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Tuesday 18 April 2017 | 21 Rajab 1438 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com Volume 22 | Number 7135 | 2 Riyals

QCB issues Vehicle tests: regulations for vehicle SMS replaces insurance The Peninsula printed report THE Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Governor H E Sheikh Abdulla bin Saoud Al Thani Sanaullah Ataullah has issued two new circulars The Peninsula All vehicle inspection on standard regulations for the criteria of issuing insur- ahes, the vehicle results are sent ance documents, protecting inspection arm of via text message the rights of clients and reg- Woqod, has stopped to the registered ulations of insurance issuing inspection phone number with coverage for vehicles. reports on paper, In a statement issued yes- Freplacing it with a text message a printable link in terday, the bank said the to vehicle owners notifying the Arabic/English. instructions, due to come into inspection result and a link to see effect from the date of issue, the report online. With this, are significant for being the Fahes, has almost achieved its procedures related to renewal first of their kind and were Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani with goal of completing inspection of road permit. “Technical issued by QCB in line with its procedures within few inspection does not take much children during the launch of National Autism Plan at the Four Seasons Hotel, yesterday. jurisdiction and powers of minutes. time. It usually finishes in two supervising and overseeing The new move, is helping to three minutes,” a motorist all insurance services in line save time of vehicle owners by who took his car for inspection with the provisions of Law 15 to 30 minutes as they are no recently told The Peninsula. PM launches National Autism Plan No. 13 of 2012, Qatar News more required to wait for “Earlier, we had to wait for 15 Agency reported yesterday. inspection reports to know if to 30 minutes, as per the rush at The Peninsula implemented by 2021 including for early diagnosis, according to Regarding insurance cov- the vehicles have passed or centre, just to receive the report of creating awareness, early diag- official sources. erage of mechanical vehicles, failed in the technical inspec- inspection. However, this time I rime Minister and Interior nosis of autism and improving National Autism Plan 2017- the statement said that after tion, The Peninsula has learnt. received a text message with a link Minister H E Sheikh the standards of services pro- 2021 was prepared with the coordination with the Minis- “No paper printed reports of the report on my mobile phone PAbdullah bin Nasser bin vided for people with autism. participation of several minis- try of Interior's Traffic are issued: All inspection results within five minutes after the Khalifa Al Thani yesterday The four-year National tries, government and private Department, the instructions are sent via SMS TEXT to the inspection, so the maximum time launched the National Autism Autism Plan 2017-2021 was entities as well as families with came in 17 articles regulating registered phone number with I had to spend inside the facility Plan 2017-2021, as a significant launched at the Four Seasons members having autism. the rights of customers of a printable link in Arabic/Eng- was less than ten minutes. We can step to improve lives of people Hotel in the presence of repre- “The launch of the plan is insurance companies in the lish,” reads a note posted on just drive away after the with Autism Spectrum Disorder sentatives from several significant and it endorses the event of car accidents. Fahes website. inspection.” (ASD) in the country. ministries, private entities and attention Qatar has given under According to the articles, Until recently, Fahes used All Fahes centres have a help The plan aims to improve families of people with autism. the wise leadership of the Emir insurance companies can't, to issue a printed report in case desk for those who do not have lives of people with autism and The implementation of the H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad on their own, refrain from the vehicle fails the test. If the smart phone and those who insist their families and provide chil- plan will commence immedi- Al Thani to people with autism covering insurance on the vehicle passes both the tests- on getting paper reports. They dren with the disorder with ately with activities to raise and their families," Dr Hanan Al grounds that an accident is legal and technical — it was to also issue paper receipts for the opportunities to lead a comfort- awareness among the commu- Kuwari, Minister of Public fabricated or does not con- be directed to the traffic depart- service payment. able life. It includes 44 nity and encourage parents to Health said. form to the traffic report. ment for completing further → Continued on page 3 recommendations to be screen children with symptoms → Continued on page 2 → Continued on page 7

Education Ministry offers e-services Khalifa International Stadium through app sets world record in returfing

THE MINISTRY of Education The Peninsula be launched next month when players will and Higher Education take to the new turf for the first time in the announced all its e-services spire Zone Foundation (AZF) and the newly renovated 40,000-seater through a smartphone appli- Supreme Committee for Delivery & stadium. cation in order to develop its ALegacy (SC) have successfully set a Director General of Aspire Logistics, services and to work in line new world record for returfing Khalifa Abdullah Nasser Al Naimi, highlighted how with the governments' smart International Stadium, one of the landmark the achievement reflected AZF’s continued projects. Minister of Educa- venues set to be used at the 2022 FIFA efforts to promote sporting performance in tion and Higher Education World Cup Qatar, managing to lay a stag- Qatar and drive innovation. The incredible H E Dr Mohammed bin Abdul gering 7,800+m2 of turf in just 13:30 hours. effort further demonstrates AZF’s vision to Wahed Al Hammadi had The new world record smashed AZF’s be the reference in sports excellence world- launched the "Education" previous best which it set when it returfed wide by 2020. application. Al Sadd Sports Club’s stadium in 2016 in just “This achievement should be attributed → Continued on page 7 14:40 hrs. The previous record of 18:00 to the state of Qatar, not only AZF and the hours was set in Europe and had stood for SC. It’s further evidence of AZF’s world-class some time. expertise and demonstrates the innovative Khalifa International Stadium, which human and technological capabilities that is being delivered by AZF on behalf of the we have developed across the organisation, SC — the organisation responsible for deliv- and which are helping position Qatar at the A view of the returfing process being carried out by groundsmen at Khalifa ering the infrastructure required to host forefront of the global sporting industry.” International Stadium in Doha. the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar, is set to → Continued on page 8 QUARTER-FINALS FIXTURES Today At Leicester, England Educational apps getting popular among students Leicester City (ENG) v Atletico Madrid (ESP) Irfan Bukhari private tuition, to some extent. is a free education app popular from these apps, we can get rid High School Foundation Class The Peninsula While many parents consider among Indian expatriate students of tuition classes for my children 4-12 math and science to compet- them as a useful mode to replace which covers the Indian CBSE which had otherwise become an itive exam preparation lik JEE, At Madrid, Spain ith the fast developing the costly private tuition, teach- (Central Board of Secondary Edu- extra financial burden on my AIPMT, CAT, GRE, GMAT and IAS. Real Madrid (ESP) v digital technology, ers are skeptical about these cation) syllabus. The app offers family,” said Himal, an Indian Special modules on ICSE, CBSE; Weducational apps are digital solutions and insist that video lessons designed by Indian parent. sample papers for class 7-10 stu- Bayern Munich (GER) becoming increasingly popu- nothing could become a substi- teachers among other features. BYJU’s – The Learning App dents and AIPMT, IITJEE coaching lar among students in Qatar, tute to one-to-one learning. “Yes these learning apps are with more than five million and for class 11-12 students.” Kick-off 9:45pm Qatar time reducing their dependence on “BYJU’s – The Learning App” helpful. At least by taking help master all concepts right from → Continued on page 4 02 HOME TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 QA to showcase Qsuite at Arabian Travel Market

The Peninsula visitors at the show our latest First experience developments.” atar Airways will This will be the first Qatar Airways will showcase showcase its unique time industry the new "Qsuite" for the first and revolutionary experts in the Gulf time in the Middle East new premium travel will get to experience Featuring the airline indus- Qexperience, Qsuite, try’s first-ever double bed the new design and for the first time in the Middle available in Business Class, the suites. East at next week’s Arabian new Qsuite design features pri- Travel Market (ATM), the vacy panels that stow away, region’s leading travel trade fair ATM, the region’s allowing passengers in adjoin- taking place April 24 to 27 in leading travel trade ing seats to create their own Dubai. fair, will take place private spaces. Adjustable pan- Following the hugely success- from April 24 to 27 els and movable TV monitors on ful global reveal in Berlin last in Dubai. the centre four seats allow those Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani and month, this will be the first time travelling together to transform industry experts in the Gulf will their space into a private suite, H E Dr Hanan Al Kuwari, Minister of Public Health, at the launch of the National Autism Plan. get to experience the new design looking forward to another giving them the opportunity to and interchangeable suites. successful ATM this year and work, dine and socialise Known for introducing to introducing the new revolu- together. These new features Focus on creating autism awareness world-firsts to the airline indus- tionary new Business Class seat provide the ultimate customis- → Continued from page 1 try, Qatar Airways Group Chief to the travel industry and able travel experience that government and private sector Division Chief for Developmen- Executive, Akbar Al Baker is also media partners within the Mid- enables passengers to create an Dr Hanan Al Kuwari, Minis- to provide necessary support to tal Pediatrics at Sidra told The set to introduce another ground- dle East, a product that will environment that suits their own ter of Public Health, added: "We implement the plan and assure Peninsula, “It’s a very important breaking experience for revolutionise global premium unique needs. are keen to ensure that people that people with autism get the and happy occasion to see the passengers at the airline’s travel. Qatar Airways is known Qatar Airways also recently with autism get enough care, needed care and services,” said document prepared by a large annual press conference on the the world over for setting the launched a new next generation attention and necessary serv- Dr Hanan. group of people from different exhibition’s opening day, to highest possible standard in user interface for Oryx One, its ices. We also aim at increasing During the launch event, Dr sectors being endorsed by the gathering media from around customer experience, and it is award-winning in flight enter- the chances of education and Saleh Al Marri at the Ministry of government. National Autism the world. with much anticipation that I tainment system that features up training to be offered to people Public Health presented details Plan is extraordinary multidis- Al Baker said, “We are look forward to sharing with to 3,000 movie, television and with autism to lead a comfort- on how the plan was drafted and ciplinary and multiagency effort game options. The platform will able life. The National Autism developed by a national team which involved both govern- make it even easier to navigate Plan is in line with the Qatar established in April 2015. ment and voluntary agencies the wide selection of movies, National vision 2030.” “At present we are working including the Qatar Autism music and TV box sets, ensuring Besides the officials, more onimplementing the plan imme- Families Association as autism passengers get the very best than 200 families of people with diately. Initially steps will be has to be addressed by multi dis- entertainment experience from autism have contributed in taken to create awareness about ciplinary agencies. It’s a unique the moment they step on board. drafting the National Autism autism among the public. We plan, I don’t think any other Guests and visitors to the Plan. Dr Hanan emphasised that will also focus on parents of country has a strategy that goes Qatar Airways stand will be the contribution of the families children with autism in educat- into details as much as the invited to experience the new is significant as they could ing them about the services and National Autism Plan 2017-2021 Qsuite first hand at the airline’s express the challenges they face early intervention,” he said. does.” exhibition stand in Hall Two in caring people with autism. The entities contributed in “The plan specifies in all the ME1445. “The National Autism Plan drafting the National Autism important stages to be followed The stand will give visitors 2017-2021 reflects our commit- Plan included the Ministry of in autism care including early the opportunity to be among the ment to providing care and Public Health, Hamad Medical screening, diagnosis, interven- first to experience the comfort, services to individuals with Corporation and Sidra Medical tion that has to be followed. It entertainment and hospitality autism. It will help them get and Research centre. has been supported by best evi- offered on board a Qatar Air- opportunities and lead a better Dr Fatima Janjua, co-writer dence-based practices,” she The unique and revolutionary Qsuite of Qatar Airways. ways flight. life. We also urge the of the National Autism Plan and added. TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 HOME 03 QU and QEWC sign MoU for water-related research

VP for Research and Graduate Research strategy Studies Prof Mariam Al-Maadeed MoU aims to establish and QEWC General Manager and collaboration Managing Director Fahad bin between QU and Hamad Almohannadi, in the QEWC in the field of presence of Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Sada, QU President Dr water treatment and Hassan Al Derham, QU VP for related technologies. Academic Affairs Dr Hassan Alfadala, QU Center for MoU aligns with Qatar Advanced Materials Director Dr University’s research Nasser Abdullah Alnuaimi, strategy and QEWC Chief Executive Officer- contributes to Ras Abu Fontas Abdul Rahman building partnerships. M Nasrallah, QEWC Business Development Director Mr Abdul Sattar Mohammed R Al-Rash- The Peninsula eed, QEWC Finance Manager Mr Jimmy Chung, QEWC Executive Minister of Energy and Industry H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada (left) and QU President Dr Hassan Al Derham (centre) inister of Energy Officer - Events and Activities addressing the function. RIGHT: Prof Mariam Al Maadeed and Fahad bin Hamad Almohannadi signing the MoU. and Industry H E Mohammed Saad Almohannadi, Dr Mohammed and QEWC Public Relations promoting research and innova- Electricity and Water Company. between the University and priorities. I would like to thank bin Saleh Al Sada Coordinator Mr Mohammed El- tion in the drinking water sector Both are national and prestig- Qatar Electricity and Water Qatar Electricity and Water Com- yesterday hon- Tayeb, as well as QU officials, and related activities. Other ious institutions that complement Company in various research pany for its trust in Qatar Moured the signing ceremony of a faculty and staff. areas of collaboration include the each other. Qatar Electricity and areas.” University and we look forward research memorandum of In the terms of the MoU, QU development of training pro- Water Company provides elec- Dr Hassan Al Derham said: to the outcomes that will emerge understanding (MoU) between and QEWC will collaborate on grams and the transfer and tricity and water which are the “This MoU contributes to promot- from this collaboration.” Qatar University (QU) and Qatar building a knowledge base for implementation of technology two essential components of life ing sustainable development and Fahad bin Hamad Almohan- Electricity and Water Company seawater desalination and on for water purification. and social development, while water security in Qatar and to nadi said: “The development of (QEWC). developing a membrane based Commenting on the MoU, H Qatar University is a key partner building national research capac- a membrane based water puri- The MoU aims to establish water purification such as E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al- in the field of education and ities in the field of energy and fication such as Reverse Osmosis collaboration between QU and Reverse Osmosis (RO). Both insti- Sada said: “This MoU has a research in Qatar. This MoU water. In this context, Qatar Uni- (RO) is a new technology used in QEWC in the field of water treat- tutions will also cooperate on special importance as it under- aligns with Qatar University’s versity continues in its efforts to Qatar and we need partners such ment and related technologies. building local capabilities in the lines the collaboration between research strategy and contrib- strengthen links with industry in as Qatar University to promote The MoU was signed by QU field of water treatment and on Qatar University and Qatar utes to building partnership line with the national research research in this field.” CRA meets diverse range of radio QEWC net profit at QR350m

The Peninsula QEWC’s Board of Directors, 2017 showed sales of QR720m communication spectrum needs chaired the meeting. compared to QR718m recorded he Board of Directors of QEWC recorded a net profit a year ago. The Peninsula technologies, public protection everything from Information Qatar Electricity and of QR350m (net of non-con- The Board expressed satis- & disaster relief measures, & Communications Technol- TWater Company (QEWC) trolling interests) for the first faction with company’s he Communications Reg- unmanned aircraft systems, ogy (ICT) and other nationally reviewed the first quarter (Q1, quarter of 2017, compared to financial performance. The ulatory Authority (CRA) global flight tracking, maritime important sectors, as the effec- 2017) financial results of the QR347m for the same period board of directors also dis- Tmet full and diverse range safety, amateur radio. tive management of this scarce company yesterday. in 2016. The Earning per Share cussed progress in the radio-communication spec- CRA also played a signifi- resource ultimately impacts the H E Dr Mohamed bin Saleh (EPS) edged up to QR 3.18 from company's various projects trum needs for the State of cant role in supporting country’s GDP,” said Moham- Al-Sada, Minister of Energy & QR 3.16. which are under construction Qatar issuing a total of 4,059 spectrum requirements of 14 med Ali Al-Mannai, President Industry and Chairman of the The first quarter of the year and under review. (up by 145% from 1,654 licenses major events during the year of CRA. in 2015) spectrum licenses in including Commercial Bank CRA received 84 spectrum 2016. Qatar Masters Golf Tourna- interference cases and con- The number of frequencies ment, Qatar Ladies Open, H.H. ducted 11 investigations of assigned also increased signif- Emir Cup - Bowling, Cycling quality of service relating to the icantly to 2,538 (up by 117% Tour of QATAR, Qumra Festi- complaints received during from 1,167 in 2015) in last year. val, AJYAL Youth Film Festival, 2016. Furthermore CRA con- Type approval certificates Motocross Championship, ducted two routine inspections issued for radio and telecom- Qatar MotoGP, SBK Superbike of shops selling radio and tel- munications terminal FIM World Championship, ecommunication equipment equipment (RTTE) remained World Touring Car Champion- and a total of 79 violation relatively unchanged at 1,114 ship (WTCC), UCI Road World notices were issued for using (from 1,212 in 2015). Championships Doha, Qatar or selling equipment without In 2016, CRA also finalised Total Open 2016, Qatar Exxon- valid licenses. CRA’s inspection the National Frequency Allo- Mobil Open 2016 and Qatar team visited a total of 195 cation Plan (NFAP) with National Day event. stores during the year, target- appropriate consideration to “We were very busy last ing popular locations for sale planning of projects in sectors year in all matters relating to of communication equipment that are critical to Qatar’s econ- the management of frequen- including malls, souks, com- omy. NFAP is a comprehensive cies in Qatar, as the figures mercial areas, as well as frequency allocation document indicate, there is rapidly grow- neighbourhood grocery stores. that provides a transparent, ing demand for Spectrum In 2016, CRA proposal to non-discriminatory and pre- across the nation. Radio Spec- reduce the annual license fees dictable approach to spectrum trum a fundamental, finite and for VHF Radio for small ships, management and to reserve valuable national resource and and dual-band radio for hunt- appropriate spectrum for its careful management is crit- ing was approved by the future innovative technologies. ical to the smooth running not Cabinet, thereby reducing the It also integrates planning of only of major global events tak- fee for the above from QAR 500 new mobile broadband ing place in Qatar but to QAR 100 per year.

