronavirus Only those who absolutely have Thailand’s emergency wards who had arrived unconscious. tries, and thirdly their psycho- cases are slowing in Thailand - patients, and the medical staff to enter the room ever do so. have never been overwhelmed Elderly and with another logical impact on people,” the first country outside of there pride themselves on One patient is kept in each with coronavirus patients. medical condition, the chances Lam said. China to report a coronavirus having not lost a single one. room. And the number of cases looked slim. The government said last infection — the strain is showing “I don’t want anyone to die, “It requires five to six reported has been slowing. “But later the patient got week that social distancing for the doctors and nurses who I want them to only get better,” medical staff, which each time On Monday, Thailand better and recovered,” she said. and travel curbs would be have worked for weeks to keep said Tatsanee Onthong, one of takes up a lot of personal pro- reported nine new cases — the “That lifted my spirit to keep on extended until at least May 7. patients alive. the nurses from the Intensive tective equipment suits,” said first time the number had fallen fighting.” 12 ASIA WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 Sydney’s Bondi Beach reopens after lockdown restrictions ease REUTERS — SYDNEY Australia recorded they need to or going to work, just one new case many people have been isolated Australia’s most populous state in their homes,” NSW Premier said yesterday it will relax some of COVID-19 from Gladys Berejiklian told reporters restrictions on movement, as an unknown source in Sydney. beaches reopened amid hopes “Two adults will be able to a policy of widespread medical in the past 24 go and visit anybody else in their testing will help sustain a decline hours, suggesting home on the basis of care, on the in new cases of the coronavirus. community basis of reducing socialisation Bondi Beach and two neigh- and everybody’s mental health.” bouring beaches in Sydney were transmission had Children were allowed to reopened to local residents yes- almost stopped, accompany adults on house terday after being closed a visits, Berejiklian added. month ago due to large crowds Health Minister Greg Australia, which closed its Beachgoers rush for their first swim after Bondi Beach reopened following a five-week closure, in breaking social distancing rules. external and internal borders, Hunt said. Sydney yesterday. Australia recorded just one imposed an early shutdown of new case of COVID-19 from an businesses, and issued strict unknown source in the past 24 let up to two adults visit another social distancing rules, has new coronavirus fatalities yes- up coronavirus testing centres two days since its launch. hours, suggesting community person’s home from Friday, avoided the high numbers of terday after more residents from and want people to undergo That is short of the govern- transmission had almost stopped, relaxing a stay-at-home policy coronavirus cases and deaths an aged care facility in the west tests regardless of whether they ment’s target to have about half Health Minister Greg Hunt said. and ban on non-essential seen in other countries. of Sydney died from the virus. have symptoms. the population with the software, “We are winning but we movement. Australian states are starting There have now been 11 Around 2.44 million Aus- but health minister Hunt said it have not won yet,” he said. “For many people, they’ve to relax some restrictions as the coronavirus deaths at the tralians, or about 10% of the pop- was a sign people have New South Wales (NSW) been cooped up in their homes local rate of new infections slows Anglicare Newmarch House, ulation, had downloaded a gov- overcome privacy concerns and state, which is home to nearly for a number of weeks, and with to barely 1 percent per day, com- taking the national death toll to ernment “contact tracing” “come together as a single Aus- half of Australia’s roughly 6,700 the exception of exercising, pared to 25 percent a month ago. 88. smartphone app to monitor the tralian nation, as one single cases of COVID-19, said it would medical needs or buying what The country recorded five State governments have set spread of the illness, less than family”. Australia-China tensions rise over virus inquiry call

REUTERS — SYDNEY and construction. Australia’s of Foreign Affairs and Trade to expressed from the Australian economy, just as China’s when Australia introduced recent call for an international explain his comments. side”. economy indeed supplies val- foreign interference laws per- Australia has asked the Chinese investigation into the corona- “Australia is no more going Birmingham told Sky News uable goods, resources and ceived to be aimed at China, ambassador to explain what it virus pandemic has angered to change our policy position the Australian “government’s services to Australia’s two-way trade with China grew called a threat of “economic China, its largest trading on major public health issues displeasure was made known” economy”. by 20 percent. coercion” in response to partner. because of economic coercion, in the phone call. Australia wanted to “China needs us. Let’s not Canberra’s push for an inter- Cheng Jingye, Beijing’s or threats of economic China accounts for 26 maintain a positive relationship forget that. Many of the critical national inquiry into the source ambassador to Australia, told coercion, than we would percent of Australia’s total with China, but would also seek imports to Chinese industry, like and spread of the coronavirus. a local newspaper on Monday change our policy position in trade, worth around $150bn in other opportunities in places iron ore, coal, and gas come Trade Minister Simon Bir- that Chinese consumers could matters of national security,” 2018/19, and is the biggest such as India and the European from Australia,” James Paterson, mingham said Australia was a boycott Australian beef, Birmingham said on ABC radio. single market for Australian Union, he said. Trade with the a member of the ruling Liberal “crucial supplier” to China for tourism and universities in The Chinese embassy pub- exports such as coal, iron ore, European Union was worth Party, told Sky News. critical imports like iron ore response. lished a summary of the con- beef, tourism and education. A$114.3bn and India A$30.3 bn “It wouldn’t be easy at all and Australia’s resources and Birmingham said yesterday versation on its website later Birmingham said yesterday in 2018/19. for China to replace those three energy helped power much of that Cheng had been called by yesterday, which said Cheng that Australia was a “crucial Even amid escalating dip- major inputs into their China’s manufacturing growth the secretary of the Department had “flatly rejected the concern supplier to the Chinese lomatic tensions in 2018/19, industry.”

