Qatari Unstoppable investments Al Attiyah in UK reach clinches Hail £40bn Baja 1

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SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 28 RABIA II- 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8470 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Recharge using the app and get health insurance as a gift! Amir, Palestinian PM: National Day reflects citizens’ unity President to meet DOHA QNA — Qatar National Day carries great tomorrow, review Prime Minister and Minister of Interior significance in the hearts and bilateral ties H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin minds of all citizens and residents Abdulaziz Al Thani has underlined that of the country. QNA — DOHA the National Day of the State of Qatar is an important day in the memory of Efforts of the Ministry of Interior Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin citizens, as it reflects the values of unity was reflected clearly in the low Hamad Al Thani will meet between citizens, and carries great crime rates compared to tomorrow (Monday) with significance in the hearts and minds of international levels, particularly President of the State of all citizens and residents of the country. in terms of major crimes. Palestine H E Mahmoud Abbas, Speaking to Qatar News Agency who will arrive in the country (QNA) to mark the National Day cele- Qatar was ranked as the highest today for a working visit. brations, H E Prime Minister and Min- country in the Middle East and H H the Amir and the Pal- ister of Interior said that the National North Africa, and 27th in the estinian President will discuss Day is a historic occasion of when the world in the Global Peace Index relations between the two founder of the state Sheikh Jassim bin 2020 and the safest in the world brotherly countries and ways Mohammed bin Thani placed the foun- to support and enhance them, dation for establishing the State of Qatar. according to Numbeo Crime in addition to the latest devel- The Prime Minister and Minister of Index. opments in Palestine. Interior congratulated Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Father Amir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Interior is overseeing a number of pro- Minister and Minister of Interior said that Qatar, from the outset, relied on highly- Coasts and and all citizens and residents on the grams that came out of the second the efforts of the Ministry was reflected effective strategies that saw the state occasion, expressing hope that the National Development Strategy 2018- clearly in the low crime rates compared allocate all its resources to contain the Borders Security country continues to enjoy security and 2022, in addition to the strategy related to international levels, particularly in pandemic and maintain the safety of stability. to the main pillars of Qatar National terms of major crimes. everyone living in the country. patrols stop On the achievements of the Ministry Vision 2030, by focusing on having a He noted that the State of Qatar was He added that the Ministry of Interior of Interior this year, the Prime Minister security performance that is in line with ranked as the highest country in the assumed its responsibilities in enhancing Bahraini cruiser and Minister of Interior said that the Min- they highest standards. Middle East and North Africa, and 27th the efforts of protecting society and con- QNA — DOHA istry, like other state institutions, is doing His Excellency said that the Ministry in the world, in the Global Peace Index taining the virus, by following up on the its best to provide high-quality services. worked on expanding the services 2020 which is produced by the Institute implementation of the Cabinets decision He added that the Ministry built on its available on its website or its mobile app, for Economics & Peace. That is in in that regard, particularly the measures In the context of its usual achievements of the past few years by whether geographically or in terms of addition to being ranked the safest in related to the Ministry of Interior, in activities of monitoring continuing to execute on its strategy in the type and number of services, in an the world during the first half of 2020 addition to the measures announced by and protecting the Qatari 2020. attempt to save the time of service according to Numbeo Crime Index. the Supreme Committee for Crisis territorial waters, the The Prime Minister and Minister of seekers. On combating the coronavirus Management Coasts and Borders Interior noted that the Ministry of As for the security field, Prime (COVID-19), he said that the State of `FULL STATEMENT ON PAGE 8 Security patrols stopped a Bahraini cruiser in the “Fasht Al-Dibel” area within the borders of the Celebration mode in Qatar Qatari waters by 1.3 nautical miles, the Ministry of Interior announced. as National Day nears In a statement, the Ministry said: “Coasts and SIDI MOHAMED It is also to commemorate the Borders Security patrols THE PENINSULA founding of the State of Qatar by the found that there were three founder Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed sailors on board, one Bah- The Doha Corniche, and many other bin Thani on December 18, 1878, who raini national and the rest places are decorated with rows of the laid the foundations of the modern state from one of the Asian Qatari flag to celebrate the National Day, of Qatar, under whom Qatar became a nationalities as they were which falls on December 18 of each year. single, coherent entity and an inde- fishing using traps,” adding Qatari flags have been installed along pendent, unified country. that they are referred to the the Corniche Street, where the main cel- The National Day parade is the most competent prosecution to ebrations will take place. Also, historical prominent event in the state’s celebra- complete the legal proce- sites such as the Souq Waqif have been tions of this great occasion as thousands dures against them. adorned with flags. Other major of citizens and residents enthusiastically buildings and shopping malls have also participate in the celebrations. been draped in the Qatari flag and beau- All the Armed Forces will participate tiful lighting, which has become an in the parade, displaying the latest mil- Honour for HMC annual symbol of National Day itary equipment to demonstrate their full Adult Allergy celebrations. combat readiness. A building in Lusail City illuminated in Qatari national colours as part of National Day Citizens, in showing patriotism and The Doha Corniche is expected to celebrations. PIC: ABDUL BASIT/ THE PENINSULA and Immunology fealty to the homeland, have also host celebrations, though in a limited adorned their homes with the Qatari flag. capacity due to the coronavirus Division Citizens and residents have had their cars pandemic. volunteers combating the COVID-19 ancestors’ heritage, as this celebration fitted with the national flag in posters, Recently, the Armed Forces, the spread participated in the parade. aims to celebrate and appreciate Qatar’s THE PENINSULA — DOHA small flag posts, and stickers. Amiri Guard Forces, and the Ministry The National Day affirms the heritage. The National Day is celebrated to of Interior conducted a successful pre- identity and history of the state. It On this day, Qatar remembers how Hamad Medical Corporation’s deepen belonging and loyalty to the event parade. Many high-ranking offi- embodies the ideals and hopes upon it succeeded in achieving its national (HMC) Adult Allergy and Immu- homeland, highlighting all manifesta- cials were present at the rehearsal. For which the state was established and the unity and how it became a distinct nology Division has been desig- tions of solidarity, unity, and pride in the the first time, doctors and nurses at the continued adherence to these ideals, country. Citizens and residents express nated as a Center of Excellence national identity of the State of Qatar. Hamad Medical Corporation and and the keenness to revive the love and loyalty to the country. by the World Allergy Organi- zation – a worldwide alliance of allergy and clinical immu- nology societies. MME launches drive to ensure proper worker accommodations The Minister of Public Health, H E Dr. Hanan SANAULLAH ATAULLAH The violation at partitioned amended Law No. 22 of 2019 provisions of aforementioned over five workers in a place Mohammed Al Kuwari has THE PENINSULA residential units was recorded to evacuate erring labour two laws, H E Minister of inside family residential areas highlighted the achievement under the law for regulating camps. Municipality and Environment is considered violation of the as another example of Qatar’s To ensure a suitable accommo- buildings. However, labour The Ministry of Municipality had issued Ministerial Decision provisions of the law. Therefor, continued success in the dations for workers where they camps received tickets of vio- and Environment asked citizens No. 105 of 2020 to specify legal actions will be taken journey towards providing a can enjoy a decent life with lations following the Law No. and expatriates to adhere to the family residential areas where against the practice. world-class healthcare system safety and security, Al Rayyan 15 of 2010 for banning labour laws to avoid legal actions labour accommodations are not The decision stipulates for through the delivery of high Municipality has launched accommodations inside family against them. allowed. issuing warning against the vio- quality, international standard inspection campaigns at labour residential areas and the Implementing the As per the decision, housing lator – either landlord or tenant patient care. camps inside family residential or both of them. In addition, a “The Adult Allergy and areas and partitioned villas and violation will be booked for the Immunology Division provides residential units. Municipal inspectors issued 92 practice asking to evacuate the essential care, support, and The municipal inspectors warnings to erring labour camps property for running labour education to our community. issued 92 warnings to erring and partitioned residential units. camp. This prestigious designation labour camps and partitioned In case of non-compliance demonstrates that we are con- residential units under a cam- The MME asked citizens and of evacuation order, the tinually striving to provide paign in Umm Saneem area of expatriates to adhere to the laws property will be evacuated by patients with a quality Al Rayyan Municipality, the to avoid legal actions against force. The electricity and water healthcare service that meets Ministry of Municipality and them. supply to erring property will the highest international Environment (MME) has be disconnected. standards,” Dr. Al Kuwari said. tweeted. Ministerial Decision No. 105 of As per the decision, a vio- “The commitment of the The Ministry said that the 2020 to specify family residential lator will be punished with team and their focus on campaigns will cover all areas areas where labour jail sentence of up to six delivering the highest of Al Rayyan Municipality as per accommodations are not allowed. months and fine from standard of care to our the plan chalked out in this QR50,000 to QR100,000 or patients is a great testament regard. one of them. `P4 to this achievement.” `P2 02 HOME SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020