Al Khor Dental Clinic services Mechanics trying to 'unavailable' adjust to new system The Peninsula → Continued from page 1 ental services at the Al with electronic file are asking Khor Health Center will The electronic copy of the the motorists to bring a printed Dbe temporarily unavail- report is almost similar to the report. able until further notice due to one that was given in print ear- Photo studios and typing maintenance work, the Primary lier. However, some details are centres are providing these Health Care Corporation mentioned in the electronic services for QR5 per report. (PHCC) said in a statement yes- report only if the vehicles failed “I have a smart phone but I terday. However, from Sunday on that point. Earlier, these asked my clients to bring the to Thursday, patients will be points were mentioned on the paper report because I am not referred to and treated at Um paper reports even if no repairs used to dealing with the online Salal Health Center and on Sat- were needed. system. For me, it is easy with urdays, the dental services will Keeping pace with the new paper, finish one error then be provided at Al Ka’ban Health move, mechanics and garages mark it to show it has been cor- Center. have started upgrading their rected,” said a mechanic. Um Salal Health Center facilities with smart phone "However, I am trying to learn and Al Ka’ban Health Center and internet access to see the the new system," he added. administrations have been electronic report and identify Fahes, the vehicle inspec- informed and have taken the the technical faults of the tion arm of Woqod, has appropriate arrangements to vehicles recommended for simplified its procedures for provide a full dental treatment fixing. inspections, making it easy for and care services to patients Those mechanics who are vehicle owners to visit the cen- referred from the Al Khor unable to access the report and tres and get the reports in a Health Center. those finding it difficult to deal record time. 04 HOME TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017

President Emiri Air Force conducts 'Stricken Plane' drill of Uganda arrives today

PRESIDENT Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda will arrive in Doha today for an official visit to the State of Qata. Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will meet with the Ugandan President tomorrow at the Emiri Diwan to review bilateral relations and means of boosting and developing them. Advisory Council holds session Rescue workers attending to a patient during the drill. RIGHT: QNA Emiri Air Force and medical personnel who participated in the military exercise. he Advisory Council held Tyesterday its regular QNA Preparedness weekly session during its 45th ordinary session under the atar Emiri Air Force Exercise aims to help chairmanship of Speaker H E carried out military the participating Mohammed bin Mubarak Al exercise "Stricken units gain experience Khulaifi. At the outset of the Plane," aimed at on the procedures meeting, the meeting's Qassessing the prepara- agenda was read out and they need to follow tion levels of emergency units. in different crises. approved. The council then The exercise also aims to read a memo from the cabi- help the participating units gain net directed to the Ministry of The personnel who experience on the procedures Education and Higher Edu- they need to follow in different took part in the cation regarding a draft law positions. It also aims to provide exercise received on public schools. The Coun- training for dealing with poten- training of the cil referred another draft law tial accidents. Commenting on highest level. Emiri Air Force said that all those at the armed forces, the Minis- (Pilot) Mohammed Hassan Al on expert witnessing to the the exercise, the Commander of exercises are then evaluated by try of Public Health and the Qahtani said that the exercise is Legal and Legislative Affairs the Qatar Emiri Air Force, Major the armed forces to stand on the Hamad International Airport's an annual one focused on Committee to examine the General (Pilot) Mubarak bin large number of local, regional, benefits and develop future emergency planning and crisis improving the level of coopera- report and present a report. Mohamed Al Kumait Al Khay- and international exercises that training exercises. management department. tion and harmony between the The Advisory Council's arin, said that the exercise was focus on dealing with bigger cri- Stricken Plane exercise sim- The commander stressed units when dealing with such Legal and Legislative Affairs one of the most vital routine ses such as oil leaks, forest fires ulates a scenario where a C17 that the equipment used in the accidents. He expressed his sat- Committee met yesterday trainings on dealing with acci- etc. Those exercises focus also military transport aircraft, as a exercise are state-of-the-art and isfaction at the performance under the chairmanship of its dents related to the air force or on how to manage such events, result of an over-heated engine, can deal with different buildings, levels throughout the exercise Rapporteur Nasser Rashid other state institutions. It is one the commander said. Al Khay- catches fire while emptying a whether factories or towers, as this year. Serayea Al Kaabi. The commit- of many exercises that the Air arain gave an example with The highly flammable shipment. The well as the largest and most He noted that there were tee resumed its study of a draft Force holds to improve the alert Eagle Resolve (Hasm Al Oqban) units participating in the exer- modern planes depending on the more than 200 individuals who law on the National Service. Min- level and preparation of its indi- exercise that took place in cise must then follow the accident. He added that the per- took part this year and cooper- ister of Education and Higher viduals and units, the Kuwait and Qatar participated procedures that include inform- sonnel who took part received ated using modern technology Education H E Dr Mohammed commander added. in alongside other GCC forces. ing the Civil Aviation Authority, training of the highest level. and equipment to carry out their bin Abdulwahed Al Hammadi He added that there were a The Commander of the Qatar the medical services department Meanwhile, Major-General mission. attended the session. Learning apps offer affordable options to many students

→ Continued from page 1 A K Srivastava, Principal of because they were helpful to private tuition. “They help a lot but learning apps of the British launched “Lamsa”, an educa- Birla Public School, thinks that some extent. “Definitely, they are definitely cannot compete with Council. tional app for children that aims “Khan Academy” is another the actual problem was the fact not a substitute for learning in classroom learning. But students Learning Time with Timmy, to address the needs of Arabic- free study app very popular that children had lost the habit classrooms as nothing could can use them when they do not LearnEnglish Kids: Phonics Sto- speaking kids through among Asian expatriates. With of hard work and were looking replace one-to-one learning have other affordable options," ries, LeranEnglish Kids: Playtime, entertainment, education, and over one million downloads, for easy alternatives. He thinks methods but students can take said Minaj. LearnEnglish Kids: Videos, interactivity. The first-of-its-kind Khan Academy introduces the apps cannot replace teachers. “I help from such apps instead of Apart from these commer- Johnny Grammar’s Word Chal- application is designed for pre- product saying: “Over 40,000 have not seen any student opting for extra tuition,” he cial study apps targeting Asian lenge, Premier Skills are some school kids up to six years old, interactive common core aligned achieving anything just using noted. expatriates, there exist some very popular English language and can be enjoyed by children practice questions are included learning apps,” he observed. Mohammed Minaj, a student standard education and learn- learning apps introduced by the as young as 2-3 years, offering a with instant feedback and step- Commenting on the issue, of grade 7, said that he was taking ing apps which are also popular British Council. Most of them are collection of interactive stories, by-step hints. Follow along with Riayz Ahmed Bakali, Director of help from education apps for some among children in Qatar. These free while others can be pur- a wide range of entertainment what you are learning in school TNG School, said that those apps years as his family could not afford apps particularly focus on lan- chased at affordable price. content, colouring, rhymes, and or practice at your own pace.” were being used by students the cost of extra coaching or guage skills like English language Two years ago, Ooredoo games. TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 HOME 05 Al Jazeera Forum brings various ideas together

The Peninsula second keynote speech saying The forum under the that post-colonial Arab states peakers at the 11th Al introduced themselves as nation- Jazeera Forum brought title “State Crisis and alist systems of governance together ideas from dif- the Future of the despite the fact that they were ferent parts of the Arab Middle East” brought built on the basis of colonial agen- region showcasing their together ideas from das, adding that “Syrian Srich knowledge of regional his- nationalist parties, from day one, tory. The forum under the title different parts of encountered several difficulties “State Crisis and the Future of the the Arab region in dealing with the internal and Middle East” concluded here on showcasing their rich regional situation”. These nation- Sunday. knowledge of regional alist projects, “posed a threat to Youssef Choueiri, a professor the agendas of some regional of history at the Doha Institute for history. power” which “involved in the Graduate Studies, said in the first internal affairs of Syria”. session that Arab states have been Consequently, the “Syrian destroyed time and again giving also failed. “For half a century, the opposition and revolutionaries the examples of Egypt and Sudan, Arab state was busy establishing are now confronted with a Per- which were destroyed by inter- ‘homelands’ such as Morocco, sian Iranian power that provides nal and external forces. The Arab Algeria, Syria and so on and this massive and complete support for state, according to Choueiri, has paved the way for a new frame- the Assad regime." become a surplus state for the work for states, which eventually He added that the Syrian international community in the led to a number of crises,” said Speakers at the 11th Al Jazeera Forum. regime, “has not learned from the aftermath of the Arab Spring. “The Mohamed Jabroun a professor of lessons of the past” and relied on Arab world has lost its identity, history and researcher at the gave the first keynote speech depend on superpowers to find Al Thani, Chairman of the Board religious and ethnic minorities to its moral compass”. Regional Centre for Education in focused on Qatar’s role in the legitimacy and salvage their own of Al Jazeera Media Network, deepen its roots and strengthen Raising alarm, he also said, Tangier. Darfur peace agreement and the powers, hence turning the dream said in his opening speech: “The its rule. In his opinion, the great- “We are delving into an era Mohamed Mahsoub, the lessons the Arab world can learn of nation state into a tool for issues we propose for discussion est challenge facing the Syrian whereby Rome might come again former Egyptian Minister for from it in order to bring peace in slavery. in this forum are of paramount opposition at the moment is and destroy the civilisation that Legal Affairs and member of the the region. Following on, Amani Senwar, importance, and their interna- “removing this sectarian regime was established by our ummah”. Parliamentary Council, was asked On the second of the forum, who is a researcher in human tional implications are plain for and confronting Iran’s expansion- As the discussion moved on to comment on the reasons panelists explored the theme, “A rights and international relations, all to see”. ist project in the region”. to Sadiq Al Mahdi, the former behind the so-called failure of the Hundred Years after the Balfour boldly stated that the West is “Since its inception, Al Jazeera He pointed out that it has prime minister of Sudan and head Arab Spring. He pointed out that Declaration: What does the exist- keeping the Arab world under an Forum has served as an annual become obvious that survival of of the National Umma Party, who “The Arab world cannot press ence of Israel mean for the illusion of a two-state solution platform for deep and construc- the regime under Bashar Al Assad pointed out that “the idea of ahead without understanding region?” while backing Israeli aggression tive dialogue where political is no longer possible in light of the nation state is modern and still international order, and by fail- Director of the Centre for against the Palestinian people. leaders, intellectuals, and activ- new facts on the ground. feeble in the Arab world as it ing to do so, it turned into a Modern Oriental Studies at the Mostefa Souag, Acting Direc- ists exchange relies on succession. In such hotspot of crisis as the entire Sorbonne University Burhan tor General of Al Jazeera Media ideas and visions cases, coup d'etat is relevant, giv- region speaks one language, Ghalioun explored the reasons Network, delivered a speech at on the various ing militants an upper hand”. shares similar culture, and its behind the failure of nation states the forum’s gala dinner where he current issues Al Mahdi outlined that "Tur- societies are coherent”. from transitioning from the lack referred to the "notorious crime" and discuss their key, Iran and Israel, are He also underlined that of self-determination and slav- committed by French colonial- causes and expanding and we need to have nation states work on the model ery into freedom, peace, political ism on May 8, 1945 in which implications”, he common stance on this expan- of learning from mistakes but that participation to becoming a bur- 45,000 people were killed in added. sion. We need to follow a strategy in this region, some people pre- den, catastrophe, and a source of response to mass demonstrations Riyad Hijab, in order to compel Israel to ferred the idea of foreign corruption and religious prob- staged by the Algerians as the former Prime understand our interests. We can- intervention rather than accept- lems by turning into a tool for Europeans celebrated the end of Minister of Syria not have a united Arab world ing mistakes of the government oppression and segregation of World War II. Dr Souag expressed and General unless we reconcile.” or living under oppression. people. surprise at some people who feel Coordinator of Al Mahdi commented that Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minis- Ghalioun underlined that that they suffered more under the the Opposition nationalists calling for Arab unity ter and Minister of State for Arab states were worse for their modern national state than they Higher Negotia- have failed and those trying to Cabinet Affairs H E Ahmed bin people post-colonisation than did under colonisation. tions Committee, implement the caliphate have Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud colonial rule because the states Sheikh Hamad bin Thamer delivered the 06 HOME TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017

'QIC Insured' is DFI Cinema launches edge-of-the-seat thrillers official insurance partner of Qatar The Peninsula Creators of Horror brother and touches on themes of responsibility with a clever genre Motor Show he Doha Film Institute Aptly titled ‘Creators twist. Cinema (DFI Cinema) is of Horror,’ the new On April 22, at 7:30pm, watch launching a new the- series will be Vampyr (Germany, France/ 1932) The Peninsula matic series that will screened from April by Carl Theodor Dreyer. On April present film enthusiasts 20 to 24, at the 23, 7:30pm, The Host (South IC Insured, the personal Twith an eclectic selection of edge- Korea/2006) by Bong Joon-ho will insurance division of Museum of Islamic Art of-the-seat thrillers. be screened. On April 24, at QQIC, is the official Auditorium. Aptly titled ‘Creators of Hor- 7:30pm, George Romero’s Night insurance partner for this ror,’ the new series will be of the Living Dead (USA/ 1968) will year’s Qatar Motor Show screened from April 20 to 24, 2017, The series concludes be screened. which starts today at the at the Museum of Islamic Art Audi- on May 3 with a very Further, on May 3, 7:30pm at Doha Exhibition and Conven- torium. The series concludes on special experience of a the Opera House, Katara, The tion Center (DECC). At the May 3 with a special experience classic film screening Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (Germany/ motor show, QIC Insured of a classic film screening accom- accompanied to a live 1920) by Robert Wiene will be launched the all new “Pay panied to a performance from the performance from the screened. The event at Katara your full car insurance in easy Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Qatar Philharmonic Opera House marks the Qatar- instalments”. The screenings are part of Orchestra. Germany Year of Culture 2017 and With the new pay-in- Doha Film Institute’s year-round A still from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (USA/1960). is presented in partnership with instalment scheme, initiatives to offer varied cinema Fatma Al Remaihi, Chief Exec- Qatar Museums, German Embassy customers can simply pay for experiences, making a valuable utive Officer of the DFI, said: the course of thriller history, it has zombies. Asfoora (2015/Qatar) by and the Goethe Institut, and Katara their car insurance in four contribution to the diversity of “Creators of Horror will appeal to had a profound impact on horror Mayar Hamdan tells the story of Cultural Village. easy instalments without screen culture in Qatar, and pro- those who love thrillers and films to come. Jana who is caught cheating on an Tickets to the films screenings having to pay any interest. vide cultural and creative present how master-filmmakers Jumanji (USA/1995) by Joe exam, and sent to detention, are available at www.dohafilm- Commenting on the discoveries for audiences in Doha. approach the genre. We are espe- Johnston will be screened on April where she encounters a cruel bird institute.com and are priced QR35 launch of this new payment The films included in the show- cially proud of our ‘Made in Qatar’ 21 at 3pm. On the same day at that taunts her mercilessly. with a QR10 discount available for scheme Ahmad Mohammed case are carefully curated to thriller programme, a real show- 7:30pm, watch The Orphanage I (2012/Qatar) also by Ali Al students and Culture Pass by Qatar Zebeib, Senior Retail Manager present works by master-direc- case of how cinema in Qatar is (Spain/2007) by J.A. Bayona. Anssari is about a psycho who Museums holders. in-charge, said: “At QIC tors who have redefined the evolving with fresh narrative Also on April 21, at 5:30pm, demands perfection in every DFI is offering a Ticket Pack- Insured, we always make it thriller, horror genre, and contrib- styles and powerful stories helmed watch the Made In Qatar Thriller aspect of his life. When he notices age of QR100 which grants buyer easy for our customers. We uted to its worldwide appeal. by home-grown talents.” Programme featuring four films; that his friend has an asymmetri- one ticket to each screening in the understand our customers’ Additionally, the series will also ‘Creators of Horror’ will kick- Qarar (2014/Qatar) by Ali Al Ans- cal face, he decides to take matters Creators of Horror film series. priorities and preferences and feature four short films made by off with the screening on April 20 sari, tells the suspenseful tale of a into his own hands. Man of the Tickets for the screening of The have launched this scheme to Qatari talent as part of the special at 7:30pm of master-director young married couple trying to House (2015/Qatar) by Khalifa Al Cabinet of Dr.Caligari are now offer better financial flexibil- ‘Made in Qatar’ Thriller Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho survive an epidemic that has Marri tells the story of a teenager available at qatarphilharmoni- ity when it comes to programme. (USA/1960). A film that changed turned the population into who lovingly cares for his baby corchestra.org purchasing full car insurance.” He further adds, “With the new scheme, customers effectively pay for their Third More surprises at Doha Festival City Party Liability cover for the first instalment but can enjoy the benefits of a comprehen- The Peninsula sive cover right from the start of the policy”. oha Festival City, the largest entertainment, retail To take advantage of this and hospitality destination in Qatar, managed and new offer, customers can Doperated by Al-Futtaim, opened its doors to the simply visit the QIC Insured public on April 5. The mall is promising more entertain- booth at the Qatar Motor ment and surprises in celebration of their recent opening Show. Alternatively, custom- launch to thousands of visitors including: Winter Won- ers can just log on to derland and ‘Airigami’ Balloon Sculptures. qic-insured.com and select While the real snow experience is still to come at the ‘Installments’ option in Qatar’s first Snow Park, Snow Dunes, Doha Festival City the payment page. will be home to a magical Winter Wonderland from April To make it even simpler, 20 to May 20. Kids will have the chance to play in two the same pay-in-instalment snow zones — both designed for fun and frolics in mind. scheme is also available in all Step into a wintery adventure by entering the huge man- QIC branches where custom- sized Snow Globe at the entrance and snap your own ers can either pay for the snowy selfie inside! instalment in cash or by using The event timings are 4pm to 10pm (Sunday to Thurs- credit card. day) and 1pm to 10pm (Friday and Saturday). Admission Adding an element of fun for children between 5 and 12 years old is free The loca- to keep customers enter- tions are Snow Zones: Centre Court and Entertainment tained at the Qatar Motor Node, near Café Bateel and Snow Globe: Axis Node, next Show, QIC Insured is now to Toys R Us. offering one month free Visitors can also witness an expert at work with membership to its loyalty club world-renowned artist Larry Moss in Doha Festival City — QIC Advantage Club; cus- from April 20 as he crafts five ‘Airigami’ sculptures tomers can visit QIC Insured’s throughout the Mall. Larry and his team of 11 interna- booth at the Show and get tional artists will use up to 40,000 balloons over nine Winter Wonderland and ‘Airigami’ Balloon more than 200 Super Saver days. Enjoy the installations on display until May 20. Buy-One-Get-One deals on Sculptures await visitors at the Doha Festival City. The timing for live sculpting from 3pm to 9pm daily. dining and entertainment. QFSW marks ‘The Family Day’

The Peninsula the keenness of all social cen- tres working under the atar Foundation for umbrella of (QFSW) each in Social Work (QFSW) in their area of responsibilities Qcollaboration with other for the effective cooperation centres working under its to achieve sustainable devel- umbrella marked ‘The Family opment of the society. Day’ under the slogan “We will Al Dosari said: “I strongly remain united even if we believe these integrated roles disagree". of the social centres will help The theme of the celebra- families to remain united and tion this year is to highlight the support families to tackle chal- importance of maintaining the lenge facing by them. Wifaq harmony in relations and centre has organised a number seeking to keep it strong what- of activities on the occasion of ever difference or disputes the Family Day including “Respon- members face. sibilities of Parents” which held Amal Al Mannai, CEO at Hilton Doha." Qatar Foundation for Social A number of specialists Work and Acting Executive and activists in social and Director of Shafallah, said: family affairs as well as offi- Rashid bin Ahmed Al Dosari, Director, Family Consulting “Family is the core element of cials from the Ministry of the society to prepare individ- Center (Wifaq) addressing the event. Planning Development and uals who can lead and develop Statistics participated in the our society in order to programme. The theme of the empower it. In Qatar, family these values and work for this international conventions, and event was “Responsibilities of has a special place and prior- cause.” economic, social and cultural Parents” to highlight the ity should be given to it for its The aim of marking Fam- rights. Shafallah Center pro- importance of parents' essential role in maintaining ily Day on April 15 is to vides services to all family responsibility in national principals, ethics and human- highlight the importance of members with special needs development which is also itarian values. These are the family and building soci- to enjoy and practice their full essential for family stability. important factors to keep the ety. This has become a rights,” she added. Wifaq centre has launched an society and family united to common practice in Qatar and Rashid bin Ahmed Al awareness campaign through achieve comprehensive devel- has been included in the world Dosari, Director Family Con- social media which will con- opment. QFSW supported declaration for human rights, sulting Center (Wifaq) praised tinue till April 20. TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 HOME 07 Some 200 children get HMC care for ASD each year