Turkey delivers Pakistan confident more medical of controlling virus aid to Pakistan ANATOLIA — KARACHI ANATOLIA — ISLAMABAD Pakistan stands the second worst-hit country in South Asia Turkey delivered a second batch Pakistan’s top health official has after India. of medical supplies to Pakistan said the intensity of the spread of India has so far reported yesterday to support its fight COVID-19 pandemic in the 29,451 cases with 939 deaths, against COVID-19. country is not as severe as in while 7,137 people have The supplies were brought other parts of the world. recovered so far, according to the to Karachi on a special Turkish State Minister for Health data by US-based Johns-Hopkins Airlines cargo flight and handed Zafar Mirza, while briefing Prime University. over to Pakistani authorities by Minister Imran Khan and other Death ratio in confirmed Murat Erkol, the acting Turkish Cabinet ministers late on cases in India is over 3 percent, consul general in the southern Monday, said, so far, the intensity while recovery ratio stands at port city, according to a of the spread of the virus is lower 24.2 percent. statement. compared to other countries in In Pakistan, the death ratio “Early this morning, medical the world. was recorded to stand at 2.1 aid from Turkey, which consists “As compared to other coun- percent, while recoveries at 23 of 108,000 surgical masks and tries, the number of confirmed percent. 31,500 sets of protective suits, cases and death ratio is less than According to Pakistani Health were delivered to the National those of other parts of the world,” Ministry, so far 3,233 people have Disaster Management Authority A police officer uses megaphone to disperse shopkeepers, who gathered to reopen their shops at a Mirza said, according to a successfully recovered and dis- (NDMA) for the fight against closed electronics market during the lockdown, in Karachi, on Monday. statement issued by the prime charged from hospitals across the COVID-19,” read the statement minister’s office. country. issued by the Turkish But the official data showed Some 157,223 people have has over 4,956 cases, the north- Lahore city, the capital of and regions. The World Health consulate. that new cases in the country are been tested in the country of over western Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Punjab province, is so far the Organization has declared the Nasarullah Brohi, assistant raising day by day as confirmed 200 million people, with almost recorded nearly 1,984 cases, and worst-hit city, with 27.31 percent coronavirus outbreak a global director of NDMA, a state-run cases passed the 14,000 mark over 6,400 tests conducted over the southwestern Balochistan of the total confirmed cases, pandemic. relief coordination agency, yesterday. the past 24 hours. province registered 853 cases, while the southern port city of The number of confirmed received the shipment. Last According to the Health Min- The northeastern Punjab according to the ministry data. Karachi stands second with 13.51 cases worldwide has now sur- week, Ankara donated 20,000 istry, 751 new cases were con- province, which accounts for The northern Gilgit-Baltistan percent of total number of passed 3.04 million, while the masks, 50,000 protective suits, firmed during the last 24 hours, more than half of the country’s region accounts for 320 of the infections. death toll is above 211,100 and and 100,000 face shields for brining the total number of cases population, is the worst-hit area country’s total cases, while the After emerging in Wuhan, more than 894,300 have Pakistani doctors and medical to 14,079, while 16 more fatalities in Pakistan with more than 5,640 capital Islamabad has 261, and China last December, the coro- recovered, according to data workers. Turkey has so far in a day raised the death toll to cases. Jammu and Kashmir recorded navirus known as COVID-19, has compiled by US-based Johns delivered aid to at least 57 coun- 301. The southern Sindh province 65 cases so far. spread to at least 185 countries Hopkins University. tries to fight the coronavirus. Over 2,200 Indonesians have died with virus symptoms, shows data REUTERS — JAKARTA under supervision because they country’s 260 million Adisasmito is the most senior have acute coronavirus population. public health expert on Indone- More than 2,200 Indonesians symptoms. Indonesia’s health A senior member of the gov- sia’s COVID-19 taskforce and the have died with acute symptoms ministry uses the acronym PDP ernment’s COVID-19 taskforce, press office of President Joko of COVID-19 but were not to classify these patients when Wiku Adisasmito, did not dispute Widodo typically refers queries recorded as victims of the there is no other clinical expla- the findings but declined to to the taskforce. disease, a review of data from 16 nation for their symptoms. comment on the number of coro- According to the Ministry of of the country’s 34 provinces The data is collated by pro- navirus victims he believed were Health’s most recent COVID-19 showed. vincial agencies daily or weekly to be found among the patients guidelines, patients classified as Three medical experts said from figures supplied by hos- classified as PDP. PDP are those with acute respi- the figures indicated the national pitals, clinics and officials over- He said many of the 19,897 ratory illnesses for which there death toll was likely to be much seeing burials. It was obtained by suspected coronavirus sufferers is no clinical explanation other higher than the official figure of checking websites, talking to pro- in Indonesia had not been tested than the new coronavirus. 765. vincial officials and reviewing because of long queues of spec- To be classified as PDP, Indonesia has one of the World Health Organisation imens awaiting processing at patients must also have travelled lowest testing rates in the world (WHO) reports. under-staffed laboratories. Some to a country, or an area in Indo- Traffic policemen spray disinfectant on motorists at a border and some epidemiologists say The 2,212 deaths were in people had died before their nesia, where the coronavirus has checkpoint, in Indonesia. that has made it harder to get an addition to the deaths of 693 sample was analysed, he said. taken hold within 14 days of accurate picture of the extent of people who had tested positive “If they have thousands or becoming sick. infections in the world’s fourth for COVID-19 in those provinces hundreds of samples they need “I believe the vast majority of COVID-19 symptoms and that of an outbreak in January and most populous country. and were officially recorded as to test, which one will they give PDP deaths were caused by there was no other identified February with some suggesting The most current data from victims of the disease. the priority? They will give the COVID-19,” said Pandu Riono, an cause of death. that prayer, herbal remedies and the 16 provinces shows there The 16 provinces account for priority to the people that are still epidemiologist at the University Some senior government hot weather would help ward off were 2,212 deaths of patients more than three quarters of the alive,” he told Reuters. of Indonesia, citing their members played down the risk the virus. WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 EUROPE 13 UK mourns ‘fallen’ front-line workers, expands virus testing AP — LONDON As clocks struck 11am, senior political leaders, The UK held a minute’s silence including Prime Minister Boris Johnson, joined yesterday for all front-line hospital and nursing home staff in observing workers who have died from the coronavirus, as the government the silence. London’s transport networks came extended its testing programme to a halt as workers honoured colleagues who and concerns mounted about the rising death toll in care homes. have died from COVID-19, and the bells of As clocks struck 11am, senior Westminster Abbey went silent. political leaders, including Prime Minister Boris Johnson, joined hospital and nursing home staff remains — to stop more joining London, has fallen. Yesterday, in observing the silence. Lon- the tragic number of those who Hancock said another 586 don’s transport networks came have died,” said Donna Kinnair, people died in UK hospitals, to a halt as workers honoured chief executive and general sec- taking the total to 21,678. colleagues who have died from retary of the Royal College of Those figures don’t include COVID-19, and the bells of West- Nursing. deaths outside hospitals such minster Abbey went silent. Johnson, who returned to as care homes. Hancock said Health Secretary Matt work Monday after recovering more comprehensive daily Hancock said 85 front-line from COVID-19, has said he figures will be published from workers in the National Health won’t risk a second peak in the Wednesday. Service had died from the virus, virus by relaxing lockdown Earlier, the Office for while another 19 have died in restrictions