HMC adult allergy division designated as Center of Excellence OFFICIAL NEWS FROM PAGE 1 Currently, the service Amir congratulates operates 21 clinics per President of Kenya The World Allergy Organi- week, including a Severe zation is an international DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim umbrella organization whose Asthma Clinic, Severe bin Hamad Al Thani, Deputy Amir members consist of 103 regional Urticaria clinic, and H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al and national allergology and two Immunodeficiency Thani, and Prime Minister and Min- clinical immunology societies clinics. The facility ister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid worldwide. WAO Centers of bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani Excellence (WCOE) support includes an Allergy Lab, sent yesterday cables of congratu- multidisciplinary scientific and a research room, and lations to President of the Republic clinical innovation, education, infusion service, and it of Kenya H E Uhuru Kenyatta on and advocacy worldwide, pro- receives more than 2500 the anniversary of his country’s viding excellence in education, Independence Day. -QNA research, training to various new referrals per year on stakeholders in allergy, asthma, average. and clinical immunology. HMC’s Adult Allergy and Mada Center wins Immunology Division is the ciency diseases. first in the GCC region to attain “This division provides an Minister of Public Health, H E Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari (second left) and Hamad Medical prize for digital this status and joins similar essential range of testing and Corporation officials with the certificate of Adult Allergy and Immunology Division designated as a empowerment programs in some of the most treatment options for our Center of Excellence. well-known hospital and patients, and we are delighted health systems in the world. to receive this international operates 21 clinics per week, allergic rhinitis, asthma, food Center of Reference and Excel- QNA — DOHA Senior Consultant, Head of recognition,” Dr. Al Nesf said. including a Severe Asthma allergies, drug allergies, different lence (UCARE) and an Department and Program “This designation is a tes- Clinic, Severe Urticaria clinic, types of urticaria, atopic derma- Angioedema Center of Ref- Mada - Qatar Assistive Tech- Director of Fellowship timony to the continued ded- and two Immunodeficiency titis, hereditary angioedema, erence and Excellence (ACARE) nology Center won the Training Program, Adult ication and quality of service clinics. The facility includes an anaphylaxis, food-dependent and the Global Allergy & Unesco-Amir Jaber Al Ahmad Allergy and Immunology provided by the team. Our cli- Allergy Lab, a research room, exercise-induced anaphylaxis, Asthma European Network Al Jaber Al Sabah Prize for Section, Dr. Maryam Ali Al nicians and nurses all work and infusion service, and it and primary immunodeficiency (GA²LEN). Besides, the Com- Digital Empowerment of Nesf Al Mansouri, said this was together to ensure that our receives more than 2500 new disorders. bined Allergy and Immunology Persons with Disabilities, for the only service in the country patients receive the highest referrals per year on average. A HMC’s Allergy and Immu- Fellowship Training in HMC is the year 2020-2021. that caters to adults with quality care.” wide range of disorders is dealt nology Service has also been an ACGME-I accredited Mada Center won the prize allergic and immunodefi- Currently, the service with by the team, including accredited as an Urticaria program. in the organisations category, in honour of its role as Center and facilitator to consolidate the meanings of digital Qatar participates in 13th inclusion and build an acces- sible technological society for people with disabilities, and for its important role in supporting Bali Democracy Forum the government’s strategies, legislation and policies in this QNA — DOHA various sectors of the field. state. It has provided a The committee responsible The State of Qatar participated Al Muraikhi said that world-class healthcare for the prize commended in the 13th Bali Democracy Qatar’s health system system, available to all Mada’s distinguished work in Forum, which was held virtually has proven its residents, to form a research and development, under the theme: “Democracy importance in the face of fundamental pillar of implementation, advisory and the COVID-19 Pandemic.” the pandemic as it has the Qatar National services and standardization, Qatar was represented at the Vision 2030, as Qatar making assistive technology meeting by the Minister of State recorded one of the is considered first in available to users with disabil- for Foreign Affairs, H E Sultan bin lowest death rates in the healthcare in the Gulf ities, working with accessibility Saad Al Muraikhi. world. region. principles, and promoting In the State of Qatar’s speech Al Muraikhi international cooperation. to the meeting, Al Muraikhi said stressed that the State The committee also appre- that the theme of this forum of Qatar believes in the ciated the Center’s role in reflects the grave challenges that importance of strong addressing the coronavirus the world faces, as a result of the educational, and other sectors are teamwork and careful Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, taking (COVID-19) pandemic by pro- ongoing pandemic, and the rapid based. coordination to move part in 13th Bali Democracy Forum. viding tangible solutions that changes in this regard, which He added that Qatar’s health forward and overcome support the use of more com- calls for intensifying cooperation system has proven its importance this crisis, adding that Qatar has this pandemic. It is working with circumstances, Al Muraikhi said prehensive information on at the bilateral and multilateral in the face of the pandemic, as it strengthened its ability to the United Nations Development that the State of Qatar is issues of education, culture levels to limit the adverse effects has recorded one of the lowest respond to face the dangerous Program in the Innovation Lab, heading towards holding the and community of this pandemic. death rates in the world due to repercussions of the crisis which includes more than 47 first legislative elections for the development. He referred to the appeal of the efforts made by the state and quickly. countries, devising solutions to Shura Council after the Amir H Mada Center provides a the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin concerted efforts at all levels. It In this regard, he indicated address the negative conse- H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al number of targeted services Hamad Al Thani to the interna- has proven the effectiveness of that the State of Qatar has made quences of the coronavirus pan- Thani announced the date for and activities to its strategic tional community for joint action Qatar’s long-term health policy financial contributions of $140m demic, including business, tech- its establishment as October partners to enhance its role as to ensure justice in providing the and investment in developing the to multilateral health care insti- nological and medical solutions 2021. a strategic enabler in the field necessary medicines and medical health system with all its com- tutions that work in developing for developing and emerging It would be the culmination of ICT access. equipment to all countries, espe- ponents, such as health centres, vaccines to ensure the efficiency countries. of a new reform process and the The Center also gives pri- cially in poor regions of the hospitals, and medical of health care, especially in the He reiterated the State of development of the legislative ority to empowering the edu- world. personnel. least developed countries, and Qatar’s continued support for process with wider partici- cation sector to ensure a com- Al Muraikhi stressed that He also indicated that Qatar $20m, in support of the Global international institutions to pation of citizens, as an prehensive educational system facing the coronavirus pandemic had determined the public health Alliance for Vaccines and Immu- develop the health sector to pre- important step to strengthen the at all levels and continuous proved the health sector’s impor- sector’s centrality in building sus- nization “Jaffe.” serve the lives and stability of traditions of the Qatari Shura learning through information tance as the main pillar on which tainable development and Qatar has also assisted more individuals. under the national constitution and communication the rest of the economic, social, pushing forward growth in than 80 countries in confronting In light of these exceptional promulgated in 2004. technology. Mowasalat activates Apple Pay, Google Pay services in Karwa taxis Police College participates in