The Peninsula who have been diagnosed with an include behavioural patterns such Primary Health Care Corporation, children may experience mild HMC, in collaboration ASD are closely observed and fol- as violence, solitude, introversion is working to promote early diag- signs and symptoms, which they ome 200 children receive lowed up with a specialised and a lack of integration with other nosis and detection of ASD can normally tolerate and live with the Primary multi-disciplinary care medical rehabilitation pro- children; adding that teachers through focusing on training independently with, whereas oth- Health Care for Autism Spectrum Dis- gramme. She said about 200 often identify behaviours that par- health centre physicians to recog- ers need life-long support. The first Corporation, is order (ASD) at Hamad children with ASD receive treat- ents or other caregivers may not nise the condition, specifically symptoms usually show up in the working to promote medical Corporation ment at HMC each year, adding pick up on. during a child’s vaccination first three years of a child’s life.” S(HMC) each year, and number of that globally one in 68 children has Dr Kamal says that ASD var- appointments. Children diagnosed She also said that it is impor- early diagnosis and children diagnosed with the dis- an ASD, with the prevalence ies from one child to another and with ASD are referred to the Child tant to provide relevant education detection of Autism order is increasing mainly due to among males being four times is diagnosed according to sever- Development Center at Rumailah and guidance that empowers chil- Spectrum Disorder awareness, says a senior official. higher than females. ity. “Severe cases of ASD are Hospital. dren and their families and (ASD) through focusing The Child Development Dr Kamal stated that the normally diagnosed when a child Dr Suna Fayed, Consultant in integrates them into the Center at HMC Rumailah Hospi- number of children diagnosed is very young, whereas children Child Rehabilitation and Director community. on training health tal and the Pediatrics Department with ASD is currently on the rise, with mild symptoms may go of the Autism Program at the Child Ahmed Hassan Saad, ASD centre physicians at Hamad General Hospital are which she attributes partly to undetected for some time. If par- Development Center, describes Program Coordinator at the Child to recognise providing coordinated, multi-dis- increased awareness of the disor- ents notice any usual signs or autism as a ‘life-long behavioural Development Center, said the pro- the condition, ciplinary care for children, der. She added that children with symptoms, such as speech diffi- developmental disorder’. “Autism gramme has attended to more specifically during a adolescents, and families affected ASD are referred to HMC from culties, poor communication with Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the than 1,000 children since it by ASD. schools (upon their parents’ con- others, violent behaviour, etc, they name for a group of developmen- launched in 2012. He stated that child’s vaccination Dr Madeeha Kamal, Senior sent), from health centres and should immediately consult a spe- tal disorders that includes a wide the programme has continued to appointments. Pediatrics Consultant at HMC, chil- from private hospitals. cialist,” said Dr Kamal. range, “a spectrum,” of symptoms, develop, especially in terms of its dren aged five to 18 years of age The early warning signs can HMC, in collaboration with the skills, and levels of disability. Some therapeutic aspects. MOTC to study effects Lulu Cookery Contest winners awarded of school transports The Peninsula he distribution of prizes The Peninsula two ministries to encourage the and certificates to the win- widest possible contribution Tners of Lulu Cookery he Ministry of Transport from the public. The question- Contest was held on Thursday and Communications naire can be accessed here: http:// at Lulu Group Regional Office on T(MOTC) has launched a www.motc.gov.qa/en/sts. the D-Ring Road. Regional study to develop proposals to This questionnaire will be Director of Lulu Group Shaijan reduce the effects of school vital in updating the Qatar Stra- and Regional Manager Shana- transport on Doha’s already tegic Transport Model and the vas PM distributed the prizes to heavily congested roads. feedback received will help to the winners in the presence of In collaboration with the better understand the dynamics other Lulu officials. Ministry of Education and Higher of school transportation and its In the Hot food category, Education, the Land Transport relation to the demographic, Shaguftha Zahir Panwala, San- Department at the MOTC has social and economic character- jeeda Naheed and Arifa Bibi won developed a questionnaire on istics of the family. the 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes; and school transport that will be sent Answers will be used by the in the Cold food category, Arshia to the parents of all pupils at MOTC and bodies concerned to Zafer, Merfath Abdulla and every level of education, and at develop planning proposals for Sehba Naqeeb won the 1st, 2nd every type of educational insti- short- and long-term solutions and 3rd Prizes. Besides, conso- Lulu Group officials with the award winners. tution, said the Ministry in a and alternatives to encourage the lation prizes and certificate of statement. A questionnaire use of bus school transport, thus appreciation have been given to hyperlink will also be available helping reduce school trip effects all short-listed participants. Final expert panel of judges namely Manager of Gerry’s Grills. Out of applications were shortlisted for on the websites of the on the road network. judgement was done by the Chef Noushad and Michel, 200 applications received, 35 the contest. New regulations for vehicle insurance to help customers Continued from page 1 company is obliged to cover the draft a report to decide the dam- If a company wishes to re- insurance provided that the ages, review their causes and the investigate an accident, it must offender drives the vehicle reg- extent of insurance coverage for communicate with the director istered in the licence and is them before giving final recom- of the patrol and traffic investi- accompanied by someone who mendations to settle this gation division of the Traffic has a Qatari driving licence that dispute. Department while mentioning has been obtained for no less The insurance company shall the justification of its request. than three years. The accompa- bear the expenses and fees and In the case of accidents of nying party shall not necessarily fees for the procedure. If it fails non-contact, where there is no be a holder of a driving teacher's to comply within five business damage to the offending vehicle, licence. Insurance companies are days of the dispute, the insured the insurance company is obliged obliged to cover insurance even party or the victim shall carry out to cover insurance for the victim if the traffic report states that the the procedure at the company's once the accident is treated as a load it carries is not insured. expense. The new instructions traffic case by the patrol and traf- Insurance companies are also included obliging all employees fic investigation division as the obliged to cover the insurance of of insurance companies and competent authority. the victim for accidents occur- insurance brokers to show their If the offending side was ring at workshops. business cards and write their driving a vehicle whose licence Additionally, insurance com- employment data or employ- has expired less than six months panies are obliged to cover ment number in the insurance before, the insurance company insurance in accidents that hap- document to make it easier for is obliged to immediately cover pen due to driving in the wrong the customer to identify the the insurance for the victim with- direction or at parking lots of employee and determine the out waiting for the accident to be commercial complexes, gas sta- responsibility of the source of the converted into a traffic issue. tions and inside residential document. However, if the licence expiry complexes. It is prohibited to collect any period exceeded six months, the In the event of a dispute sums from clients for any rea- accident is converted to a traffic between the insurance company son. In any case, the insurance issue while covering the insur- and the insured party or the vic- company must disclose to its cus- ance for the victim without tim in the assessment of the tomers information about the waiting for the court's ruling damage to the vehicle, the insur- company in a clear fashion, and against the offender. ance company is obliged to the insurance client has all the If the offender has a learn- second a QCB-licensed expert to rights that guarantee him access ing driving licence, the insurance assess the damage in order to to high quality service. Beta version of the application launched

Continued from page 1 universities, institutions, and as applying for scholarships, The application includes information on private schools private school and educational information on students' attend- and other information that cov- institutions licenses where all ance, absence, homework, ers all aspects of education will services will be speedy and of grades, conduct, in addition to be available on the high quality. The application is notifications and announce- application. useful to all parties including ments. The application also The beta version of the students, teachers, parents and features communication with application has been launched employees. teachers, performance assess- and constant updates will be Users are able to download ments of teaches, their financial made. The application also pro- the application through Google advances, salaries and leave. vides a number of ministry Play, Apple Store, and Windows Websites of schools, services to users such Store. 08 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 Turkey slams OSCE criticism on referendum Istanbul Bias and prejudice Washington did not dispute observers from the Organiza- But the opposition immedi- The referendum has no AFP the result of the poll, but noted tion for Security and ately cried foul over alleged "democratic legitimacy", HDP "The initial findings the concerns expressed by OSCE Cooperation in Europe violations, claiming that a clean spokesman and MP Osman urkey yesterday in question are a observers and urged the gov- expressed concern about the vote would have made a differ- Baydemir told reporters in slammed interna- reflection of a biased ernment to respect the rights of conduct of the campaign. ence of several percentage Ankara. tional observers' and prejudiced all its citizens "regardless of Washington noted the con- points and handed them The opposition had already "biased" and "unac- approach," the their vote." cerns, which Toner said victory. complained of an unfair ceptable" criticism on Turkish foreign "Democracies gain strength included "observed irregulari- The main opposition campaign that saw the 'Yes' Tthe landmark referendum through respect for diverse ties on voting day and an uneven Republican People's Party (CHP) backers swamp the airwaves ministry said in a expanding President Recep points of view, especially on dif- playing field during the difficult and the pro-Kurdish Peoples' and use up billboards across the statement. Tayyip Erdogan's powers. ficult issues," said Mark Toner, campaign period, which took Democratic Party (HDP) said country in a saturation "The initial findings in ques- acting spokesman for the US place under a state of they would challenge the results advertising campaign. tion are a reflection of a biased Erdogan sweeping new powers, State Department. "The United emergency." from most of the ballot boxes The referendum campaign and prejudiced approach," the as international monitors voiced States continues to support Tur- He said the United States due to alleged violations. was conducted on an "unlevel Turkish foreign ministry said in concern over the campaign and key's democratic development, looks forward to receiving the "There is only one decision playing field" and the vote count a statement, referring to the vote count. to which commitment to the group's full report, which might to ease the situation in the itself was marred by the late assessment by the OSCE Office With political tensions once rule of law and a diverse and take several weeks. context of the law — the procedural changes that for Democratic Institutions and again escalating in Turkey after free media remain essential," he The referendum was seen as Supreme Election Board (YSK) removed key safeguards, Human Rights (ODIHR) and the a result that opponents fear will said. crucial not just for shaping the should annul the election," the international observers said. Parliamentary Assembly of the hand Erdogan one-man rule, Erdogan's opponents fear political system of Turkey but Dogan news agency quoted CHP "The legal framework... Council of Europe (PACE) German Chancellor Angela Mer- the referendum result has set also the future strategic direc- deputy leader Bulent Tezcan as remained inadequate for the monitors. kel called for dialogue to seek him on course for one-man rule tion of a nation that has been a saying. holding of a genuinely The foreign ministry said calm. The United States urged and tensions are rising after his Nato member since 1952 and an The opposition was democratic referendum," the was "unacceptable" to state that Turkey's leaders to respect referendum victory, which was EU hopeful for half a century. particularly incensed by a OSCE Office for Democratic the poll fell short of interna- opposition opinion and free narrow despite a crackdown on The 'Yes' camp won 51.41 decision by the YSK to allow Institutions and Human Rights tional standards. expression after a referendum opposition media. percent in Sunday's referendum voting papers without official (ODIHR) and the Parliamentary Turkey's opposition yester- win gave President Recep The main opposition parties and 'No' 48.59, according to stamps to be counted, which Assembly of the Council of day called for the annulment of Tayyip Erdogan sweeping new have said they would challenge near-complete results released they said opened the way for Europe (PACE) monitors said in a referendum giving President powers. the result, and international by the election authorities. fraud. a joint statement.

AU calls for probe Door-to-door fight into genocides

ADDIS ABABA: The African in Mosul as battle Union's Peace and Security Council yesterday called for an investigation, arrest, pros- ecution and extradition of enters 7th month individuals who perpetrated genocides in Africa. The Council "welcomes the efforts Mosul State militants and Iraqi forces by those Member States, AFP is taking a heavy toll on several which are investigating and hundred thousand civilians prosecuting individuals who raqi forces gained fresh trapped inside the city, with were involved in the 1994 ground in door-to-door fight- severely malnourished babies genocide against the Tutsi in Iing in the Old City of Mosul, a reaching hospitals in govern- Rwanda and calls upon all the military spokesman said yester- ment-held areas. Iraqi Federal other Member States, which day, as the US-backed offensive Police forces “are engaged in dif- have not yet done so, to also to capture Islamic State’s de facto ficult, house-to-house clashes investigate, arrest, prosecute capital in Iraq entered its sev- with Daesh fighters inside the or extradite the genocide enth month. Old City”, a media officer from fugitives currently residing in A Reuters correspondent saw these units told Reuters. their territories, including the thick smoke billowing over the Drones are extensively being leaders of the Democratic Old City, near the Grand al-Nuri used to locate and direct air A man collects steel from a destroyed building in Mosul, yesterday. Forces for the Liberation of Mosque, from where Islamic strikes on the militants who are Rwanda (FDLR)," according State leader Abu Bakr al-Bagh- dug in the middle of civilians, he to the communiqué of a dadi declared a “caliphate” said. mosque without indicating the operation started on Oct. 17, with terrorism units have taken back March 11 meeting on prevent- spanning parts of Iraq and Syria. Troops have had the famous remaining distance. Their strong air and ground support most of it, including the half that ing ideology of genocide in Heavy exchanges of gunfire centuries-old Al Nuri Mosque progress has been slow as about from a U.S.-led coalition. lies east of the Tigris river. Africa. Between 500,000 and and mortar rounds could be leaning minaret in their sights 400,000 civilians, or a quarter Mosul, the largest city in The militants are now sur- 1,000,000 people were killed heard from the neighbourhoods since last month, as capturing it of Mosul’s pre-war population, northern Iraq, was captured by rounded in the northwestern in the 1994 genocide in facing the old city across the would mark a symbolic victory are trapped in neighbourhoods the ultra-hardline Sunni Muslim quarter including the historic Old Rwanda where minority Tut- Tigris river that bisects Mosul over the insurgents. still under control of the mili- fighters in mid 2014. City, using booby traps, sniper sis were targeted in a hate into a western and eastern sides. A police spokesman said the tants. More 300,000 have fled Government forces, includ- and mortar fire against the propaganda. The Council also The war between Islamic troops were closing in on the fighting since the offensive ing army, police and elite counter assailants. acknowledged that "deliber- ate tendencies of discrimination, marginalisa- tion, tribalism and Honour for AZF and Supreme manipulation of ethnicity often create conducive con- Committee for Delivery & Legacy ditions for hate crimes and ideologies of genocide to thrive". → Continued from page 1 seen. Following months of Youssif Al Musleh, Deputy research and continuous devel- Executive Director, Technical opment, AZF now operates the IS and tribes Department Office at the SC, first-of-a-kind natural sports said: “We would like to congrat- turf farm in the Middle East. The clash in Sinai ulate our partners’ at Aspire harvest produced by the farm Zone Foundation in laying the now sits on the newly laid sur- EL ARISH: Three people were pitch for Khalifa International face of Khalifa International injured in clashes between Stadium in the record time of Stadium, a venue that will host militants and local tribes in 13 and a half hours. The pitch games up to the quarter-finals the Sinai peninsula in a fight was moved from the SC’s Turf in 2022. that began when militants Nursery project and laid down AZF managed to achieve shot at a truck smuggling cig- inside Khalifa Stadium by a this milestone by drawing on arettes into the area, Egyptian team of 40 specialists on site as the wide range of expertise and security officials said yester- the venue nears completion. experience within the organi- day. The officials told The Khalifa International Stadium sation. This includes Associated Press that Islamic is a historic venue in the eyes collaboration with stakehold- State group militants Protesters clash with Israeli security forces following a demonstration in the West Bank town of the local community and ers such as the SC and other launched RPG attacks on of Bethlehem to show their support for Palestinians imprisoned in Israeli jails after hundreds region, and the fan and player renowned organisations, as Sunday in their stronghold of detainees launched a hunger strike yesterday. experience in 2022 will ensure well as large numbers of inter- around the city of Rafah in that it becomes a memorable national experts from sports response to the kidnapping venue for the world when Qatar industry and performance of three IS fighters by local hosts the tournament at the backgrounds. tribes. The unrest started OIC backs strike of Palestinian prisoners 2022 FIFA World Cup.” AZF’s Centre of Excellence when militants shot at a truck In early 2016, AZF intro- for Natural Sports Turf smuggling cigarettes into the Ankara measures and deprivation of Palestinian detainees. duced an integrated Research & Development has area, where they impose a Anatolia basic rights," the OIC said in a He went on to highlight the programme that aims to selected a hybrid turf species strict version of Islamic law statement. importance of "internationalis- improve the management and that was originally developed that prohibits the sale of he Organization of Islamic The open-ended strike was ing the issue of Palestinian maintenance of turf at stadiums at the Oklahoma State Univer- tobacco, tribal sources said. Cooperation (OIC) called launched to mark Palestinian detainees in international arena and sports facilities subjected sity and which is compatible The government sources Tyesterday for internation- Prisoners Day amid calls by and exposing the racist policies to heavy use and varying with Qatar’s environment. The spoke on condition of ano- alising the issue of Palestinian detainees for the resumption of of Israeli occupation against weather conditions. It turf was planted at the Aspire nymity as they were not prisoners in Israeli jails. prison visits, better medical care them". announced then the establish- Turf Farm and took nine authorized to brief the media. Hundreds of Palestinian and better treatment of female The OIC chief called on the ment of a Centre of Excellence months to reach the optimum The tribal sources requested prisoners began a mass hunger prisoners. international community to "act for Natural Sports Turf 14mm in length before it was anonymity for fear of reprisal. strike earlier yesterday against OIC Secretary-General to force Israel to abide by inter- Research & Development to harvested and transferred to The incident marks an esca- Israel's detention policies. Yusuf bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen national humanitarian law, help achieve the national dream the 7,848m2 Khalifa Interna- lation in tension between the This strike "comes amid underlined the organisation's Geneva Conventions and inter- of delivering the greatest FIFA tional Stadium pitch where the two sides over the imposition aggressive and inhumane Israeli support for the demands of national charters". World Cup the world has ever new record was set. of Islamic Law. TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 ASIA 09 Student protests spark tension in Kashmir Srinagar Clash with police the unprecedented protests by AFP students across the valley, The students were authorities said. All examinations tudents clashed with apparently angered scheduled for today have also government forces in by a police raid on a been postponed, an official said. Kashmir yesterday as college in southern Police used dozens of tear they protested a police Pulwama district on smoke shells to disperse the stu- raid on a college, in the Saturday in which at dents who kept regrouping to Slatest outbreak of violence to hit least 60 students engage the police on the streets. the restive disputed territory. were injured. Girls from a women's college Police fired tear gas and doz- in Srinagar also joined the pro- ens of students were injured in tests as police battled hard to the protests, which broke out in Colleges, universities bring the situation under the main city of Srinagar before and other higher control. spreading to other parts of the education institutes Markets in neighbouring Kashmiri students shouting slogans during a protest inside a college in central Srinagar's Lal Kashmir valley. in Kashmir will Residency Road and Lal Chowk Chowk, yesterday. The students were appar- remain closed today areas closed as tension spread. ently angered by a police raid on following the Protests and clashes also Kupwara, Ganderbal, Tral and maintaining "extreme restraint" human rights abuses perpetrated a college in southern Pulwama unprecedented erupted between students in Pul- Bandipora towns. while dealing with the student by Indian security forces as they district on Saturday in which at protests. wama town despite the Protests took place inside the protests. The director general of struggle to contain a separatist least 60 students were injured. authorities having ordered the Kashmir University and the Cen- police in the state on Sunday told insurgency that is now in its 28th "Students are protesting in a closure of the college there for tral University here but these officers to avoid visiting their year. few colleges. We are dealing with Officer of Kothibagh police sta- two days following Saturday's were peaceful. own homes in South Kashmir Army spokesman Lieuten- a situation," a senior police office tion and two of his guards. incident. Reports said over three dozen after militants stormed at least ant Colonel Rajesh Kalia said the said on condition of anonymity. Colleges, universities and Students also indulged in students and two dozen security four officers' houses. veracity of the video was being The students resorted to massive other higher education institutes heavy stone pelting at the secu- men were injured in yesterday's A video of the episode circu- ascertained, adding, "Action will stone pelting at the police, result- in Kashmir will remain closed rity forces in Baramulla, Shopian, clashes in the Valley. lated widely on social media, in be taken against those found ing in injuries to the Station House today following Kulgam, Anantnag, Dooru, Police said they were a reminder for some of alleged guilty of misconduct."