too soon, while National Statistics revealed that care homes. acknowledging that the country 22,351 people in England and “These are the nation’s fallen was coming out of the “first Wales died in the week ending NHS staff applaud after pausing for a minute’s silence to honour UK key workers, including NHS staff, heroes and we will remember phase of this conflict.” April 17. That was the highest health and social care workers, who have died during the coronavirus outbreak, outside Salford Royal them,” Hancock said at the gov- The government has set five since comparable records Hospital in Salford, northwest England, yesterday. ernment’s daily briefing. tests for an easing of restrictions began in 1993 and more than The minute’s silence had from their current end-date of double the rolling five-year It also said 4,316 deaths Care Quality Commission, point symptoms or not. Anyone over been campaigned for by the May 7, including “a sustained average. involving COVID-19 had been to the daily death rate in care 65, and all workers who must Unison union, the Royal College and consistent” fall in the daily In its analysis of death cer- registered up to April 17 outside homes in England and Wales leave their homes to work, are of Midwives and the Royal of death rate. tificates, which take longer to of hospitals with 3,096 in care heading towards the rate in also eligible if they show virus- College of Nursing, many of Over the past couple of compile than deaths recorded homes. The equivalent figure hospitals. like symptoms. whose members have com- weeks, it has become clear that in hospitals, the statistics agency for hospital deaths over that Hancock said the govern- Hancock also said the UK plained about insufficient sup- daily coronavirus-related deaths said the coronavirus was men- period was 14,796. ment’s testing programme was government position had not plies of personal protective in UK hospitals have trended tioned as a cause of death in Provisional figures since being expanded, including to all changed on face coverings, equipment. lower while the number being 8,758 cases, nearly 40 percent April 17 provided with the staff and residents in care saying there is “weak science” “An even greater task now hospitalised, particularly in of the total. assistance of a regulator, the homes whether they show on their use. Scotland for Italy’s Prime Minister defends slow-paced end to lockdown wearing face REUTERS — ROME while restaurants, bars and hair- let myself be swayed by public world’s hardest-hit countries, ruling coalition has remained dressers will stay closed until opinion, even if I understand registering almost 27,000 deaths largely united. However, voices masks in Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe June 1 and students won’t be those feelings very well myself.” and 200,000 cases since the first of discontent emerged on Conte defended himself back at school before Conte acknowledged the scien- coronavirus patient was iden- Tuesday. enclosed spaces yesterday from widespread crit- September. tific committee advising him was tified on Feb. 21. At present, Nicola Zingaretti, head of the icism of his highly cautious plans The softly-softly approach “rigid”, but said the overriding some 105,813 people still have centre-left Democratic Party, REUTERS — LONDON for a slow-placed end to has been criticised by busi- concern was to prevent a second the disease. said more flexibility might be Europe’s longest coronavirus nesses, lambasted by the oppo- wave of infections. However, the numbers have needed. Scotland’s First Minister Nicola lockdown. sition and even questioned by “If only one patient... been falling over the past two “We also need to revisit the Sturgeon has urged people to The government has said parties within Conte’s fragile managed to set off an outbreak weeks and some regional gov- June 1 date, which seems a long start wearing a face mask if strict curbs put in place seven coalition, worried by the huge and trigger such a contagion that ernors have announced they will way off,” he told Corriere della they are in enclosed places weeks ago to curb the disease economic and social toll. we were forced to close all of ease restrictions faster than the Sera daily. Former Prime Min- such as public transport and would be eased from May 4, But the prime minister said Italy, can you imagine what government wants. ister Matteo Renzi, whose small shops, diverging for now from when parks, factories and con- he had no regrets. could happen with the 100,000 While opposition parties Italia Viva party is in the coa- the official advice from struction sites reopen. “If I could turn the clock positive cases that we have at such as the far-right League lition, said the government plan London. However, shops must back, I’d do it all again,” Conte the moment,” he said. have repeatedly criticised was a “political, economic and Sturgeon said that while remain shuttered until May 18, told La Stampa daily. “I cannot Italy has been one of the Conte’s handling of the crisis, the constitutional error”. the evidence was limited, wearing face coverings could help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus by those Aggressive testing to people who are not yet showing symptoms. “We are recommending underpin lockdown that you do wear a cloth face covering if you are in an enclosed space with others exit in France where social distancing is dif- ficult, for example public REUTERS — PARIS and the whole country buckles.” transport or in a shop,” Almost 24,000 people have died Sturgeon told her daily briefing. France will adopt an aggressive in the pandemic in France, the “Let me emphasise the key new doctrine on COVID-19 world’s fourth highest toll behind point here which is that you testing from May 11 so that it can the United States, Italy and Spain. should not really be in situations slowly unwind its coronavirus The numbers in hospital in very often like that right now, if lockdown and avoid economic France with COVID-19, the con- you are complying with the meltdown, Prime Minister tagious lung disease caused by stay-at-home rules.” Edouard Philippe said yesterday. the new coronavirus, have fallen British ministers are The government had set itself daily for two weeks, while the reviewing advice given by sci- a goal of carrying out at least number of sufferers in intensive entific advisers as they weigh 700,000 tests per week, he said. care has declined for 19 consec- up whether they should follow Once a person tests positive, utive days. the likes of New York in tracing would begin to identify, From May 11, schools will ordering the use of face masks test and isolate all those who had gradually reopen and businesses in public to reduce the trans- been in close contact with the will be free to resume operations, mission of the virus. individual. Philippe said. Restaurants, cafes A French doctor wearing a protective suit checks the temperature of a woman at a testing site for “When we end the lockdown, and beaches, though, will remain the coronavirus disease, in Gouzeaucourt, France, yesterday. we will have the capacity to mas- closed until at least June, while Prince Harry sively scale up testing,” Philippe professional sports are sus- said in an address to pended until the end of August. selves from it,” Philippe said. he said. Those remarks angered Class size will be limited to 15 records message parliament. The planned timeline hinged France’s blueprint for easing doctors who for several weeks pupils and secondary school He said the lockdown had on the number of new corona- the lockdown reflects a bal- after the outbreak erupted com- pupils will have to wear masks. for Thomas the saved tens of thousands of lives virus infections remaining below ancing act, with the government plained of a lack of protective Where possible though, com- but that the time had come to 3,000 per day, the prime min- keen to relieve the mounting gear and battled to save lives as panies should encourage remote Tank Engine ease the unprecedented ister said. frustration of people holed up in the epidemic swamped working for at least a week after AP — LONDON peacetime restrictions and rescue “If the indicators are not their homes since mid-March hospitals. May 11. Anyone travelling on an economy in free-fall. good enough, we won’t unwind without heightening the risk of “He needed to apologise. He public transport or in a taxi will Prince Harry has recorded a However, he warned that the the lockdown on May 11, or we a second wave of infections. didn’t and instead he blamed the also have to wear a mask. special message to celebrate infection rate would spiral if will do it more strictly,” he Philippe said France had scientists,” said Edouard Jean- The ban on professional the 75th anniversary of chil- France moved too swiftly and added. based its testing protocols on the Baptiste, a general practitioner sport events upends the 2019- dren’s favourite Thomas the people became complacent. The number of confirmed shifting advice of scientists, on the eastern edge of Paris. 