BUSINESS | Page 1 SPORT | Page 1

QSE index surges on Al Duhail open plans to allow full campaign with foreign ownership in impressive win listed companies over Al Shorta

published in QATAR since 1978

FRIDAY Vol. XXXXII No. 11885 April 16, 2021 Ramadan 4, 1442 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Schools to reopen on August 29 MoI HQ lit up in green to mark Family Day August 29 will be the first day of the 2021-22 academic year for students, US preparing the Ministry of Education and Higher Education tweeted yesterday. As per the amendment to the calendar of the 2021-22 academic year, school staff are to return to for one-year schools (after summer vacation) on August 16. For government schools, the 2020-21 second round exams for grades 1-12 (day/adult education) will be held from August 18-26, Covid vaccine according to the tweet.

Situation worsening in Tigray, says UN booster shots People have started to die of hunger in Ethiopia’s conflict-hit he United States is preparing longer than six months, experts have northern Tigray region where for the possibility that a booster said that rapidly spreading variants of the humanitarian situation has Tshot will be needed between the coronavirus and others that may deteriorated and sexual violence is nine to 12 months after people are ini- emerge could lead to the need for regu- still being used as a weapon of war, tially vaccinated against Covid-19, a lar booster shots similar to annual fl u the UN’s aid chief told the Security White House offi cial said yesterday. shots. Council yesterday. Mark Lowcock, While the duration of immunity after The United States is also tracking the undersecretary-general for vaccination is being studied, booster infections in people who have been humanitarian aff airs, said there vaccines could be needed, David Kes- fully vaccinated, Rochelle Walensky, was no evidence of a promised sler, chief science offi cer for President director of the US Centers of Disease The Ministry of Interior (MoI) headquarters in Doha was lit up in green yesterday on the occasion of Qatar Family Day, withdrawal of Eritrean troops from Joe Biden’s Covid-19 response task Control and Prevention told the House celebrated on April 15 of every year, in order to build a cohesive society that embraces its values and identity. Many the region — and urged them to force told a congressional committee subcommittee hearing. other ministries and organisations also lit up their buildings in green. Page 12 make good on their pledge. Lowcock meeting. Of 77 million people vaccinated in gave a sobering assessment of the “The current thinking is those who the United States, there have been situation on the ground in Tigray. are more vulnerable will have to go 5,800 such breakthrough infections, fi rst,” he said. Walensky said, including 396 people Meanwhile, Pfi zer Inc Chief Ex- who required hospitalisation and 74 Pence receives ecutive Albert Bourla said people will who died. Visit Qatar app off ers virtual heart pacemaker ‘likely’ need a third booster dose of Walensky said some of these infec- Covid-19 vaccines within 12 months tions have occurred because the vac- Former US vice president Mike and could need annual shots, CNBC cinated person did not mount a strong Pence received a heart pacemaker reported based on his comments from immune response. tour of country’s destinations device during routine surgery on April 1, which were made public on But the concern is that in some cases, Wednesday and is expected to Thursday. they are occurring in people infected by fully recover, his spokesman said Initial data has shown that vac- more contagious virus variants. By Joey Aguilar tinations such as theme parks, hotels yesterday. Pence, 61, who previously cines from Moderna Inc and partners Earlier this month, Pfi zer and part- Staff Reporter and resorts, museums, heritage sites, disclosed an “asymptomatic” heart Pfi zer Inc and BioNTech SE retain most ner BioNTech said their vaccine was cultural centres, and art galleries, condition, underwent the procedure of their eff ectiveness for at least six around 91% eff ective in preventing among others, with its 360-degree at the Inova Fairfax medical facility months, though for how much longer Covid-19, citing updated trial data that he Visit Qatar mobile applica- feature. in Virginia after experiencing has not been determined. included more than 12,000 people fully tion can now be downloaded at These include the Venice-inspired symptoms associated with a slow Even if that protection lasts far inoculated for at least six months. TApple and Google play stores, The Pearl-Qatar, Angry Birds World heart rate over the past two weeks. allowing users to explore the coun- theme park at Doha Festival City, try’s various destinations and off er- Hilton Salwa Beach Resort and Villas, ings digitally. Doha Golf Club, the National Museum US imposes sanctions, “Download the Visit Qatar App of Qatar, Museum of Islamic Art, Al expels Russian diplomats and discover panoramic landscapes, Zubarah Fort, Purple Island, Desert iconic attractions and experiences Falls Water and Adventure Park, Ka- The United States announced that showcase the beauty of Qatar. Get tara – the Cultural Village, Mondrian sanctions and the expulsion of 10 inspired and personalise your curated Doha, Msheireb Downtown Doha, In- Russian diplomats yesterday in itinerary to experience the warmth of land Sea, Banana Island Resort Doha, retaliation for what Washington our renowned Arabian hospitality,” The Doha Corniche, and Souq Waqif. says is the Kremlin’s US election Visit Qatar posted on its Instagram Apart from 360-degree feature, the interference, a massive cyberattack page. app also provides several other infor- and other hostile activity. President Visit Qatar, the offi cial social media mation about the destinations such as Joe Biden’s broadside against Russia tourism account of the Qatar National their profi le, attractions, directions, came the same week as he off ered Tourism Council, has been continu- operating time, and contact details. to meet President Vladimir Putin for ously promoting local destinations on Users can also check the “Must- their first summit — a meeting US its Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter Do-Activities” on the app such as off icials say remains “vital” so that Scotland’s First Minister and leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) Nicola pages. shopping, wellness, food and drink, the two countries can deescalate. Sturgeon (R) speaks with a staff nurse (L) before she receives her first dose of the While Covid-19 restrictions are The Visit Qatar App takes visitors art and culture, adventure, and family AstraZeneca/Oxford Covid-19 vaccine at the NHS Louisa Jordan vaccine centre in currently in place, the app can virtu- virtually to a number of destinations fun, suggesting some of the best des- Glasgow, yesterday. ally take visitors to a number of des- with its 360-degree feature. tinations to visit. To Page 3 France’s Covid-19 deaths pass 100,000 The number of people killed by Black Lives Matter Covid-19 in France climbed past 100,000 yesterday, with the virus Low-to-medium risk of Russian claiming a further 300 lives in the past 24 hours. France is the third country in Europe to reach the grim milestone of 100,000 coronavirus deaths, after invasion of Ukraine: US general the United Kingdom and Italy. “We will not forget a single face, a single name,” President Emmanuel Macron Reuters says has killed 14,000 people since tweeted, sending his condolences Washington 2014. to the victim’s families and friends. Tensions over a buildup of Russian Worldwide, the US has the highest troops on Ukraine’s eastern border have death toll, with over half a million. here is a “low to medium” risk pushed up the cost of raising domestic that Russia will invade Ukraine debt and prompted the government to RAMADAN THOUGHT Tover the next few weeks, the top accelerate eff orts to secure more Inter- US general in Europe said yesterday, in national Monetary Fund loans. Whoever fasts Ramadan out of the fi rst such military assessment amid sincere faith and hoping for a mounting concern about Russian troop reward from Allah, then all his movements toward Ukraine’s borders. Zelenskiy wants more previous sins will be forgiven. Air Force General Tod Wolters de- A Ukrainian serviceman cleans his support from Europe [Al-Bukhari & Muslim] clined to explain the intelligence driv- machine gun at a position on the ing his assessment, which does not frontline with Russia-backed separatists Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Prayer times suggest the US military expects a Rus- near Gorlivka, Donetsk region, yesterday. Zelenskiy has appealed to Europe Fajr....3.51; Zuhr....11.34; Asr....3.03; sian invasion at this point, but is not for more support in his country’s Floyd and Wright families attorney Ben Crump (C) speaks, flanked by the Maghrib.....6.00; Isha.....7.30 ruling one out or playing down the risk. explain whether that risk would change standoff with Russia, including family of Daunte Wright, during a press conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota But Wolters later suggested his view after that period, Wolters kept his cards letting it into Nato. Speaking to yesterday. The prosecution and defence rested their case on April 15, 2021 Fasting times about the risks in the coming weeks and close, saying: “The answer is, it de- Le Figaro newspaper ahead of his in the trial of former police off icer Derek Chauvin for the murder of George months was at least partly based on the pends.” meeting with French President Floyd and the judge set closing arguments for April 19, 2021. Chauvin, 45, Iftar today ...... 6.00pm disposition of Russian forces. “And I would have to take each and Emmanuel Macron in Paris today, is facing murder and manslaughter charges for the May 25, 2020 death of Imsak tomorrow...... 3.40am The Pentagon has declined to detail every second of the day from this point Zelenskiy said: “If the EU and Floyd, which was captured on video and sparked protests against racial its assessment on the size and compo- till tomorrow to give you a diff erent an- Emmanuel Macron consider us as injustice and police brutality around the world. Please see Classifi ed sition of those troops, referring report- swer,” he said. a true member of the European Advertisements ers to Moscow. If the current trajectory stayed the family, they must act accordingly.” However, the White House dis- same, however, Wolters estimated the He said that France, Germany and William, Harry to keep distance at funeral closed that Russia has more troops on risk of an invasion could decrease. the European Union had already British royals William and Harry will not walk side by side in the procession Page 7 Ukraine’s eastern border than at any “My sense is, with the trend that I helped Ukraine a lot, notably with at this weekend’s funeral of Queen Elizabeth II’s husband Prince Philip, time since 2014, when it annexed Cri- see right now, that the likelihood of an sanctions against Russia. Buckingham Palace revealed yesterday. Prince Philip’s funeral, at Windsor mea and backed separatist territory occurrence will start to wane,” he said. COMMUNITY “The discussion must also take Castle at 3pm tomorrow, is the pair’s first reunion since Harry’s shock seizures. Ukraine and Russia have traded place on security issues. The move to the United States last year. It will be closely watched for signs of See Pages Asked by a lawmaker to estimate the blame over a spike in violence in the security of Europe depends on that strains in the sibling relationship. When the coffin arrives at St George’s chances of an invasion in the next few confl ict in eastern Ukraine, where of Ukraine...We cannot indefinitely Chapel, William will move ahead of his younger brother as the royal weeks, Wolters said: “Low to medium.” Ukrainian troops have battled Russian- remain in the waiting room.” mourners enter in pairs. Page 9 4,5 & 6 Pressed by a diff erent lawmaker to backed forces in a confl ict that Kyiv Gulf Times 2 Friday, April 16, 2021 QATAR

Indian embassy FM receives call from WEF president introduces HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani priority Shura Council takes part in yesterday received a video conferencing call from President of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Borge appointments for Brende. During the call, they reviewed co-operation relations between Qatar and the World Economic Forum. health workers virtual parliamentary meet The Indian Embassy has Saudi undersecretary meets Qatari diplomat introduced a priority online QNA appointment system for health Doha workers to facilitate passport, PCC and other attestation services. The new system he Shura Council partic- enables Indian healthcare ipated in a parliamentary workers to seek priority Tconference held yester- appointments on their preferred day on the global challenges date and time. The gesture is and threats in the context of a recognition for the services, Covid-19 pandemic related to being extended by health terrorism and violent extrem- workers. ism. “Acknowledging their services This came in the framework and taking into consideration of the partnership between the fact that they are hard the Interparliamentary As- pressed for time, the embassy sembly of Member Nations has introduced a separate of the Commonwealth of In- online appointment system to dependent States (IPA-CIS), facilitate passport, PCC and other the Parliamentary Assembly attestation services on priority to of the Mediterranean (PAM), Indian healthcare workers,” it was Organisation for Security and tweeted yesterday. Co-operation in Europe Parlia- Their requests for appointments mentary Assembly (OSCE PA), can be submitted through the the Parliamentary Assembly of embassy website at https://t. the Council of Europe (PACE) co/6GDOeTVrrw Appointment and the United Nations Offi ce of requests will be processed Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT). expeditiously and appointment The talks, which took place confirmation sent on their via video conference, focused registered e-mail. “Embassy of on the importance of revising India expresses its gratitude to counter-terrorism policies and Indian nationals working in the legislation. Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs for Consular Aff airs in Saudi Arabia Tamim healthcare sector in Qatar, who Participants also agreed on al-Dossary met with Acting Charge d’aff aires of the Embassy of Qatar in Saudi Arabia Hassan bin are working tirelessly during the the importance of having a vi- Mansour al-Khater. During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral co-operation relations between the pandemic to keep everyone safe The Shura Council was represented by Khalid bin Abdullah brant national dialogue and two countries. in Qatar,” the tweet added. al-Buainain, member of the council. avoiding polarisation.

Russian ambassador’s Ramadan message

On behalf of myself and all staff of the Russian Embassy in Doha I would like to wish to all those observing the blessed month of Ramadan peace, prosperity and harmony. This year under the pandemic conditions, the holy month has a special meaning. During pandemic we all need to remember that our health, the QF virtual event health of our loved ones and other people is of great value and we comply with all the requirements and safety measures. Ramadan 2021 gives us the opportunity to dedicate this time to spiritual growth and deep reflection as well as teaches us patience and shows the real path to peace and love – that are real values of Islam. Ramadan Kareem!