Fixed prices for 700 Delhi police file bribery case against AIADMK leader Chennai aide Sukesh Chandrasekar from where he was staying," the police Chandrasekar" and called it a Chennai. The by-poll, due on medicines IANS a south Delhi hotel on Sunday with officer said. conspiracy to destroy the April 12, was postponed follow- Rs1.3 crore that was meant for The officer said the 27-year- AIADMK — divided between two ing allegations of cash Surat IADMK leader T T V bribing the poll panel members. old suspect, who is said to own factions after its leader J Jayala- distribution to voters on a mas- IANS Dinakaran, a nephew of The suspect reportedly said police a fleet of luxury cars, confessed lithaa died on December 5 while sive scale by the ruling AIADMK. Ajailed party chief VK that he was Dinakaran's "middle- he was playing the middleman. she was the Chief Minister. Sasikala made Dinakaran the rime Minister Narendra Sasikala, was yesterday accused man" and was asked to pay the The police raided the hotel fol- "Somebody is scheming to party in charge before she went Modi yesterday said of trying to bribe the Election money to the officials in exchange lowing a tip, the officer said. A destroy the AIADMK. I will meet to prison. The other faction is led Pthat the Central govern- Commission with crores of for the symbol. police team is expected to travel the allegation legally. If I am by O Panneerselvam, who was ment had fixed prices for as rupees to reclaim the party's dis- "Dinakaran has been booked to Chennai to summon Dinaka- summoned by Delhi Police, I will also close to Jayalalithaa and many as 700 medicines for puted and now frozen "two for criminal conspiracy and cor- ran, who denied the allegation. meet it legally," he said. Dinaka- used to stand in for her as Chief the benefit of the people as leaves" symbol. ruption after Chandrasekar Dinakaran told reporters in ran is the candidate of the ruling Minister. The two factions have part of a comprehensive A Delhi Police officer said that disclosed his name during the Chennai that he didn't know AIADMK faction in the R K Nagar been fighting over ownership of healthcare policy. they arrested Dinakaran's close late night police raid at the hotel "anybody by the name Sukesh assembly constituency in the AIADMK. Inaugurating a Rs500 crore multi-speciality hospi- tal set up by diamond merchants of Surat, he also CBI books top NEWS BYTES assured that the government Air India plans hefty would make sure that the Trinamool doctors prescribe only generic medicines. "This will fines for unruly fliers leaders in Prisoners serve pizzas in Shimla cafe break the monopoly of big medicine outlets," he added. New Delhi publicity to Air India," an air- Narada case SHIMLA: It's a real life scene right out of reel life. Hindi films "In the benefit of poor IANS lines source said. "Karma" and "Do Aankhen Barah Haath" showed convicts people, the government has "Even a hotel on the Kolkata being taken out of prison to be reformed. Now, in Shimla's first fixed the prices for as many ational passenger car- roadside has a board 'Right IANS Book Cafe inmates of a sub-jail are trained by a renowned as 700 medicines so as to rier Air India has of Admission Reserved'. Air hotel to serve cookies and pizza they have baked. The cafe, ensure they can afford it," he Nproposed a set of new India, therefore, must have a he CBI yesterday filed with a seating capacity of 40 and constructed at a cost of said. guidelines to deal with unruly procedure for handling such an FIR against 13 per- Rs20 lakh, was opened by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh last Modi claimed his gov- passengers, which included unruly passengers...." Tsons, including senior week. It is located right above the Ridge — once the prome- ernment rightly understood hefty fines up to Rs15 lakh. The new guidelines leaders of West Bengal's rul- nade for the British colonial rulers when this city was their the value of a healthy soci- According to AI sources, a detailed a fresh penalty struc- ing Trinamool Congress, in summer capital — and on the way to the famed Jakhu tem- ety and had been working new set of guidelines and ture through which an unruly the Narada sting footage case. ple. The four who run the cafe are Jai Chand, Yog Raj, Ram tirelessly towards building penalties have been drafted passenger can be fined Rs5 "The list of FIR includes Lal and Raj Kumar, all of whom are serving life imprison- one and after a long gap of by the airline's legal team lakh for delaying a flight by all 12 persons who were pur- ment at the Kaithu jail near Shimla, Director General (Prisons) 15 long years that it was his which is awaiting approval an hour, Rs10 lakh for delay portedly seen receiving Somesh Goyal said. The first-of-its-kind cafe in the country government that had come from Air India's Chairman beyond an hour and Rs15 lakh money in the Narada sting is funded by the state's Tourism Department. It is open daily up with a good healthcare Ashwani Lohani's office. for delay beyond two hours. operation footage. Trinamool from 10am until 9pm. policy. The draft guidelines Currently, rules only allow Congress MP Aparupa Pod- He added the government envisage arming Air India's airlines to refuse boarding or dar's name is also included in had given much required airport managers with more off-loading of a passenger the list of FIR," agency Mercury soars to 46°C in Maharashtra attention to preventive powers to deal directly with whose behaviour is deemed spokesperson Devpreet Singh healthcare measures in the unruly passengers, while as unruly or disruptive to the said. MUMBAI: Heat wave conditions gripped large parts of Maharash- country by the Swachh Bharat hefty fines of up to Rs15 lakh safety of flight operations. Among those whose tra with the mercury soaring to 46 degrees Celsius in Chandrapur mission, which is a part of have also been proposed to Commenting on AI's proposal, names figure in the FIR filed and its Brahmapuri sub-district in Vidarbha region and hover- promoting preventive health- be levied on passengers who Amber Dubey, partner and by the Central Bureau of ing between 41-45 degrees in many other parts, the IMD said care habits. delay flight operations. India head of aerospace and Investigation are Trinamool here yesterday. Mumbai was relatively comfortable at average Referring to the Rs500 "Recent incidents of defence at global consultancy Vice President and Rajya 35 degrees, but people were greatly inconvenienced with the crore Kiran Hospital that he unruly behaviour and assault KPMG: "While the flight ban Sabha member Mukul Roy, high humidity levels averaging at 82 percent. Mahabaleshwar, inaugurated, Modi said that on AI employees by passen- of reasonable duration is the party's Lok Sabha mem- the famous hill-station known for its year-long salubrious cli- more than the price paid for gers have caused severe appropriate, imposing fines bers Sougata Roy, Sultan mate, was nearly as hot as Mumbai at 34 degrees, virtually setting up such projects, it damage to the morale of the may be a bit difficult to impose Ahmed, Kakali Ghosh Dasti- driving away the tourists. On the other end, the coastal regions was the hard work that went employees besides negative and collect." dar, state ministers Subrata of Palghar, Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg, the tem- behind it was important. Mukherjee, Firhad Hakim, peratures averaged between 32-34 degrees. city mayor and state minis- ter Sovan Chatterjee and former minister Madan Case filed against Zakir Naik's aide Mitra. IUML's Kunhalikutty wins by-poll The Calcutta High Court NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) yesterday ordered a CBI preliminary filed a prosecution complaint against controversial preacher Malappuram Kunhalikutty came out of his inquiry into the Narada sting and televangelist Zakir Naik's close aide Aamir Gazdar for IANS home, jubilant supporters footage case exactly a month money laundering. Last year, the ED had registered a money shouted slogans hailing him and back, on March 17, and asked laundering case against Naik's Islamic Research Foundation UML legislator P K Kunha- lifted him on their shoulders. the federal investigation under the provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act, likutty (pictured) was Kunhalikutty said his party agency to submit the report 2002 (PMLA) on the basis of an FIR registered by the National Iyesterday elected to the Lok led even in village councils con- within 72 hours. Investigation Agency (NIA). "It was alleged that Dr Zakir Abdul Sabha from Malappuram in Ker- trolled by the Left. The Trinamool appealed Karim Naik and his associates were indulging in unlawful ala by a margin of 171,023 votes. "This is because the elector- to the Supreme Court on activities and through his provocative utterances, promot- The winner called it a victory for ate has placed faith in me as I March 21, challenging the ing enmity and hatred between different religious groups in "secular politics". The Indian spoke about the need for a secu- High Court' order. India. "His inflammatory speeches and lectures have inspired Union Muslim League strongman lar outlook. Also, the unity (in the However, the apex court and incited a number of Muslim youths in India to commit won by 171,023 votes. He got Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Congress-led) UDF helped us." refused to interfere with the unlawful activities and terrorist acts," a statement from the 515,330 lakh votes, the highest got 344,307 votes. The Bharatiya The IUML leader added: high court order, but Directorate said. The Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), Mum- anyone has secured in the con- Janata Party (BJP) candidate N. "Literate Kerala has voted for extended the deadline for the bai was declared as unlawful under the Unlawful Activities stituency in northern Kerala. Sreeprakash finished a distant secular politics. Kerala's vote has preliminary probe to one Act, 1967 by a government order on November 17, 2016. M B Faisal of the Communist third with 65,675 votes. As never been on communal lines." month. 10 VIEWS TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

EDITORIAL Turks say ‘Yes’ resident Recep Tayyip Erdogan has proved his critics wrong. His victory in the referendum shows that Turks have plenty of trust and faith in him to give him sweeping new powers. The ‘Yes’ camp P won with 51.41 percent in Sunday’s vote after several days of heated campaigning in which the ruling party and the opposition explained the pros Trump’s lack of strategy and cons of the expected changes to the people. It’s true that Erdogan has won with a narrow margin, but it’s proof that the voting was free and fair. The No camp was leading in some places but on Syria is dangerous finally it was a Yes vote. Yes to replace Turkey’s parliamentary system with an all-powerful presidency. Erdogan says the changes are battle and Iraq’s stability. A US decision to confront Russia politically, Ankara will side necessary to end the instability that has plagued Joe Macaron deter both Russian and Iranian influence with Washington whereas Tehran will get the country for decades when the military Al Jazeera in Syria will have significant repercussions closer to Moscow, while a US re-engage- repeatedly tried to seize power from weak civilian in Iraq - the Pentagon’s highest priority in ment with Russia will to an extent sideline governments. the Middle East. both Turkey and Iran. Erdogan has ruled since 2003 and Turkey has While Trump enjoys keeping his cards Misleading the Syrian people emerged as one of the fastest-growing industrial close to his chest, leaving others to won- On the domestic level, Assad’s hopes powers in both Europe and the Middle East under yria suddenly became high on the White der if he is a genius or clueless, Washington of a US-Russian deal to his benefit are fad- him. Its influence grew phenomenally, becoming a House agenda after the Khan has no intention of becoming directly ing, and the US strike was rather a needed major power in a region afflicted with many crises Sheikhoun chemical attack on April 4. involved in the Syrian war. The current wake-up call that there are limits to vio- and conflicts. Especially on Syria, Ankara has In a matter of 48 hours, President Don- mind game with Russia can last for a few lence and the clock is ticking to played a seminal role in acting as a stabilizing ald Trump’s administration switched weeks and dominate the news cycle, but compromise. Spositions from suggesting it’s up to the Syrian it will become a dangerous game down the Yet, once again, Trump gave us another force, and took in millions of Syrian refugees to control their flow into Europe. Under Erdogan, people to decide their future to asserting that road if the US continues to lack a clear flip-flop on April 12 when asked in an inter- the reign of President Bashar Al Assad’s family strategy in Syria. Tomahawk missiles are viewabout whether Assad must go to reach Turkish relations with is “coming to an end”. a good overreach attack, but their use is peace: “Are we insisting on it? No. But I do the Gulf countries have That ambivalent approach has led allies and limited, especially if you pre-notify your think it’s going to happen at a certain bloomed and Doha- foes to wonder where the US stands on Syria. targets. point.” Ankara relations are at Turkey has Trump is putting to use his shock-and-awe Most of all, the strike on Shayrat air- In return, while the Syrian opposition their best. entered a new era campaign style in international affairs, with the base signalled the return of US foreign has been betting on a US deterrence of Iran, The president now White House having tested Russian President policy to Syria after the transitional period it was heartened by Trump’s moves - yet with Erdogan’s has all the powers to Vladimir Putin’s commitment to the Syrian from Barack Obama. In that interim exaggerating the extent to which he is will- victory in the lead the country as he regime in recent weeks. The purpose of this test period, the trio — Russia, Turkey and Iran ing to intervene. It will realise soon that referendum. wants and frame is to elevate the moral cost of supporting Assad. - obviously failed to fill the vacuum or Trump’s attention span on any issue, espe- policies which he Asked by reporters if Moscow knew in achieve a breakthrough. The return of the cially in foreign policy, is short-term and thinks will serve the advance about the chemical attack, the US Pres- US will undoubtedly alter the dynamics he will most likely shift to his domestic country’s interests. He ident gave a classic Trump answer: “I think it’s of the Astana and agenda sooner or later. The concern is that is likely to follow a certainly possible; I think it’s probably unlikely,” Geneva talks and will Trump is drawing his own blurred redline path of reconciliation and harmony with the before deferring to the “Pentagon group that change the calculus of by acting beyond a chemical attack. opposition at home and countries abroad which does that kind of work” (mind you, that’s the the trio who hold signif- The only two viable options to oust have critcised him. Europe will want Turkey to Central Intelligence Agency’s job, but that’s icant leverage in Syria. If Assad from power are either by launching stay closer to them. Germany has warned Ankara another story). the US continues to a military campaign or engaging Moscow against further distancing itself from Europe by I tend to believe the US strike on the Shay- to transit him out of power. The Trump reinstating the death penalty and urged the rat airbase was a message to Moscow rather administration needs to level with its allies authorities to seek “respectful dialogue” to heal a than to Damascus. As Richard Nixon did before that while its posture has changed, the US divided society. At the same time, relations him, Trump is aiming for a Sino-Russian split. The crucial question that strategy remains the same with limited between Turkey and Europe must be based on While having “the most beautiful piece of choc- should be asked is whether options in Syria unless it decides to move olate cake”, the US President told his Chinese towards direct military involvement. Hence, mutual respect and equality. the Trump administration Turkey has been knocking at the doors of counterpart Xi Jinping about the Tomahawk the crucial question that should be asked Europe for years for membership, but the cruise missiles that were hitting Syria. Soon after, will put money where is whether the Trump administration will negotiations dragged on, and Ankara was kept at Trump retracted earlier statements that China its mouth is in Syria. put money where its mouth is in Syria. Oth- bay only because it was a Muslim country while is a currency manipulator, while Beijing Otherwise, misleading the erwise misleading the Syrian people will abstained from voting on a United Nations Secu- only lead to further bloodshed. other countries were allowed entry, with some Syrian people will only European leaders openly saying Turkey’s rity Council resolution calling for an investigation induction into the bloc would dilute or tarnish its into the chemical attack. lead to further bloodshed. The writer is a policy analyst at the Arab Center, ethos. Erdogan has been able to convince his ‘All about internal politics’ Washington DC. people about these double standards and any Yet, the US and Russia have not yet reached decision he takes on his country’s relationship with the point of no return and are unlikely to. Most the EU will have the huge support of his people. of the warmongering background noise is about internal politics in both countries; Putin wants As Erdogan said, this is a historic moment for to look strong at home and defying Washing- Turkey. ton is the ultimate national sport, while Trump is eager to gain much-needed anti-Putin cre- dentials. Both leaders will get over this at some point. However, as Rex Tillerson, H R McMaster and Nikki Haley are taking turns to convey a QUOTE OF THE DAY non-consistent Syria policy, the Pentagon cau- tiously seeks a balance between striking a tough tone and averting an unintended military impact. For now, at least, the US-Russian tension has Just in the past two not affected the Pentagon priority of defeating the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, weeks, the world also known as ISIS). To the dismay of Arab allies, witnessed the Washington has been focusing on Russia, not strength and resolve Iran, which is another indication that the end- of our new president game for the Trump administration is Russia’s calculus and not altering the dynamics of the in actions taken in Syrian war. Syria and Afghanistan. If the US continues to walk towards a colli- sion course with Moscow in Syria, the Pentagon will ultimately put a break on the White House Mike Pence rhetoric. The question is to what extent can the Smoke billows following an air strike on a rebel-held area in the southern Trump administration push the buttons of Putin US Vice-President Syrian city of Daraa. in Syria without affecting both the Raqqa TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 OPINION 11 The subtle dynamics of Iran’s looming election

disrupting their weekend rest and Selim Celal queuing up at the voting stations.He Anatolia can hope to win if the election turn- out proves high. A low turnout will definitely work against him. In other ith only a month left to the presi- words, Rowhani’s victory depends dential election, the conservatives to a great extent on his ability to in Iran are still struggling to desig- sway people to go to the polls. nate an appropriate candidate. In this regard, a former reform- Reports indicate serious disunity ist president, Muhammad Khatami, Wamong them. Like the previous presidential election, is a good example. He won the 1997 it seems there will be more than one conservative presidential election with 20 mil- candidate this time as well. On the other hand, lion votes. In his reelection bid in despite widespread rumors that the reformists might 2001, he was able to garner 21 mil- have their own candidate rather than supporting the lion votes, so he not only semi-conservative (moderate) Hassan Rowhani, maintained his electoral base but recent developments show that the reformists would also enhanced it. eventually stand behind the current president. However, the reformist candi- However, despite the unity between the moder- date failed to draw people to the ate and reformist camps on the one hand, and the voting stations in the 2005 presi- fragmentation of the conservative camp on the on dential election, thereby losing the Iranians wait to register their candidacy for the upcoming presidential elections at the Ministry of other, a clean sweep for President Rowhani is not race to the conservative candidate, guaranteed because he is facing a serious challenge, Interior in the capital Tehran. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. which is what the conservatives are also counting on. There are already a number of What is that challenge and in what way could it key as the symbol of his election campaign, dubbing trying to prove through statistics and economic verbi- indications about Rowhani’s inabil- influence the election’s outcome? To have a clear it the “Master Key of Wisdom”. age that the national economy is improving, ordinary ity to mobilise voters. For instance, understanding of this challenge, one has to recall the He claimed that his master key would solve all citizens are not happy with the economic perform- last February, he paid an official socio-economic and political situation of the country the problems highlighted earlier. He succeeded in ance in the post-nuclear-deal period, and the popular visit to Sistan and Baluchistan, a in the months leading up to the 2013 presidential convincing the reformists that he could be a jack of perception is that the deal has not brought any tangi- Sunni-majority province, where he election and compare it to that of today. all trades as well as a good match for the conserva- ble positive change in people’s lives. had garnered 73 percent of the pro- In 2013, the economy was down; the nuclear tive candidate. This is how he won the 2013 Several factors have contributed to the popularity vincial vote in 2013 polls. issue was in a state of deadlock; the Iranians had a presidential race. However, no significant change has of this perception. Of these, the following are particu- Despite repeated calls from bad image in the world; several journalists, political taken place in the last four years. To the political larly noteworthy: First, during the nuclear negotiations, local Sunni religious leaders, only and civil activists, and green movement sympathiz- activists, the measure of a genuine political opening Rowhani needed popular support to resist pressure around 6,000 people reportedly ers were behind the bars; and ethno-religious was the release of the two main leaders of the Green from the groups opposed to the nuclear deal. As a showed up to welcome the minorities were severely discriminated against. Movement, Mir-Hossein Mousavi and Mahdi Kar- result, whether intentionally or unintentionally, he cre- president. In this situation, Rowhani came on the scene with roubi. Along with failing to secure their unconditional ated an air of great anticipation. Second, Rowhani did The conservatives are very a smiling and charming posture. Already known as release, Rouhani has failed to persuade the establish- not dare to disclose to the public that a major portion optimistic that the bad economy “Sheikh Diplomat” (given his one-time position as ment to give them a trial, even a symbolic one. of the economic problems actually had nothing to do and issues related to it, such as the Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator), Rouhani chose the The image of Iranians has worsened further due with international sanctions but are rather structural scandal over astronomical salaries to the Islamic republic’s involvement in Syria. One of ones with roots in Iran’s rentier economy. Thus, their for certain government employees, the specific promises Rowhani made in one of his solution lies beyond the likely returns of a nuclear will encourage the people to stay pre-election speeches in 2013 was that he would deal. Third, he did not publicly make a clear distinc- home rather than taking the trou- However, despite the unity bring respect to the Iranian passport. To his misfor- tion between the nuclear-related sanctions and the ble to queue up at the voting tune, the invalidity of the Iranian passport made general ones. In reality, the post-nuclear-deal sanc- stations. between the moderate and headlines in the last couple of months following US tion-relief program applied only to the sanctions reformist camps on the one President Donald Trump’s travel ban. related to nuclear proliferation, whereas most other hand, and the fragmentation Additionally, despite Rowhani’s promise to sanctions remain in force. of the conservative camp on ethno-religious minorities to address their griev- Finally, throughout Rowhani’s tenure, the ailing ances and give them a fair share of power, in economy of Iran kept on funding two wars of attrition the on other, a clean sweep practice, this amounted merely to the appointment of in Syria and Yemen. While in recent months Rowhani for President Rowhani is not a Shia Persian clergyman with a background in secu- has been trying to justify his low political and economic D-RING ROAD guaranteed because he is rity (a former intelligence minister) as an advisor to performance, the fact is that — in politics — justifica- POST BOX: 3488 facing a serious challenge, the president on ethno-religious minority affairs. tion is just another name for admitting to guilt. There is On the nuclear front, Rowhani pulled off a deal no room for justification in politics. Politicians either DOHA - QATAR which is what the conservatives with the international community. The Iranians were fail or succeed. [email protected] are also counting on. expecting to see the fruits of this deal in economic That said, the key challenge for Rowhani is to con- terms as soon as it was signed. Although Rowhani is vince his voters to give him another chance by EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 FAX: +974 4455 7758