2020 Ligue 1 soccer season and Tank Engine. “We must protect the French new cases dropped below 3,000 including the decision to only Eager to helper workers will impact the already-delayed The Duke of Sussex intro- people without paralysing France on April 15. In the past seven test poorly people in hospital return to their jobs, Philippe said Tour de France. A vote will be duces a new programme called to the point that it collapses,” days, the average number of once the crisis response hit its kindergarten and primary held later, with just 75 of the “Thomas and Friends: The Philippe said. new cases per day has been highest level. schools nationwide would National Assembly’s 577 parlia- Royal Engine,” which has a “A little too much care- around 1,500. “That’s what we did. Times reopen from May 11, and high mentarians sitting in the storyline that includes Harry’s freeness and the epidemic takes “We must learn to live with changed, and so did the World schools from May 18 in areas chamber to respect social dis- father and grandmother, off again. Too much prudence COVID-19 and to protect our- Health Organisation’s doctrine,” where the infection rate is weak. tancing rules. Prince Charles and Queen Eliz- abeth II, as animated characters. Set when the Prince of Spain to phase out virus lockdown, eyes normality by end-June Wales was a boy, the story sees the friendly engine taking Sir REUTERS — MADRID will begin on May 4 and vary opening terraces at no more that the “virus is still lurking.” Total fatalities since the Topham Hatt, the controller of from province to province. Each than 30 percent of their “It’s up to the people now, we start of the outbreak rose to the railway, to Buckingham Spain announced a four-phase phase is designed to last two capacity during the first phase, are embarking on a journey 23,822 yesterday, with the daily Palace to receive an honour. plan yesterday to lift one of the weeks. remote working will be recom- without a precise route map... increase coming down from In his introduction — toughest coronavirus lock- The progression to higher mended where possible until What we’ve accomplished is Monday’s 331, the health min- which was recorded in January downs in Europe and return to phases with fewer restrictions reaching the last phase of the enormous but it could all be lost istry said. The number of diag- before his move overseas — normality by the end of June as will depend on factors such as plan at some point in June, if we don’t look after each nosed cases rose to 210,773 - the Prince Harry is seen sitting in the daily death toll fell to 301, how the rate of infection when beaches would also be other,” he said. world’s second-highest after the an armchair, reading from a less than a third of a record high evolves, the number of intensive able to reopen with the support Sanchez explained the gov- United States. As data published book about the train’s adven- of 950 in early April. care beds available locally and of local authorities. ernment had chosen not to set yesterday brought further evi- tures. In a statement he said he Prime Minister Pedro how regions comply with dis- “We are starting to glimpse precise deadlines for the easing dence of a worsening in unem- has “fond memories of growing Sanchez said the lifting of the tancing rules, he said, without an outcome that will be a of the lockdown, as had coun- ployment, companies said they up with Thomas and Friends measures that have halted providing concrete thresholds reward for the huge collective tries such as Italy, to avoid were looking to the government and being transported to new public life since March 14 and for such evaluation. effort made over the past missing them in what is a fluid to allow a gradual restart of the places through his nearly paralysed the economy, While restaurants can start weeks,” Sanchez said, warning situation. economy. adventures.” 14 EUROPE / AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 Russia sees record rise in coronavirus cases, deaths

REUTERS — MOSCOW The number of new coronavirus cases in Russia saw a record daily rise Russia rose by 6,411 yesterday, bringing its in new coronavirus cases and nationwide tally to 93,558. The number of related deaths yesterday, its coronavirus crisis response deaths rose by 72, also a daily record, taking centre said, with data the total number of fatalities to 867. The figures suggesting the world’s biggest mean Russia now ranks eighth worldwide for country by territory has over- taken China and Iran in the number of confirmed cases confirmed infections. The number of new coro- navirus cases in Russia rose cost Russia 0.5 percentage nearly 300 other Russian by 6,411 yesterday, bringing points of its gross domestic cities that Yandex tracks, it Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting with regional heads via a video link amid the its nationwide tally to 93,558. product every week. went down this week from COVID-19 outbreak at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow, Russia, yesterday. The number of deaths rose by Russia enters two sets of early April, indicating that 72, also a daily record, taking long public holidays from people are starting to dis- the total number of fatalities Friday to May 11, with only regard the lockdown to 867. three working days in between restrictions. Putin extends non-working period till May 11 The figures mean Russia which many usually prefer to Moscow, the epicentre of now ranks eighth worldwide take off as well and to spend the pandemic in Russia, has AFP — MOSCOW detected cases of the disease He also ordered officials to for the number of confirmed nearly two weeks outside the introduced special barcodes has stabilised,” Putin said develop a new “package of cases, though it still has far big cities. for private cars and public President Vladimir Putin during a televised video-con- urgent measures to support the fewer related deaths than the Yandex, Russia’s top transport since mid-April to warned yesterday that Russia ference with regional economy”. other most affected countries, search engine, has recently curb people’s movements — a had not yet reached the peak officials. Putin said a period of paid which include the United introduced a special self-iso- practice set to be extended to of coronavirus infections but “But this should not non-working days would be States, many European lation index which tracks peo- 21 other Russian regions. said a “phased exit” from the reassure us. The situation extended until May 11, adding nations, Iran, China and ple’s activity based on Yandex Russia is rushing to turn country’s lockdown measures remains very difficult. The several days to the public hol- Turkey. apps, including maps, taxi, regular hospitals into corona- could begin in two weeks. experts and scientists who we idays marked in Russia in early Russia’s total population food delivery and others. virus-focused facilities, as well With the number of cases are in constant contact with to May. Putin announced a month of 147 million is scattered Yesterday it stood at 3 of as building new medical spots rising by several thousand daily, check our plans and measures of non-working days at the start across 11 time zones and 85 the maximum 5 for Moscow, and turning large public places Putin extended a non-working say that the peak has not yet of April to encourage Russians regions. The coronavirus data a city of nearly 13 million into temporary hospitals. period across the country until been reached.” He ordered the to stay at home to prevent the includes the Crimea peninsula, where the number of con- Anna Popova, the head of May 11, telling officials to plan government to come up with a spread of the virus. Individual which Moscow annexed from firmed infections is close to Russia’s safety watchdog Ros- for a gradual lifting of quaran- plan for a “phased exit” from regions then imposed various Ukraine in 2014. 