Nurmakhmad Kholov to refl ect on how Russian ambassador to Qatar

MoPH reports Ramadan can 989 new Covid-19 cases, 597 recoveries

QNA drive change Doha The Ministry of Public Health sing Ramadan as an op- from, and engage with, experts (MoPH) reported yesterday portunity to refl ect on and thought leaders on topics 989 new confirmed cases of Uhow to make meaning- shaping global society. Covid-19, 821 of these were from ful changes to lives, lifestyles, Since the Education City community cases and 168 from and society will be the topic of Speaker Series was fi rst hosted travellers returning from abroad. a special virtual edition of Qa- online in April 2020, tens of The MoPH recorded 597 tar Foundation’s (QF) Education thousands of local, regional, and recoveries from the virus during City Speaker Series next week, international viewers have since the past 24 hours, bringing the as the platform for dialogue wel- tuned in to discussions on topics total number of cases recovered comes a renowned American ranging from the global response in Qatar to 171,985. Nine new Muslim scholar, writer, and civil to Covid-19, its impact on mental deaths were recorded ages 41, rights leader. health, and the development of 42, 56, 58, 63, 68, 69, 79 and Dr Omar Suleiman will be vaccines designed to combat the 85, six of them were suff ering the guest speaker for the online virus, to racism and white privi- from chronic diseases and had event on April 21, to discuss how lege, regenerative development, received the necessary medical the holy month enables people to and national identity. care. explore ways in which they can Taking place from 9-10pm Vaccination data: make a lasting diff erence to the Dr Omar Suleiman Doha time on April 21, the Ra-  11,83,191 vaccine doses have way they live their lives, and con- madan edition of the Education been administered since the tribute to their communities. Co-Chair Emeritus of Faith For- the plight of Syrian refugees. Dr City Speaker Series with Dr Sule- start of the programme. The Ramadan-themed dis- ward Dallas at Thanks-Giving Suleiman has been named one iman will feature a 40-minute  23,712 doses have been cussion – Crafting a Lifetime of Square, a multi-faith coalition of the world’s 500 most infl uen- discussion moderated by QF administered in past 24 hours. Change from a Month of Refl ec- for peace and justice, for which tial Muslims by the Royal Islamic communications specialist tion – mirrors QF’s commitment he received a United Nations Strategic Studies Centre in Jor- Shaymaa Ziara, followed by a to empowering people to lead Global Goals Award in 2016. dan, and as one of the 25 most in- 20-minute question-and-an- 134 face prosecution for violating Covid measures and drive change, by providing He came to national recogni- fl uential Muslims in America by swer session, with the audience opportunities for them to realise tion in the US as an advocate for CNN. Next week’s talk will be the having the opportunity to pose their potential and recognise the community service, inter-faith eighth online edition of the Edu- their questions to the speaker. The designated authorities they are mandatory, while 6 were the Cabinet decision, Decree active role they can play in shap- dialogue, and social justice for cation City Speaker Series, which Viewers watching on Micro- referred 134 people to the Public found violating the maximum Law No. 17 of 1990 on infectious ing the future. his work in directing the Mus- has been held in virtual form soft Teams will be able to access Prosecution for violating the number of four people allowed diseases, and the precautionary The founder and president of lims for Humanity relief eff ort since the onset of the Covid-19 Arabic, English, French, Span- preventive and precautionary in a vehicle including the driver, measures in force in the country the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic in the wake of the Hurricane pandemic last year. Refl ecting ish, and Italian subtitles, and the measures enforced by the except when they are members of to contain the spread of Covid-19. Research and professor of Islam- Katrina disaster. Since then, his QF’s belief in the power of dia- event will also be streamed live country to contain the spread of one family, 18 who did not adhere The designated authorities called ic Studies at Southern Methodist sense of activism and desire to logue to unearth solutions, open on QF’s YouTube, Facebook, and the coronavirus. Among them, to the safe distance, and 4 people on the public to adhere to the University in the US, Dr Suleiman be a leader of positive change has up conversations, and broaden Twitter channels. For more in- 106 people were referred to for not installing Etheraz app on precautionary measures in place is also the resident scholar of the seen him contribute to causes in- perspective, it enables audiences formation, and to register, visit the Public Prosecution for not their mobile phones. to ensure their safety and the Valley Ranch Islamic Center and cluding immigration reform and from Qatar and beyond to learn www.qf.org.qa/ecss wearing masks in places where The measures are in line with safety of others. Ramadan an opportune time to give up smoking, say HMC experts

amadan is an opportune habit also start to feel improve- substances in tobacco products, and spending time socialising lowing a method known sci- time to quit smoking as ment in their sense of smell and is highly addictive. with friends and family mem- entifi cally as the ‘cold turkey’ Rfasting has lot of health taste and their immune system’s “Cigarette smoke contains bers who do not smoke can help method, which is based on stop- benefi ts which are especially ability to fi ght off diseases im- more than 45 poisonous chemi- decrease the urge to smoke,” he ping smoking abruptly. How- prominent in tobacco users who proves over time,” he explained. cals that are known as causes of added. ever, some smokers might need give up the habit, experts from “During Ramadan the number cancer. Carbon monoxide is just Dr Jamal Abdullah, smoking professional support and nico- Hamad Medical Corporation’s of smokers who visit us with an one of many hazardous chemi- cessation specialist at Tobacco tine replacement therapy to help (HMC) Tobacco Control Center intention to quit is higher than cals in cigarette smoke and this Control Center, said Ramadan them quit this habit. have said. during other periods of the year colourless, odourless gas replac- can make it easier for people to “For many smokers, quitting “For smokers, quitting is often because fasting, and the holy es oxygen in the blood and can quit smoking. He explained that is easier during Ramadan. We easier during Ramadan as those month in general, is an ideal time cause shortness of breath and the sudden drop in nicotine lev- encourage smokers to quit this who fast are already required for smokers to be more thought- dizziness. els in the blood during fasting can habit as soon as possible and be- to abstain from food and drink, ful about their health and the Additionally, tar inhaled dur- result in withdrawal symptoms fore they develop serious chronic as well as from smoking ciga- impact lifestyle choices have on ing smoking can cause lung can- such as strong cravings, poor diseases as a result of smoking. rettes and using other tobacco Dr Jamal Abdullah their well-being,” the expert ob- cer, heart disease, stroke, and concentration, nerviness, and Unfortunately, these diseases Dr Ahmad al-Mulla products, from dawn to sunset,” served. respiratory disease. Smoking is headaches. can be lifelong and can aff ect the pointed out Dr Ahmad al-Mul- return to more normal levels and The Smoking Cessation Clinic a major threat to the health of a These symptoms are normally health of the smoker for the rest with cardiac stents as a result of la, head of the Tobacco Control nicotine levels in the body start provides patients with the tools smoker and to the people around most pronounced during the fi rst of his life even if he quits smoking smoking,” added Dr Abdullah. Center. to decline gradually. and support needed to replace them who are exposed to second- week of quitting, but they gradu- at a later age. HMC’s Smoking Cessation “The positive health eff ects of The body also begins to cleanse their nicotine consumption habit hand smoke,” cautioned Dr al- ally become less intense and dis- “We see every day in our clin- Center urges smokers to ben- quitting smoking begin quickly itself of the toxic substances and and to cope with withdrawal Mulla. appear over time. ics smokers in their 30s and efi t from the services provided to after the last cigarette. Blood blood viscosity returns to nor- symptoms. “Exercising, drinking plenty of Ramadan can help many 40s who have developed heart help them quit smoking. People pressure and pulse will start to mal levels. Smokers who quit the Nicotine, which is one of the water during non-fasting hours, smokers quit the habit by fol- diseases and had to be treated can call 40254981 or 50800959. Gulf Times Friday, April 16, 2021 3 QATAR

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha wins ‘Engage’ award

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha won the ‘Engage’ category at the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Dealer Conference, it was announced in a statement. The year’s digitally held event highlighted the eff orts of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ dealers across the region, celebrating the hard work, passion and dedication of each showroom during an unprecedented year. Out of the four main awards – Engage, Entertain, Retain and Customer Centricity – Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha was awarded the ‘Engage’ trophy; a true testament to their unrivalled eff orts in gaining, maintaining and retaining customers. “The team at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha has gained well-earned recognition during what has been an extraordinarily challenging year. I would like to extend my congratulations and thank them for their tremendous eff orts. I look forward to what this year has in store,” said Cesar Habib, regional director for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Middle East & Africa. “We are absolutely delighted to have won the ‘Engage’ award at the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Dealer Conference. The team’s passion and hard work has been truly motivating and it is fantastic to see their eff orts rewarded,” said Nasr Jairoudi, general manager of Rolls- Royce Motor Cars Doha.

Carrefour’s 2021 Ramadan theme MME signs revives essence of the holy month

arrefour Qatar has revealed the theme ue through every experience, Carrefour is Ramadan is equally about the importance agreement of its 2021 Ramadan Campaign, To- committed to providing customers with the of giving back and helping those less fortu- Cgether we Share. Carrefour is dedi- freshest ingredients and widest range of nate. With a focus on community engage- cated to keeping the blessed traditions of food products; all the necessary decorative ment, each Ramadan Carrefour provides op- Ramadan alive and enabling its customers to elements and accessories for decorating a portunities for customers to get involved in enjoy special Ramadan moments together. festive and welcoming Ramadan home; and sustainability and charity initiatives as part The theme of the campaign has a wide range of gifting options. of the brand’s mission to uplift its surround- for air quality been purposefully created to remind cus- As such, Carrefour is off ering customers ing communities. tomers across the region about the essence off ers and promotions across all Ramadan To this end, the retailer is providing op- of Ramadan. essentials including meat, fi sh, fruits and portunities for its customers to give back Despite a very different and unconven- vegetables, groceries, and electronics. through its ongoing partnership with Edu- tional holy month in 2020, Carrefour wants Through the Together we Share theme, cation Above All (EAA) in support of EAA to be at the centre of helping its communi- Carrefour will also be encouraging its com- causes, to ensure all children and youth in monitoring ties experience Ramadan as they know it; munities to buy local. As such, the brand Qatar have access to quality education. As through giving and generosity, connecting will be giving shoppers the chance to sup- customers shop for their Ramadan essen- with family and friends, spirituality and port local Qatari farmers and suppliers by tials, they can give back to the community he Ministry of Munici- celebration. promoting local fresh fruits and vegetables by donating at the cash counter of any Car- pality and Environment Focused on delivering exceptional val- throughout the month. refour Qatar store. T(MME), represented by the Department of the En- vironmental Affairs Sector, signed through video confer- Visit Qatar app off ers virtual tour of country’s destinations ence technology, a number of co-operation agreements with From Page 1 a haunting landscape of limestone rock for- Torch, Cosmos, Enchanted East, and Mu- Power International Hold- mations sculpted into mushroom shapes by seum of Illusions. The app also showcases ing (PIH) Company to enhance For adventure as an example, the app the wind”, among others. the Hamad International Airport and FIFA co-operation in the areas of air suggests Al Thakira and Purple Island, a For Family fun, the app features Perceval World Cup 2022 stadiums, in addition to a quality monitoring and build- serene location beyond Al Khor known for (a bronze of a life-size shire horse by Sara number of malls and public art in the coun- ing a reputation management its mangroves and lush greenery; Inland Lucas) at Aspire Park, Dahl Al Misfir, which try such as ‘7’ by renowned American artist system. Sea or Khor Al Adaid, an “extraordinary is “considered the largest and deepest, yet Richard Serra’s and Al Riwaq Gallery – both The Assistant Undersecre- landscape with sand dunes and sea beds “in accessible cave in Qatar located west of located at MIA Park; Flying Man by Dia al- tary for Environmental Affairs south-eastern side of Qatar; and Ras Ab- Doha.” Azzawi at HIA; and Cosmos (also at HIA) at the Ministry of Municipal- rouq rock formations at Qatar’s west coast Other suggestions include Shay Al Sha- by internationally acclaimed contemporary ity and Environment Engineer near Zekreet, “a visually arresting area with moos, Al Zubarah Fort, Three Sixty – The French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel. Hassan Bojumhur al-Mohan- The agreements were signed through video conference technology. nadi emphasised that these agreements aim to strengthen agement” system, which is a the ministry’s reputation, and HBKU’s College of Public Policy launches Social Policy Research Forum co-operation in the fields of modern system for developing developing plans and mecha- air quality monitoring, and to the ministry’s operations in nisms for disseminating the build a reputation manage- line with the strategic plan of components of this reputation he Covid-19 pandemic has Pandemic in the Mena region’. ment system in the ministry, the Ministry of Municipality at the level of different seg- presented an opportunity Speakers explored the key fac- and that according to one of and Environment, and achiev- ments. Tto examine which capac- tors that account for the variety these agreements there will be ing communication with the For his part, the Vice-Chair- ity defi cits are truly structural of social policy responses across support for the network of air public in a professional man- man and Group CEO of Power and which might be overcome the region and the lessons that quality monitoring stations in ner, in accordance with the lat- International Holding Ramez through a combination of tech- can be distilled. Examining the the ministry as well as provid- est scientific theories and pre- al-Khayyat, affirmed that nical assistance and political gaps in service delivery and ine- ing the ministry an air quality serving the ministry’s image. these agreements contribute to will, a recent event by the College qualities that have been exposed, monitoring station according He stressed that the ministry supporting environmental sus- of Public Policy (CPP) at Hamad particularly among vulnerable to the best international stand- promotes, through one of these tainability in the country, not- Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) populations hardest hit, policy ards will be installed near one agreements, an improvement ing that the signing and imple- was told. responses and the role of social of the stadiums that will host in its reputation management, mentation of such agreements The launch of the new Annual protection in mitigating Covid- the 2022 World Cup. He added at the level of environmental comes within the framework Social Policy Research Forum ex- 19’s impacts came to the fore. that the other agreement aims sustainability indicators, by of mutual co-operation with plored how lessons learned from Session Two, titled ‘The Road at scientific co-operation in designing a reference tool for various entities operating in social responses to the pandemic Ahead’, examined what the wel- building a “reputation man- the components and features of the country. in the Mena region, and how they fare state and the social contract can translate into better social may look like after the pandemic policies. Speakers explored the key factors that account for the variety of and what steps governments The fi rst annual forum, organ- social policy responses across the region and the lessons that can be should take today to ensure that ised by the Program for Social distilled. lessons translate into better so- Temporary closure on Dukhan Road Policy Evaluation and Research cial policies. (PROSPER), convened scholars testing Mena countries’ insti- the London School of Econom- Commenting on the launch of to discuss the social policy re- tutional and governance con- ics, King’s College London, The the Social Policy Research Fo- sponses to the Covid-19 pan- straints. American University in Cairo, rum, Dr Leslie Pal, founding dean demic in the Mena region, which “Our aim through these im- the American University of Bei- of CPP, said: “The forum adds have been exacerbated and ex- portant discussions is to help in- rut, and the University of Rabat. signifi cantly to HBKU’s eff orts as posed by its economic and social form institutional responses that Speakers also represented the a research university to contrib- consequences. They also ex- can ensure we emerge from the United Nations Development ute to policy-focused responses plored the future of social pol- pandemic having learned lessons Programme, Unicef Middle East to challenges. One of CPP’s roles icy and the social contract. The that actually reshape the goals, and North Africa, the UN Eco- is to facilitate dialogue that criti- event was chaired by Dr Anis Ben design, and implementation of nomic and Social Commission cally refl ects on these challenges, Brik, associate professor at CPP social policies. As an outcome for West Asia, the International and explore evidence-based and founding director of PROS- of our fi rst forum, participants Labor Organisation Regional Of- solutions. The response to this PER. will be contributing to a policy- fi ce for Arab States, the Arab Ba- outstanding forum will build Dr Ben Brik, who also moder- oriented report that addresses rometer, and the German Devel- momentum to engage with like- ated the discussions, said: “The the issues.” opment Institute. minded institutions in the social pandemic is having profound Among the speakers were The research forum featured policy community regionally social implications for the large academics, researchers, social two sessions, commencing with and globally to identify eff ective majority of households and is policy analysts, and experts from ‘Social Policy Responses to the public policies.”