Climate change impacting the faculties of global leaders? MANAGING EDITOR TEL: 4462 7505 contracts in an annual cycle during winter and sum- -- and marine species by 72 km per decade as per new analy- DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR mer, probably reached its maximum size this year sis recently presented by the University of Tasmania. Rajendra Shende TEL: 4455 7769 IANS on March 7, when it spanned 14.42 million square The New Scientist magazine said in March 2017 that ticks kilometres, breaking the record as the smallest win- that spread Lyme disease in animals and humans are moving ter maximum extent ever observed in records towards North America and Europe as the winter there is LOCAL NEWS SECTION dating to 1979. getting milder. A 10-fold rise has been seen in the UK since TEL: 4455 7743 he rift has accelerated While melting of the floating icebergs does not 2001. Lyme disease is the most common infection in humans since end of the last year”, cause the sea level to rise, melting of the large vol- following a tick bite in the US. The Centre for Disease Control BUSINESS NEWS SECTION reported all the major ume icebergs makes the way to glaciers from the estimates that 300,000 Americans contract Lyme disease TEL: 4462 7535 news agencies in North land mass of the Arctic and Antarctic to pour into each year, calling it “a major US public health problem”. This America and elsewhere. the oceans, resulting in the sea level rising. What is “ticking” time bomb in 2017 and 2018 is predicted to cause SPORT NEWS SECTION “T“It may get close to a full break, never seen more frightening is that loss of ice would cause major Lyme disease outbreaks in areas that have not faced TEL: 4455 7745 before in the history,” they added. more global warming because the heat from the the threats any time before. This “breaking news” is about Antarcti- Sun would get absorbed and not get reflected back The benefits to humans being provided by other species, ONLINE SECTION ca’s fourth-largest ice shelf, Larsen C, due to loss of white cover of ice. The vicious feed- and the complex ecosystems they live in, are also at risk due TEL: 4462 7501 measuring 48,600 sq km, five times the area back loop could trigger record-breaking runaway to rising temperatures and acidity of oceans. Mangroves, for [email protected] of Israel, irreversibly breaking away, several warming never seen in human history. example, are migrating pole wards in Australia and in the kilometres at a time, from its mother conti- Loss of ice cover in the Arctic and Antarctic is southern US, meaning the storm protection and fish nurseries PUBLIC RELATIONS nent due to exceptionally high temperatures. not the only reason for the uncontrolled and accel- they provide are being lost in some places. NASA and British Antarctic Survey sci- erated warming of the earth. An active layer of ice Food production, including coffee and wine that need a TEL: 4455 7613 entists have in the last three decades of 0.3 to 0.4 metres thickness along the Arctic coast cooler climate, will move towards higher latitudes, causing [email protected] observed a dramatic collapsing of smaller and deep in southern Siberia and the Qinghai- economic and social destabilisation in poor countries like parts, Larsen A and B, as noted by the Tibetan Plateau, is about 24 per cent of the ice-free Ghana, the Ivory Coast and Costa Rica. Fish stocks that ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Nobel Prize-winning Inter-governmental land area on our planet, equivalent to 19 million depend on the marine supply chain will migrate to cooler and TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Larsen C, square kilometres — the area of China and the US less acidic waters as the coral reefs get bleached as has FAX: 4455 7870 which is the largest of the three, is now combined. already happened in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. [email protected] clinging by the umbilical cord of about 25 This is called permafrost, because of the perma- Iceland’s cooler water has already witnessed a quantum km before finally breaking away. nency of ice there. A study released by Nature jump from 1,700 tonnes in 2006 to 120,000 tonnes in 2010. CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT The ABC drama is captivating, because Climate Change on April 10 has revealed that global The memories of the “mackerel war” of the 1980s and recent TEL: 4455 7857 these would constitute some of the world’s warming will thaw about 20 per cent more perma- fish wars in troubled waters have heightened the possibility [email protected] biggest icebergs ever to break off from an frost than previously thought, potentially releasing of “cod wars” in the post-Cold War era. A pioneering study by Antarctic ice shelf. What is more, it is tak- significant amounts of greenhouse gases like meth- Science last year stated that current warming (just one SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION ing place early in 2017, when the ABC of ane and carbon dioxide trapped under the layer of degree Celsius) has already left an obvious mark on 77 of 94 TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 the “disruptive” policies of US President ice into the Earth’s atmosphere. different species and ecological processes. The study hints at FAX: 44557819 Donald Trump on climate change have Around 35 million people live in the permafrost possible genetic changes due to climate change and even also started unfolding. zone. A widespread thaw could cause the ground to physical traits including body size and shape. [email protected] The year gone by has decidedly broken become unstable, putting roads and buildings at risk The number of authoritative studies on climate change in the temperature record as the warmest of collapse. Such runaway release of greenhouse the first quarter of 2017 by prestigious institutes around the year since modern observations began in gases has already begun as the Arctic is warming at world also stand to break the record this year. Last but not All thoughts and views 1880. This year is already turning to be the around twice the rate as the rest of the world. There the least of these is the study released in March by the Ameri- expressed in these columns second-warmest in recorded history, is fear of not only mass coastal migration of human can Psychological Association (APA), which says that climate according to data released recently by the population due to rising sea levels but also from change also takes a significant toll on mental health. are those of the writers, not National Ocean and Atmospheric Admin- high latitude regions. The entire biodiversity is The loss of personal and professional identity, loss of a of the newspaper. istration (NOAA). NASA, indeed, said in a likely to be in mass-migration in search of survival. sense of control, feelings of helplessness, fear and fatalism, statement that January 2017 was the third- Rising temperatures and sea levels, increasing and worry about actual or potential impact of climate change All correspondence warmest January in nearly 140 years of acidity of the oceans due to additional absorbed can lead to stress that can build over time and eventually lead regarding Views and record-keeping. carbon dioxide, escalation of intensity and surge of to stress-related problems such as substance abuse and Opinion pages should be The National Snow and Ice Data Cen- frequency of extreme weather events like droughts depression, according to research reviewed in the report. tre at Boulder, Colorado, has recorded that and floods are forcing land-based bio-species to Do not we already witness this transformation among the mailed to the the cover of Arctic ice, which expands and move polewards by an average of 17 km per decade leaders and among us who elect them? [email protected] 12 ASIA TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 Ousted South Korea leader charged with bribery

Seoul Constitutional Court decided to friend Choi Soon-sil coerced K-Sports foundation -- linked decades in prison if convicted, Anatolia uphold parliament’s impeach- conglomerates into donating to Park and allegedly controlled unless she is pardoned, as other ment of South Korea’s 11th $68m to two nonprofit founda- by Choi. former leaders have been orruption charges were president in an influence-ped- tions, Park is also accused of Yonhap said prosecutors previously. laid against former Pres- dling scandal. soliciting bribes from the Lotte suspect the ex-president prom- Woo Byung-woo, a senior Cident Park Geun-hye "She is accused of abuse of and SK groups. ised favours in return for the presidential aide from year (pictured) yesterday as prose- power, coercion, bribery and Lotte Group Chairman Shin bids for business projects. 2015 to 2016, was indicted for cutors ended an investigation, leaking government secrets, Dong-bin was also charged Park has denied the allega- alleged negligence in prevent- local media reported. "Yonhap news agency reported, Monday with buying favours by tions against her during five ing Choi from interfering in Park was taken into custody citing prosecutors. paying out $6m to one of the interrogation sessions. state affairs and abusing his on March 31 this year after the As well as claims she and her nonprofit organisations -- the The ousted president faces authority.

Nepal soldiers US 'patience' convicted of war-era crime Kathmandu with N Korea AFP THREE former Nepalese sol- diers have each been sentenced in absentia to 20 years in jail for killing a teenage girl, only the ends: Pence second conviction for crimes committed during a decade- long civil war which ended Panmunjom Words of warning in 2006. AP Fifteen-year-old Maina President Trump has Sunuwar was tortured and n a trip full of Cold War made it clear that the killed after she was detained symbolism, US Vice-Pres- patience of the US by the army in 2004 for ident Mike Pence travelled and our allies in this alleged links to Maoist rebels. to the tense zone dividing region has run out. Maina's mother brought North and South Korea and We want to see North a case in a civilian court Iwarned Pyongyang that after Korea abandon its which delivered its verdict on years of testing the US and South reckless path of the Sunday, a court official said. US Vice-President Mike Pence visits Observation Post Ouellette with his daughters near the Korea with its nuclear ambitions, development of But none of the three con- "the era of strategic patience is village of Panmunjom in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on the border between North and victed are currently in custody, nuclear weapons: over." South Korea, yesterday. and rights groups have raised Pence Pence made an unan- concerns they may never nounced visit to Demilitarized launch. But Pence expressed "But the era of strategic In Moscow, Russian Foreign serve their sentences. Zone yesterday at the start of his watched from a short distance impatience with the unwilling- patience is over," he declared. Minister Sergey Lavrov, speak- A fourth soldier, the most 10-day trip to Asia in a US show away, one taking multiple pho- ness of the regime to move "President Trump has made ing to reporters yesterday senior of all those accused, of force that allowed the vice tographs of the American toward ridding itself of nuclear it clear that the patience of the evening, said he hopes the US was acquitted. president to gaze at North visitor. weapons and ballistic missiles. United States and our allies in "there will be no unilateral Korean soldiers from afar and Pence said yesterday that Pointing to the quarter-cen- this region has run out and we actions like those we saw stare directly across a border President Donald Trump was tury since the United States first want to see change. We want to recently in Syria and that the US Stolen crocodile marked by razor wire. hopeful China would use its confronted North Korea over its see North Korea abandon its will follow the line that President As the brown bomber jacket- "extraordinary levers" to pres- attempts to build nuclear weap- reckless path of the development Trump repeatedly voiced dur- clad vice president was briefed sure the North to abandon its ons, the vice president said a of nuclear weapons, and also its ing the election campaign." returned to zoo near the military demarcation weapons programme, a day after period of patience had continual use and testing of bal- Meanwhile, China made a plea line, two North Korean soldiers the North's failed missile test followed. listic missiles is unacceptable." for a return to negotiations. Sydney AFP

A YOUNG freshwater croc- odile found sunbathing on a Police on high alert riverbank in suburban Sydney Japan troops end S Sudan mission by a family on their Sunday stroll has been returned to the ahead of Jakarta vote Juba follow. We appreciate their They were given a role of zoo from where it was stolen. Anatolia efforts and their services and coming to the aid of others in The weary-looking croc- dedication to the people of the event of an attack follow- odile was a surprising Tuban between the incumbent Basuki apanese troops have started South Sudan,” he said. ing renewed clashes in the discovering on the banks of a Anatolia Tjahaja Purnama, who is an pulling out from the United Japan started contributing capital of Juba between South river southwest of Sydney for ethnic Chinese Christian, and JNations Mission (UNMISS) with 350 strong military con- Sudanese rival forces last July local resident Aaron Hughes olice in Jakarta were placed former Education Minister in war-torn South Sudan, end- tingents to the UN mission in that left 300 people dead while out enjoying a walk on high alert yesterday Anies Baswedan, a Muslim. ing a five-year old South Sudan in 2012 to assist including two China with his family on Easter Pahead of the city’s guber- Violence and protests peacekeeping mission in the in construction of roads and peacekeepers. Sunday. natorial election after a campaign marked campaigning before an world’s youngest nation. other infrastructure. The security situation in "The baby reptile put up riven by sectarianism. initial vote in February as Mus- UNMISS spokesman Dan- The Japanese government troubled East African nation little resistance," Hughes said, "Around 36,000 officers are lims protested against Purnama, iel Dickinson said that the first announced the withdrawal of has been heavily debated in when he grabbed it from due to be on duty to safeguard who has been accused of blas- batch is expected to leave yes- its troops from United Nations the Japanese parliament, as behind the neck and carried polling stations and key build- phemy in a criminal case where terday and the other two mission in South Sudan in GSDF members are not it home. ings," National Police Chief Tito the verdict has been delayed would follow later. March, just four months after allowed by their constitution "(I) didn't need to sit on it Karnavian said. until Thursday. “Some contingents of Jap- the Japanese government to engage in combat activities or anything like that, just “The police will be all out Karnavian said “mass entry anese troops will begin their decided to assign the Ground as part of what the government picked it up and walked it up keeping the security,” he was into Jakarta” would be banned pullout Monday (yesterday), Self-Defense Force (GSDF) calls “an international armed to the house. Basically it did quoted as saying in the kom- on election day amid plans by the rest will systematically personnel the new role. conflict”. look a bit malnourished and pas.com news website. some groups to send support- we weren't sure what to do." Up to 28,000 military per- ers to “guard” around 13,000 sonnel are expected to be on polling stations in what Karna- duty as well, local media said, vian said could be an attempt quoting Jakarta’s military com- to intimidate voters. mander Maj Gen Jaswandi, who “Do not gather the masses, Hundreds flee after Sri Lanka dump collapse follows the Indonesian practice whatever the reason, at the of using one name. polls,” he said. “If that happens, Tomorrow’s run-off vote is we will take firm action.” Colombo missing by their families since AFP Friday's landslide have still not been located, he added. ri Lanka has moved over The collapse came as the 400 families to temporary country celebrated the tradi- Sshelters after tonnes of rot- tional new year and followed a ting garbage collapsed onto a warning to parliament that the slum on Friday, killing at least 23 million tonnes of rotting gar- 29 people. bage posed a serious health Some 145 homes were hazard. destroyed when the 90-metre "We are keeping up the rubbish mountain came crash- search tomorrow as well, but we ing down on Friday afternoon at are not very hopeful of finding Kolonnawa on the northeastern anyone alive in these condi- edge of Colombo. tions," Seneviratne said. Police say many more build- "The death toll rose to 29 ings were damaged and could after a man injured in the land- collapse at any time. slide died in hospital yesterday," Families carry the coffins of victims who died following the "The search for survivors Seneviratne added. collapse of a garbage dump in Colombo, yesterday. was stopped at nightfall on Mon- Disaster management offi- day but will resume at first light cials said 1,700 people had been Disaster management min- as a fortnight ago. The candidates running in Jakarta governor election Basuki on Tuesday," military spokes- moved to temporary shelters in ister Anura Yapa said the loss of "Some had even been Tjahaja Purnama, Jakarta military chief Jaswandi, Jakarta man Roshan Seneviratne said state schools while the govern- life could have been avoided had offered money to rent homes police chief Iriawan, and a candidate for deputy governor Unota yesterday. ment looked for alternative local residents acted on warn- and move out. Some took it, but during Peace Declaration ceremony in Jakarta, yesterday. Seven people reported accommodation. ings to move issued as recently most didn't," Yapa said. TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 ASIA 13

Tibetan monk sets himself 150 Filipinos return after Saudi amnesty

ablaze in China Repatriated Zamboanga City willing to help Filipinos there. He said the government is espionage. He said the two Fili- Agencies A total of 150 undocumented spending billions on livelihood pinos with lighter sentences A total of 150 OFWs, who were granted programmes for OFWs intent on have a “good” chance of obtain- Beijing undocumented OFWs, resident Rodrigo amnesty by the Saudi Arabia’s learning a new trade. ing pardon. AP who were granted Duterte wrapped up government arrived in the Phil- Labour Secretary Silvestre Presidential spokesman amnesty by the Saudi his visit to three Mid- ippines the same time as Duterte Bello III said the Qatari govern- Ernesto Abella said the return- A TIBETAN Buddhist monk Arabia arrived in the dle East countries, early yesterday and received ment has also agreed to release ing overseas Filipino workers set himself on fire in west- Philippines and where he was able to monetary assistance from the 86 “runaway” OFWs now stay- constitute the first batch of the ern China in apparent protest Psecure amnesty for undocu- president. ing in a shelter of the Philippine so-called “runaway” OFWs to be received monetary against Beijing's rule over the mented 150 overseas Filipino He said that he got 76 per- Overseas Labour Office. repatriated to the Philippine assistance from the restive region, a monitoring workers (OFWs). cent of the OFW vote in Qatar in He said the Philippine labour “Runaway” migrant work- president. group and a US government- In his arrival speech in cap- the May 2016 election. attaché is processing the exit ers refer to victims of illegal backed radio station said. ital, Manila, Duterte said he was "Really, I felt like kneeling permits of the workers. recruiters, those who were sold "The monk set himself Labour Secretary overwhelmed by the warm down. Thank you for helping the “Hopefully we can secure by their employers or who ablaze in a public square on Silvestre Bello III said reception from crowds of Filipi- country. Your help to the coun- their release in a month or two,” escaped from their employers Saturday morning in Kardze, the Qatari nos, who met him during his visit try is so significant. Your Bello said. after being maltreated. also known as Ganzi, in west- government has also to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and remittances, that keeps us afloat. Bello added that Duterte is They are staying in shelters ern Sichuan province," agreed to release 86 Qatar. During the years of crisis, remit- also expected to seek pardon for provided by the Philippine according to Radio Free Asia “runaway” OFWs. Duterte said leaders of the tances buoyed the economy," the three Filipinos who were jailed embassy while awaiting their and Free Tibet, an advocacy three nations were more than president said. in Qatar after being accused of repatriation. group based in Britain. The unidentified monk was taken away after the fire was extinguished by security Ten dead in forces, reports said. Marcos takes step towards votes recount A witness said the man was burned beyond recogni- Manila Cebu floods tion and it was unclear if he Reuters survived, according to Free Zamboanga City Tibet Director Eleanor he son of former Philippine Anatolia Byrne-Rosengren. dictator Ferdinand Marcos A man who answered the Tyesterday took a step THE death toll from the flash phone at the local police sta- towards securing a recount of floods in the central Philip- tion yesterday said he was votes in an election for vice- pines province of Cebu has unaware of the case and "not president last year in which he risen to ten, the provincial clear" about the situation. says he was unfairly robbed of disaster management office The government for victory. said yesterday. Garze Tibetan Autonomous The son, also called Ferdi- Eight of the fatalities were Prefecture, which includes nand Marcos but popularly from the northern town of the town of Kardze, referred known as Bongbong, lost the Carmen, one from neighbor- questions to police. election for vice president last ing Danao and the other one A YouTube video showed May to social activist and law- from Alcoy in Southern Cebu, two men spraying fire extin- yer Leni Robredo by about according to GMA News. guishers on what appeared to 260,000 votes. Heavy rains battered the be a body at the edge of a busy He has objected to the result province since Saturday, sub- street as a crowd gathered. ever since and the Supreme merging homes in Free Tibet acquired the Court ruled in February that his municipality of Carmen. video from a witness who protest was valid, but he has to The floods damaged posted it on social media, pay for a recount of the votes. houses, flattened fields and according to the group. Yesterday, he deposited uprooted trees in village of If confirmed, it would be about $728,500 as payment for Poblacion in Carmen as the at least the 148th recorded a recount of votes in 42 percent Former senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr is greeted by supporters upon his arrival at the Supreme river overflowed, following case of a Tibetan self-immo- of polling precincts. Court in Metro Manila, yesterday. raging waters from the lating since 2009, according "It's good I have kind- mountain. to Radio Free Asia and Free hearted friends. They believe in elaborate on his friends. made jokes in public at her deadly war on drugs, and deliv- Provincial Disaster Risk Tibet. At least 125 have died, my election protest because it is Robredo's relationship with expense. ered a video message to a UN Reduction Management according to monitoring right, just and fair," Marcos said President Rodrigo Duterte is far She has been critical of some human rights conference in Office said the floods groups. after signing a check. He did not from close and he has frequently of his policies, including his Geneva last month. destroyed a total of 73 houses.