50,000, meaning there are a potrebnadzor, told state tele- tines after that. quarantine regimes from May quarantine measures, with the The country has been on lot of people on the streets. vision on Monday that, in her “We have managed to slow 12 “depending on the epidemi- lockdown especially strict in lockdown since late March. Although Moscow’s index view, restrictions should the spread of the epidemic... ological situation” in the coun- Moscow, which has been The lockdown is estimated to is better than an average in remain in place until May 12. The daily number of new try’s regions. hardest-hit by the disease. Norwegian Poles should boycott vote during pandemic: Tusk Ukraine to ease tycoon arrested restrictions REUTERS — WARSAW Opinion polls show fewer the country’s borders are closed would have to declare a state on suspicion of than 30% of Poles are likely to as part of a lockdown designed of emergency or of natural dis- AP — KIEV, UKRAINE Polish voters should boycott a cast ballots if the vote is held on to halt the spread of the virus. aster to delay it for any longer, wife's murder presidential election set for May May 10 as scheduled. Critics accuse PiS of putting a move PiS has resisted so far. Authorities in Ukraine have 10 out of “basic human “Basic human decency does its own political interests ahead PiS and its conservative started to ease lockdown AP — COPENHAGEN decency” because of the new not allow us to participate in of public health concerns, a allies hold a majority in par- restrictions enacted since coronavirus pandemic, Donald what is being proposed,” Tusk charge it denies. The party liament but members of its March 12 to curb the spread of One of Norway’s wealthiest Tusk, leader of the centre-right said in a video posted on hopes to secure the re-election ruling coalition have signalled the coronavirus. men was arrested yesterday European People’s Party and a Twitter, adding that he would of its ally, President Andrzej they could vote against the Government officials in in connection with his wife’s former prime minister, said not cast his vote. Duda, who is currently ahead postal ballot plan and have sug- Chernivtsy, a city 500km west 2018 disappearance and held yesterday. “If you don’t know how to in the opinion polls. gested delaying the election by of Kiev, allowed food markets on suspicion of murder or Tusk said a government act, be decent,” he said, citing Poland’s opposition remains two years. to reopen yesterday while complicity to murder in a case plan to hold the vote via a postal the late anti-communist divided, however, with only the The Organisation for requiring customers to wear that police had earlier thought ballot was insufficient to mit- activist, Wladyslaw Bar- Civic Platform, a centrist Security and Co-operation in masks and observe social was a kidnapping. igate safety concerns in the face toszewski, who is seen as a grouping once led by Tusk, Europe (OSCE) said on Monday distancing. Tom Hagen, a real estate of the coronavirus pandemic, leading moral authority by calling for an outright boycott that the current PiS proposal for In Kiev, authorities plan to investor and owner of an and accused the ruling nation- many Poles. of the election. a postal ballot could disenfran- lift some of the restrictions on electric company, was arrested alist Law and Justice party (PiS) Tusk said he thought PiS A final decision on the chise some voters abroad and May 12 to allow beauty parlors, on his way to work, chief of subverting the constitution. could be persuaded to work on postal ballot rests with par- limit the scope for election shops and parks to reopen if police investigator Tommy The election has become an alternative election plan that liament, which is only expected observers to take part. there isn’t a spike of new Broeske said. highly divisive in Poland, with would be “safe and fundamen- to vote on the matter on May 6, Human Rights Watch also infections. Prime Minister The case had made head- the PiS insisting it go ahead on tally fair”. just days before the election urged Warsaw to reconsider. Denys Shmyhal says similar lines in the Scandinavian schedule despite a mounting Poland currently has 12,089 date. PiS, well ahead of its rivals gradual measures may be country, where police first number of deaths from the confirmed coronavirus cases PiS says it might agree to in the opinion polls, fear taken throughout the country. reported that Anne-Elizabeth highly contagious COVID-19 and 570 deaths. Schools and delay the vote by a week or two, support will erode as the Ukraine has reported 9,410 Falkevik Hagen had been disease caused by the novel most shops are shut, Poles must a margin allowed by the con- lockdown measures hammer coronavirus cases and 239 abducted. Police had been told coronavirus. wear face masks outside and stitution. But the government the Polish economy. deaths. of her disappearance on October 31, 2018, but didn’t publicly speak about it until Jan. 9, 2019, after which hun- Prison riot amid coronavirus dreds of tips poured in. “The case is characterized by a clearly planned fears leaves 9 dead in Peru deception,” Broeske told a news conference yesterday in AP — LIMA, PERU common space of the prison America, prisons are notori- Oslo. late Monday afternoon. ously overcrowded, violent “As other hypotheses have Prisoners in Peru staged a riot Images taken by The and dominated in large part been weakened, suspicions to protest their precarious Associated Press show one of by gangs or corrupt against Tom Hagen have grad- living conditions following the deceased prisoners was officials. ually been strengthened.” the deaths of several fellow surrounded by candles and Overall there are 1.5 Prosecutor Aase Kjustad inmates from the new coro- placed next to a cross and an million inmates in the region’s Eriksson said authorities navirus, but the revolt in itself illustration of Jesus Christ jail cells, which often lack would seek today to have proved fatal, with nine pris- that is venerated in Peru. basic necessities like soap and Hagen held for four weeks in oners winding up dead, “Right to life,” read a large water. pre-trial custody and that authorities said. sign created by the prisoners Governments in the region more arrests were possible. Authorities said yesterday with black cloth and white have reported close to 1,400 Police declined to elab- the inmates were shot to letters. “We want to live but confirmed COVID-19 cases orate on a motive due to the death during a clash with outside these walls.” among inmates and prison ongoing investigation. authorities at the Miguel Peru’s overcrowded jails staff, though advocates say not The 69-year-old childhood Castro Castro prison in Lima have been hard hit by the enough testing is taking place. sweetheart that Hagen had a day earlier. Who fired the coronavirus: At least 13 pris- Peru has nearly 30,000 married at age 19 disappeared deadly shots was under oners have died and more confirmed cases total of from the couple’s home in Anti-govt protest in Chile investigation. than 500 have been infected. COVID-19, the second highest Loerenskog, east of Oslo, Hundreds of inmates Over 100 workers have also number of infections in the Chilean riot police grab a demonstrator during a protest against Chilean authorities said. gathered around the bodies fallen ill. region following Brazil. Health President Sebastian Pinera’s government, in Santiago, on Monday. A ransom for her release of two of the dead in a Throughout Latin authorities say 782 have died. was demanded, police said in January 2019 but declined to give the amount. Norwegian newspaper VG said it was for Venezuela names official indicted by US as oil minister ¤9m to be paid in a cryptocur- rency popular among AFP — CARACAS most-wanted fugitives list in August last renewed support for Guaido in a tele- cyber-criminals. year. “In his previous positions, he phone call on Monday, the US State Police eventually released Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro oversaw or partially owned narcotics Department said. security videos of men walking on Monday named a top official targeted shipments of more than 1,000 kilograms The two discussed a new US-pro- back and forth outside Hagen’s by US sanctions as oil minister as the (2,200 pounds) from Venezuela on mul- posed “framework” that calls for both workplace. Officers and police market for the country’s vital export is tiple occasions, including those with the Guaido and Maduro to step aside tem- dogs were also seen scouring in tumult. final destinations of Mexico and the porarily for a transitional government the grounds around the cou- Maduro tasked Tareck El Aissami — United States,” the Immigration and that would hold fresh elections. ple’s home and divers went a vice-president for the economy who Customs Enforcement agency (ICE) said Pompeo also “condemned the into a nearby pond as police has been indicted in the United States on its website. Maduro regime’s increased repression led a large investigation at on drugs trafficking charges — with El Aissami declared his innocence of Venezuela’s democratic actors and of home and abroad. “restructuring and reorganization” of the and denounced the move as “a dirty doctors and journalists telling the truth Tom Hagen, the second- OPEC member’s crippled oil industry. trick.” The United States has been about the COVID-19 response,” the State oldest in a farming family of Maduro also named Asdrubal seeking for more than a year to oust Department said. Tareck El Aissami 12 children, struck it rich in the Chavez, cousin of the late president Hugo Maduro, a leftist who presides over a The price of Venezuelan oil fell to real estate business he started Chavez, as interim president of the state crumbling economy. Along with some below $10 a barrel last Friday — its in 1978. oil firm PDVSA. The United States in 2017 designated 60 other countries Washington recog- lowest level in more than two decades. His fortune is estimated to El Aissami replaces Manuel Quevedo, El Aissami as having played “a signif- nizes opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela is almost entirely dependent be worth nearly 1.7 billion a general given the twin responsibilities icant role in international narcotics traf- interim president. on its oil revenues, which account for kroner ($161m). of oil minister and PDVSA chief in 2017. ficking” and placed him on a Secretary of State Mike Pompeo around 96 percent of its income. WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020 AMERICAS 15 Virus cases top 1 million in US as states roll back restrictions