Motorist held for driving without a front wheel

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced a temporary traff ic closure on Dukhan Road and diversion of traff ic to service roads towards Doha between Umm Al Afaei and Al Jahhaniya between 11pm and 4am from April 18 to 20. The closure, in co-ordination with the General Directorate of Traff ic, is to complete the installation of ITS gantries. Ashghal will install road signs advising motorists of the temporary closure and requested all to follow them and abide by the speed limit to The General Directorate of Traff ic has seized a driver, who was driving a car without a front wheel. The action was taken after a video clip went ensure safety. viral on social media on Wednesday. “With reference to the clip that was circulated on social media showing a motorist driving a car without a front wheel, we inform you that the vehicle has been seized and legal measures are being taken,” an off icial tweet said. Gulf Times 4 Friday, April 16, 2021 COMMUNITY Food hero calls for more participation to feed the needy

Wardha Mamukoya, founder There are people in Qatar of Wa’hab Food Heroes – an committed to this noble cause organisation that raises by collecting extra food and dis- awareness on food waste, tributing it among the less privi- says sharing warm meals leged. during the holy month of Wa’hab Food Heroes is the Ramadan can bring people best example of raising aware- closer when they cannot get ness on eliminating food waste. together The initiative was started by Indian expatriate Wardha Ma- By Mudassir Raja mukoya in 2017. An electronics and communication engineer Wa’hab Food Heroes takes care of extra food and raises awareness about food waste — photos supplied by qualifi cation, Wardha’s pas- amadan is a month of di- sion lies in sustainable energy, In response to a question on wasted during Ramadan.” “Sharing the extra food can As more and more people are vine blessings. We know circular economy and social en- how people can manage or re- The spirit of giving is palpa- bring the warmth of getting to- losing their livelihoods, the food Rthat there are numerous trepreneurship. duce food waste during the holy ble during the month and often gether when people cannot so- hero underlines the point that positive eff ects of fasting on the She got the idea of starting month, the food hero said: “The manifests in the form of food cialise.” people need to renew their con- human body and mind. One such Wa’hab after she witnessed food fi rst thing we need to do is to cook distribution. Asked how Wa’hab Food He- nection with each other dur- blessing of the holy month is the waste during a party. at home. When we cook at home Food distribution activities roes can help people looking for ing the hard times.“We need to spirit of giving and charity to Gulf Times recently spoke to and do not purchase from out- can be made more secure and ways to distribute their extra have empathy towards others. those in need. Wardha on how people can help side, we have a better idea about smarter, ensuring that the maxi- food, Wardah said her organisa- We understand during Ramadan Islamic teachings lay im- reduce food waste and best use the amount of food we are pro- mum number of deserving peo- tion helps by spreading aware- that what hunger is. We need to mense emphasis on sharing food Wardha Mamukoya the extra food during the holy ducing. Usually, we do our Iftar ple get it, she said. ness about the distribution of appreciate food more. We need and feeding the fasting and the month. shopping from outside when we “With the current pandemic, surplus food.“There are lots to waste it less. Ironically, we needy, particularly during Ram- The least one can do is not “First of all we have to bring are hungry. we see more people in need of our of people who have untouched still see many people waste their adan. waste food or to share the ex- the focus on the point that Ra- “We tend to purchase more help. Prior to the virus outbreak, and extra food during Ramadan. food. We need to appreciate the The spirit of sharing and car- tra food on the table with those madan is not all about food. The and when we break our fast we there used to be large Iftar par- They do not know that there are food that it is a blessing and real- ing cannot be felt more than fasting but do not have enough month is more about about self- feel that we do not need all this ties and people had a chance to organisations that can collect ise that there are people who are ever during this Ramadan as the to eat. refl ection and achieving piety.” food. It is documented that we get together. By giving away food this surplus food and redistrib- not getting food comfortably. world continues to struggle with It can be a practice of reducing She added that relations can buy more when we are hungry. during the pandemic, we not ute it. “To bring the sense of commu- the Covid-19 pandemic and its food waste and taking care of the be bettered by sharing food and I can say by cooking at home we only do charity but also get con- “We also raise awareness about nity, we need to share our warm economic fallout. needy at the same time. reducing food loss. reduce a lot of extra food that is nected with other people. reducing the food waste.” meals with others.” Bosnian community delivers Ramadan aid

n the Ramadan spirit of brotherhood and humanity, Ithe Bosnian Community re- cently delivered food aid to 47 families in different areas of Qatar. The distribution was made possible through the generous contribution of Bosnian resi- dents in Qatar and was organ- ised in collaboration with the country’s embassy and Wa’hab – a local company that aims to reduce food wastage. Wardha Mamukoya, founder of Wa’hab, said: “There are a million reasons why we should help each other. It’s beyond amazing when people from different walks of life come together for a noble cause. Wa’hab will continue its efforts to help others, to reduce food wastage and to make the world a better place.” “We are very proud of all Bosnians in Qatar who are constantly engaged in deliver- DPS-MIS team crowned ing greater good to the com- munity. The holy month of Ra- madan is a unique opportunity to demonstrate the importance of charity work and its ben- as debating champions efits to the society”, said Vahid Suljic. “It is through these activities PS-Modern Indian away with the Running Trophy. pion’ which enabled them that I realised the true power School (DPS-MIS) Boys After qualifying all elimi- to bring back the ‘Run- of volunteering and its role Dteam excelled and re- nation and pre-quarter final ning Trophy’ home. in building a happy and con- gained the champions’ title at rounds, DPS-MIS team de- Adding to the glory in the nected society. In every activity ‘Qatar Secondary Schools De- bated against DeBakey High individual category, Jaefar we strive to involve our kids to bating Championship 2020- School team in the grand final Shameem and Sparsh Chow- teach them the importance of 2021 for Boys’ organised by round and claimed the title. dhary won the top speaker communal good and belief in QatarDebate recently. It was Jaefar Shameem was adjudged position followed by Aarav things bigger than themselves, indeed a proud moment as as the best speaker. Bedi, Vidit Dalal, Azhar Jaleel an important trait in our times”, DPS-MIS debaters fought the DPS-MIS boys were also Mohamed and Sajish Sajan said Nedzad Kurtovic, Bosnian battle of words and walked declared ‘League Cham- Varghese. community member. QF project to use art therapy to help fi ght depression in kids

Qatar Foundation (QF) counteract some of the effects Michelle Dixon, art thera- belief that the creative process identity is a key theme of the project that will allow us to use partner university is of social distancing and isola- pist at Sidra Medicine, also a involved in the making of art is project, Prof Weber said,: “Ex- our resources to make a positive Aleading eff orts to develop tion. member of QF, will serve as a healing. clusion and isolation are issues impact on children in Qatar. a pilot programme in Museums “Telehealth refers to seeing co-principal investigator of It involves the use of crea- commonly faced by the youth “We are actively ensuring Telehealth Art Therapy to ad- a doctor or healthcare profes- the project and will facilitate tive techniques such as draw- of today. While isolation is a that accessibility and inclusion dress the symptoms of depres- sional using digital means. In the online art therapy ses- ing, painting, colouring, or problem exacerbated by the is at the forefront of NMoQ’s sion, anxiety, and stress among therapy, telehealth sessions sions. sculpting to help people ex- ongoing pandemic Covid-19, vision through making avail- children in Qatar. are done through video con- press themselves artistically exclusion is a much older one. able a range of assistive tech- One of the themes of the ferencing allowing psychia- “Art therapy can be and examine the psychological “Because of the rapid urban- nology, sensory backpacks, project – led by Weill Cornell trists and therapists to provide helpful especially if and emotional undertones in isation of the country, many inclusive programming, and Medicine-Qatar and funded by services to patients virtually,” somebody is having their art. youth today feel disconnected interactive displays.” QF’s Qatar National Research said, Dr Alan Weber, profes- difficulty verbalising “Art therapy can be help- from their past and ancestors. Once the model has gone Fund – will focus on is national sor at Weill Cornell Medicine- their struggle” ful especially if somebody is This is why we chose the theme through the pilot phase, the identity. Qatar. having difficulty verbalis- of national identity; the collab- team eventually hopes to de- In collaboration with the Led by Prof Weber, an The initial group to benefit ing their struggle,” explained, oration with NMoQ will be very liver it to Syrian refugees in National Museum of Qatar arts-in-health specialist, the from this project will consist of Dixon.“This is especially com- valuable in helping us bring Turkey. The telehealth mode (NMoQ), the project will use project will bring together an adolescents at Sidra Medicine. mon in teenagers. They are of- this theme to life.” will be particularly useful in the museum’s artefacts to of- international team of art psy- Art therapy is an exploratory ten hesitant to talk about their Sahar Saad, Museum De- reaching refugee children that fer children virtual opportu- chotherapists, psychiatrists, process that uses art media as feelings and art can be a more velopment specialist, NMoQ, are in dire need of therapy but nities to explore their history and physicians in Qatar and the its primary mode of commu- inviting method for them.” said, “We are delighted to be are often located in areas that and roots, while also aiming to UK to conduct the research. nication and is based on the Explaining how national partnering with QF on this are difficult to access. Dr Alan Weber Gulf Times Friday, April 16, 2021 5 COMMUNITY Zulal Wellness helping you sleep well ulal Wellness Resort by tude of sleep stages that form a kale, lettuce leaves, sweet pota- is fundamental for adults, it is lutions, Zulal Wellness Resort Chiva-Som, Qatar’s larg- good night’s sleep, including the toes, grapefruits, honey, saff ron, even more so for children – pre- specialists aim at spreading Zest wellness resort, and lighter – non-rapid eye move- almonds and herbal tea to the schoolers need to sleep 10-13 the culture of wellness in Qa- the world’s fi rst to blend Tradi- ment (NREM) cycle – and deep- daily diet will help improve the hours a day and school-aged tar and the region, favouring tional Arabic and Islamic Medi- er – rapid eye movement (REM) quality of sleep. It is also recom- children – from 9 to 11 hours prevention over cure and long- cine (TAIM) with a holistic ap- cycles, that repeat several times mended to avoid heavy meals per day. Sleep hygiene and the term solutions over short-term proach, raises awareness on the throughout the recommended before going to bed and is sug- correct bedtime routines aff ect fi xes. At Zulal Wellness Resort, importance of sleep for people in eight-hour sleep cycle. gested to take a warm bath and the overall family’s well-being, the right sleep hygiene will be today’s fast-paced lifestyle. Reaching the deeper – REM treat yourself to a warm olive oil helping to avoid emotional ex- powered by family bonding, no- Sleep is an integral part of ho- stages of sleeps – is crucial to ritated and emotionally volatile of sleep and frequent in Qatar – foot massage in the evening. haustion and reduce anxiety of screen activities, exercise, and listic wellness and is crucial for feel rested. if they do not get enough sleep Traditional Arabic Islamic Med- Further recommended sleep all family members”. fi tness routines benefi cial for the body to function properly. Zulal wellness health and which is related to amygdala icine methods also help prevent practices include creating a Joelle added that it is recom- sleep quality for the whole fam- It provides the muscles and or- wellness adviers also stated that activity – part of the brain trig- even more serious health issues digital-free environment by mended to avoid watching, lis- ily. In addition, consultants will gans with enough time to rest, insuffi cient or excessive sleep gering negative feelings, such as that can derive from consistent removing all gadgets from the tening, or reading anything that provide support to families and to recover from illness and injury can be the root of major health anger. sleep insuffi ciency, such as type bedroom, such as having an is upsetting, confl ict-fi lled and individuals that will provide and aids in bolstering physical issues, including cardiovascu- Purnima Siddhanta, Zu- 2 diabetes and heart disease’.” overnight charging area located anxiety-provoking – content them with the necessary tools strength and the immune sys- lar diseases, obesity, mood dis- lal Wellness Resort’s Holistic Traditional Arabic Islamic in another part of the home. It is that children should ideally not to boost their wellbeing in eve- tem. It is also essential for men- orders and dementia, aff ecting Manager, said: “As any holistic Medicine sheds light on sleep also crucial for parents to edu- be exposed to. According to her, ryday life. tal health, giving the brain a hia- cognitive and social abilities. teaching, Traditional Arabic Is- as a soothing power, helping to cate their kids about a healthy ensuring complete darkness in In collaboration with Chiva- tus to relax from emotional and Lack of sleep for children, es- lamic Medicine fully embraces prevent diseases caused by the bedtime routine, by introducing the bedroom is also benefi cial Som, Zulal Wellness Resort is cognitive tasks processed during pecially school-aged, can lead to the power of sleep and its impact imbalances in the human body. special evening rules and by set- for sleep and the production of Msheireb Properties’ latest sus- the day. emotional diffi culties, includ- on health and wellness. Rein- According to Traditional Arabic ting a good example. melatonin, a hormone crucial for tainable development initiative Sharing their insights about ing depression, hyperactivity, stating emotional balance and Islamic Medicine teachings, in- Joelle El Khoury, Family & regulation of sleep and wakeful- and the fi rst of its kind wellness sleeping patterns, Zulal Wellness and poor school performance. tackling obesity issues – com- cluding high-vitamin and nutri- Child Specialist at Zulal Well- ness regulation. resort in the Middle East region, experts emphasised the multi- People tend to become more ir- mon consequences of the lack tious food like bananas, walnuts, ness Resort, said: “While sleep By sharing their holistic so- in Qatar. NIA online event proves a big draw