Asean meet to proceed amid foiled attack Chinese dissident to Manila Philippine forces, backed by have confirmed their AP air strikes and rocket-firing hel- Acting Interior attendance. icopters, killed four of several "Asean member states have seek asylum in Taiwan ore than 200 delegates extremists from the brutal Abu Secretary Catalino not raised any concern over the from the Association of Sayyaf and other Islamic State Cuy said that Panglao meetings," Cuy added Taipei MSoutheast Asian Nations group-linked groups who Island in Bohol yesterday. AP Zhang Xiangzhong will proceed with a meeting in traveled far by boat from their province could be At least 52 meetings, includ- hoped Taiwanese a central Philippine resort prov- jungle bases in southern Sulu ing an annual gathering of Asean Chinese dissident who ince this week despite a foiled province to stage ransom kid- considered "the most foreign ministers on central abandoned his tour officials would take attack there by extremists, offi- nappings and bombings, security secure place in the Boracay Island in February, have A group while in Taiwan a "tolerant" view cials said yesterday. officials said. country right now." been held without any incident," said he will apply for politi- toward his appeal, Acting Interior Secretary "Our objective is zero inci- Cuy added. cal asylum today in hopes of but acknowledged Catalino Cuy said that the dent up to the final Asean President Rodrigo Duterte staying on the self-governing Panglao Island in Bohol prov- meeting," the official said yes- Department of Foreign will host nine of his Asean coun- island to promote democracy there were legal ince could be considered "the terday, who oversees security for Affairs spokesman Robespierre terparts in an annual summit in on the mainland. hurdles. most secure place in the coun- more than 140 meetings that the Bolivar said all foreign delegates Manila next week. Zhang Xiangzhong said try right now." Philippines will host as it leads to the meeting, which would Troops and police were yesterday that he hoped Tai- The two-day Asean meeting the 10-nation regional bloc this focus on a free trade agreement hunting down several militants wanese officials would take Taiwan's formal independ- on the island starts tomorrow. year. between Asean and Hong Kong, who fled the fighting. a "tolerant" view toward his ence. China cut off contacts appeal, but acknowledged with Taiwan's government in there were legal hurdles. June, five months after Tsai "I want to tell them that was elected. Teen dead after Taiwan's spirit represents the Zhang said that he was Space mission Chinese people," Zhang said inspired to defect after hear- yesterday. ing about Lee's story and how shark attack "They don't have an asy- his wife, Lee Ching-yu, defied lum policy, but I hope they Chinese government warn- in Australia will be tolerant." ings and attempted to fly to Chang Hsiao-yueh, min- the mainland to search for Perth ister of Taiwan's Mainland her husband. AP Affairs Council, said at a Cab- Zhang, 48, was previously inet hearing yesterday that jailed for three years for par- A 17-year-old surfer was killed the island does not offer ticipating in a mainland civil by a shark yesterday off Aus- political asylum to Chinese rights movement called the tralia's south coast, police citizens although they some- New Citizens' Movement, officers said. times offer permits for which was backed by prom- The girl was surfing with long-term residence on a inent legal scholars, artists her father when she was "case-by-case basis." and businessmen. attacked off Esperance in Zhang's case could fur- Zhang said he did not Western Australia state yes- ther exacerbate cross-strait fully make up his mind to terday afternoon, a police tensions weeks after China defect until after he arrived statement said. detained a Taiwanese pro- in Taiwan on an eight-day She was taken in critical democracy activist Lee tour package. condition to Esperance Hos- Ming-che during a trip to the He realised that Taiwan pital, where she died. mainland. was the inheritor of the Chi- Police have not said what Cross-strait relations have nese people's spirit and The Soyuz rocket prepared to be rolled out to the launch pad at the Baikonur Cosmodrome, type of shark was been near an all-time low culture after he toured his- in Kazakhstan, yesterday. The Soyuz MS-04 spacecraft, scheduled to launch on April 20, responsible. since the election of Taiwan- torical archives. Yet, it was a will carry Expedition 51 Soyuz Commander Fyodor Yurchikhin of Roscosmos and Flight Australia has averaged ese President Tsai Ing-wen, seemingly mundane, every- Engineer Jack Fischer of NASA into orbit to begin their four and a half month mission fewer than two deadly shark whose Democratic Progres- day gesture that finally on the International Space Station. attacks per year in recent sive Party has advocated for swayed him. decades. 14 ASIA TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 Pakistan army begins Diplomacy fencing Afghan border

Karachi continuing. We hope things will Anatolia Border row be improved in the wake of these talks,” he said, adding Afghan Ministry of akistani military has Afghan leaders fully understand Foreign Affairs started fencing its the importance of border man- over 2,575km long spokesman said that agement to contain cross-border border with neigh- Pakistan has no right infiltration. boring Afghanistan on to make such "Afghanistan should under- Pthe pretext of containing cross unilateral moves, stand that border fencing was not border movement of terrorists insisting that only only in Pakistan’s interest, but it -- a move that Kabul has people living on both will be more beneficial for Kabul". slammed. sides of the line have Afghanistan does not recog- Addressing a press confer- the right to decide nize the Durand Line -- the de ence in the garrison city of their fate. facto border region between the Rawalpindi yesterday, military two countries -- on the grounds spokesman Maj Gen Asif Gha- The Pakistani military that it was created by a British foor said the army was already colonial regime “to divide eth- spokesman said engaged in fencing a 100km nic Pashtuns”. Pakistan was fencing Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Naril Wickremesinghe (right) and his Vietnamese counterpart patch of the border between Islamabad, however, insists northeastern Afghanistan and the border from its the Durand Line is a permanent Nguyen Xuan Phuc during a welcoming ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Hanoi, Pakistan’s Bajur and Khyber own territory, not the border between the two neigh- yesterday. Agency tribal regions. Afghan side. boring countries. “Pakistan’s (northwestern) The 2,640km long border Khyber Pakhtunkhawa province sides of the line have the right was established in 1893 in line shares over 700km border with to decide their fate. with an agreement between Afghanistan, which will be Downplaying Kabul’s oppo- India under British colonial rule fenced in the first phase. sition to the move, the Pakistani and Abdur Rahman Khan, the Police arrest 22 suspects in Mardan case “In the second phase, the military spokesman said Paki- then ruler of Afghanistan. border between (southwestern) stan was fencing the border Mustaghni also warned Peshawar province, said yesterday that the death in Pakistan and can incite Balochistan province and from its own territory, not the Pakistan against alleged cross- AP 16 students and six university deadly riots. (southern) Afghanistan will be Afghan side. border shelling like in eastern employees are believed to have The student was beaten and fenced,” Ghafoor said. “Pakistan…has the right to Kunar province on Sunday. “If akistani police say they incited or taken part in the mob shot to death at a university in Shakib Mustaghni, Afghan fence its border with any other such violations by Pakistan con- have arrested 22 suspects that killed 23-year-old Moham- the northwestern city of Mardan Ministry of Foreign Affairs country. I don’t think anyone tinue along the Durand Line, the Pin the lynching of a uni- mad Mashal Khan last week. on Thursday. spokesman, said yesterday should have a objection to that". government of Afghanistan and versity student who was accused He says no evidence has Pakistan had recently Pakistan has no right to make About ties between Pakistan the security forces are ready to of blasphemy. been found to indicate that Khan vowed to combat the sharing of such unilateral moves, insisting and Afghanistan, he said: “Bilat- defend the country’s integrity Salahuddin Mehsud, police committed blasphemy against blasphemous material on social that only people living on both eral talks with Afghanistan are and national sovereignty". chief for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Islam, which is punishable by media. Removal of Thai plaque raises democracy concerns

Bangkok who had removed the plaque, comes nearly three years after thought about taking the plaque Reuters which had been embedded in the army overthrew an elected out but this government, with its concrete at a square in Bang- government in the name of end- extraordinary powers that are pponents of Thailand's kok's leafy historic quarter. ing violent political turmoil it above the law, has allowed this military government It is close to parliament, to a blamed on civilian politicians in to happen which begs the ques- Oexpressed fears for the royal throne hall and to an army the Southeast Asian country. tion of when and whether future of democracy yesterday barracks. The area is also sur- Although the junta has Thailand will truly return to after the mysterious removal of veyed by several police posts. promised elections - now democracy." a plaque marking a 1932 revo- The plaque went missing on expected by the end of next year A Change.org petition lution that ended absolute Friday, police said, and was - critics say a new constitution demanding an investigation into monarchy. replaced by one celebrating the is designed to ensure the mili- the missing plaque had attracted No group has claimed monarchy. tary's influence over civilian more than 2,400 signatures. responsibility, but the disappear- "Why should we take politics for years to come. The plaque marked a spot ance of the hubcap-sized brass responsibility? If that is the case "The plaque was a symbol of where a crucial stage in the symbol has stirred anger in Thai- should we take responsibility for equality in Thailand," Thanawut events of 1932 unfolded. The coup land, where elections are everything that disappears in Wichaidit, spokesman for the was staged by Western-influ- Pakistan's National Security Adviser Sartaj Aziz (right) shakes promised but power is firmly in this country?" Veerachon opposition United Front of enced young civilian bureaucrats hands with US National Security Adviser Lieutenant-General the hands of ruling generals and Sukhonthapatipark, a deputy Democracy Against Dictatorship and army officers to end abso- H R McMaster at the Foreign Ministry in Islamabad, yesterday. King Maha Vajiralongkorn. government spokesman, said. group, said. lute monarchy and establish a US adviser visits Pakistan; The junta said it had no idea The removal of the plaque "Past governments never parliamentary system. urges to fight terrorism Anti-polio drive Veteran guide

Islamabad gave little indication of whether who first scaled Reuters the Trump administration would adopt a new, tougher policy on Everest 10 times S President Donald Pakistan, as some Afghan offi- Trump's national secu- cials and Islamabad's arch-foe hospitalised Urity adviser met India would like. Pakistan's prime minister and McMaster - a US Army gen- Kathmandu army chief yesterday and eral who served in the AP emphasised "the need to con- American-led international front terrorism in all its forms", force in Afghanistan - indicated A FORMER Sherpa guide who while praising democratic and frustration with Pakistan in an was the first person to scale economic development. interview with an Afghan news Mount Everest 10 times has Prime Minister Nawaz channel on Sunday. been hospitalised in Nepal Sharif expressed hope that the "As all of us have hoped for after suffering a brain hem- new US administration might many, many years, we have orrhage, an official said mediate between Pakistan and hoped that Pakistani leaders yesterday. longtime foe India over the will understand that it is in their "Ang Rita was rushed to a divided Himalayan region of interest to go after these groups hospital in Kathmandu last Kashmir. less selectively than they have week after he fell uncon- H R McMaster was on his first in the past," he said yesterday. scious," said Ang Tshering of South Asian trip since the new "And the best way to pur- the Nepal Mountaineering US administration took office in sue their interest in Afghanistan Association. January, earlier stopping in and elsewhere is through diplo- He was still in serious An Afghan health worker marks a child's finger after administering polio drops during Afghanistan, Pakistan's war-rav- macy not through the use of condition yesterday, but his aged neighbour to the west. proxies that engage in a vaccination campaign, in Ghazni province, yesterday. situation was improving. Official statements yesterday violence." The 68-year-old Ang Rita scaled Everest 10 times from 1983 to 1996, when he quit climbing because of pressure from his family and health- Army arrests IS bomber before planned attack related problems. He has suffered from lung and kidney problems in Islamabad during Easter celebrations, the briefing. In it, she says she was to be used for an attack on some video as part of an update on a recent years. Reuters army's chief spokesman said part of a planned attack on an church during Easter, and I was military operation against jihad- Several other people have yesterday. unnamed church on Easter, and to be the suicide bomber". ist militants. passed his Everest climbing akistan's military captured The military identified the had travelled from Hyderabad "But before that, on the night "These kids are our kids. The record, but he remains one of a would-be Islamic State woman as Noreen Leghari, a to Lahore and was working with of April 14, the security forces youth bulge is our strength. the most famous climbers of Pfemale suicide bomber in medical student who grew up in two other men. raided our hideout." When terrorists begin targeting the world's highest peak. the cultural capital of Lahore the city of Hyderabad. "They had two (explosives- The director general of the our youth then you can estimate Mount Everest is Earth's before she could carry out an Part of a video confession by filled) jackets and four hand army's public relations wing, Maj what kind of effect this will have highest mountain. Its peak is attack on Christian community the woman was shown at a news grenades, and the jackets were Gen Asif Ghafoor, showed the on our society," Ghafoor said. 8,848 metres above sea level. TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 EUROPE 15

French presidential candidate for the En Marche ! movement, Emmanuel Macron, greets the audience as he arrives to speak during a rally at the Bercy Arena in Paris, yesterday. RIGHT: Supporters from Serbia wait for the start of a rally for Marine Le Pen, French National Front (FN) party leader and candidate for the presidential election, in Paris. Le Pen and Macron hold large Paris rallies

Paris EU 'protected us' under his mentor Hollande. at the 6,000-capacity Zenith appearances today, where he AFP Election campaign Melenchon's late surge — and The 39-year-old former concert hall in northeast Paris, will hold a rally in central Dijon Far-right leader the possibility he could square Rothschild banker quit the with activists saying they will while his hologram will speak for he two frontrunners in Marine Le Pen and off against Le Pen in the May 7 Socialist government last year to protest outside the venue. him in six other cities. the French presiden- centrist Emmanuel decider — has sparked alarm form his "En Marche" ("On the A protest was also expected For his part Fillon, dogged by tial election, far-right Macron exhort voters over the future of the EU, as both Move") party and launch his bid in the southern port of Marseille a fake jobs scandal that has seen leader Marine Le Pen to rally after them as candidates advocate withdraw- for power as a candidate "nei- tomorrow where Le Pen plans him charged with abuse of pub- and centrist ing from the bloc for different ther of the left nor of the right". another large rally. lic funds, is vowing to pull off a race heats up. TEmmanuel Macron, were stag- reasons. En Marche says it has victory that will "surprise the ing rival rallies in Paris yesterday, Outgoing President Francois planned "1,000 events a day" Canal cruise microcosm" arrayed against him. seeking to stay ahead of a fast- Melenchon Hollande weighed in on Satur- including 163 public rallies until Melenchon, 65, planned a He believes a small coterie chasing pack just days before the campaigned on a day, saying Europe has the official end of campaigning quirky event that saw him board of detractors mounted a cam- vote. barge that he "protected us against war" in the at midnight on Friday. a barge in a northeast suburb of paign to smear him with the After weeks of twists and boarded in a suburb decades since World War II. An aide to Macron said he the French capital and float revelations that he put his wife turns, the unpredictable race has of the French capital. "Let us preserve it instead of would use yesterday's event to down a canal, making five stops Penelope on the public payroll narrowed dramatically, with sur- scapegoating it," he said at a hit back at Le Pen's accusation along the way to meet and greet with jobs that earned her hun- veys suggesting four candidates World War I centenary event in he is soft on Islamists. supporters. dreds of thousands of euros. are in contention to win one of French electorate still undecided, northern France. "With Mr Macron, it would The voyage lasting more than Fillon, who led the race for the top two spots in the April 23 candidates are scrapping for Macron held his biggest rally be Islamism on the move," Le five hours ended at the Francois weeks before the scandal broke vote and progress to the run-off every vote. yet at the Bercy sports and con- Pen, 48, said on Saturday in Mitterrand Library, a nod to the in late January, spent Easter election a fortnight later. Le Pen and Macron, who cert hall, a venue with a capacity response to revelations that one Socialist leader of the 1980s and weekend wooing the Catholic Scandal-hit conservative have both scored as high as 25 of 20,000. of Macron's top campaigners had early 1990s whom Melenchon and conservative vote. Francois Fillon and radical left- percent in voter surveys, stood The location near the econ- criticised the Charlie Hebdo references frequently in his Conspicuous by his absence ist Jean-Luc Melenchon are at 22 percent in the latest IPSOS omy ministry serves as a satirical weekly for publishing stump speech as an icon of the at the height of the scandal, the steaming up behind the two poll, while Melenchon has surged reminder that the relatively inex- cartoons of the Prophet Moham- left. The founder of "La France 63-year-old former prime min- frontrunners, and with around to 20 percent and Fillon stands perienced Macron held the key med (PBUH). Insoumise" ("Unbowed France") ister has revved up his campaign one in three of the at 19. economy portfolio for two years Le Pen's own rally was held plans another form of multiple appearances in the past week.

Five dead as Germany urges end to plane crashes Albania oppn boycott near Lisbon Lisbon Tirana The opposition's boycott of Reuters AP parliament is also blocking the launch of judicial reform, con- small plane crashed ermany's foreign minis- sidered as key to the start of EU near a supermarket in ter yesterday called on membership negotiations with Aa residential area out- GAlbania's opposition to Brussels. side Lisbon yesterday, killing end a parliamentary boycott, Corruption in Albania's five people, rescue workers not block the launch of justice judiciary has been a main said. reforms and take part in the obstacle to Albania's post-com- The private plane crashed June parliamentary election. munist development. after taking off from the small Sigmar Gabriel, visiting Judicial reforms unani- Tires airport, which is located Albania's capital, said that Ger- mously approved last year, and near the resort town of Cas- many and the European Union prepared with assistance from cais about 20km west of couldn't understand the oppo- EU and US experts, have been Lisbon and used mainly by sition's request for a caretaker hampered by the opposition private aircraft. Andre Fern- government only weeks before boycott. Parliament needs to andes, a spokesman for the the June 18 vote. create the vetting bodies that local emergency services, said The Democratic Party-led will evaluate the backgrounds the plane was headed for opposition says that it will boy- of around 800 judges and pros- Marseilles in France. Every- Smoke is seen where a small plane crashed near a supermarket in a residential area outside cott the parliamentary election ecutors. The opposition says one on board and one person unless a caretaker government that those bodies could be sub- Lisbon, Portugal, yesterday. on the ground were killed. takes the country to the polls. ject to manipulation. It says the Cabinet will manip- Dutch Foreign Minister Bert ulate the vote with drug money, Koenders, visiting Tirana as and has declined to negotiate. well yesterday, also called on Since mid-February, its sup- the opposition to end the Fog over EU agencies' location post-Brexit porters have blocked the main boycott. boulevard in Tirana, raising a "The vetting, judicial reform tent in front of Prime Minister is absolutely key in the whole London negotiations said arrangements the European Banking Author- it may keep with the agencies; Edi Rama's office. process of integration into Euro- Reuters should be made to transfer them ity or the European Medicines Only member states could Gabriel said that it was pean structures. It is high time to a state staying in the European Agency, these will be subject to accommodate them, one said, "totally absurd" to block the to be implemented. There is an he future location of the Union. the exit negotiations.” adding: “The agencies are lost. road and that opposition law- urgency to do this," he said at a two European Union agen- EU officials said European “As part of these negotiations You cannot have your cake and makers should instead try to news conference with Bushati. Tcies based in London will Council President Donald Tusk, the government will discuss with eat it.” implement change at parlia- Gabriel warned that those be a matter for Brexit negotia- who chairs summits of the 27 the EU and member states how In draft negotiating guide- ment. "Let them go to who "boycott parliament to tions, the British government’s other EU leaders who will best to continue cooperation in lines, issued on March 31 and parliament where they are hamper judicial reform dam- Brexit department said yester- decide where to put the agen- the fields of banking and medi- broadly endorsed by the other members (and do that)," Gabriel age the country and its day, but EU officials said there cies, aimed to set out some cines regulation in the best 27 national governments last said at a joint news conference reputation," adding that will was no doubt they would be procedures for making the interests of both the UK and the week, Tusk made clear Britain with Albanian counterpart Dit- only "make the path toward the moved. choices by the time they meet EU. It would not be appropriate has no say: “The future loca- mir Bushati. "The federal EU longer and Albanians' lives London is home to both the next on April 29. to prejudge the outcome of the tion of the seats of European government believes that a par- more difficult." European Medicines Agency A spokeswoman for the Brit- negotiations.” Union agencies and facilities liamentary boycott isn't an "Europe is a synonym of the (EMA) and the European Bank- ish Brexit department said in a Yet EU officials say there is located in the United Kingdom acceptable way to express the rule of law, of the power of law ing Authority (EBA), and last statement: “No decisions have no question of Britain keeping is a matter for the 27 member will (of the people)." and not the power of force". month the EU’s draft plan for been taken about the location of the EMA and EBA, whatever ties states.” 16 EUROPE TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 Harry reveals years of turmoil after Diana's death

Princess Diana's youngest son tells British newspaper The Daily Telegraph he came close to mental breakdown in dealing with mother's death in 1997.