REUTERS — WASHINGTON/ More than 56,500 number of US infections is NEW YORK believed to be higher than the Americans have died confirmed number of cases, The number of confirmed US of COVID-19, with with state public health officials coronavirus cases topped 1 an average of about cautioning that shortages of million yesterday — repre- trained workers and materials senting a third of the global total 2,000 a day this have limited testing capacity, — even as some states eased month. leaving many infections restrictions in the face of an unrecorded. economy battered by the About 30% of the American pandemic. rollback of social-distancing cases have occurred in New With President Donald policies could cause a surge in York state, the epicenter of the Trump’s economic adviser fore- new infections. US outbreak, followed by New casting an unemployment rate More than 56,500 Amer- Jersey, Massachusetts, Cali- of more than 16% for April and icans have died of COVID-19, fornia and Pennsylvania. The many Americans chafing under the respiratory illness caused earliest-known US deaths were stay-at-home orders, about a by the virus, with an average of in February. dozen states were moving to about 2,000 a day this month, Georgia, at the vanguard of restart their economies despite according to a Reuters tally. states reopening businesses, on US President Donald Trump (center right) listens as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (center left) speaks a lack of large-scale virus The number of confirmed Monday permitted restaurant during a meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, yesterday. testing. US coronavirus infections dining for the first time in a Public health experts have passed 1 million and has month. Texas Governor Greg warned that a premature doubled in 18 days. The actual Abbott said on Monday he “Everyone is talking about essential workers fighting the US coronavirus death toll to would let the state’s stay-at- reopening. I get it,” said New pandemic. The planes also were more than 74,000 people by home order expire and begin York Governor Andrew Cuomo, flying over New Jersey and August 4, compared with its reopening businesses including adding any decision should not Pennsylvania. previous forecast of 67,000. restaurants and retail shops in be made based on politics or The US Chamber of Com- The university’s Institute for phases beginning on Friday. emotions or in reaction to merce, the top lobbying group Health Metrics and Evaluation Florida Governor Ron protests. for the country’s business said late on Monday that the DeSantis met with Trump at the “We want to reopen, but we sector, called for consistency number of US deaths caused by White House and said he would want to do it without infecting across federal, state and local the virus was not abating as make an announcement today more people or overwhelming governments to reopen the quickly as previously projected about how to relax restrictions the hospital system,” Cuomo economy but urged against any after hitting a daily peak on in his state. DeSantis said he told his daily briefing, adding public health guidelines April 15 with about 2,700. would review his state’s task that his state’s death toll had becoming regulations that could While most states seem to force report before making his grown by 335 in the last day. harm businesses as they seek have passed their peaks in the announcement. Squadrons of US Navy Blue to restart. pandemic, seven — Hawaii, Mis- The governors of other Angels jets and US Air Force The University of Washing- sissippi, Texas, Wyoming, Utah, states, including New York, Thunderbirds jets performed a ton’s model, often cited by Nebraska and North Dakota — The US Navy’s Blue Angels and US Air Force’s Thunderbirds perform a have put off easing restrictions joint flyover in the sky above White House officials and state may be experiencing their peaks flyover tribute to honour COVID-19 frontline workers in the Brooklyn out of concern they might fuel New York City in a tribute to public health authorities, now or in the coming weeks, the borough of New York City, yesterday. a second wave of infections. frontline responders and upwardly revised its projected model showed. Pentagon releases ‘UFO’ videos taken by US Navy pilots US House will not return next AFP — WASHINGTON two in January 2015. Fravor who saw one of the In one, the weapons sensor “UFOs” in 2004 told CNN the week due to The Pentagon has officially operator appears to lose lock object moved erratically. released three videos taken by on a rapidly moving oblong “As I got close to it... it COVID-19 risk US Navy pilots showing mid-air object which seconds later sud- rapidly accelerated to the south, encounters with what appear denly accelerates away to the and disappeared in less than to be UFOs. left and out of view. two seconds,” Fravor told CNN REUTERS — WASHINGTON The grainy black and white In another video tracking an in 2017. footage had previously been object above the clouds, one “This was extremely abrupt, Lawmakers in the US House leaked and the Navy had pilot wonders if it is a drone. like a ping pong ball, bouncing of Representatives will not acknowledged they were Navy “There’s a whole fleet of off a wall. It would hit and go return to Washington next videos. them. Look on the ASA,” the the other way.” Former Nevada week as planned, due to the The Department of Defense other says. senator Harry Reid, whose state continuing risk of coronavirus said on Monday it was “My gosh, they’re all going hosts the top secret Area 51 Air infection, a top House “releasing the videos in order against the wind! The wind’s Force facility, welcomed release Democrat said yesterday, in a to clear up any misconceptions 120 knots out of the west!” he of the videos. reversal of plans outlined only by the public on whether or not said. In December 2017, the Pen- a day earlier. A video grab image shows part of an unclassified video taken by the footage that has been cir- “Look at that thing,” the first tagon acknowledged funding a House Majority Leader US Navy pilots that have circulated for years showing interactions culating was real, or whether says as the object starts rotating. secret multi-million dollar Steny Hoyer said he and House or not there is more to the The videos had previously with “unidentified aerial phenomena”. program to investigate sightings Speaker Nancy Pelosi made videos.” “The aerial phenomena been released by the New York of UFOs, although it said it had the decision to keep the observed in the videos remain Times and the To The Stars Pentagon said it determined impinge on any subsequent ended in 2012. The three video chamber on an extended characterized as ‘unidentified,’” Academy of Arts and Science, a that “the authorized release of investigations of military air clips —“FLIR,” “GOFAST” and recess after Hoyer discussed the Pentagon statement said. group co-founded by Blink-182 these unclassified videos does space incursions by unidentified “GIMBAL” are available to the situation with the official One of videos was shot in guitarist Tom DeLonge. not reveal any sensitive capa- aerial phenomena.” download on the Naval Air House physician. “The House November 2004 and the other After a thorough review, the bilities or systems, and does not Retired US Navy pilot David Systems Command website. physician’s view was that there was a risk to members that was one he would not rec- Virus slowing but Hillary Clinton endorses Joe Biden’s presidential bid ommend taking,” Hoyer told reporters. Canada not out REUTERS — NEW YORK On Monday, Hoyer’s office rematch between their party focused on the impacts of the simultaneously considered said on Twitter that lawmakers of the woods: PM Former US presidential and Republican President novel coronavirus on women, presidential runs, but Biden would return on May 4. But candidate Hillary Clinton Donald Trump. who are expected to play a ultimately decided against some House Democrats AFP — OTTAWA yesterday endorsed fellow Clinton, a onetime US sec- critical role in the most com- mounting a campaign then as expressed unhappiness with Democrat Joe Biden’s retary of state, former senator