oetry, humour and satire Doha actively participated and Lalit Gururani, Shalini Garg, had a free reign at ‘Holi presented their poems and Priyanka Singh, Chandra PHasya Vyangya Kavi Holi songs with a lot of energy Gururani, Vandana Raj, and Sammelan and Geet Sandhya’ and fervour. Vishwanath Iyyer enthralled organised by the North Indian The new management com- the audience with their own Association (NIA). It was a mittee organised the first verses. rib-tickling evening to cel- event of the year under the Holi folk songs by Dr Mal- ebrate the festival of colours able guidance of Harish Kan- vika Hari Om, Smriti Trivedi, – Holi – organised by the new jani, patron and founder of and Chandra Gururani added NIA managing committee. NIA. a new dimensions to the pro- The programme was con- Rajneesh Shastri, president gramme. ducted virtually on the Zoom of NIA, introduced the poets The programme was a big platform and attracted a huge in his own poetic style. Sand- relief and had the audience live audience across the globe. eep Kumar Arya, general sec- in splits of laughter given the Renowned international po- retary of North Indian Asso- gloomy days of the pandemic. The Children’s Health Fair was held to off er advice to parents and provide educational activities and entertainment for their children. ets from India namely; Naresh ciation, welcomed the guests Priya Bhedi, vice president Gupta ‘Naaz’, Dr Malvika Har- and pitched the programme in of North Indian Association, iom, and Dr Kamlesh Dwivedi humorous theme. gave the vote of thanks. The graced the occasion as special A learned panel of 10 tal- North Indian Association en- guests and mesmerised the ented poets and poetesses courages the Indian expatri- audience with their poetic from Qatar; Jatinder Bajaj, Dr ate community to become its WCM-Q students organise compositions. Meenu Parashar ‘Mansi’, Sm- members and be a part of its The in-house poets from riti Trivedi, Shalini Verma, vibrant culture. health fair for youngsters

rainee doctors from Weill est Group, Student Wellness So- and the remaining members of mation about children’s health Cornell Medicine – Qa- ciety, Neurology Interest Group the Pediatrics Interest Group for matters, the health fair also pro- Ttar (WCM-Q) held their and Health and Wellness also all of the teamwork in making vided a platform for children to annual Children’s Health Fair made valuable contributions to our event a success. interact with other kids their to help entertain the younger the health fair by organising ed- “Additionally, I would like to age and engage in interactive and members of families and of- ucational and mindful sessions thank and acknowledge students educational activities. fer advice about keeping them that the children learnt from. from the participating clubs for Dr Amal Khidir, associ- healthy. Omna Sharma and Safaa El- bringing forth their creative ide- ate professor of paediatrics at The event was organised by moh are president and vice- as and volunteering their time WCM-Q, said it was gratifying members of WCM-Q’s Pediat- president, respectively, of the for our event. to see students making a differ- rics Interest Group but was taken Pediatrics Interest Group. “Given the success of our ence in the community while online this year due to Covid-19 Omna said: “The children and event and the overwhelmingly still studying. restrictions. their parents absolutely loved positive response from the fami- Dr Khidir said: “Being a phy- Organisations and clubs like the event and found it interac- lies, we will defi nitely consider sician is very much about being WCM-Q’s Best Buddies, and tive. They enjoyed the diff erent making this a recurring event at the centre of a community and Big Red Fitness then signed up games and activities the clubs over the year where parents and making a commitment to help- to host virtual booths that fam- had organised like Pictionary, children can join to have a break ing people for the rest of your ilies could visit, with plenty of inkblot testing and dancing, from the daily routine and par- life. I think the members of the entertainment to keep children and mentioned that there was a ticipate in some entertaining Pediatric Interest Group have happy. smooth transition between the games and activities.” already aptly demonstrated that WCM-Q’s Student Research diff erent activities. She added that along with they know what a career in med- Organisation, Psychiatry Inter- “I would like to thank Safaa providing adults with infor- icine truly means.”

BPS wins THIMUN Qatar’s Global Act with Impact Award

Birla Public School (BPS) has been which participating teams, repre- have an impact on it. George, Hana Ansari, Roshni Mo- declared the winner of THIMUN senting their school, produce a BPS’s Cups4Change Service Project hideen, Diya Dileep, Nalini Rajeev, Student Clubs and Organisations (The Hague International Model service project that works towards was organised by 17 young leaders Nafiza Soha and Allen Gladly. The United Nations) Qatar’s 10th an- a United Nations sustainable de- namely; Ghenwa al-Zain, Almas team was supported by BPS Doha’s nual Global Act with Impact Award velopment goal and the indicators Palikop, Anushka Karkera, Anam Eco-Club manager Rakesh Verma (GAIA), securing the first position within it. The objective of GAIA is Fatimah, Sejal Sanil, Reeva Shah, and sponsored by EcoSouk, EcoL- at QU host over 150 events with a cash prize of QR3,000. to give students an opportunity to Aditi Abraham, Srishanth Shetty, ife, Rimads and the Flying Rooster’s The GAIA is a competition in engage with the community and Abia Ahmed, Antony Vincent, Abin Soap Company. atar University’s (QU) Student Clubs and Or- Qganisations carried out more than 150 events and activi- ties this year. The activities and events were organised by about 54 accredited student clubs and organisations at the campus. The Students Club and Or- ganisations manages activities for students and provides them the opportunity to organise events. This year students organ- The programmes include edu- the Toastmasters International ised events in keeping with the cational and religious activities Organisation in California, aims precautionary measures related during the holy month of Ram- to develop public speaking, com- to the Covid-19 pandemic. adan. munication and leadership skills. The clubs and organisations According to the statistics of The award for the most eff ective are led by a student leadership the student clubs and organisa- member for the month of Janu- team trained and motivated for tions, a rapid increase in number ary and February was won by the achievements that inspire fellow of students was witnessed this students Ahmed al-Halhali, and students to join the the club or year, with member-numbers Abdulrahman Mohamed. organisation. reaching 10,937, as against 7,796 Prof Abdullah al-Mulla, Di- The activities included a in 2019. rector of Student Activities De- number of conferences, semi- The achievements and awards partment, said, “We are commit- nars, competitions and part- notched up by the clubs and stu- ted to encouraging and helping nerships with international in- dent organisations include: the students participate in these stu- stitutions in Qatar, in addition Arab Debating Club participated dent organisations, programmes to providing scientifi c instruc- in the Gulf Debating Champion- and activities aimed directly at tions through social networking ship organised by Kuwait Uni- enabling students to work within sites. A number of campaigns versity, and student Mohamed groups dominated by a profes- and community charitable pro- al-Yafei won the title of ‘The Best sional work environment that grammes were organised with Speaker in the Tournament.’ applies democratic procedures more scheduled to be held by the The Toastmaster Club at Qatar and supports integration and at- end of the year. University, which is a branch for tention to vital issues.” Gulf Times 6 Friday, April 16, 2021 COMMUNITY LEISURE/HOROSCOPE

Wordsearch Super Cryptic Clues Dilbert

F Minus

AFTERNOON HOPE TURN FRIDAY SPEED FAITH NATURE CONDUCT LUCK BOOK LIVING WILL Across Down GRIEF TIME FELLOW 1 Communications from din- 2 Cost of putting swans in NIGHT EVENING MORNING ing room taking a long time river (7) CHEER LOOKS (8) 3 Blue pole with notice at- 6 Crazy about beastly mother tached (3) (3) 4 Agrees about musical (6) Codeword 9 After a dance Edward had 5 Did Lamb write his essays Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. aspirations (5) with these enclosures? (5,4) Squares with the same number in have the same letter 10 It’s glee that’s upset a 6 Take the car from where it Garfield in. Work out which number represents which letter. writer of sad poems (7) may be parked? (5) 11 Sort of non-swim fish? (7) 7 Chess wins for pals (5) 13 Squeeze applied to newspa- 12 Unpleasant debts after pers? (5) broadcast on box (9) 14 The colour Anne is turning 16 A boat that’s not so heavy (6) (7) 15 Underground store for a 17 Answer provided by labora- vendor, so we hear (6) tory vessel (6) 19 Take over, making queen 18 Seat is put out for a rest cross (5) after lunch (6) 21 Stormy night is visible (7) 19 Social worker is joining 22 Tiresome work outside (7) those in opposition (5) 23 Ministry of Transport’s 20 An Enid Blyton character alternative car (5) would appear strange in New 24 State, for example (3) York (5) 25 One who will feel at home 23 Me in France and around Big Nate

Puzzles courtesy: Puzzlechoice.com courtesy: Puzzles in Madrid - and Paris, perhaps the Isle of Man (3) (8)

Solution Sudoku

Answers Codeword Wordsearch

Sudoku is a puzzle based on a ٩x٩ grid. The grid is also divided into nine (٣x٣) boxes. You are given a selection of values and to complete the puzzle, you must fill the grid so that every column, every .anone is repeated

Colouring Horoscope ARIES TAURUS GEMINI March 21 — April 19 April 20 — May 20 May 21 — June 20

If you have to deal with some disappointment today, try not to let You may be worried about your financial situation today, Taurus. An unexpected event might cause you to be temporarily separated it get you down, Aries. You may receive a letter or phone call that You might feel a tug at your purse strings. If you’ve experienced a from your partner today, Gemini. Confusion about the incident and brings less than favourable news. Perhaps someone you were delay in receiving some funds you were expecting, this may add to your mate’s role in it might plague you. You might doubt his or her hoping to see won’t be able to make it, or a friend has to turn down your concern. You might want to tackle this directly by examining motives. If so, it may be best to talk and clear up any suspicions. an invitation to a party you’re having. Try not to let this spoil your your situation. Check up on expected funds and make any Letting such thoughts sit for even a short time can create challenges mood. These things happen. Keep yourself busy. necessary arrangements to alleviate this stress. for a relationship. Deal with the situation now. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

You might have a sore throat and mild cold symptoms today, Cancer. Spend some quality time with your partner today, Leo. Perhaps he You may want to take a day off from your obligations, Virgo, perhaps It may aff ect your ability to work. Chances are that you’re an active or she is a little jealous of your friends or feeling left out. Perhaps to take care of unfinished creative projects. Chances are this may person. Having to slow down to tend to your health may frustrate you’ve received invitations lately that are just for you. It might be not be possible. Concerns about work issues might keep your mind you. Consider going to the doctor’s off ice now rather than ignore your a good idea to turn one down in favour of being with your partner. occupied and distract you from the task at hand. This and possible health. This could make all the diff erence in how long you stay under Plan a nice dinner. A little quality time can help get things back on family disagreements may have you upset. Try to remain centred the weather and are kept from things you want to do. track. and focused despite it all. It’s the only way to get anything done. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

You may reminisce today, Libra. Perhaps you’re thinking about Money matters might be a bit tangled today, Scorpio. There may You may need reassurance today, Sagittarius. Trouble with friends friends and family who live far away. You could feel a bit nostalgic, be an unexpected delay in receiving funds due you. Your bank or your partner may have you feeling unloved, insecure, and not to mention blue, thinking about times long past. Consider statement may have you confused. Getting to the bottom of things emotionally blocked. You may see the situation as more serious than making some phone calls to counteract these feelings. If you can’t may prove a bit frustrating but not necessarily impossible. If you others do. Perhaps a misunderstanding has caused the dilemma. Take connect with a particular person, spend a little time looking through find that you’re uncertain about your financial situation, consider the time to reach out to those you’re concerned about and get some a photo album to bring him or her closer to you. talking with those involved to get a better understanding. reassurance. If you owe an apology, give it freely and move on. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

You may feel a little under the weather today, Capricorn. You may You might feel lonely and insecure due to lack of contact with a Juggling work and home may seem diff icult today, Pisces. Work even develop sniff les or a sore throat. If so, consider going to the close friend or partner, Aquarius. You might wonder if the person responsibilities may weigh on your mind to the point where they doctor. This can be an especially unwelcome development, as it has forgotten you or simply doesn’t care anymore. Take the time to interfere with the harmony of your home life. This can cause some keeps you from certain activities. If you act quickly, your ailment try to connect with this person. You may discover that no neglect inner conflict. It might be wise to prioritize work tasks on paper and may not worsen. Take the time you need to feel healthy again before was intended and that the relationship is solid. It’s better for you to schedule duties and deadlines. Then you can spend time with your returning to your routine. tackle this directly rather than speculate. family without worrying that work will be forgotten. Gulf Times Friday, April 16, 2021 7 WORLD

Duterte fl oats conversion of hotels into Hospital beds Covid facilities

Reuters and oxygen fall Manila

hilippines President Ro- drigo Duterte yesterday Psaid the government can take over hotels and turn them into isolation facilities as surging short as Covid Covid-19 infections put a strain on the overstretched healthcare sector. The Philippines is battling one of the worst outbreaks in Asia, with hospitals in the capi- tal region facing long queues of surges in India patients and critical care units nearing maximum capacity. Reuters sharing single beds in some wards Despite injecting about 114mn “I can order the authorities to New Delhi as overworked doctors attended vaccine doses, the highest fi g- take over the operations of hotels to them. Covid-positive patients ure worldwide after the US and if there no longer are beds. That is – from a one-and-a-half-year- China, India has covered only a easy,” Duterte said in a late night any Indian hospitals old toddler to many elderly – and small part of its 1.4bn people. national address. were scrambling for their relatives kept streaming in India yesterday said regula- While a government takeo- Mbeds and oxygen as to the emergency ward at LNJP, tors would decide on emergen- ver is not a “remedy desired in a Covid-19 infections surged to a arriving by ambulance, cars or cy-use applications for foreign democratic state”, Duterte said new daily record yesterday, with auto-rickshaws through the day. Covid-19 vaccines within three he could order the police and a second wave of infections cen- “Last year also we have not working days, as it tries to at- military to seize the properties tred on Maharashtra. seen such a bad situation. This tract Pfi zer, Johnson & Johnson “when we are pushed to the wall”. Experts blamed everything time the number is very high and and Moderna to sell their shots. He said the properties would be from offi cial complacency to ag- increasing very rapidly, going (at In New Delhi, authorities or- decontaminated before they were gressive variants. The government a) very fast speed, so the situa- dered a weekend curfew, placing handed back. “I need your hotel. I blamed a widespread failure to tion is really alarming,” said LNJP curbs on shopping malls, gyms, will borrow it and after that I will practise physical distancing and Medical Director Suresh Kumar. restaurants and some weekly clean it up,” Duterte said. wear face masks. “The situation is “We are defi nitely overbur- markets. Outside a major city With 904,285 infections and horrible,” said Avinash Gawande, dened...Today we have 158 ad- mortuary, weeping relatives 15,594 deaths, the Philippines has an offi cial at a government hos- missions in Lok Nayak alone. gathered in the hot sun, waiting the second-highest numbers of pital in Nagpur that was battling a All sick patients, all severe pa- for the bodies of loved ones to be Covid-19 cases and casualties in fl ood of patients, as were hospitals tients,” Kumar added. released. southeast Asia, after Indonesia. in neighbouring Gujarat state and The capital region, an urban New Delhi in the north. Daily virus cases double to 200,000 in 10 days sprawl of 16 cities and at least “We are a 900-bed hospital, 13mn people, is the country’s but there are about 60 patients India’s daily coronavirus in particular Maharashtra. The coronavirus hotspot. waiting and we don’t have space caseload has doubled in 10 capital New Delhi on Thursday Many hospitals there are turn- for them.” days, with a record 200,000 became the latest to impose a ing away patients after reaching Maharashtra, home to the fi - new infections logged yesterday. weekend curfew and ordering maximum capacity in critical nancial capital of Mumbai, began Having let its guard down with shopping malls, gyms and spas care units and Covid-19 wards. a lockdown at midnight, a move mass religious festivals, political to stay shut from today evening. “Of course the takeover of that spurred a rush to stockpile rallies and crowds at cricket Late yesterday, the ministry of hotels in the national interest essential items in advance. matches, India is experiencing a culture said that all major monu- or during emergency is the pre- At Lok Nayak Jai Prakash vicious second wave, recording ments, including India’s top rogative of the president,” Arthur Narayan (LNJP) Hospital in New almost 2mn fresh infections tourist attraction the Taj Mahal, Lopez, president of the Philip- Delhi, the country’s largest facil- this month alone. Many states would be shut until April 15 amid pine Hotel Owners Association A woman whose husband died due to coronavirus is consoled outside a Covid-19 hospital mortuary in ity treating Covid-19 patients, are now tightening the screws, the surge. (PHOA), told Reuters. Ahmedabad, India, yesterday. two or three patients were seen Gulf Times 8 Friday, April 16, 2021 WORLD