THE PENINSULA — DOHA At the moment, customers with CEO of Mowasalat (Karwa), annual INTERPA conference already activated Apple and Fahad Saad Al Qahtani said: Mowasalat (Karwa), the primary Google Pay accounts will be “The customers are at the very QNA — DOHA the education and training of transport service provider in able to pay their Mowasalat heart of our business, and this officers in police academies’. Qatar, and QNB Group, the (Karwa)’s taxi and Limousine directly resonates in the imple- The Police College participated The paper addressed the largest financial institution in rides through the system, until mentation of latest in the 9th annual international methodology and method of the Middle East and Africa, have the service is approved for local technology. conference of the International work of police academies and collaborated towards banks, too. “The activation of Apple Pay Association of Police Academies colleges in the past and the devel- enhancing Mobile payment via Under this partnership, and Google Pay services comes (INTERPA), which was held opments in the police education Apple Pay and Google Pay. Mowasalat (Karwa) is the first within our ongoing efforts that virtually, under the theme of system in line with developments The launching of Apple Pay merchant to enable this service we started with the brand new “Challenges of Police Academies in crime and the requirements of and Google Pay, which secures in Qatar, while QNB will Karwa Taxi App. We constantly for Near Future”. police work. It pointed out that payments using Touch ID or become the Mastercard embrace more digital solutions Dean of academic affairs in these developments have Face ID on compatible iOS and Payment Gateway Services pro- to make our services easily and charge of the Police College Lt prompted police colleges to Android devices, is an vider, offering its customers safely available for all. In a nut- Col Dr. Jassim Mohammed Al introduce educational pro- important step by Mowasalat mobile payment solutions that shell, we are on the way to Obaidly presented a paper grammes and curricula that are CEO of Mowasalat (Karwa) (Karwa) and QNB to promote are compatible with the best make Mowasalat (Karwa) part entitled ‘The impact of current more compatible with the tasks Fahad Saad Al Qahtani payment through smart devices. international standards. of everyone’s everyday life.” developments in police work on and duties of police work. Sidra Medicine supports Qatar’s contribution to WHO strategy to eliminate cervical cancer