petitive swing states in the he grieved over the death of his the decision during a con- The spread of the coronavirus campaign for the office she from New York and wife of election. Biden introduced son Beau. Obama endorsed ference call. is slowing but Canada still has once sought. past President Bill Clinton, lost Clinton as the woman who Biden’s current campaign two Congress has not met in a ways to go for the all-clear, “This is a moment that we the 2016 presidential race should be president now. weeks ago. regular session since last Prime Minister Justin Trudeau need a leader, a president like against Trump in an election Biden is already his party’s Trump’s campaign month, though it has passed said yesterday as the country’s Joe Biden,” she said during a that is still the source of anger presumptive nominee after his manager, Brad Parscale, said major coronavirus relief bills COVID-19 deaths neared joint event online with the and consternation among rivals dropped out, including in a statement, “There is no worth nearly $3 trillion, partly 3,000. former vice-president. many liberals who expected to Senator Bernie Sanders, who greater concentration of Dem- by using rules allowing bills to “The measures we’ve The endorsement, while no elect the first female president bitterly clashed with Clinton ocrat establishment than Joe pass with just a small number taken so far are working,” surprise, marks the latest in a but also wrestled with whether when they contested their Biden and Hillary Clinton of lawmakers present. Trudeau told a daily briefing. series of high-profile Demo- they chose the right party’s 2016 primary. together. Hoyer said the House still “In fact, in many parts of the crats lining up behind Biden candidate. Biden was Barack Obama’s "President Trump beat her intends to return soon to com- country the curve has flat- ahead of what is expected to The endorsement came at vice-president, and Clinton his once and now he’ll beat her plete a new coronavirus tened, but we’re not out of the be a tight November 3 election a Biden campaign town hall first secretary of state. Both chosen candidate.” response bill that Democrats woods yet.” Public health offi- have vowed to use as a vehicle cials said the epidemic’s for funneling hundreds of bil- growth has gone from dou- lions of dollars in federal bling every three days to now Brazil judge orders probe into assistance to state and local every 16 days. governments. At the start of the pan- accusations against Bolsonaro Hoyer said an amount demic each infected person requested by governors, passed the coronavirus to an AFP — BRASÍLIA exercise of the presidential $500bn, was under discussion, average of 2.19 people. mandate,” thus allowing for an but no decision had been The transmission rate has A Brazilian supreme court judge investigation of the leader. made. Lawmakers have since fallen to each infecting on Monday ordered a probe into Moro, a former anti-cor- already provided $150bn to just slightly more than one accusations by former justice ruption judge, resigned on state and local governments other person, in part due to and security minister Sergio Friday after clashing with Bol- in previous legislation. social distancing and Moro that President Jair sonaro over the sacking of the Pelosi said Congress could self-isolation. Bolsonaro sought to “interfere” federal police chief, accusing consider separate packages for As of yesterday morning, with police investigations. the President of political state versus local govern- there were 49,815 COVID-19 In his decision, Judge Celso interference. ments. Senate Democratic cases recorded in Canada, de Mello gave the federal police The judge’s document lists leader Chuck Schumer warned including 2,929 deaths. 60 days to question Moro about seven accusations against Bol- that state and local govern- New federal government his explosive allegations against sonaro, including malfeasance ments would see “massive” models project a rise in cases the President. and obstruction of justice. layoffs without more aid from to between 53,196 and 66,835, The findings, which will be Should the investigation Congress to keep police, fire- and 3,277 to 3,883 deaths by handed over to the attorney confirm the allegations, it will fighters, ambulance crews and May 5. Data showed that those general, could result in either a be up to the lower house of the other frontline workers on the Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro walks outside the Alvorada Palace, over 60 years old have request for a political trial National Congress to initiate job. in Brasilia, Brazil, on Monday. accounted for two-thirds of against Bolsonaro or an impeachment proceedings President Donald Trump, hospitalizations and 95 percent indictment against Moro for against Bolsonaro and poten- said yesterday he was open to of COVID-19 deaths in Canada. false testimony. tially remove him from office. Bolsonaro has repeatedly Luiz Henrique Mandetta, who talking about aid to states, but Many of those cases were According to the judge, the The tensions come at the downplayed the danger of supported isolation as a tool to said it would be unfair to well- linked to nursing homes in alleged crimes seem to have “an height of the global coronavirus COVID-19 and earlier this contain the spread of the run states to bail out others Ontario and Quebec province. intimate connection with the crisis. month fired his health minister, pandemic. guilty of “mismanagement.” 16 MORNING BREAK WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2020

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER TODAY FAJR03.38 am SUNRISE 05.00 am o o Partly cloudy with chance of scattered rain may be thundery 27 C 36 C at places and slight dust to blowing dust at times. ZUHR 11.31 am ASR 03.00 pm Minimum Maximum HIGH TIDE 06:49– 21:34 LOW TIDE 4:02 – 13:58 MAGHRIB 06.06 pm ISHA 07.36 pm W ALRUWAIS: 23o↗36o W ALKHOR: 23o↗33o W DUKHAN: 23o↗36o W WAKRAH: 23o↗34o W MESAIEED 22o↗34o W ABUSAMRA 24o↗34o

Lindsay Lohan has New research reveals an advice for Prince more of the ‘Girl Harry and Meghan with a Pearl Earring’ IANS — LOS ANGELES Actress Lindsay Lohan has offered advice to Prince Harry AFP — THE HAGUE It has inspired further art- and Meghan Markle on how to works, notably Tracy Cheva- avoid paparazzi. Scientific investigation of lier’s 1999 novel “The Girl with While the 33-year-old has Vermeer’s world-famous the Pearl Earring” which gave somewhat retreated from the painting “Girl with a Pearl rise to an Oscar-nominated film glare of the spotlight while Earring” has revealed elements starring Scarlett Johansson and living abroad, she hasn’t for- that make her more “personal”, Colin Firth. gotten what life is like for a even if her identity remains a “The results of The Girl in celebrity in California. mystery. the Spotlight research project... While chatting with Andy The Mauritshuis art offers a glimpse of a much more Cohen on his show, he brought museum, where the painting is ‘personal’ painting than previ- up claims that Prince Harry housed, announced yesterday ously thought,” The Hague’s and Markle have moved to that an examination — the first Mauritshuis said. Malibu, an area where he said of its kind — had revealed the The museum said the exam- there is “a ton of paparazzi”. presence of tiny eyelashes ination used non-invasive He asked Lohan to give around the girl’s eyes, invisible imaging and scanning tech- some advice to the couple for to the naked eye. niques, digital microscopy and A file photo of Johannes Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” painting inside a XRF macro-scanner avoiding the paparazzi, reports The research also estab- paint sample analysis. during a research at The Mauritshuis in The Hague. eonline.com. lished the existence of a green Conducted by an interna- “I mean unless they own curtain in the seemingly empty tional team of scientists from from around the world, establish whether she really important”. another, a different private background of the painting February 2018, the review shed including the semi-precious existed or if she is the product Her fictional tale chroni- beach, right?” she quipped. dating from year 1665, a sort of new light on the use of pig- lapis lazuli stone from Afghan- of Vermeer’s imagination. cling a young maid who is “You can’t go to those “folded fabric” that has faded ments and how Vermeer istan to make ultramarine “The girl hasn’t revealed the taken into the Vermeer beaches without being — you to black over the centuries. developed his work using dif- which was “more precious than secret of her identity yet but we household and becomes his can’t even surf out far enough.” Art lovers and researchers ferent layers. gold” in the 17th century. got to know her a little better,” muse and model for the “It’s just really hard to do around the world have long The grand master, for The pearl itself is an said museum director Martine