Former cop waives Slavery reparations bill right to testify at Floyd murder trial

Reuters case because they face intense Minneapolis cross-examination by pros- advances to US House ecutors and risk undermining their case and credibility. AFP However, it faces major chal- colleagues: “Do not cancel us evils of slavery, but they none- ships” compared to white Ameri- ormer Minneapolis po- After a short appearance by Washington lenges in a closely-divided tonight,” she implored. “Do not theless spoke out against the cans, the bill notes, including an lice offi cer Derek Chau- a rebuttal witness, prosecutors Congress, where more than 150 ignore the pain, the history – and legislation, with some criticis- unemployment rate more than Fvin waived his right from the Minnesota attorney- Democrats co-sponsored the the reasonableness of this com- ing the commission’s expected twice that of whites, and an aver- yesterday to testify to the jury general’s offi ce also rested their US congressional com- measure. mission.” $20mn cost. age of less than 1/16 of the wealth about his part in the deadly ar- case. mittee has voted to ad- The fi rst version of the bill was President Joe Biden met on “I would very much caution of white families. rest last May of George Floyd Cahill said jurors would hear Avance to the whole House introduced more than 30 years Tuesday with members of the against going down this road,” Last month, local lawmak- as both sides rested their cases closing arguments on Monday of Representatives a bill on feder- ago but never advanced. Congressional Black Caucus at House Republican Chip Roy told ers in Evanston, Illinois voted to at his murder trial, the most before receiving the case for al slavery reparation payments to It addresses the period of slav- the White House where they dis- the session. “It takes us away give funds to black residents as a high-profi le police misconduct deliberations. African Americans, in a historic ery and discrimination in the cussed the reparations issue. from the important dream of form of reparations for housing case in decades. They will be sequestered at step on an issue gaining momen- United States from 1619 to the Lee, who attended the meet- judging people by the content of discrimination, thereby becom- “I will invoke my Fifth a hotel in a city whose down- tum during the nation’s reckon- present day, and would establish ing, said Biden remained “com- their character and not the colour ing the fi rst US city to take such Amendment privilege today,” town is fi lled with National ing on racial justice. a commission that will study and mitted” to the bill. of their skin.” action. Chauvin, 45, said in a hearing Guard troops and boarded-up The move represents the fi rst- propose remedies including fi - Judiciary Committee chairman Approximately 4mn Africans Under the plan, qualifying res- before the jury was brought in windows, preparing for poten- ever congressional vote on the nancial reparations. Jerrold Nadler said the legislation and their descendants were en- idents will receive $25,000 to use yesterday morning after briefl y tial unrest. issue of reparations for the de- House Democrat Sheila Jack- is intended to “begin a national slaved in the original colonies towards home improvements or removing his mask, referring to “If I were you, I would plan scendants of enslaved people in son Lee, the bill’s chief sponsor, conversation about how to con- and the United States between mortgage assistance. the constitutional right against for long and hope for short,” the United States. said such a commission would be front the brutal mistreatment of 1619 and 1865, a history that The move could become a self-incrimination. Cahill told jurors on the ques- The bill passed the House Ju- a long-overdue eff ort to confront African Americans during chat- some lawmakers described on model for other US communities They were his most exten- tion of how much to pack. diciary Committee with a vote of the stark societal disparities oc- tel slavery, Jim Crow segregation, Wednesday as “the original sin” as racial injustice has risen up the sive remarks since his trial Chauvin, who is white, 25 to 17 along strict party lines, curring in black communities and the enduring structural rac- of the United States. political and public agenda. began with jury selection on was seen in bystander video with no Republicans voting to today, and recommend solutions. ism that remains endemic to our The bill says that in the dec- The bill’s next step is a fl oor March 8. kneeling on the neck of Floyd, bring the bill in front of the whole It would provide a “road map society today”. ades following slavery, the gov- vote in the House, though no date The defence told Henne- a 46-year-old black man in House. for the truth of the brutality and However, he stressed that the ernment helped create “per- has been set. pin County District Judge Pe- handcuff s, for more than nine The committee had engaged in the onerous and terrible burden measure makes no conclusion sistent systemic structures of However, the Senate hurdle is ter Cahill that it would call minutes after Floyd was ac- a late-night discussion about the placed on African Americans, about how to properly atone discrimination on living African higher. no more witnesses after two cused of using a counterfeit bill, which would create a com- and this nation, by slavery”, she for and make recompense for Americans”. At least 10 Republicans would days of testimony and rested $20 bill to buy cigarettes. mission to study and develop told the committee. slavery, segregation and their Black Americans continue to need to join all 50 Democrats its case, which has focused The footage of Floyd’s death proposals for reparations to black Lee, who is black, also deliv- shameful legacy. suff er “debilitating economic, in order for the bill to pass the on raising doubts about what sparked global protests against people. ered a message to her Republican Republicans acknowledged the educational, and health hard- chamber. caused Floyd’s death. the disproportionate use of It is rare for defendants to force by police against black take the stand in a criminal people.

Proposal to expand US apex court gets lukewarm reception

Reuters not drawn broad-based sup- Washington port, with some Democratic leaders expressing uncertainty and Republicans fi rmly op- A Coast Guard Station Grand Isle boat heads toward a capsized commercial lift boat while searching for group of liberal Demo- posed to what is sometimes people in the water, eight miles (about 13km) south of Grand Isle, Louisiana. cratic lawmakers has called “court packing”. Aproposed expanding House Speaker Nancy Pelo- the US Supreme Court by four si, a Democrat, expressed res- justices, aiming to end its con- ervations, saying she favours servative majority, but the plan Biden’s proposal to study the One dead, 12 missing after ship drew an unenthusiastic re- issue. sponse from some top Demo- Senate Judiciary Commit- crats and was denounced by tee Chairman Dick Durbin, a capsizes off southern US coast Republicans. Democrat, balked at the idea Senator Ed Markey and of bringing the legislation to a House of Representatives vote in his panel. AFP about 160km (100 miles) south of “We are saturating the area with members Jerrold Nadler, Hank “I’m not ready to sign on yet. Washington New Orleans. available resources to assist in Johnson and Mondaire Jones I think this commission of Bi- Coast Guard Captain Will the rescue mission.” introduced legislation in both den is the right move,” Durbin Watson said he received a dis- The Seacor Power was a 129’ chambers that would expand said. ne person died and 12 tress call from the ship just be- (39.3m) commercial lift vessel, the number of justices to 13 Senate Republican leader were missing after a com- fore 4.30pm on Tuesday. the Coast Guard said. from the current nine. Mitch McConnell denounced Omercial lift vessel cap- “We have rescued six survi- A lift vessel is a barge with a Markey said the measure the legislation as a vehicle for sized in the Gulf of Mexico off the vors” of the crew of 19, Watson large fl at deck and giant legs at- would “restore balance” to the Democrats to “pack the court, coast of Louisiana, the US Coast said at a press conference. tached to it. They are used in off - court. destroy its legitimacy, and Guard said on Wednesday. Initially the Coast Guard said shore oil and gas operations. Republican former President guarantee the rulings that lib- Coast Guard ships and a fl eet the ship had a crew of 18. While travelling, lift vessels Donald Trump was able to ap- erals want”. of volunteer vessels were de- The body of a seventh person carry their legs in the air, and point three justices during his Some Democrats and liberal ployed to search for survivors was found and pulled from the upon reaching their destination four years in offi ce, giving the activists have said all options The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Glenn Harris, a 154’ Fast after the Seacor Power capsized ocean, Watson said. the legs are pushed to the ocean court a 6-3 conservative ma- including expansion must be Response Cutter, pull a person from the water after a commercial lift on Tuesday in an unexpectedly “The search eff ort continues fl oor and the fl at deck is raised jority. considered to counter an en- boat capsized south of Grand Isle, Louisiana. strong storm near Port Fourchon, for the remaining 12,” he said. from the water. “Senate Republicans have trenched conservative majori- politicised the Supreme Court, ty that could threaten abortion undermined its legitimacy and rights, civil rights, gun control threatened the rights of mil- and access to healthcare in the lions of Americans,” Markey coming years. said in a statement. Democrats accused Repub- How the largest fl ying animals supported their giant necks President Joe Biden, a Dem- licans of “stealing” a Supreme ocrat, last Friday established Court seat in 2016 when the a bipartisan commission to Senate, then controlled by Re- AFP spokes inside the bones. ally arranged and cross over each study potential Supreme Court publicans, refused to consider Washington Cariad Williams, fi rst author other, just like the spokes of a bi- changes, including expansion Democratic president Barack of a new paper that appeared in cycle. or imposing term limits on the Obama’s election-year nomi- iScience, told AFP that the team These fi ne bones also run up justices instead of the current nation of Merrick Garland to zhdarchid pterosaurs were had an idea that the inside of the and down the length of the verte- lifetime appointments. fi ll a vacancy left by the death massive fl ying reptiles vertebral column housed a so- brae in a helix-like arrangement, Biden gave the commission of conservative Justice Antonin Athat soared across the phisticated internal structure. adding further strength. 180 days to report its fi ndings. Scalia. skies in the age of the dinosaurs, They sent the specimens off for The team then collaborated The number of Supreme Trump in 2017 was able to fi ll using their long bills to pick out CT scan, and “we just couldn’t with biomechanical engineers Court justices has remained at the vacancy with a conserva- their prey of fi sh and other river believe what we’d found – it is whose calculations suggested nine since 1869. tive jurist. animals. one of the most unique struc- that as few as 50 of the spoke- Congress has the power to Democrats accused Repub- One of the most intriguing tures that we’ve ever seen”, said like bones increased the amount change the number and did so licans of hypocrisy last year things about them has been the the PhD student at the University of weight the animals could carry several times before that. when the Senate quickly con- extreme length of their necks of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. by 90%. Democrats hold slim majori- fi rmed Trump’s appointment – estimated at up to 3m (10’), It has no known equivalent in Co-author David Martill from ties in the House and Senate. of conservative Justice Amy which is longer than a giraff e’s the animal kingdom, either mod- the University of Portsmouth The Senate is divided 50-50, Coney Barrett a week before and raised questions about how ern or extinct, and “I’m just sur- said in a statement that the dis- with Vice-President Kamala the presidential election af- the animals could support its prised nobody found it sooner”, covery “resolved many concerns This undated handout photo shows a pterosaur vertebra, revealing Harris casting a tie-breaking ter the death of liberal Justice weight without snapping. added Williams. about the biomechanics of how the bicycle wheel-like spoke arrangement. vote. Ruth Bader Ginsburg the prior By studying well-preserved The neural tube, which carries these creatures were able to sup- Most legislation needs 60 month. vertebrae specimens excavated nerves through the back bone, is port massive heads – longer than Relatively little is known about Yet the new fi ndings show votes in order to advance in the “Republicans stole the from Morocco, a team of scien- in the centre. 1.5m – on necks longer than the pterosaurs, and they have previ- them to be “fantastically com- Senate. court’s majority, with Justice tists think they have the answer: It connects to the outer walls modern-day giraff e, all whilst ously been dismissed as evolu- plex and sophisticated” and wor- Expanding the court, an idea Amy Coney Barrett’s confi r- a complex assemblage of ex- of the vertebrae via fi ne bones retaining the ability of powered tionary dead ends, instead of be- thy of much deeper study, added popular among some liberals mation completing their crime tremely light yet weight-bearing called trabeculae, that are radi- fl ight”. ing a research priority. Martill and the team. and activists on the left, has spree,” Markey said.