FAZEENA SALEEM suffering from the disease. He also said that WHO’s in Qatar are screened for cer- screenings and cervical cancer. THE PENINSULA The Cervical Screening Global Strategy to Accelerate vical cancer, and unfortunately The clinic offers appointments Clinic at Sidra Medicine offers the Elimination of Cervical 12 of 19 cervical cancer cases directly within seven business The Cervical Screening Clinic cervical screenings which can Cancer is achievable. “Cervical from 2018 resulted in death. days and does not require a at Sidra Medicine is committed detect abnormalities and cancer is a preventable disease. “The risk of cervical cancer referral. to supporting Qatar’s contri- identify the need for treatment. It is also curable if detected can be lowered by having the According to WHO, cervical bution to the World Health The services include pap tests, early and adequately treated,” HPV vaccine. It is recom- cancer is the fourth most fre- Organization’s strategy to elim- which check for cell changes in said Dr. Ortashi. mended that the vaccine, which quently diagnosed cancer in inate cervical cancer. the cervix caused by the human Cervical cancer is caused protects against several strains women, with an estimated World Health Organization’s papillomavirus (HPV). The mainly by HPV, a sexually of human papillomavirus,” said 570,000 new cases identified (WHO) Global Strategy to Accel- Clinic also offers HPV vaccina- transmitted infection. Though Dr. Ortashi. in 2018. erate the Elimination of Cervical tions to all eligible women and it causes no symptoms, around “People can be infected with The WHO strategy aims that Cancer which was launched in has embedded a system that 99 percent of all cervical cancer HPV for years, before they 90 percent of girls fully vacci- November, outlines three key will notify a patient when they cases are a result of an HPV experience any symptoms of nated with the HPV vaccine by steps vaccination, screening and require a follow up test. infection. Women should be infection. This is why women 15 years of age, 70 percent of Dr. Osman Ortashi treatment. “Through education and screened for cervical cancer should get regular cervical women screened using a high- According to Senior vaccines, coupled with well- every three years from ages 21 screenings which will allow for performance test by age 35 and Attending Physician who trained professionals in the to 49, and every five years from early detection of any changes Ortashi. again by 45 and 90 percent of oversees the Cervical Screening field, we support measures to ages 50 to 64. Patients married in the cervix. Treatment given The Cervical Screening women identified with cervical Clinic at Sidra Medicine, Dr. not only raise awareness for more than three years and in the early stages has a very Clinic at Sidra Medicine is disease receive treatment (90 Osman Ortashi, rightly country-wide but also help not yet aged 21 are also high success rate. Waiting until staffed by internationally percent of women with pre- addressing the key steps high- reduce the mortality rate of cer- eligible. the appearance of physical trained female nurses and phy- cancer treated and 90 percent lighted by the WHO, can help vical cancer,” Dr. Ortashi told In Qatar, statistics indicate symptoms, such as bleeding and sicians who also support patient of women with invasive cancer hundreds of women who are The Peninsula. that only 17.2 percent of women pain, will be too late,” said Dr. education about cervical managed), by 2030. SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 HOME 03 04 HOME SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020