London AP

t is an image those who saw will never forget: Prince William and Prince Harry — just boys, really — walking silently behind their mother's cortege as the world Imourned Princess Diana's death in 1997. FROM LEFT: Prince Harry trying his hand at boxing at a Coach Core project at Gorbals Leisure Centre in Glasgow, Scotland, on July 29, 2014. Britain's Now Harry has revealed for the first time that losing his mother when he was Princess Diana holds Prince Harry in Mallorca, Spain, on August 9, 1988. Prince William (left) and Prince Harry, sons of Diana,bowing their heads as their only 12 left him in emotional turmoil for mother's coffin is taken out of Westminster Abbey following her funeral service on September 6, 1997. 20 years, filling him with grief and rage he could only manage after he sought complete breakdown on numerous at times felt "on the verge of punching They have argued that mental health He credited counseling with help- counseling. occasions." someone" and had taken up boxing as problems must be given the same pri- ing him recover. Breaking sharply with the royal tra- He describes a long, painful process an outlet for the aggression he felt. ority as other illnesses and should be "I've now been able to take my dition of maintaining a stoic silence of refusing to face his sense of loss that He said the long suppression of his spoken about openly and without work seriously, been able to take my about mental health, the 32-year-old only came to an end when he was in his grief eventually led to "two years of total stigma. private life seriously as well, and been prince told The Daily Telegraph in an late 20s and sought professional coun- chaos." Harry has also worked extensively able to put blood, sweat and tears into interview published yesterday that he seling to cope with the pressures and He said he was pretending that life with wounded veterans and has organ- the things that really make a difference had nearly suffered multiple break- unhappiness. was great until he started counseling and ised the Invictus Games to foster and things that I think will make a dif- downs since his mother's death. "My way of dealing with it was stick- faced his problems head on. international sporting competition for ference to everybody else," he said. It was by far the most frank inter- ing my head in the sand, refusing to ever "All of a sudden, all of this grief that injured or ill service personnel and Harry has also formed a romantic rela- view of Harry's life and gives the public think about my mum, because why I have never processed started to come veterans. tionship with American actress Meghan a much fuller view of Harry and the would that help?" he said of his teens to the forefront and I was like, there is Harry told interviewer Bryony Gor- Markle and in November took the unu- inner turmoil he suffered growing up and 20s, a period in which he embarked actually a lot of stuff here that I need to don, who has written extensively about sual step of chastising the press for in the public eye after losing his on a successful military career but also deal with," he said. her own struggles with depression and harassing her. mother. occasionally attracted unwanted head- Along with his brother Prince Wil- other issues, that he is in a "good place" Harry and William have both been He told the newspaper he "shut lines, notably for being photographed liam and sister-in-law the Duchess of now, and praised William for helping wary of press coverage, in part because down all his emotions" for nearly 20 playing "strip billiards" in Las Vegas. Cambridge, Harry has worked with a him seek help after many years of suf- of the way photographers shadowed years and had been "very close to a In the interview, Harry said he had charity that promotes mental health. fering in silence. their mother's every move.

Albanian cops Nature's canvas London club acid and customs officers held for attack injures 12

drug smuggling London It was identified as "an AFP acidic substance" from testing, Tirana he said, adding that there were Reuters welve people were injured around 600 people in the club when a corrosive sub- at the time. wo dozen Albanian Tstance was sprayed inside Police said the incident was police and customs a packed London nightclub, not believed to be terrorism or Tofficers have been police and fire services said, gang related but the result of a arrested on suspicion of col- amid a sharp rise in acid attacks dispute between two groups of luding to help smuggle 10 in Britain's capital. people in the club. tonnes of cannabis to Italy, Two of the victims, both They said the fight led to "a prosecutors said yesterday. men in their twenties, are in a noxious substance being The police chief of the "serious but stable condition" sprayed by a male suspect main port of Durres, four and 10 others suffered "minor directly at Victims 1 and 2" — anti-drug specialists there injuries", police said in a the two men with the more and customs and police offi- statement. serious injuries. cials at Durres and a border A London Fire Brigade "Other people inside the crossing with Macedonia are spokesman said an "unknown venue suffered the effects of the charged with trafficking two corrosive substance" was substance," the statement said, People interact with the installation 'London Fog (2017)' by Japanese artist Fujiko Nakaya lorries loaded with cannabis thrown in Mangle, a club in east adding that no arrests have in February and March. at the Tate Modern in London, yesterday. London, in the early hours of been made and appealing for “The prosecutor’s office yesterday. witnesses. believes ... they set up a net- work to stage the passage of lorry vehicles filled with nar- cotics from Albania to Italy,” the General Prosecutor’s Why Spain is world leader in organ transplants office said. Sophisticated scanning equipment at Durres has Madrid in 2015, 28.1 in France and 10.9 across Europe. Each hospital has often found cannabis and AFP in Germany, according to the a transplant coordinator, usually other drugs hidden in the Council of Europe. a doctor or nurse who special- most improbable parts of lor- uan Benito Druet has just "It is even better than if we ises in intensive care, charged ries headed for Italy, but it learned that his life may be had won the jackpot in the lot- with identifying patients at risk failed to detect eight metric Jabout to change. tery," says Druet's wife Jeronima, of a heart attack or brain death. tonnes of barely hidden weed In the next few hours he will 60, as she sits close to him along In both situations kidneys, in a truck on February 5. receive a healthy kidney thanks with the couple's two adult livers, lungs, pancreas and some- Bound for Belgium, the to a pioneering system that has children. times even the heart can still truck was stopped by Italian made Spain the world leader in Now she dreams of going on work and can be transplanted. police soon after it had landed organ transplants for the past 25 a cruise with her husband, some- Organ donations are quickly at the port of Ancona. Alba- years. thing impossible as long as he reported to the ONT which nian police denied any foul "We don't know what will needed to be hooked to a 15-kilo searches for the best match from play at Durres, but a second happen, but you have to take a kidney dialysis machine every its organ waiting list. truck with 2.2 metric tonnes chance," said Druet, 63, a night to filter his blood. If the patient is far away, a of cannabis was seized in Italy reserved and moustachioed boil- cooler with the organ is sent by A specialised nurse holds a plastic container with a kidney in March 24. ermaker, as he lays in his bed at 'TRANSPLANT LIVES' plane inside the cockpit with the to be transplanted to patient Juan Benito Druet at La Paz Albania is believed to be Madrid's La Paz hospital. The transplant operation pilot. The operation is free under the biggest open-air grower Hospital staff try to reassure lasts four and half hours. Spain's public health system, Hospital in Madrid. of cannabis in Europe. The him by telling him organ trans- Surgeons make a 15-centi- anonymous and available only government of Prime Minis- plants are carried out every day metre incision in Druet's to residents of the country to will die while they are on a wait- me my life back", says Castillo, ter Edi Rama eradicated in Spain. abdomen to transplant a healthy avoid organ trafficking. ing list," she explains. who now just needs to take pills large-scale, open-air cultiva- Doctors performed 4,818 kidney extracted the night before In Spain only four to six per- to ensure his body does not reject tion in the southern village of transplants last year, including from a woman who died. CENTRALISATION cent of patients died in 2016 while the donated kidney. Lazarat in 2014, but in the two 2,994 kidney transplants, After a transplant patients "What makes the difference they were on a waiting list for a The other secret to the suc- years since, open cannabis- according to the health minis- "start to regain weight, their is the organisation of the system. vital organ — a liver, heart or lung. cess of the Spanish system is growing has spread to an area try's National Transplant health improves. It is as if we This network, this centralisation, Ramon Garcia Castillo, 85, a training and communication, several times as large. Organisation (ONT). transplant lives," the founder of is the key," says Marie-Charlotte former TV technician, spent 13 explains Matesanz. Italian, Albanian and at That means there were 43.4 the ONT, Rafael Matesanz, says. Bouesseau of the World Health months on dialysis before he Since it was set up in 1989, times Greek coastguards organ donors per million inhab- Matesanz oversaw the Organisation's Department of received a kidney transplant in the ONT has trained over 18,000 engage in open sea chases of itants last year, a world record, implementation of a centralised Ethics. Worldwide only about 2010. He would previously trek transplant coordinators who speedboats laden with can- up from 40.2 donors in 2015. and well-oiled organ donation 10 percent of all patients who to a hospital three times a week break the news of a person's nabis. The bodies of four of By comparison, in the United and transplant system which has need a transplant receive a to be hooked up to a machine for death and then gently convince their operators have washed States there were just 28.2 been replicated in Portugal and donated organ, she adds. three-and-a-half hours. their loved ones to agree to ashore lately. donors per million inhabitants Croatia and inspired others "That means that 90 percent The kidney transplant "gave donate their organs. TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 EUROPE 17 UN court set to rule on Russian leaders meet case against Russia

The Hague protection measures. In the AFP Ukraine crisis interim application, Ukraine is Ukraine lodged its seeking a court order calling on n a key moment for the case in January, the tribunal to order Russia to Ukrainian crisis, the UN's accusing Russia of refrain from "any action which highest court will rule might aggravate or extend the violating the tomorrow on a bid by Kiev dispute" or make it more diffi- Terrorism Financing to stop Russia allegedly cult to resolve, including a halt Ipumping money, arms and Convention and an to the funnelling of money, troops into the country's war- international treaty weapons, equipment and per- torn east. against racial sonnel into the east. Three years into a bloody discrimination. It also urges the tribunal to conflict that has claimed more order Moscow to control its than 10,000 lives, Ukraine is Ukraine wants Russia borders in eastern Ukraine and urging the International Court to pay compensation halt racial discrimination in the of Justice to help bring stability to all civilians caught Crimea, particularly against the to its volatile east. up in the conflict. Tatars. Kiev is also calling on The After hearings in March, the Hague-based court to order ICJ will rule on the interim Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) meets with Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev at Moscow to halt what it calls application tomorrow. the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow, yesterday. "racial discrimination" against called on the court's 15 judges Moscow has strongly denied minority groups in the Russian- to rule that "the Russian Fed- Kiev's terrorism claims, saying occupied Crimea peninsula, eration bears international they were "neither factual nor particularly against its Tatar responsibility" for "acts of ter- legal" and argued that the ICJ population. rorism committed by its proxies does not have jurisdiction over The ICJ was set up in 1945 in Ukraine". the case. Russia questions new suspect to settle disputes between These include the shelling "The Russian Federation countries in line with interna- and bombing of civilians and complies fully with its obliga- tional law. the downing of Malaysia Air- tions under (the) treaties that in St Petersburg bombing Ukraine lodged its case in lines flight MH17, shot down by are now relied upon by January, accusing Russia of vio- a Russian-made Buk-missile Ukraine," Moscow representa- lating the Terrorism Financing over eastern Ukraine on July 17, tive Roman Kolodkin told the Moscow person to have been detained organisers of the attack, who Convention and an interna- 2014. court last month. Reuters on suspicion of having colluded had trained Jalilov, RIA reported. tional treaty against racial Ukraine wants Russia to pay The drawn-out conflict, in with the bomber, Akbarzhon Azimov was detained yes- discrimination. Moscow rejects compensation to all civilians which Russia also annexed ussian law enforcement Jalilov, since the attack. terday in the Moscow region, the the allegations. caught up in the conflict — one Ukraine's southern peninsula officials are questioning a Jalilov was killed in the agency reported. In its filing, Ukraine, a of Europe's bloodiest since the of Crimea in March 2014, has Rnew suspect over the explosion. Two suspects in the St former Soviet republic, charged 1990s Balkans wars — as well pushed ties between Moscow bombing of a metro train in St Russia’s Federal Security Petersburg bombing have Russia with "sponsoring terror- as to the families of the 298 vic- and the West to their lowest Petersburg earlier this month, a Service (FSB), cited by RIA news already been detained in the ism" by financing pro-Russian tims of MH17. point since the Cold War. source familiar with the inves- agency, identified the detained same Moscow suburb. Earlier, separatists and failing to stop As it can take months for Although the ICJ's rulings tigation said yesterday. man as Abror Azimov, born in Russian media reported that the military aid from seeping across the ICJ to even decide to hear a are binding, the court has no Fourteen people were killed 1990, from ex-Soviet Central bomber had made a telephone the border into eastern case, Ukraine also filed an power of its own to enforce in the April 3 attack. Asia. The FSB described him in call to someone in Moscow Ukraine's Donbas region. It application seeking interim them. The suspect is the ninth a statement as one of the before the attack.

Russia probes threat against Pro-Kremlin TV says Trump scarier than Kim Moscow foreign affairs than his prede- of better ties with Moscow. newspaper Reuters cessors. Dmitry Kiselyov, anchor Speaking in front of a picture of Russia’s main weekly TV news of the North Korean leader and Moscow s Russian hopes of swift show “Vesti Nedeli,” on the Ros- military commanders juxtaposed Reuters detente under President siya 1 channel, is widely seen as next to Trump’s image, Kiselyov ADonald Trump have fiz- the top pro-Kremlin presenter. said Kim Jong-Un was less scary ussian investigators zled, state media, which hailed He had already begun to dial than the US president because said yesterday they his election win, have made a back the Trumpomania and start he was ready for talks, had not Rwere checking infor- U-turn. On Sunday, they said he criticising the US president. attacked other countries, and mation that threats had been was scarier than North Korea’s But on Sunday, his first had not sent a naval armada to made against a Russian news- Kim Jong-Un. broadcast since Rex Tillerson’s the US coast. paper which reported that Trump’s decision to launch maiden visit to Moscow as US “He (Kim Jong-Un) is after all queer men were being tor- a missile strike against Syria, a secretary of state, Kiselyov, who on his home territory. He doesn’t tured and killed in Chechnya, Russian ally, drop a giant bomb once praised Trump for his Donald Trump (left) and Kim Jong-Un plan to attack anyone just for the the TASS news agency on Afghanistan, and stick with “independence” from the US sake of it,” said Kiselyov, who reported. Obama-era policies on Crimea, political establishment, removed Trump was “more impulsive and weren’t necessarily always inter- was a cheerleader for state TV’s Russia’s most famous mean Russian hopes of him the proverbial gloves. unpredictable” than the North changeable with the official strong anti-American tone under campaigning newspaper said befriending the Kremlin have “The world is a hair’s breadth Korean and to say both men position. “His position is close, the Obama administration and on Friday it had appealed to been on the slide for a while. from nuclear war,” said Kiselyov. shared some of the same nega- but not every time,” said Peskov. once said Moscow could turn the the Kremlin to protect its staff If state TV is a guide, his “War can break out as a result of tive traits: “Limited international The fact that Kiselyov is US into radioactive ash. Deliv- after Chechen clerics said the tough talk on North Korea’s confrontation between two per- experience, unpredictability, and being given free rein to use such ering a personal jibe, Kiselyov paper faced “retribution” for nuclear programme and deci- sonalities; Donald Trump and a readiness to go to war.” tough rhetoric about Trump is sarcastically told viewers that the alleging that queer men in the sion to despatch a naval strike Kim Jong-Un. Both are danger- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry nonetheless likely to reflect how North Korean leader’s young majority Muslim southern force to the region appear to ous, but who is more dangerous? Peskov declined to say whether deep the Kremlin’s anger runs daughter did not, unlike Ivanka Russian republic were being have buried any Russian hopes Trump is.” Kiselyov’s views chimed with the about what it sees as Trump’s Trump, have an office in her persecuted. that he might intervene less in Kiselyov went on to say that Kremlin’s, but said his opinions failure to deliver on his pledge father’s official residence. Vladivostok visa waiver for Treat for the eyes Russian magnate seeks 18 countries Moscow $12bn from govt Anatolia Paris yesterday's hearing to freeze ationals from 18 coun- AP Russian government assets tries will be able to abroad or other punitive meas- Nenter Russia's far east- he International Cham- ures. His claims for $12bn are ern Vladivostok city without ber of Commerce held an retaliation for what he calls visa, the Russian government Tarbitration hearing yes- unjustified Russian seizures of said yesterday. terday over a Russian magnate's his assets. Prime Minister Dmitry claims for $12bn from Russia, The Russian state Deposit Medvedev signed a decree part of a long-running battle Insurance Agency says allowing businessmen and with President Vladimir Putin's Pugachev ran his bank into the tourists to enter the country government. ground in a scam to get money through the Vladivostok port, Russia accuses Sergei from the government. Author- according to the statement. Pugachev of embezzlement, ities have frozen Pugachev's The only requirement is while he alleges the Russian assets in Britain and Switzer- that they need to enter their state unlawfully took over his land in that case, and he was personal details into a web- shipyards and other assets. sentenced in Britain for con- site created for this purpose, Pugachev had a big business tempt of court after fleeing to it added. The list includes empire in the 1990s, including France. Qatar, Algeria, Bahrain, Bru- ship-building, banking and No decision was made at nei, India, Iran, China, North energy, and was a longtime yesterday's hearing, held in Korea, Kuwait, Morocco, Putin ally before they fell into Paris at Pugachev's request, Mexico, UAE, Oman, Saudi dispute. according to lawyer David Flowers covered with snow are in Nesselwang, southern Germany, yesterday. Arabia, Singapore, Tunisia, Pugachev's representatives Goldberg, representing the Rus- Turkey and Japan. said his lawyers sought at sian government. 18 AMERICAS TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017