Senators seek to prevent any US Appeals court upholds Canada-US Young climate activists sue Brazil Impact of Caribbean volcano could president from leaving Nato asylum-seeker agreement government over ‘carbon trick’ aff ect other islands: UN off icial

Fifteen Democratic and Republican US senators introduced A Canadian appeals court upheld a Canada-US agreement to Six young climate activists are suing the Brazilian government The humanitarian and economic crisis unleashed by the a bill yesterday that would bar any US president from turn back asylum-seekers, overturning a lower court ruling, for revising its commitments under the Paris Agreement in a eruption of the La Soufriere volcano on the Caribbean island withdrawing from Nato without Senate approval. and setting up a possible Supreme Court showdown. way that allows the country to emit more greenhouse gases, of Saint Vincent will last months and could extend to nearby The bill, seen by Reuters, is a new version of a similar measure Yesterday’s ruling is a win for Canada’s federal government, environmentalists said on Wednesday. islands, a UN off icial warned on Wednesday. that passed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in which launched an appeal defending the agreement and, by The lawsuit seeks to annul the revised emissions “It is a crisis that will require a humanitarian response but December 2019, but was never considered by the full Senate, association, US immigration detention practices. commitments Brazil submitted in December, which increased also a response in terms of rehabilitation” which could last for then controlled by Republicans. At issue was whether the Safe Third Country Agreement, a the country’s 2030 carbon target by over 400mn tonnes. several months, said Didier Trebucq, the United Nations co- If a president attempts to leave the North Atlantic Treaty pact signed in 2002 and under which asylum-seekers trying to The move “is a flagrant violation of the Paris Agreement, ordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. Organisation (Nato) without Senate approval, the bill cross between Canada and the US at a formal border crossing which only allows countries to increase the level of ambition of Trebucq, speaking to reporters in New York via would prohibit funding for such a move and authorises the are turned around and sent back, violates an asylum-seeker’s their NDCs (nationally determined contributions), not reduce videoconference from Barbados, said the volcano – which had Congressional Legal Counsel to challenge the administration fundamental rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and it”, said 24-year-old indigenous activist Txai Surui, one of the not erupted since 1979 – remains active and every day belches in court. – Reuters Freedoms. – Reuters plaintiff s, in a statement. – AFP up clouds of ash and smoke after erupting on April 9. – AFP Gulf Times Friday, April 16, 2021 9 WORLD

Will, Harry won’t be shoulder-to-shoulder at Philip funeral

AFP with his wife, Meghan. “space” in his relationship with Wil- In honour of his life-long association London When the coffi n, to be carried on liam, 38, who is second in line to the with the Royal Navy, and service during a bespoke Land Rover designed to throne. World War II, buglers from the Royal Philip’s specifi cations, arrives at St There have long been reports of a Marines will sound so-called “Action ritish royals William and Harry George’s Chapel, William will move rift since 36-year-old Harry married Stations” during the service. will not walk side by side in the ahead of his younger brother as the Meghan, also at St George’s Chapel at The soundings, played on a warship Bprocession at this weekend’s fu- royal mourners enter in pairs. a glitzy ceremony watched by millions to signal all hands should go to battle neral of Queen Elizabeth II’s husband The procession elements were in 2018. stations, is sometimes featured at fu- Prince Philip, Buckingham Palace re- among the eagerly-awaited details re- In their sit-down with Winfrey, nerals of naval men. vealed yesterday. leased by the Palace ahead of the serv- Meghan, who is mixed-race, sensation- Philip was a rising star in the British As young boys in 1997, the pair pro- ice, which has been curtailed due to ally claimed to have encountered racism navy who had reached the rank of com- vided the most poignant image of their coronavirus restrictions. within the monarchy, while Harry said mander by the time Elizabeth ascended mother princess Diana’s funeral as Philip died last Friday at the age of William and their father were “trapped” to the throne in 1952. He eventually they walked, heads bowed, behind her 99 and Britain has this week been ob- within the institution. shelved his personal ambitions to sup- coffi n. serving eight days of offi cial mourning Send-off s for senior British royals are port his wife in the role. Prince Philip, also known as the in the build-up to his burial. typically very public, pomp-fi lled af- A small choir of four will also sing Duke of Edinburgh, accompanied Just 30 guests will be permitted at fairs, but Philip’s request for a no-fuss pieces of music he chose. them, alongside their father Prince the 50-minute funeral, in line with funeral paired with the pandemic has The details emerged yesterday as the Charles and uncle Charles Spencer. government regulations. kept it minimal. BBC said its coverage today of his death Their grandfather’s funeral, at Attendees including the queen, 94, “The ceremonial aspects of the day had drawn 110,000 complaints, the Windsor Castle at 3pm tomorrow, is will be required to wear face masks, sit A view of the Duke of Edinburgh’s medals sewn onto a cushion at St James’s and the funeral service itself are in line highest number ever published for tel- the pair’s fi rst reunion since Harry’s apart and observe Covid-19 social dis- Palace in London yesterday. (Reuters) with The Duke’s wishes and will refl ect evision programming. shock move to the United States last tancing rules. His Royal Highness’s personal and mili- The broadcaster cleared its schedules year. She will be accompanied to the ret, and three of Philip’s German rela- against attending to free up a space. tary affi liations,” the palace said. across its main BBC One and BBC Two It will be closely watched for signs of venue in the state Bentley by a lady- tives — Bernhard, the hereditary prince The palace confi rmed royal mourn- Ahead of the service the coffi n will be TV channels to run a series of special strains in the sibling relationship, with in-waiting, before sitting alone in the of Baden; Donatus, prince and land- ers will wear civilian clothing — men in covered with Philip’s personal standard programmes, as well as devoting its news confi rmation they will not walk shoul- chapel. grave of Hesse; and Prince Philipp of morning coats with medals, women in fl ag and surmounted with his sword, channel and radio stations to coverage. der-to-shoulder and instead be sepa- Heir to the throne Charles, his wife Hohenlohe-Langenburg. day dresses — which reports said was to naval cap and a wreath of fl owers. “We do not make such changes with- rated by cousin Peter Phillips likely to Camilla, and the monarch’s three other Countess Mountbatten, Penelope avoid awkwardness over which princes Members of the Queen’s Company, out careful consideration and the de- fuel speculation that a rift persists. children and eight grandchildren, as “Penny” Knatchbull, who was Philip’s are entitled to military uniform. 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, will cisions made refl ect the role the BBC The brothers have reportedly fallen well as all their spouses, will be present. carriage driving partner and one of his Harry conceded in his bombshell in- serve as pallbearers, while his coffi n will plays as the national broadcaster during out over Harry’s departure from the Other guests include the children of closest friends, is also invited. terview last month with US chat show be lowered into the Royal Vault after- moments of national signifi cance,” it royal frontline and move to California the queen’s late sister Princess Marga- Prime Minister Boris Johnson opted host Oprah Winfrey that there was wards. said in a statement.

UAE mediating between India, Pakistan: Envoy Higher risk of The United Arab Emirates’ envoy to Washington confirmed the French embassy brain clots Gulf state is mediating between India and Pakistan to help the nuclear-armed rivals reach a “healthy and functional” from Covid relationship. Top intelligence off icers from India and Pakistan held secret talks in Dubai in advises citizens compared January in a new eff ort to calm military tension over the disputed Himalayan region of Kashmir, people with knowledge with vaccines of the matter had told Reuters. Ambassador Yousef al-Otaiba There is a much higher risk Maxime Taquet of Oxford’s said in a virtual discussion with to leave Pakistan of brain blood clots from Department of Psychiatry Stanford University’s Hoover Covid-19 infection than there told reporters. Institution on Wednesday is from vaccines against the The study was based on a that the UAE played a role “in disease, British researchers US health database, and so bringing Kashmir escalation Islamabad bans extremist party after violent protests said yesterday, after the did not accrue new data on down and created a ceasefire, rollout of inoculations was the risk of clots from Astra- hopefully ultimately leading disrupted by reports of rare Zeneca’s vaccine directly, as to restoring diplomats and AFP ily leave the country,” the embassy said in Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in clots. the shot is not being rolled getting the relationship back Islamabad an email yesterday to French citizens. Pakistan. AstraZeneca and Johnson out there. to a healthy level”. “They might “The departures will be carried out by Successive governments have a long his- & Johnson have both seen Taquet said that the mortal- not sort of become best friends existing commercial airlines.” tory of avoiding confrontation with hard- very rare reports of cerebral ity rate from CVST was but at least we want to get it to a rench nationals and companies in Pa- Extra security personnel were deployed line groups, fearing any crackdown on re- venous sinus thrombo- around 20% whether it oc- level where it’s functional, where kistan were advised by their embassy to the French embassy — inside a guarded ligious parties could spark wider violence. sis (CVST) linked to their curred after Covid-19 infec- it’s operational, where they are Fyesterday to temporarily leave after diplomatic enclave closed to the public — “We are in favour of protecting the vaccines. On Wednesday, tion or a vaccine, indicating speaking to each other,” he said. violent anti-France protests paralysed large and shipping containers placed as fortifi ca- Prophet (PBUH)’s honour, but the demand the United States paused the clots were the main risk Ties between India and Pakistan parts of the country. tions around its outer wall. which they are seeking could have por- vaccinations using J&J’s shot factor. have been frozen since a Anti-French sentiment has been sim- “Our police and rangers are capable of trayed Pakistan as a radical nation world- while a link with clots was Regulators had also ob- suicide bombing of an Indian mering for months in Pakistan since the handling the situation,” Interior Minister wide,” Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid investigated, with Denmark served low platelet levels military convoy in Kashmir in government of President Emmanuel Sheikh Rashid Ahmed told a press confer- Ahmed told a news conference. ditching AstraZeneca’s shot in reports of vaccine side 2019 traced to Pakistan-based Macron expressed support for a satiri- ence later yesterday. Anger erupted in Autumn last year when over the issue. eff ects, but the research- militants that led to India cal magazine’s right to republish cartoons “All the French citizens are safe here and the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo re- British and European regula- ers said data was limited sending warplanes to Pakistan. depicting Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) — there’s no threat to them.” published cartoons of the Prophet Muham- tors have stressed that the on whether that was also Pakistan shot down one of the deemed blasphemous by Muslims. Still, Ludo Van Vooren, a French citizen mad (PBUH). benefits of vaccination the case in those reporting jets, captured the evicting pilot Yesterday, the Pakistan government living in Islamabad, told AFP he was as- Macron’s subsequent defence of free outweigh the risks. CVST after infection. but later returned him in a peace banned an extremist political party whose sessing the embassy’s advice. speech triggered anger across the Muslim A study of 500,000 Covid-19 The researchers highlighted gesture. Later that year, India’s leader had called for a march on the capital “We are a little shocked and refl ecting on world, with tens of thousands in Pakistan, patients found CVST had that Covid-19 was associ- prime minister withdrew Indian- to demand the expulsion of the French am- what to do,” he said. neighbouring Iran and other Muslim coun- occurred at a rate of 39 ated with more common ruled Kashmir’s autonomy in bassador. “Following the incidents of the last few tries fl ooding the streets and organising people out of a million fol- clotting disorders than order to tighten his grip over the Saad Rizvi, leader of Tehreek-e-Labbaik months, we haven’t been panicking, but anti-French boycotts. lowing infection, researchers CVST, such as strokes, and territory, provoking outrage in Pakistan (TLP), was detained hours after we are very vigilant. Now, we are trying to TLP supporters brought the capital Is- said. That compares with that recent debate around Pakistan and the downgrading the Tuesday call, bringing thousands of his work out if things have changed.” lamabad to a standstill. At the time, Prime European Medicines Agency vaccines had lost sight of of diplomatic ties and supporters onto the streets in cities across Last year around 445 French citizens and Minister Imran Khan, a populist leader, (EMA) figures showing that 5 how bad the disease itself suspension of bilateral trade. the country. more than 30 companies were registered blasted Charlie Hebdo for re-publishing in a million people reported could be. Two police offi cers died in clashes during in Pakistan, according to a French govern- the cartoons, saying “wilful provocations” CVST after getting Astra- “The importance of this which water cannon, tear gas and rubber ment website. should be “universally outlawed”. Zeneca’s shot. finding is it brings it back France Covid bullets were used. The TLP is notorious for holding days- He accused the French president of at- The researchers said in a to the fact this is a really “Due to the serious threats to French in- long, violent road protests over blasphemy tacking the Muslim faith and urged Islamic pre-print study that the horrible illness as a whole deaths exceed terests in Pakistan, French nationals and issues, causing major disruption to the countries to work together to counter what risk of CVST was 8-10 times variety of eff ects including 100,000 French companies are advised to temporar- country. he called growing repression in Europe. higher following Covid-19 increased risk of (CVST),” infection than it was from John Geddes, director of France’s Covid-19 death toll existing vaccines for the NIHR Oxford Health Bio- rose yesterday to more than disease. medical Research Centre. 100,000, according to the latest “The risk of having a (CVST) The research team, from hospital figures from the health In Islamabad, thunder and lightning after Covid-19 appears Oxford University, said they ministry, a bleak statistic for to be substantially and worked independently from President Emmanuel Macron’s significantly higher than it is the Oxford vaccine team government. Data from the after receiving the Oxford- which developed Astra- health ministry’s GEODES website AstraZeneca vaccine,” Zeneca’s shot. said French hospitals registered 300 Covid-19 deaths in the last 24 hours, which, pushing the overall tally to more than 100,000. “As UK summons Russian ambassador all our energy is now focused on exiting this ordeal, we will not over ‘pattern of malign activity’ forget any face or any name,” Macron said on Twitter. France Britain yesterday said it had summoned the Russian ambassador has the world’s eighth-highest in the UK to express its deep concern at what it called Moscow’s Covid-19 death toll. The United “pattern of malign activity”. States is the worst-hit country in The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Off ice (FCDO) terms of Covid deaths, at 564,759, said that included “cyber intrusions, interference in democratic followed by Brazil, Russia and processes, and the build-up of military forces near the Ukrainian Mexico, according to a Reuters border and in illegally annexed Crimea”. tally. Worldwide, the death toll It came on the same day the United States announced sanctions stands at over three million. and the expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats in retaliation for what Coronavirus deaths in France Washington says was the Kremlin’s US election interference, a have now nearly doubled from massive cyber-attack and other hostile activity. just over 52,000 at the end The British government said it “made clear the UK’s support for the of its second lockdown at the actions announced by President Biden” as Russia’s top envoy in end of November. In the past London was summoned to see FCDO Permanent Under Secretary 30 days, France has registered Philip Barton. on average just over 300 new “He set out the UK assessment that the Russian Intelligence Services Covid-19 deaths per day, or were behind the SolarWinds compromise,” a FCDO spokesperson 9,000 per month, compared to said in a statement, referring to a hack last year that cybersecurity nearly 16,000 per month during experts and Western nations blame on Russia. the second lockdown. Health “He informed the Ambassador that the UK will continue to work with ministry data also showed that our allies to call out and counter malign operations by the Russian 5,924 people were in intensive Intelligence Services.” care units yesterday, up from Barton also stated Britain’s concern at the recent buildup of Russian 5,902 a day earlier. There were military forces near the Ukrainian border and in Crimea, which 38,045 new coronavirus cases Moscow annexed in 2014, the spokesperson added. yesterday against 43,505 on “These activities are threatening and destabilising. Wednesday, bringing the total Lightning flashes over Pakistan’s picturesque capital Islamabad during a thunderstorm last night. (AFP) “Russia needs to cease its provocations and de-escalate tensions in tally to 5.18 million. line with its international obligations.” Gulf Times 10 Friday, April 16, 2021 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Valuing resilience after the pandemic