12 govt agencies participate in MoCI records 37 violations at retail outlets MADLSA programme on auditing THE PENINSULA — DOHA QNA — DOHA The three-week The Ministry of Commerce and The inspection campaign programme was Industry (MoCI) carried out a joint aimed at ensuring the The Institute of Public Adminis- organised in inspection campaign in collabo- compliance of the outlets tration at the Ministry of Admin- ration with the Ministry of to laws and decisions istrative Development, Labour cooperation with the Interior on retail outlets in Al and Social Affairs (MADLSA) has Community Service Sheehaniya. regulating commercial concluded the fundamentals of The inspection campaign activities, including Law internal auditing programme. and Continuing aimed at ensuring the com- No. 5 of 2015 on The three weeks programme Education Center at pliance of the outlets to laws and regulating commercial, was organised in cooperation with Qatar University. decisions regulating commercial industrial and similar the Community Service and Con- activities, including Law No. 5 of tinuing Education Center at Qatar 2015 on regulating commercial, shops, and street University, with the participation the second part involved workers industrial and similar shops, and vendors. of employees in the internal audit in internal audit departments street vendors. departments of 12 government according to their specialisations The inspection campaign agencies. The programme aimed and their field of work, whether resulted in 37 reports of viola- to enable participants to apply the financial, administrative or infor- An inspector seen registering violations at a retail outlet during tions, including noncompliance measures against violators in basic principles of the internal mation, and each participant an inspection campaign. with public and private require- order to protect consumer rights. audit process in government attended two programs, the first ments (failure to adhere to the laws and regulations governing of 2015, and that it would The Ministry urged all mer- agencies in accordance with the basic and the second specialised. precautionary measures). commercial activities in a bid to intensify its inspection cam- chants and shopkeepers to environment, practical experience These programmes will con- The inspection campaign uncover and crack down on paigns to crackdown on such comply with applicable laws and and relevant legislation in force in tinue in the 2021 training plan, comes as part of the Ministry’s violations. practices. The Ministry said it regulations governing com- Qatar. The programme contained whereby two programmes are efforts to monitor and regulate The Ministry stressed that it would refer any party that vio- mercial activities, and to review two parts, the first: the funda- offered in fundamentals of internal markets and commercial activ- would not tolerate any negli- lates laws and ministerial deci- them on its website www.moci. mentals of internal auditing, in auditing, two in management ities across Qatar, and to monitor gence in terms of meeting obli- sions to competent authorities, gov.qa to avoid legal accounta- which all candidates from internal auditing and two in financial the degree of compliance with gations stipulated in Law No. 5 who would take appropriate bility and penalties. audit departments took part, and auditing.

MoPH reports 153 HBKU college co-hosts webinar recoveries, 147 on Public-Private Partnerships new virus cases

THE PENINSULA — DOHA THE PENINSULA — DOHA

The potential of Public-Private Partnerships The Ministry of Public Health (PPP) to finance infrastructure projects was (MoPH) yesterday announced the focus of a webinar hosted by the Program the registration of 147 new for Social Policy Evaluation and Research confirmed COVID-19 cases. (PROSPER) at the College of Public Policy Among them 41 were trav- (CPP), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU). ellers returning from abroad. The virtual event was held in collaboration Also, 153 people have with the School of Public Policy at the recovered from the virus, University of Maryland. bringing the total number of Using Public-Private Partnerships to recovered cases in Qatar to Finance Major Infrastructure Projects: 138,347. Lessons for the Region on December 2 shed light on realities, challenges, opportunities, successes and failures of different PPP MME launches models in the Mena region. Comparative per- spectives highlighted the optimal tools that Dr. Anis Ben Brik drive to ensure support PPP evaluation and decision making. Associate Professor at CPP and Founding proper worker Director of PROSPER, Dr. Anis Ben Brik jointly HBKU in this effort, which is focused on the chaired the discussions with Director, Center needs of the Mena region.” accommodations for International Policy Exchanges, University Eminent speakers at the webinar FROM PAGE 1 of Maryland School of Public Policy, Dr. included, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Douglas Besharov, which featured experts Research and Technology, US Department from the public sector and academia from of Transportation, Hon Diana Furchtgott- The law allows H E Minister of the Mena region, the US, and Europe. Roth; Member of the Regulatory Scrutiny Municipality and Environment Dr. Brik said, “In keeping with our Board, European Commission, Dr. Andreas and his representatives for intention for PROSPER to develop a policy- Kopp; President of the World Association reconciliation against paying relevant research agenda driven by the grand of PPP Units and Professionals and Vice- 50 percent of the maximum social policy challenges facing Qatar and the Chair of the Working Party on PPP of the UN fine which is QR50,000 and to Mena region, the webinar was an engaging Economic Commission for Europe, Ziad evacuate the erring property. and fruitful event. Hayek; Chairman of Istanbul Public-Private The decision No. 105 of “Our ongoing collaboration with Mar- Partnership Center of Excellence, Dr. Eyüp 2020 gave exceptions to those yland University to host this webinar is one Vural Aydın and Senior Fellow and the accommodations housing way in which we aim to bridge gaps between Director of the Global Business and Eco- female workers regardless academia, policymakers, and practitioners nomics Program at the Atlantic Council, Bart their work nature and with a vested interest in understanding the Oosterveld. domestic helps and those come benefits and challenges of public-private Ensuring a broad range of policy-ori- under it like housemaids and partnerships.” ented discussions, the webinar’s expert panel drivers. Dr. Besharov, said, “When properly also featured Senior Legal Counsel, Head of The decision came under designed and implemented, public-private Governance and Government Affairs, Qatar the efforts of the Ministry of partnerships bring the expertise, efficiency, Investment Authority, Dr. Ehab Elsonbaty; Municipality and Environment and financing of the private sector to the Director, PPP Unit, Ministry of Finance, to protect the health of financing and construction of major infra- Jordan, Osama Suleiman; and Director, workers, curb the labor camps structure projects. We at the University of Tunisian Public Private Partnership Agency, (housing over five workers at Maryland are honoured to partner with Samira Ben Sik Ali. a place) in family residential areas and phenomena of at random unsystematic labor camps which do not meet specifications of a suitable accommodation.

Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, Mathaf to hold conference

QNA — DOHA

The Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, in cooperation with Mathaf, the Arab Museum of Modern Art will host the Visual Arts Studies Third Annual Conference, 2020-2021 tomorrow, through video conference technology virtually, under the slogan: “The Future Museum in the Future City.” Many researchers, artists, and workers in museums and galleries from different countries of the world will participate in the conference. The conference stems from the idea that the modern city built the museum as a reflexive mechanism. Therefore the museum had to tell the story of the city through different visual, archi- tectural, and temporal media so that the museum, over time, became a major actor in reshaping the city’s space and time. The conference also sheds light on current intersections of the health crisis, and how the museum and the city have been deeply and comprehensively affected by the pandemic. SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 HOME 05 QU hosts Foundation Program’s 2nd Virtual Academic Excellence Week

THE PENINSULA — DOHA David Nunan, a Professor Emeritus of applied linguistics Under the Deanship of General at Hong Kong University and Studies, Qatar University’s (QU) one of the most distinguished Foundation Program organised educators globally, presented its ‘2nd Virtual Academic Excel- the opening session, and the lence Week’ recently. pioneer of student-based The event aimed at learning in the 1970s. In the FBQ Museum lines up Qatar exchanging expertise and good lecture, Professor Nunan dis- educational practices of English cussed this kind of learning and National Day activities Language Teaching (ELT) under shared exciting highlights of his the COVID-19 pandemic situ- own experiences about THE PENINSULA — DOHA tours of its Qatari Heritage ation. It also included training learners’ difficulties in various Section on December 18 from workshops focusing on inno- Participants at the ‘2nd Virtual Academic Excellence Week.’ educational settings and from Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al 3pm to 5pm and on December vative methods of excellence diverse cultural Thani Museum has announced 19 from 10.30am to 12 noon and that enhance online teaching wider English language thanked the organising Foun- backgrounds. it is presenting special Qatar from 3pm to 5pm. and learning, with the partici- teaching community. He also dation Program’s Academic Several internationally rec- National Day programmes for In addition, visitors can pation of researchers and stressed the importance of such Excellence and Professional ognized institutions’ speakers people to enjoy this valuable have Arabic calligraphy sou- experts from local and interna- professional development Development committee at from Qatar, the USA, Australia, occasion with family and venir by the museum’s callig- tional universities, and opportunities for faculty Qatar University for their val- Finland, and Hong Kong pre- friends. rapher and photo opportunity attendance of more than 500 members to enrich their uable efforts in organizing this sented mostly on teaching The programmes comprise in a traditional Qatari majlis ELT faculty, teachers, and spe- knowledge of new academic event. English to speakers of other activities in which visitors can setting during regular museum cialists inside and outside Qatar. content further and enhance During the three-day event, languages (TESOL). The event learn more about the history of hours. In line with Qatar National their instructional techniques. the presenters discussed recent covered topics as diverse as a Qatar and the rich culture of From December 18 until Vision 2030, the Director of the He added that faculty ELT research developments. They revised learner-centered Qatari people through mar- January 2, the museum will run Foundation Program (FP), Dr. members’ participation in such showcased and shared various approach, sustainability in dis- velous collections, rare arti- Qatari Art Exhibition at The Hezam Al Awah, pointed out events shows Qatar University’s ideas, experiences, and research tance teaching, increased facts, and art pieces showcased White Majlis in which excep- that the event is considered one commitment to offering inno- outcomes geared towards online student engagement, at FBQ Museum that tell stories tional Qatari art and artifact of the most important activities vative, high-quality opportu- achieving learning outcomes and and individual vs. institutional about the history of Qatar from selections from FBQ Museum that the FP periodically holds nities to its faculty members and enhancing students’ engagement response to current educa- the past and up to the present. will be showcased during for its faculty members and the students. Dr. Al Awah also in virtual learning contexts. tional needs. FBQ Museum is organising regular museum hours. Ooredoo announces QND offer QRCS supervises polio vaccination for 815,000 children in Syria with QIIB for Nojoom members THE PENINSULA — DOHA in the underserved governo- rates of northern Syria. THE PENINSULA — DOHA January 31, 2021, and is subject Personnel of Qatar Red QRCS acted as a neutral to Terms and Conditions. Crescent Society (QRCS) in Syria observer to make sure that the Qatar’s leading telecommuni- Director PR at Ooredoo have recently completed the vaccination process meets cations operator has Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, said: monitoring of the polio vacci- international standards. Among announced a special Qatar “We’re delighted to have nation campaign in the the areas covered by the cam- National Day offer with its teamed up with QIIB for northern part of the country, paign were the districts and partner bank, QIIB. another amazing Nojoom offer, amid strict preventive measures countryside of Idlib, the coun- Nojoom members taking this time to celebrate Qatar against COVID-19. tryside of Aleppo, Tell Abiad, Personal or Vehicle Finance National Day. We know our Done in cooperation with and Ras Al-Ayn, where the with QIIB can look forward to customers are discerning when the World Health Organization health sector is disrupted and an incredible 18,000 Nojoom they look for financial products, (WHO) and the United Nations public health services are totally Points for every QR100,000 of and we also know they value Children’s Fund (Unicef), the lacked due to the war and finance taken. Other benefits the rewards on offer with campaign covered a total of COVID-19. include a profit rate starting at Nojoom. This new promotion 815,000 children under five A well-trained team of QRCS staffmonitoring the polio vaccination campaign in Syria. just 3.90% (fixed profit rate is a great way for them to earn years of age. QRCS personnel were deployed equivalent 2.08%) and a grace an incredible number of It was an attempt to give and t he monitoring process During campaign, QRCS super- health centers and households period of up to 12 months for Nojoom points while taking oral polio vaccines to those comprised three phases. During visors examined vaccine and take notes. During post- Qatari Nationals and up to 3 care of their financial needs, children who had not been pre-campaign, the supervisors samples, checked storage con- campaign, the results were ana- months for Expatriates. and we hope they enjoy covered by the previous cam- visited the chief centers to make ditions for inconveniences, and lysed for lessons learnt, which The offer is valid from spending their points with our paigns, towards the ultimate sure that the centers and accompanied vaccinator teams will be considered in future December 13, 2020, until wide network of partners.” goal of zero polio transmission equipment are well in place. to assess their performance at campaigns. Qatar’s connected future requires strengthening partnerships to build the local talent ecosystem The essential role of connectivity has Huawei is continuously committed to never been more prominent than in providing our capabilities in Qatar, so the last year. Without fast connections that people here can avail of the latest provided by advanced telecom networks, breakthroughs in vital areas like 5G, video conferencing, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, cloud, and more. and other technologies, the world Led by a new generation of talent, the would have ground to a halt during the rapid development of these technologies FRANK FAN lockdowns. says creating will have a significant impact on local new value with synergy across these economies, leading to business growth tech domains is key to the development roadmap of Qatar. and social development.