painting has sold over five anything publicly (there),” she been fascinated by the Dutch example, modified the compo- “illusion”, says the Mauritshuis, Gosselink. million copies worldwide. said. master’s painting of the young sition of the painting, shifting made up of “translucent and “This is not the end point of The author joked that she However, if the royal pair woman with an enigmatic look, the position of the ear, the top opaque touches of white paint”, our research.” did not want the museum to is looking to settle into a new wearing a blue and yellow of the scarf and the nape of the while the hook is missing. Chevalier tweeted that the discover the girl’s true identity. home right now, Lohan turban, a heavy pearl hanging neck. The examination did not, new research was “interesting”, “If that happens, my book pointed out it’s a good time from her ear. He also used raw materials however, identify the girl, or adding that “all details are is toast!” she tweeted. considering people are staying inside to social distance. “The timing right now luckily is everyone is more at Coronavirus lingers in air of crowded spaces: Study home,” she said. “But, once that’s over…just…get drivers.” Last month, a source said BLOOMBERG — BEIJING large crowds, and rooms where cases in China in which no air- those that make up aerosols — one of the hospitals. that the Duke and Duchess of medical staff take off protective borne transmission was can hang in the air for hours. Especially high concentra- Sussex had recently left Canada The new coronavirus appears gear. The study, published in the reported. The researchers, led by Ke tions appeared in the rooms and settled into a “large” home to linger in the air in crowded journal Nature Research, didn’t But as the virus fans across Lan of Wuhan University, set up where medical staff doff pro- in the Los Angeles area after spaces or rooms that lack venti- seek to establish whether the the globe and infections near 3 so-called aerosol traps in and tective equipment, which may completing their final royal lation, researchers found in a airborne particles could cause million, scientists are trying to around two hospitals in the city suggest that particles contam- engagement and officially study that buttresses the notion infections. understand exactly how con- that was home to the pan- inating their gear became air- stepping down as senior that COVID-19 can spread The question of how readily tamination occurs. demic’s first steps. borne again when masks, members of the royal family. through tiny airborne particles the new virus can spread People produce two types They found few aerosols in gloves and gowns are Early this year, the couple known as aerosols. through the air has been a of droplets when they breathe, patient wards, supermarkets removed. announced their intention to At two hospitals in Wuhan, matter of debate. The World cough or talk. Larger ones drop and residential buildings. Many The findings highlight the exit the royal family. In it, they China, researchers found bits Health Organization has said to the ground before they evap- more were detected in toilets importance of ventilation, lim- made clear what they wanted: of the virus’s genetic material the risk is limited to specific cir- orate, causing contamination and two areas that had large iting crowds and careful sani- to work to become financially floating in the air of hospital cumstances, pointing to an mostly via the objects on which crowds passing through, tation efforts, the researchers independent, while continuing toilets, an indoor space housing analysis of more than 75,000 they settle. Smaller ones — including an indoor space near said. to support the Queen. Samsung Galaxy Fold 2 to feature Eco-isolation: Ramadan triple rear camera quarantine with an IANS — SEOUL Indonesian twist South Korean tech giant Samsung is expected to launch REUTERS — JAKARTA contracted the virus from one foldable smartphone ‘Galaxy of his patients, the 42-year-old Fold 2 soon and according to Returning to his Java village for chose to avoid the village and a report, the device will come Ramadan, Abdullah Al Mabrur stay alone in full protective gear with a triple-camera setup on pitched a tent in the forest over in the nearby bamboo forest. the back. concerns he might be carrying His daily tasks include The upcoming Galaxy Fold the coronavirus — and is now clearing the river of rubbish, 2 is said to feature a 12MP spending his self-imposed building a bamboo bridge primary sensor, a 64MP tele- isolation cleaning up the river across it and reading the Quran. photo lens, and a 16MP ultra he played in as a child. “I have to take care of my wide-angle lens, reports The Indonesian government family and my environment to GizmoChina. banned “mudik” — citizens’ tra- cut the spread of the COVID-19 The phone will have two ditional return to their home disease,” he said. “I see a lot of camera sensors on the front towns and villages for the fasting benefits (isolating) here by the side but they won’t be placed month — on Friday to help riverbank. This is where I together. contain spread of the epidemic. played as a child, 35 years ago.” One sensor will be placed Ramadan began the same Each day his family stops by Abdullah Al Mabrur talks with his neighbour outside a tent he used for self-quarantine on a river inside the notch of the Side-A day, but by then, Al Mabrur had to deliver food. bank to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease in Klaten, Central Java province, Indonesia. small screen while the other already travelled back from “I support him because he sensor will be placed on a West Sumatra, where he ran a is trying to keep everyone The village also welcomes kindness,” said community in East Asia after China. foldable screen. traditional medicine clinic he healthy and prevent people his decision. leader Sumadi. Last year, an estimated 19.5 The company is planning was forced to close after from gossiping about us,” said “The condition of the river Indonesia has reported just million people in the archi- to use a cheaper design for business plummeted. his wife Susanti, after one is better than before thanks to over 9,000 coronavirus cases pelago of more than 260 million bringing down its price. Concerned he might have recent visit. his good intentions and with 765 deaths, the highest toll people undertook “mudik”. Work-related stress may up risk for peripheral artery disease

IANS — LONDON usually the legs, impeding blood between work-related stress in 11 separate studies from naire on work-related stress. increased inflammation and flow. and hospital treatment for 1985-2008 in Finland, Sweden, During an average 12.8 higher blood glucose levels. People who reported work- Worldwide, peripheral peripheral artery disease. Denmark and the UK. years of follow up, 667 people So, although there is limited related stress were more likely artery disease affects more than “Our findings suggest that Participants included in the (0.2 to 1.8 percent of partici- evidence linking work-related to be hospitalised for peripheral 200 million people. work-related stress may be a analysis had no previous history pants) were hospitalised for stress to heart disease, stress artery disease compared to Previous studies have linked risk factor for peripheral artery of peripheral artery disease peripheral artery disease. could be contributing to com- those who did not report work- work-related stress to other disease in a similar way as it is when the respective studies Researchers found that plications and exacerbations of related stress, according to a forms of the atherosclerotic for heart disease and stroke,” began. people with work-related stress peripheral artery disease, the study. disease; however, few have spe- said lead study author Katriina Individual information for were 1.4 times as likely as those study said. “Overall, nearly one- Peripheral artery disease, or cifically analysed its effects on Heikkila from Karolinska each participant included age, without work-related stress to fourth of participants with no PAD, is a cardiovascular disease peripheral artery disease. Institute in Sweden. sex, BMI, smoker or nonsmoker, have a record of peripheral artery previous hospitalisation for that occurs when cholesterol or The current research, pub- For the results, the alcohol consumption, physical disease in the hospitalisation reg- peripheral artery disease other fatty substances in the lished in the Journal of the researchers evaluated the activity level, diabetes status, ister, after adjusting for age, reported work-related stress at blood build up in the blood American Heart Association, records of 139,000 men and socioeconomic position, data on gender and lifestyle variables. the beginning of the 11 studies,” vessels away from the heart, focused on the relationship women participating hospitalisations and question- Stress is associated with the researchers noted.