If the Covid-19 pandemic has taught the world one thing, it is the high price we pay – in lost lives, damaged economies, and wasted human potential – when we undervalue resilience. By applying this lesson, we can bolster our ability to weather future shocks. Over the last few centuries, societies have found a simple formula for progress and prosperity: economic growth. A steady increase in output and productivity is seemingly the panacea for all troubles, including food insecurity, poverty, and disease. But have we now reached a point where the strategy of growth is becoming a trap, generating new problems on an ever-larger scale? It appears so. In a recent report published in advance of this month’s first-ever Nobel Prize Summit, Our Planet, Our Future, there is an argument that the world’s failure to value social and ecological resilience means that shocks this century will hit harder, be more disruptive, and have longer-lasting effects over G20’s missed opportunity centuries and even millennia. But we can build social resilience by promoting equality, trust, and collaboration, and ecological applies only to low-income countries. developing countries are experiencing Here, Brady-type credit resilience by valuing diversity and complexity over efficiency By Shamshad Akhtar, Ulrich Volz, Moritz Kraemer, and Stephany Many of these countries do indeed continuing net capital outflows, and enhancements for new bonds that and simplicity. need relief, but so do highly indebted the pandemic-aid money provided by would be swapped for old debt would The pandemic has cruelly highlighted the risks of ignoring Griff ith-Jones Islamabad middle-income countries that have international organisations is being facilitate restructuring negotiations. resilience. Our economies have become so mutually dependent been hit hard by the pandemic. Of the used to repay private creditors. To this end, we propose a Guarantee that the fate of one rests on the performance of others half a world 124 million people estimated to have Given these problems, the Facility for Green and Inclusive away. Our cities, usually hives of industry and innovation, have his month, G20 finance been pushed into extreme poverty in Framework urgently needs to be Recovery managed by a multilateral become disease hotspots. Our transport systems are perfectly ministers agreed to a proposal 2020, the World Bank reckons that revamped to allow for comprehensive development bank. If payments designed for shuttling pathogens around the planet. And to issue $650 billion worth of 80% were in middle-income countries. debt relief oriented around a green, on the new bonds are missed, the inclusive recovery. To that end, we collateral would be released to the some of our main communication networks prioritise lies and Tthe International Monetary Moreover, the Framework deals Fund’s reserve asset, special drawing with countries’ debt problems on a suggest the following amendments. benefit of private creditors, and misinformation over truth, making it diffi cult to distinguish fact rights (SDRs), and an additional six- case-by-case basis, and thus fails First, instead of waiting for countries the missed payment would have to from fi ction. month moratorium on debt payments to address the problem of lasting to come forward and apply for debt be repaid by the sovereign to the Extreme levels of for up to 73 developing countries. stigmatisation of any country that relief individually, the framework guarantee facility. Our survival on inequality reduce But while the agreement represents avails itself of relief. Aside from the fact should recognise that a systemic crisis Delaying an inevitable debt societal resilience, often a step in the right direction, the G20 that many developing countries have demands a systemic solution. The restructuring will leave over-indebted Earth will require in obvious ways. Poorer missed the opportunity to address already eff ectively lost access to capital G20 should encourage all low- and countries and their populations countries, with fewer the looming debt crisis in the Global markets, those that can still fi nance middle-income countries whose worse off. Governments will fail to us to rethink hospitals, less research South head on. Past debt crises ought themselves through international bonds debt is considered unsustainable to safeguard their populations during this terrible health and social crisis, power, and weaker to have taught us that doing too little, face growing risks. In anticipation of participate in debt restructuring. our approach too late will delay recoveries and drive tighter credit conditions, emerging- And when assessing debt burdens, and they will be unable to invest in governance, have less up the cost of debt restructuring market economies have weakened the analysis must include climate climate-proofing their economies. to valuing the capacity to manage the for debtors and creditors alike. The across the board since the beginning of and other sustainability risks as well There is still time for the G20 to step pandemic. In wealthy world is still at high risk of repeating this year. And developing countries have as estimates of a country’s fi nancing up and provide all countries with resilience of our societies, poorer people the mistakes that resulted in two lost accounted for 95% of all downgrades by needs for climate-change adaptation the opportunity to pursue a green, are often the most decades of development in the 1980s the three leading credit rating agencies and mitigation. inclusive, and resilient recovery. global civilisation vulnerable, because and 1990s. since the start of the pandemic. Equally important, governments — Project Syndicate their risk factors are Even before the pandemic, the Finally, the Framework lacks a receiving debt relief would need to greater. They are exposed to higher air pollution, are more likely to Global South was heading for a debt commitment by creditors and debtor commit to reforms that align their • Shamshad Akhtar, a former governor suff er from obesity, and live in more crowded conditions than the crisis; but now, the situation has countries alike to align newfound policies and budgets with the 2030 of the State Bank of Pakistan, is Chair deteriorated dramatically. To its credit, fiscal space with globally agreed Agenda for Sustainable Development of the Board of Directors of Karandaaz wealthy. The pandemic has thus hit them harder and spread among the G20 was quick to respond in April climate and development goals. There and the Paris climate agreement. Pakistan. them faster. 2020, when it approved the Debt is ample empirical evidence to show Some portion of the restructured • Ulrich Volz, Director of the SOAS But economic inequality can also erode resilience in other ways. Service Suspension Initiative. But that climate-vulnerable countries repayments should be channelled Centre for Sustainable Finance Trust in governments tends to be lower in more unequal societies, while the DSSI gave some 43 countries tend to pay a higher cost on their into a Fund for Green and Inclusive and Reader in Economics at SOAS, partly because poorer citizens think politicians mainly serve the breathing space by allowing them to public debt, and that climate change Recovery that would be used by the University of London, is Senior interests of elites. This can encourage the rise of populist leaders, postpone payments to public creditors, heightens sovereign risk. Countries government for investment in SDG- Research Fellow at the German and makes it diffi cult to pursue long-term policies ectingaff all it did not change the net present value that cannot invest in climate resilience aligned spending. Development Institute. citizens within and across societies. of those countries’ debts. and development will have even less Moreover, the Framework needs to • Moritz Kraemer, Chief Economic All of this is challenging enough. But, in our report, we conclude Thus, in November 2020, the DSSI debt sustainability in the future. incorporate adequate incentives to Adviser of the risk consultancy was complemented by a Common Even without accounting for ensure that private creditors participate Acreditus, is a former sovereign chief that by far the biggest likely shocks this century stem from our Framework for Debt Treatments the additional climate risks facing and bear a fair share of the burden. If ratings officer at S&P. toxic relationship with nature. The biosphere – the zone close to Beyond the DSSI, which allows the low-income countries, an IMF a debt-sustainability analysis asserts • Stephany Griffith-Jones is Emeritus the Earth’s surface where life thrives – is at least 3.5 billion years 73 low-income countries that are analysis suggests that, as of the end that a country’s sovereign debt is of Fellow at the Institute of Development old. But in a single lifetime, largely since the 1950s, humanity has eligible for the DSSI to request debt of February 2021, more than half signifi cant concern, the IMF should Studies at the University of Sussex systematically reduced the resilience of its own home, resulting in restructuring. But this, too, was a step of those the Fund assessed were make its programs conditional on a and Financial Markets Director at climate change and biodiversity loss. in the right direction that fell short. already in or at high risk of debt restructuring process that includes the Initiative for Policy Dialogue at Humans are slicing, dicing, and simplifying the biosphere. We For starters, the new Framework distress. Making matters worse, many private creditors. Columbia University. manage 75% of habitable land on Earth, largely for agriculture. We have commandeered about one-quarter of all energy from plants on land, and humans and their livestock account for 96% of all mammals by weight. As we hack our way through forests, wetlands, and grasslands, the most resilient species – the ones that can adapt fastest and even thrive in a human environment – are often those like bats and rats, which readily host deadly pathogens. The biosphere’s resilience – its ability to persist, absorb shocks, and develop under ever-changing conditions – depends on variety, and on the ability of life to regenerate materials and evolve in novel ways in the face of uncertainty and the unknown. Boosting this resilience requires us to respect planetary boundaries and support ecological diversity. But, above all, we need to appreciate and value the global commons in new ways. We are facing a perfect storm. Our survival on Earth will require us to rethink our approach to valuing the resilience of our global civilisation, starting with acknowledging that it is embedded within and dependent on the biosphere. — Project Syndicate

To Advertise [email protected] Display 44466621 44418811 Classified 44466609 44418811 Subscription BOTTOM-LINE: There is still time for the [email protected] G20 to step up and provide all countries with the opportunity to pursue a green, © 2021 Gulf Times. All rights reserved inclusive, and resilient recovery. Gulf Times Friday, April 16, 2021 11 THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH Fast to attain piety The wisdom hroughout the Noble Qur’an, Almighty Allah ordered us to be conscious and fearful of behind fasting THim, for might and honour lie in fearing Him. Only the people of piety and righteousness are the people of joy ne of the Names of Allah normal time or if they do not drink and pride. Piety is a great treasure of this is Al-Hakeem (The All- their morning coff ee or afternoon tea. life and of the life to come. Wise), Allah is All-Wise They have become so accustomed Allah, The Most Exalted, Says (what Oin what He decrees, what to a certain routine that changing means): “… And take provisions, but He commands, what He prohibits, it creates a problem for them. Such indeed, the best provision is fear of what He predestines and what He people are slaves to their routine and Allah.” [Qur’an 2: 197] legislates. Allah may make people habits, and fasting helps the person Almighty Allah made having aware of the wisdom behind certain overcome this behaviour. piety a condition for the acceptance matters or He may conceal it, or Realising the size of the of deeds through the verse (which may make only some people realise bounties of Allah: Fasting means):“Indeed, Allah only accepts the wisdom and not all people. makes rich people appreciate from the righteous [who fear In all cases, a believer is obliged the favours of Allah upon him, Him].”[Qur’an 5: 27] to submit to his Lord and His because Allah has granted him We are promised forgiveness and decrees and commands even if he what He has deprived many other reward for having piety, for Allah Says does not recognise the wisdom poor people from. Refraining from (what means):“and whoever fears behind them, as Allah Says (what such bounties and blessings for Allah - He will remove for him his means): “It is not for a believing a short period through fasting, misdeeds and make great for him his man or a believing woman, when reminds the rich with those who are reward.”[Qur’an 65: 5] Allah and His Messenger have continuously deprived, and thus The people of piety and righteousness decided a matter, that they should become grateful to Allah and more are the people of high rank in the Hereafter [thereafter] have any choice about merciful towards the needy. as well as in this life. Allah Says (what their aff air.” [Qur’an 33: 36] A communal act of worship: means): “That home of the Hereafter One of the commands of Allah This act of worship must be (Paradise) We assign to those who do which He made people partly practised by the entire Muslim not desire exaltedness upon the earth or aware of the wisdom behind it, is community in the east and the corruption. And the [best] outcome is for committed prior to it”.[Al-Bukhari and Allah has ordained fasting to purify those who are able (to fast, but with fasting. Fasting has many inwardly west. The entire Muslim nation the righteous.”[Qur’an 28: 83] Muslim] us and distinguish between the pious hardship) - a ransom (as substitute) of and outwardly benefi ts, on the fasts this month, even the ones If the heart is rectifi ed then the limbs and the impious. He who starts his feeding a poor person (each day). And individual and the community. The who are normally disobedient Fasting and piety: will be likewise rectifi ed. They will day abstaining from food, drinks and whoever volunteers excess - it is better following are some of these benefi ts fast during Ramadan in most The blessed month of Ramadan follow the lead shown by the heart, be sexual intercourse with his objective for him. But to fast is best for you, if which can be recognised by reason: cases. This increases the righteous is a month which Allah has made obedient to Allah and stay away from being the pleasure of his Beloved - you only knew. The month of Ramadan Attaining piety: Allah Says environment which facilitates obligatory upon us to fast so that we His prohibitions. Allah- gets the reward stipulated in the (is that) in which was revealed the (what means): “O you who have repentance to many people. might become righteous, pious, fearful Not being constantly full of food following Qudsi narration: “Fasting Qur’an, a guidance for the people and believed, decreed upon you is Increases the sense of honesty: and conscious of Allah. weakens or even prevents Satan from is for me and I shall reward it”. [Al- clear proofs of guidance and criterion. fasting as it was decreed upon those The one who breaks the fast is The objective of fasting is to having a stronghold on such a person. Bukhari and Muslim] So whoever sights (the new moon of) before you that you may become breaching the pledge with Allah and enhance the state of our piety which Regarding this, the Prophet, sallallaahu Those who fast and have piety are the month, let him fast it; and whoever pious” [Qur’an 2: 183] thus fasting improves and increases is represented by our fear of Allah, ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “Satan runs those who are always alternating is ill or on a journey - then an equal Diminishing the strength his sense of honesty when he refrains working in accordance with His in the veins of the son of Aadam just between prayer, recitation of the number of other days. Allah intends of one’s desires: Eating to one’s from anything that could break his revelation and being satisfi ed with like his blood”[Al-Bukhari & others]. Qur’an, remembrance of Allah, keeping for you ease and does not intend for fi ll and quenching the thirst and fast even whilst in seclusion. whatever little he provides – as well Not having a constantly full stomach good relationships with their relatives you hardship and (wants) for you to enjoying one’s wife all the time can Medical benefi ts: Fasting as our preparation for the day of enables the limbs to do good deeds with and being kind to others – this is whilst complete the period and to glorify lead one to heedlessness and to protects the person from many departure. ease. It softens the heart and makes it they continue in their everyday work Allah for that (to) which He has guided ingratitude. diseases with the will of Allah. The particular type of piety that we easy for tears of piety to be shed, which and other duties. you; and perhaps you will be grateful.” Focusing on the mention of Modern research proved that fasting will try to gain in Ramadan is the very reduces the eff ect of Satan. Righteous people who are fasting Here is a great month full of virtuous Allah and pondering: Continual has many health benefi ts, such as: sensitive type. The fasting person can have to search amongst their relatives days and nights. So we should do well fulfi lment of desires makes one It organises the person’s heart- only acquire this, because he/she gives Miserable people: and neighbours for the poor and needy and utilise them, take advantage of hard-hearted and blinds him from beat and relaxes it since no blood is up what he desires to avoid that which Indeed, those who make Ramadan amongst them. They should also search for them in the same way that the Salaf, the right path. It also prevents needed for digestion. he is fearful of- the punishment of a month of over eating and excessive the strangers amongst their brothers, be may Allah be pleased with them, did. the slave from mentioning Allah It purifi es the blood from fat Allah Almighty. spending are wretched, miserable good to them and make them share their They, may Allah be pleased with them, and refl ecting upon His signs and cholesterol and acids. A fasting heart draws closer to Allah people. They do not realise anything provisions. We must remember the hunger did not prepare for Ramadan by preparing and creation, all of which leads to It relieves the liver from the by obedience and humble submission to but hunger – hunger that their and thirst of our poor fellow Muslims, and consuming more food and drinks, heedlessness. regular pressure. Him. It fully admits the responsibility of stomachs cannot handle and thirst remember the tears of the miserable ones rather they prepared with acts pleasing Narrowing the passage of It reduces the production of the performing all the obligations of Islam which their veins cannot tolerate. and the situation of those who have no to their Lord, such as acts of worship and the devil: Satan runs in the blood digestive glands which is usually as well as refraining from all the acts What kind of piety and how much dwellings, remember too the loneliness generosity. They were obedient servants of the son of Aadam and fasting the cause for ulcers. prohibited by Allah. This type of heart resistance exists in these people? of those who are away from their families. to their Lord and generous and kind narrows his passage and thus It protects the person from sincerely worships Allah alone. Lusts These people are the people of no We should also supplicate for them in the towards their fellow Muslims. The best lessens his eff ects, reduces one’s gaining weight, diabetes, kidney and desires do not distract it nor does resistance or determination in the month of piety and accountability. example for all of these acts was their desires and calms one’s anger. stones. greed divert it. This is a strong and pious face of hunger. Their hearts become The correlation between fasting leader, Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu Strengthening one’s It reduces the pressure on the heart whose fasting, prayer and all other harder the more they eat, resulting and piety is stated in the verse (which ‘alaihi wa sallam, who used to be most willpower and determination: heart arteries. actions are purely for the Sake of Allah. in oversleeping and laziness. Those means):“O you who have believed, generous during Ramadan. One, who can tolerate the pain of Some people are unable to fast In fact, the whole of its life and death are who only desire to eat and dress well decreed upon you is fasting as it was hunger and thirst and controls due to their sickness, and thus for Him. – those who surrender in defeat - in a decreed upon those before you that you Article source: http://www. himself from having a sexual Allah permitted them to break their The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa battle against a few bites, where they may become righteous – (Fasting for) islamweb,net/emainpage/ relation with his spouse whilst fast whilst sick and mandated that sallam, said: “He who fasts the month have to abstain from for a few hours, a limited number of days. So whoever fasting, will strengthen his they make up for the days they of Ramadan out of sincere belief and such people are not worthy of an among you is ill or on a journey (during determination and willpower. missed. Allah Says (what means): seeking Allah’s reward of its fasting, exalted and honourable life. them) - then an equal number of This frees the person from being “So whoever among you is ill or will be forgiven for all the sins he has Behaviour of the pious: days (are to be made up). And upon enslaved to his lusts and desires on a journey [during them]-then that are harmful to him. an equal number of days [are to be Breaking one out of his regular made up]” [Qur’an: 2: 184] routine: Some people lose their temper and become ill-mannered Article source: http://www. The month of the Qur’an if their meal was delayed from its islamweb.net/emainpage/