oday, the information following the COVID-19 pan- For example, encouraging Promoting and communications demic. A talent-focused and knowledge and experience the value of technology (ICT) “innovation” mindset is the Frank Fan sharing will create more open sector forms the only way to addresses the ecosystems. These provide public-private building blocks of requirements of a more digital- While digital infrastructure has evolved more opportunities for tech- partnerships Tmore intelligent societies. This centric and sustainable future. nology to evolve in ways that sector, and the people who The essential role of con- to combat COVID-19 more broadly, are beneficial to society. to nurture an work within it, are helping to nectivity has never been more Promoting the value of innovation drive Qatar’s industries and prominent than in the last year. Qatar will need to simultaneously focus public-private partnerships to businesses forward. This pro- Without fast connections pro- nurture an innovation men- mentality and vides the momentum for socio- vided by advanced telecom on equipping the country’s youth with tality and to foster ICT talent to foster ICT economic growth while con- networks, video conferencing, advanced technical skills to be the growth is also essential, par- talent growth is tributing towards achieving cloud computing, and other ticularly in terms of practical Qatar National Vision 2030. technologies, the world would future leaders in achieving the targets of skills development. also essential, Nurturing local talent as an have ground to a halt during their country’s ambitious National Vision. Universities must also particularly integral part of Qatar’s overall the lockdowns. Creating new strive to adapt their curriculum ICT ecosystem is spreading value with synergy across these to meet the requirements of in terms of advantages to all other sectors tech domains is key to the ICT talent cultivation in the practical skills and industries in the country. development roadmap of New challenges arose in pro- might have widened during this future, with stakeholders such A strong talent pool is therefore Qatar. viding students with the means period, setting back gains as government authorities, development. essential for Qatar to reap the In particular, the field of to advance their education achieved in recent years. telecom operators, and ICT Universities full benefits of digitalization, education was greatly without the use of physical While digital infrastructure vendors making their own con- to unlock more opportunities impacted, yet also took labs, shared equipment, and has evolved to combat tributions through collabo- must also strive for people and business, and to advantage of connectivity and traditional curriculums. Unfor- COVID-19 more broadly, Qatar rative initiatives, programs, to adapt their accelerate national recovery advanced technology solutions. tunately, the digital divide will need to simultaneously and other activities. curriculum focus on equipping the coun- Huawei is continuously Nurturing local talent as an integral part of Qatar’s overall try’s youth with advanced tech- committed to providing our to meet the ICT ecosystem is spreading advantages to all other sectors nical skills to be the future capabilities in Qatar, so that requirements leaders in achieving the targets people here can avail of the and industries in the country. A strong talent pool is of their country’s ambitious latest breakthroughs in vital of ICT talent therefore essential for Qatar to reap the full benefits of National Vision. areas like 5G, artificial intelli- cultivation in the That is easier said than gence, cloud, and more. Led by digitalization, to unlock more opportunities for people and done, of course. We have seen a new generation of talent, the future. business, and to accelerate national recovery following the tremendous efforts made by rapid development of these the government and our technologies will have a signif- COVID-19 pandemic. A talent-focused and “innovation” partners towards growing icant impact on local econ- to bring digital to every person, mindset is the only way to addresses the requirements of a talent in the ICT arena. Moving omies, leading to business home, and organization. more digital-centric and sustainable future. forward, continued work is growth and social devel- needed as some clear priorities opment. It is an ongoing The writer is CEO of are identified. journey as we collectively look Huawei Technologies Qatar 06 SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 NATIONAL DAY