Border security Students return to school a week Manhunt for after shooting

San Bernardino suspected AP ith police keeping a watchful eye, stu- Wdents streamed into a San Bernardino elementary FB gunman school yesterday morning for the first time since a gunman opened fire, killing his Chicago Murder on FB live estranged wife and an AFP 8-year-old student. Police issued an Classes at North Park Ele- S police widened a arrest warrant for mentary resumed yesterday, manhunt yester- aggravated homicide a week after the shooting. day for a gunman against Stephens, A performer blew large who shot and described as a six- bubbles and a man handed killed an elderly foot one-inch, out teddy bears as busses Uman on Facebook Live in a 244-pound black rolled up and students headed seemingly random Easter Sun- man with a full beard into the school. day attack, and then vowed to who was last seen in Police officers stood continue killing. guard outside as the stu- a white Ford Fusion Police in Cleveland, Ohio dents and teachers walked Border Patrol agents patrol the US-Mexico border separating the two countries at said they believe the suspect, with temporary into school, passing a large 37-year-old Steve Stephens, is licence plates. Friendship Park in San Ysidro, California, yesterday. banner that read: “We love armed and dangerous, and have you.” alerted authorities in four Police said Stephens neighboring states to be on the broadcast the killing lookout for him. Robert God- on Facebook Live but win Sr, 74, was shot and killed said they have not on Sunday, apparently picked verified his claim to Cuban man pleads guilty in IRS tax return scam out at random as he walked have committed home after an Easter dinner, other murders. police and local media reported. Pittsburgh merchandise credits is offered by employees’ information to col- monetised through the Turbo “We know that Steve is still AP online filing service Turbo Tax lect phony tax refunds. After the Tax/Amazon.com system, out there someplace,” said second video clip. The videos and is known as monetising. credits were used to buy the eas- Melucci told the judge. Cleveland police chief Calvin were subsequently taken down Cuban national has Llanes, through an inter- ily re-sellable electronics, they UPMC is a 21-hospital network Williams. “We don’t know his by Facebook. pleaded guilty to his role preter, told US District Judge were shipped by others based in with thousands of doctors and condition and, of course, right Police said Stephens broad- A in an international con- Mark Hornak that he didn’t real- Miami to people like Llanes in dominates western Pennsylvania. now we don’t know his loca- cast the killing on Facebook Live spiracy to file more than 900 ise at first that the shipments Venezuelan cities, including UPMC officials said as 27,000 of tion. We’re asking the public to but said they have not verified phony federal tax returns seek- were part of an illegal scheme. Maracay and Maracaibo. The its 62,000 employees lost personal remain vigilant.” his claim to have committed ing $2.2 million in refunds by “I simply accepted a job to items were re-shipped to make information to the hackers. As part Police issued an arrest war- other murders. Stephens’ using employee information sto- make some extra money,” Llanes them harder to trace. of his eventual sentence, Llanes rant for aggravated homicide mother told CNN she called him len from the University of said. But Llanes acknowledged Those in Venezuela then sold has agreed to forfeit more than against Stephens, described as on Sunday after learning about Pittsburgh Medical Center. learning, at some point, that the the devices through online mer- $696,000 in unredeemed Ama- a six-foot one-inch, 244-pound the video and he told her he was Yoandy Perez Llanes, 33, refunds and shipments were chants or auction sites or kept zon gift credits. black man with a full beard shooting people because he was pleaded guilty to money launder- accomplished using stolen tax them for personal use. Llanes Llanes faces up to 20 years who was last seen in a white “mad with his girlfriend”. ing conspiracy and aggravated information from US citizens, received an unspecified payment in prison for the money launder- Ford Fusion with temporary Police said the woman he identity theft before a federal according to his federal public for his role, Melucci said. ing charge and a mandatory two license plates. In a video alluded to was in a safe place. judge in Pittsburgh. Assistant US defender, Thomas Livingston. UPMC’s computers were years tacked onto that for the uploaded to Stephens’s Face- Cleveland detectives also made Attorney Gregory Melucci said Melucci said the larger hacked in January 2014, and at identity theft charge when he’s book page, a man resembling contact with Stephens by phone Llanes’ role was to track phony investigation into the hacking least 939 bogus returns were sentenced August 18. him is seen exiting a vehicle and early in the investigation, Wil- tax refunds that were to be paid and filing of the tax returns is filed in the next couple of Another man, Justin Tollef- approaching his victim, who is liams said. “They tried to, of as Amazon.com credits and to ongoing. months. The scheme was halted son, a staff sergeant at Joint Base shown with a gun to his head course, convince him to turn receive cellphones, computers According to the indict- after almost $1.5 million of the Lewis-McChord in Tacoma, and then falling to the ground himself in and, of course, that and other electronics bought with ment, Llanes and at least three $2.2 million in refunds sought Washington, is scheduled to after a shot is fired. “I killed 13, hasn’t happened to date so the credits that were shipped to others who have not been pub- through the bogus tax returns plead guilty next week to a so I’m working on 14 as we again, We know he’s out there him in Venezuela. The service licly identified were part of a had been paid out with about charge of filing false claims speak,” the suspect says in a someplace,” he said. that converts tax refunds to the group who used the hospital $885,000 of the refunds being against the United States. Delta to pay Maduro orders Venezuela up to $10,000 army into the streets to bumped Caracas Maduro said Sunday night in a customers AFP televised address. State TV showed images of New York enezuelan President Nico- army units marching in the AFP las Maduro has ordered streets of Caracas as Defense Vthe army into the streets Minister Vladimir Padrino elta Air Lines has as the volatile country braces for watched. increased the maxi- what his opponents vow will be But there was no sign of sol- Dmum possible payout the “mother of all protests” diers on patrol yesterday to passengers to nearly tomorrow. morning in the capital. $10,000 if they voluntarily Maduro, who has faced vio- Venezuela has been rocked give up a seat on an over- lent protests over recent moves by two weeks of unrest since booked flight, the company to tighten his grip on power, Maduro’s camp moved to con- said yesterday. ordered the military to defend solidate its control with a The boost is part of the the leftist “Bolivarian revolution” Supreme Court decision quash- airline industry’s response to launched by his late mentor ing the power of the the global outrage sparked by Hugo Chavez in 1999. opposition-majority legislature. last week’s violent removal “From the first reveille (yes- The court partly backtracked of a customer from a United terday morning), from the first after an international outcry, but Airlines Chicago flight after rooster crow, the Bolivarian tension only rose further when he resisted being “bumped” National Armed Forces will be authorities slapped a political Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro speaking at a meeting with ministers at Miraflores Palace by the carrier. Delta customer in the streets... saying, ‘Long live ban on opposition leader Hen- service employees will be in Caracas, yesterday. the Bolivarian revolution,’” rique Capriles. permitted to offer up to $2,000 in these cases, up from the prior cap of $800. Supervisors will be able Residents nervously watch Americas’ oldest city gentrifying to grant up to $9,950, up from the prior limit of $1,350. Santo Domingo be priced out by a surge of stylish colonial-era facades, replace and has to leave because the pri- brother Bartolome and features The increases came after AP new restaurants and boutiques. water mains and street lighting vately owned building will be the continent’s first cathedral, United came under fire after “Bringing more tourists here and install new sidewalks. More restored with public money in first hospital and first university. it called security officers to atin America’s oldest colo- can be traumatic for us,” said private business is already mov- coming months. He said he fears The center was abandoned by forcibly remove passenger nial city is aiming for a Pedro del Castillo, the 67-year- ing in, with some 325 new cafes, that the owner of the remodeled many after the country’s 1965 David Dao from an over- Lrebound, pouring tens of old president of the restaurants, galleries and luxury buildings will raise the rent and civil war, with more prosperous booked flight in order to seat millions of dollars into repairing neighborhood’s residents’ asso- condominiums opening in the make it impossible for him to residents moving to new devel- crew members for another streets, cleaning up trash, install- ciation. “It seems like the aim is colonial center over the past five move back. “It’s going to hit us opments on the outskirts of the flight. Video of the episode ing streetlights and renovating for us, the residents, to leave.” years, according to official hard,” he said. capital. went viral, sparking calls for centuries-old buildings in hopes The city’s most ambitious figures. The program’s advocates say To celebrate the 500th anni- greater scrutiny of airlines of getting more of the Domini- restoration project in decades is The center is “a diamond that such fears are misplaced, and the versary of Columbus’ arrival in from politicians. can Republic’s 5 million tourists funded by a $120 million loan needs polishing,” said Silvanh government is dedicated to cre- the Americas, some of the cent- United, which is under- a year to spend less time at the from the Inter-American Devel- Riedel, manager and part-owner ating not just economic er’s limestone buildings with taking an audit of its beach and more in the capital’s opment Bank, most of which still of the Billini boutique hotel. development, but better lives for scenic wooden balconies were practices, already amended long-neglected historic center. must be approved by the Domin- Angelo Louis, a 19-year-old residents of the colonial center. restored in 1992, but the program some policies, saying it will Business owners are ican Republic’s congress. barber, rents a 90-square-foot The colonisation of the did little to improve the eco- require employees to be delighted, but residents of Santo The first $30 million in devel- (8.4-square-meter) space with- Americas began in Santo nomic fortunes of the area or booked at least 60 minutes Domingo’s walled city are watch- opment money has gone to paint out a bathroom in centuries-old Domingo, which was founded in draw more of the Dominican prior to departure. ing nervously, fearful that they will 800 homes, restore 200 El Conde street for $350 a month, 1496 by Christopher Columbus’ Republic’s tourists. TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017 AMERICAS 19 Gorsuch energetic in first US top court arguments

Washington claiming he was discriminated their “warm welcome.” in the language?” he said, refer- Obama’s Justice Department, Reuters Hearing cases against by the US Census Bureau, Gorsuch stepped in three ring to the statute. represented the town. Gorsuch, whose over the fine points of a law gov- times during the first one-hour The court had its full com- Gorsuch sparred with a law- resident Donald confirmation to the erning civil service employees. argument, on each occasion ask- plement of nine justices, five yer for a developer hoping to Trump’s appointee lifetime job restored The justices, with the excep- ing a string of questions about conservatives and four liberals, build on the land but did not Neil Gorsuch yester- the court’s tion of the usually silent Clarence the complicated federal law at for arguments for the first time directly engage with Katyal. day showed himself to Thomas, are known for their issue. As he indicated during his since Scalia’s death in February The third case, to be argued conservative be a frequent and aggressive questioning, and Gor- Senate confirmation hearing last 2016. The second case involved later in the day, involved a dis- majority, exhibited Penergetic questioner during US such showed no qualms about month, his line of inquiry focused whether a developer can inter- pute over whether certain Supreme Court arguments in his composure and jumping right in. on the text of the statute, an vene in a lawsuit brought by a securities class-action lawsuits first day hearing cases as a jus- confidence, sitting “I’m sorry for taking up so approach also embraced by the property owner against the town can be barred because they were tice, at one point even on the far right of much time, I apologise,” Gorsuch man he replaced on the court, of Chester, New York over its filed too late. Gorsuch formally apologising for talking too much. the bench in the said after his first lengthy Antonin Scalia, and other con- refusal to give him permission joined the Supreme Court on Gorsuch, whose confirma- ornate courtroom, exchange, sitting back in his servative jurists. to build on his land. April 10 after being confirmed tion to the lifetime job restored alongside liberal high-backed chair and smiling. “Wouldn’t it be a lot easier if One of the lawyers in the three days earlier by the Repub- the court’s conservative major- Justice Sonia Chief Justice John Roberts we followed the plain text of the case, Neal Katyal, was a familiar lican-led Senate over broad ity, exhibited composure and Sotomayor. welcomed Gorsuch to the court statute? What am I missing?” face to Gorsuch, having heartily Democratic opposition. confidence, sitting on the far before oral arguments began. Gorsuch asked government law- endorsed his nomination, even Gorsuch, at 49 the youngest right of the bench in the ornate “Justice Gorsuch, we wish you a yer Brian Fletcher at one point. testifying at his Senate Judiciary new justice in a quarter century, courtroom, alongside liberal Jus- justices yesterdayinvolved an long and happy career in our When Fletcher responded Committee confirmation hear- served for a decade on the Den- tice Sonia Sotomayor. employment dispute. Gorsuch common calling,” Roberts said. that he could give reasons for his ing. Katyal, who served as acting ver-based 10th US Circuit Court The first of the three one- grilled lawyer Christopher Gorsuch responded by interpretation, Gorsuch appeared solicitor general in Democratic of Appeals before Trump nomi- hour arguments before the Landau, who represented a man thanking his new colleagues for unsatisfied. “Not reasons. Where former President Barack nated him in January.

Paisley Park complex Extradition of NEWS BYTES former Mexican governor could Trump advisers meet today to discuss Paris climate deal take a year WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump’s top advisers will meet today to discuss whether to recommend that he with- Mexico City draw the United States from the Paris climate accord, a White Reuters House official said yesterday. The accord, agreed upon by nearly 200 countries in Paris in 2015, aims to limit planetary he extradition of a warming in part by slashing carbon dioxide and other emis- former state governor sions from the burning of fossil fuels. As part of the deal, the Tfor Mexico’s ruling party United States committed to reducing its emissions by between arrested in Guatemala at the 26 and 28 percent from 2005 levels by 2025. Trump in the weekend on corruption past has said the United States should “cancel” the deal but charges could take up to a he has been mostly quiet on the issue since he was elected. A year, a senior Mexican offi- White House official said Trump’s aides would “discuss the cial said yesterday. options, with the goal of providing a recommendation to the Javier Duarte, who until president about the path forward”. White House officials, led last year governed Veracruz by the National Economic Council, have recently been asking state for President Enrique publicly-traded energy companies for advice on whether to Pena Nieto’s Institutional stay in the agreementbbb. Major publicly traded coal com- The exterior of Prince's Paisley Park Museum during a media preview tour in Chanhassen, Revolutionary Party (PRI), panies such as Cloud Peak Energy Inc and Peabody Energy Minnesota. Several bottles of opioid painkillers were found at the singer's Paisley Park became a symbol of corrup- Corp confirmed that they have told White House advisers complex shortly after the music icon's death by accidental overdose, court documents tion in Mexico and his case is it is in their interests for the United States to remain in the unsealed show, yesterday. highly politicised with elec- Paris agreement to ensure there was a global role for high- tions looming. efficiency coal plants. Duarte, who has denied any wrongdoing, faces pros- ecution for embezzlement Crew search for hikers swept and organised crime in Mex- Arkansas prepping for lethal ico and his successor as away in Grand Canyon creek governor, Miguel Angel Yunes, has accused him of GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK: Authorities are search- injections despite halt from courts siphoning off billions of pesos ing for a 14-year-old boy and a 62-year-old woman missing from the oil-rich state of Ver- in Grand Canyon National Park after they were swept down acruz. How quickly Duarte a creek while crossing it in a remote part of the park. Chief Little Rock planned to execute eight inmates On April 6, US District Judge faces charges in Mexico Ranger Matt Vandzura of the National Park Service says two Reuters over 11 days, the most of any state J.P. Marshall halted one of the would depend on whether he fellow hikers alerted authorities by setting off an emergency in that short a time since the US eight executions, saying the chooses to fight extradition GPS locator beacon in the backcountry area below the can- rkansas has not called off Supreme Court reinstated the expedited schedule did not from Guatemala, said Alberto yon’s North Rim. He says the two lost their footing and were its plans to begin an death penalty in 1976. allow proper time for consider- Elias Beltran, a deputy attor- swept away Saturday in Tapeats Creek, a tributary of the Aunprecedented series of The state had set the expe- ing clemency for inmate Jason ney general responsible for Colorado River. Vandzura declined to identify the missing, executions despite federal and dited schedule because one of McGehee. international affairs at the the other hikers or their relationship to each other. An inves- state court rulings that tempo- the drugs in its difficult-to-obtain On Friday, the Arkansas Mexican Attorney General’s tigation is underway but authorities have not concluded how rarily halted the lethal injections lethal injection mix, the sedative Supreme Court halted Ward’s Office. the two were swept away. of eight death row inmates. midazolam, expires at the end of execution after lawyers for the “In our experience in the The orders by the various April. Critics contend its rush to inmate argued he was mentally attorney general’s office on judges barred the state from car- the death chamber was reckless incompetent. The state has extraditions with Guatemala, Officials release photo of mock rying out the executions, and unconstitutional. appealed. Also on Friday, a state we’re talking about six months IED found at Toronto airport including two planned for yes- If carried out, the back-to- judge issued a temporary to a year,” Elias said on Mex- terday night. But the state was back executions would begin at restraining order barring the ican television when asked TORONTO: US customs officials released a photo yesterday hoping to win last-minute 2300 GMT at the state’s Cum- state from administering one of how quickly Duarte could be of a mock improvised explosive device that led to delays at reversals of the decisions for mins Unit in Grady, a small town three drugs it planned to use, extradited to his homeland. Toronto’s Pearson International Airport when it was found in a convicted murderers Don Davis about 120km southeast of Little vercuronium bromide. Still, a lawyer acting for passenger’s luggage this month. US Customs and Border Pro- and Bruce Ward and was still Rock, the state capital. On Saturday, US District Duarte said at the weekend tection tweeted the photo and praised the officers who spotted preparing for the executions to But rulings by four judges Judge Kristine Baker granted a he believed the former gov- the device on April 6. The photo shows electronic components go ahead, prisons spokesman have put the brakes on the temporary injunction for all eight ernor would accept his apparently wired to a circuit board with a timer display and Solomon Graves told reporters. Arkansas plan, which has drawn inmates that halted their execu- extradition. Elias said if coils of wire snaking to bound-together cardboard tubes. The Each man has spent more than challenges from inmates and tions on grounds including that Duarte did not fight the proc- discovery during an inspection at the airport’s pre-clearance 20 years on death row. from drug companies claiming the state’s protocols violate US ess, and that the government area caused what was described as a major security breach. Arkansas, which has not held the prison system deceived them constitutional protections against would be trying to extradite Passengers on a United Airlines flight to Chicago were stuck an execution in 12 years, had over procurement. cruel and unusual punishment. him as fast as possible. on the tarmac for more than four hours. Joseph Galaska, a 58-year-old American from the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area was charged with one count of mischief. He was released on bail and his case is due back in a Toronto-area court today, Court keeps ruling intact in asylum seekers' case though his lawyer said he’s not expected in person. Washington ruling preventing them from border wall with Mexico Lesly Cruz, who also arrived in Woman awarded $760,000 for Reuters having their expedited removal intended to curb illegal immi- 2015, fled Honduras to protect skydiving accident in Oklahoma orders reviewed by a federal gration, and plans to expand the her daughter from sexual assault he US Supreme Court side- judge. number of people targeted for by members of the Mara Sal- OKLAHOMA CITY: A Texas woman has been awarded stepped a turbulent debate That Philadelphia-based expedited removal, a process vatrucha armed gang, the court $760,000 after she was badly injured in a skydiving acci- Tover illegal immigration court said the status of the fam- that applies to non-citizens lack- papers said. dent in Oklahoma. Mackenzie Wethington was 16 in January yesterday, turning away an ilies, all apprehended in Texas ing valid entry documents. The families were appre- 2014 when her parachute malfunctioned and she fell more appeal by a group of asylum- and later held in Pennsylvania, The families have said they hended in Texas within hours of than 3,000 feet to the ground in Chickasha. Her injuries seeking Central American was akin to non-citizens who are were escaping threats, violence illegally crossing the US-Mexi- included damage to her liver and a kidney, some bleeding women and their children who denied entry at the border and and police authorities unable or can border. After claiming in her brain, and a broken pelvis, lumbar spine in her lower aimed to clarify the constitu- they were not entitled to a court unwilling to help in their home asylum, they were determined back, shoulder blade and several ribs and several teeth. tional rights of people who the hearing to challenge that countries. by immigration judges to lack Court records show the now-19-year-old Wethington of government has prioritised for decision. Lead plaintiff Rosa Castro “credible fear” of persecution, Joshua, Texas, was awarded $760,000 last week. Robert deportation. Immigration has become an fled El Salvador to escape years and placed in expedited removal Swainson, the owner of now-closed Pegasus Air Sports in The families, 28 women and even hotter topic than usual in of rape, beatings and emotional proceedings. The families were Chickasha, has said he believes Wethington panicked and 33 children ages 2 to 17 from El the United States since President abuse by the father of her son, detained at Berks County Resi- didn’t follow instructions. The lawsuit said the teenager Salvador, Honduras and Guate- Donald Trump took office in Jan- who was 6 years old when they dential Center in Leesport, wasn’t properly trained and that her parachute was inap- mala, had hoped the justices uary. His administration has arrived in the United States in Pennsylvania, where 12 women propriate for her skill level. would overturn a lower court’s ordered construction of a 2015, according to court papers. and their children remain. 20 HOME TUESDAY 18 APRIL 2017

PRAYER TIMINGS IAD Annual Art Group Exhibition 2017 FAJR 03.50 am SHOROOK 05.09 am

ZUHR 11.33 am MAGHRIB 06.00 pm ASR 03.03 pm ISHA 07.30 pm

WEATHER TODAY

26oC 37oC Minimum Maximum

Artists explain their works to visitors at the International Artists-Doha’s (IAD) Annual Art Group Exhibition 2017 titled Time Passing. The expo that runs at Qatar Foundation Recreation Center until April 26, was inaugurated recently by Willy Kempel, Ambassdor of Austria to Qatar. The event showcases artworks by some 29 artists from different nations, based in Qatar. The works on show cover a wide range of styles, from realism to abstract and to contemporary. Pic: Salim Matramkot / The Peninsula

National & Heritage Programs Day for QF schools Strong wind at places and expected poor visibility at places by afternoon. The Peninsula projects from Qatar Academy Doha film, and best exhibition booth will be carefully nurture their National Pro- Hot daytime and slight dust to blow- (QAD), Qatar Academy Al Khor (QAK), awarded. Special booths by Nomas and grams. Pre-University Education has ing dust at places with some clouds. tudents from Qatar Foundation Qatar Academy Al Wakra (QAW), Qatar the Theater Affairs Center will also be further pioneered the Heritage Pro- schools will showcase their school Academy Sidra (QAS), Qatar Academy present. gram, and supported it with HIGH TIDE 08:00 - 22:15 LOW TIDE 05:15 - 14:00 Sprojects relating to the National Msheireb (QAM), Qatar Leadership "A nation that is not grounded in educational resources and electronic Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department Programs namely: Islamic Studies, Academy (QLA) and Awsaj Academy. its identity and culture has no future. content.” Qatari History, Arabic Language, and The two-day event will be held on Our aspirations towards the age of sci- The authors and consultants of the LATEST NEWS Qatari Heritage, the newly established April 26 and 27 from 9am to 2:30pm ence and modernity should be guided Qatari Heritage program from the Min- UPDATE program unique to QF schools. at Virginia Commonwealth University by our religious, national and cultural istry of Culture and Sports, and other PUE’s Academic Affairs, in line with Qatar (VCU-Q) Atrium in Education values,” commented Abeer Al Khalifa, contributors will also be acknowl- the PUE Vision of ‘Leading Learning’, City. PUE- Academic Affairs’ Director, add- edged. The event is open to all students, www.thepeninsulaqatar.com will bring together QF Schools students The winning works from the com- ing that "QF schools, while adopting parents and the local community. to exhibit performances and research petitions for best theatrical skit, best international educational programs,