owadays, we live in a then is there any that will remember?” back on the Qur’an, degrading it and Qur’an in Ramadan every three nights, time in which many [Qur’an 54: 17] deserting it. Allah says (what means): and some used to do it every seven ideologies exist - a time Anyone, young or old, can memorise “And whoever turns away from My nights, like Qataadah, may Allah be Points to ponder Nof confrontations with it even non-Arabic speaking people. remembrance - indeed, he will have pleased with him; others used to fi nish diff erent misconceptions, challenges It is not burdensome to read or recite a depressed life, and We will gather it every ten nights. Ibn Rajab, may Allah and questions that are often witnessed, repeatedly. Due to its sweetness, no him on the Day of Resurrection blind. have mercy on him, said: “The Salaf person might contemplate is to realise this state. Is it appropriate heard and repeated. one gets bored listening to the Qur’an. He will say, “My Lord, why have you used to recite the Qur’an in the month of during Ramadan upon that one realises this during his day, Each one of us in this world, Scholars never have enough pondering raised me blind while I was [once] Ramadan during prayer and other times; numerous subjects. He should and when he breaks his fast, he gives regardless of his/her position, needs over it, educating themselves from seeing? [ Allah ] will say, “Thus did Qataadah used to teach the Qur’an in the Arefl ect upon his aff airs, his up meditation and remembrance of something at times to strengthen him, it and learning more of its meanings. Our signs come to you, and you forgot month of Ramadan. Whenever Ramadan fi nal abode, and what is awaiting him, Allah The Almighty? I mean those help him stay steadfast and increase Neither mankind nor jinn can produce them; and thus will you this Day be started, Az-Zuhri, may Allah have mercy as regards his departure to Allah The high ranks that represent the origin his faith and reliance on Allah so a chapter that resembles it, because it forgotten.” [Qur’an 20: 124-126] on him, used to say: ‘This is the month of Almighty. He can also contemplate over of the knowledge of and love for Allah he can face strong desires and new is an eternal miracle and proof. Allah, The blessed month of Ramadan that reciting the Qur’an and giving food’.” his morals and evil aspects, in the hope of The Almighty. Once he refl ects upon challenges as fi rm as mountains that Glory be to Him, Commanded us to we live in these days should remind During Ramadan, Allah gives honour getting rid of the latter; his acts of worship the names and attributes of Allah The are unaff ected by strong winds or recite it and to refl ect upon it. He made the believing Muslim Nation of the and elevates people with the Qur’an in which he was negligent and which were Almighty, he affi rms the Oneness of his earthquakes. it a blessing as well as blessed. importance of going back truly and and degrades others as a result of fi lled with doubts and passing thoughts, Lord, loves Him, fears Him, has hope in When a person feels lonely, or a Allah Says (what means): “[This sincerely to the Book of Allah, the great neglecting it. All thanks are due to which kept him far from Allah The Him, supplicates Him, draws near Him, problem occurs, when things are bad, is] a blessed Book which We have Book that Allah has honored by having Allah that the Qur’an is amongst us Almighty, and from having good private and makes his share from Allah The when he is about to give up hope on the revealed to you, [O Muhammad], that revealed it during this month. He, The and it is very easy to obtain a copy: talk with Him. He can contemplate about Almighty the most important priority Mercy of Allah, or when he does wrong; they might refl ect upon its verses and Almighty, Says (what means): “The they are in the mosques, the homes, in standing in front of Him; what mends his for him in the world and the Hereafter. he needs what guides him through that those of understanding would be month of Ramadan [is that] in which the libraries and bookstores. In some own self and fi nal abode, and what causes You need this meaning today and after such conditions to help him solve the reminded.” [Qur’an 38: 29] was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for of the Muslim countries you can even him to know and have love for his Lord The Ramadan, otherwise, what would you do problem, to remind him of the Mercy The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa the people and clear proofs of guidance listen to it on the radio. Having the Almighty. if your days pass and you return to your of Allah and to warn him when he does sallam, said: “He who recites or reads and criterion.” [Qur’an 2: 185] Qur’an available is a great bounty of A believer should refl ect upon the old state, and the month of Ramadan wrong. a letter from the Book of Allah gets a The best way to spend time during Allah, glory be to Him. Being able to Names and Attributes of Allah; and gets over without getting any of that? Unless a person heads in the right reward and the reward is multiplied by the month of the Qur’an (Ramadan) learn His Book, listen to it, and act his standing to his Lord on the Day the The next meaning is to make direction with his entire body (his ten. I don’t mean ‘Alif Laam Meem’ is is to give increased importance to according to it is another great favor people would stand to the Lord of the substantial contributions to increasing feelings, heart and limbs) towards a letter, rather, Alif is a letter, Laam is the Qur’an by memorising, reciting, and bounty of Allah, The Most Exalted. Worlds. If one refl ects upon the Names the sustenance for the poor and the Book of Allah, by reading it, a letter and Meem is a letter.” [At- practising and contemplating it. The Qur’an can also be a proven and Attributes of Allah, his living and needy. It is one of the traces of contemplating its verses and practising Tirmithi] Let us look at our best model, the evidence against all of those who fi nal abode, his departure, death and Taqwa (consciousness of Allah The what it contains, then one cannot hope Allah gave a certain position to those Messenger, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa neglected it when it was so easily grave, his resurrection and standing in Almighty). It is your share (of good) to be steadfast and strong in his faith. who memorise and work according sallam. Ibn‘Abbaas, may Allah be available. Allah Almighty says (what front of Allah The Almighty, the evil which you should be keen to obtain, to He will not feel secure from being to it -- a position that makes one pleased with him, reported that: “The means): “Say (O Muhammad): ‘What of his own soul, and the defi ciencies of give out of your property to the poor punished. He cannot expect a promise diff erent from other people. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, thing is greatest in testimony?’ Say, his actions and provision, undoubtedly and needy, for the sake of Allah The to be fulfi lled nor to be mentioned or Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, was the most generous of people and ‘Allah is witness between me and his refl ection would cause him to Almighty. Make hunger and thirst a remembered after his death. said: “The best amongst you are those he used to be more generous during the you. And this Qur’an was revealed to increase in faith and refrain from reminder for you of those who have The Qur’an is the pure spring that who learn the Qur’an and teach it to month of Ramadan, when he used to me that I may warn you thereby and disobedience. It would enable him to long been suff ering from hunger and never depletes, the great treasure that others.” [Al-Bukhari]. meet Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) and review whomever it reaches…’” [Qur’an 6: 19] endure the diffi culty of striving against thirst, support your brethren and does not diminish from use, rather He, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, also the Qur’an with him. During this time, The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi the evil he is suff ering from, remember the righteous slaves of Allah The it only increases. Its repetition and said: “The example of the believer who the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa wa sallam, said: “The Qur’an is a the grave, death and accounting, and Almighty, and honour and bring about recitation add to its sweetness and reads the Qur’an is like the “Utrujjah” sallam, was faster (in his generosity proof or an evidence for or against remember the terrors and standing in pleasure upon them. All of this is encourage one to read from it again. (a type of fruit). It has a nice smell and a and bringing good) than a blowing you.” [Muslim] So we must fear Allah front of Allah The Almighty. All of this among the best deeds mentioned by The Qur’an is the Word of Allah that sweet taste. The example of the believer wind”. [Al-Bukhari & Muslim] and pay attention to the Book of would be a motive for him to hasten to the Messenger of Allah. That was his cannot be likened to any other words. who does not read or recite the Qur’an is We understand from this Hadith that Allah, learning it, teaching it, acting Allah The Almighty, to keep away from state in Ramadan. He was the most It is protected from falsehood being like a date, which has no smell but tastes it is recommended to review the Qur’an according to it and applying it so that sins, fear Allah The Almighty, do his generous of all people, and he used to entered into it from any direction. sweet. The example of a hypocrite who and study it in the month of Ramadan, we will be among its people. best and strive to excel in worship and be at the pinnacle of his generosity in It was sent down by The All-Wise, reads the Qur’an is like the Rayhannah, even gathering in group sessions to do About the Qur’an, Allah Almighty obedience, and persist in thinking of the month of Ramadan, when Jibreel Worthy of all praise, Allah, Glory be it smells nice but it tastes bitter. The so. In addition, we can conclude from says (what means):“Indeed, this Qur’an what returns upon him with good in (Gabriel) would teach him the Qur’an. to Him, Who took it upon Himself example of the hypocrite who does not it that it is recommended to repeatedly guides to that which is most suitable his worldly life and his fi nal abode. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim] to protect it so no one can add to read the Qur’an is like the Hanthalah recite the Qur’an during the month of and gives good tidings to the believers As for the remembrance of Allah The To conclude those benefi ts, let us it or subtract from it. It cannot be (colocynth) which does not have any Ramadan. who do righteous deeds that they will Almighty, if one devotes himself to it, say that fasting, standing (at night in increased or decreased. It is written in smell and it tastes bitter” [Al-Bukhari Many people have the mistaken have a great reward. And that those he will be in the same state mentioned prayer), remembrance of Allah The a Preserved Book (in Arabic: Al Lawh and Muslim] idea that they should recite the Qur’an who do not believe in the Hereafter - by Allah The Almighty Who Says Almighty and reduction of food, drink Al Mahfooth). It is easy to learn and Tranquillity and true happiness repeatedly during the day of Ramadan We have prepared for them a painful (what means): {So remember Me; I and desire in Ramadan break the soul’s is often contemplated, memorised, lie in glorifying the Book of Allah, and then stop reciting it during the punishment.” [Qur’an 17: 9-10] will remember you. And be grateful voracity, greediness, wrongness and and recited. Allah Says (what means): reading it, resorting to it as a night. Some of the Salaf (righteous to Me and do not deny Me.} [Qur’an transgression. This is one of the most “And We have indeed made the Qur’an reference and using it as a guidance. predecessors, may Allah have mercy Article source: http://www. 2:152] Among the benefi ts of one’s important reasons that make one submit easy to understand and remember, Wretchedness lies in turning one’s upon them) used to read the entire islamweb.net/emainpage/ leaving his food and drink (in fasting) to his Lord and increase in piety. Gulf Times 12 Friday, April 16, 2021 QATAR

Buildings go green for Qatar Family Day

The buildings of many ministries and organisations were lit up in green yesterday, in celebration of Qatar Family Day. Among them were the buildings of the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Aff airs, the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Culture and Sports, the Civil Aviation Authority, the Family Consulting Centre, Qatar Rail, and Kahramaa. The MME put up a billboard at its building (pictured above) to explain the origins of Qatar Family Day. The idea to dedicate a day for the family came on the sidelines of Qatar hosting the International Conference for the Family, organised by the Supreme Council for Family Aff airs in 2004, which marked the 10th anniversary of the International Year of the Family. At the conclusion of the conference, Qatar Foundation chairperson Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser called for observing and celebrating Family Day. In June 2010, Qatar’s Council of Ministers agreed that April 15 of each year shall be declared Qatar Family Day in order to raise awareness on the importance of supporting families in all shapes and forms, and highlight and promote their role.

Snacks for Iftar A variety of Iftar delicacies on display at some outlets in Doha yesterday. PICTURES: Shaji Kayamkulam