National Day celebrations highlight interactions among Qatari society: GAC Chairman QNA – DOHA day, has been on a continuous logistical performance, economic development journey towards the competitiveness and the quality of Chairman of the General Authority of future. The GAC cancelled the customs services in general. Customs (GAC) H E Ahmed bin Qatar’s progress illustrates the Al Jamal affirmed that the GAC Abdullah Al Jamal (pictured) said that genius and authenticity of this long customs duties imposed on followed the Ministry of Public celebrating the National Day indicates journey of work and continuous effort 905 commodities included Health’s directions and the Supreme that the people of Qatar are moving that was initiated by the Founder and in the Customs Clearance Committee for Crisis Management in forward, while preserving the era of continued by the great leaders of implementing all precautionary the forefathers, to complete the Qatar who accomplished the desired “Al-Nadeeb” system. These measures to combat the coronavirus process of construction, development, goal of achieving pride and dignity for commodities varied from (COVID-19) outbreak. and prosperity. everyone who lives in this land. basic food to medical He pointed out that one of the He added that this is clear in the Al Jamal noted that the National most prominent of these measures is immortalization of the history of this Day celebrations, which sees the supplies for personal use implementing the Amiri decision to country’s founding, making it a interaction of all segments of society and household hygiene exempt food commodities and periodic celebration to link new in Qatar, indicate this occasion’s role supplies. medical materials from customs duties generations to their history and inform in promoting the values of loyalty and for nine months. them of the country’s achievements. belonging to this land and allowing He explained that the GAC Also, instill the values and successive generations to learn about cancelled the customs duties imposed principles of loving the homeland the heritage and mix the past with the on the economic aspect, as the State flow of goods and commodities to and on 905 commodities included in the among citizens and emphasise present. included the Authority under this from the State. Customs Clearance “Al-Nadeeb” preserving national unity. The GAC chairman pointed out sector in its strategic plan. Furthermore, the Authority seeks system. He added that these In a statement to Qatar News that the GAC adopted its future plans He explained that the GAC is to contribute to the success of the commodities varied from basic food Agency (QNA) on the occasion of the several years ago based on the State’s determined to converge the outcomes State’s efforts in combating terrorist to medical supplies for personal use National Day of the State, the focuses as presented in the pillars and of its strategy with the National financing and money laundering and and household hygiene supplies. Chairman of the General Authority of objectives of Qatar National Vision Development Strategy’s goals to achieve raising the efficiency of controlling Al Jamal stressed that Qatar Customs said that the day when 2030 and the National Development the Qatar National Vision 2030. crimes of smuggling weapons, proved to the world its ability to Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed took Strategy (2018-2022). Through its current strategic plan, explosives, narcotics, harmful withstand the challenges it faces, over the reins of government in the He added that the GAC has he also said that the Authority seeks psychotropic substance, and which gave the country more country is a historic day for this land identified strategic goals and projects to develop customs services to create dangerous matrials, in addition to confidence to continue building its by all standards. compatible with the State’s National a stimulating investment climate and raising Qatar’s rank in international cultural and political model with He added that Qatar, since that Development Strategy while focusing facilitate trade exchange to ensure the reports related to indicators of persistence and boldness. Korea Envoy praises Qatar’s great achievements Qatar is an important

QNA – DOHA The two countries have developed partner in various fields: Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to close and friendly relations since the State of Qatar H E Kim Changmo Indonesia Ambassador (pictured) praised the development in the they established the diplomatic State of Qatar in all areas and its ability to relations in 1974, adding that over face the challenges with full capacity, QNA – DOHA noting its vital role at the regional and the past several years Qatar has international levels as a mediator for been the largest supplier of LNG to Ambassador of the Republic of resolving international disputes. Korea and the eighth largest Indonesia to the State of Qatar H E In his statement to Qatar News Ridwan Hassan (pictured) under- Agency (QNA), His Excellency congratu- overseas construction market for lined his country’s keenness on lated the State of Qatar, the Amir, the gov- Korea, while Korea is Qatar’s developing the cooperation with ernment and the people on the occasion second largest trading partner. the State of Qatar at all levels, based of the National Day, indicating that it is on the distinguished bilateral rela- an occasion to emphasize the importance tions. of the distinguished relations between In a statement to Qatar News the State of Qatar and the Republic of technology and wise leadership, which shows the long-term trust between the Agency (QNA) on the occasion of Korea. qualifies them to be partners in strategic two countries for over the past twenty Qatar National Day, the Ambas- He said that the two countries have cooperation. years in the LNG sector. sador underlined that Qatar is an developed close and friendly relations The Ambassador referred to the his- He expressed his confidence that important partner for Indonesia since they established the diplomatic toric visit of H H the Amir to Korea in cooperation between the two coun- in various fields, and that his relations in 1974, adding that over the January 2019, and the visit of the Korean tries in the fields of energy and con- country looks forward to past several years, Qatar has been the Prime Minister to Qatar after six months, struction will witness greater devel- increasing the mutual cooperation largest supplier of LNG to Korea and the explaining that the leaders of the two opment, and that cooperation will be in trade, investment, tourism and eighth largest overseas construction countries approved 9 bilateral MoUs cov- expanded in new areas in the future. other areas. market for Korea, while Korea is Qatar’s ering different areas of cooperation, such The Korean ambassador noted the The Ambassador added that the The Indonesian government, second largest trading partner. as smart agriculture, aquaculture, trans- strength of the Qatari economy, saying Indonesian Government, through through the Indonesian He stressed that Qatar and Korea portation, security and education, and that it has exceeded the pre-blockade the Indonesian community groups have many things in common, such as the signing of LNG shipbuilding agree- level and achieved greater self-suffi- in Qatar, will also continue to community groups in Qatar, the fields of education and diplomacy, ments between Qatar Petroleum and ciency in many sectors, including dairy improve people-to-people contact, will also continue to improve information and communication Korean companies in June, which also and agriculture. noting that the appointment of Indo- people-to-people contact, He praised Qatar’s vital role at nesia as a Country Partner for the various levels, stressing that the 2023 Qatar-Indonesia Year of noting that the appointment blockade did not deter Qatar from pro- Culture is highly appreciated and of Indonesia as a Country viding humanitarian aid to many coun- will strengthen the relations Partner for the 2023 Qatar- tries and playing a pioneering role in between Indonesia and Qatar. addressing critical global issues. The Indonesian Ambassador Indonesia Year of Culture is Qatar’s role as a mediator in extended heartiest congratulations highly appreciated and will resolving deep-rooted international and greetings to Amir H H Sheikh strengthen the relations conflicts such as the conflict in Afghan- Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and to istan, is a source of inspiration for many all the honorable people of Qatar between Indonesia and countries, and it is also impressive that on the occasion of Qatar National Qatar. Qatar has successfully hosted major Day. international sporting events, such as He noted that since the estab- the AFC Champions League 2020, this lishment of the diplomatic relations year, despite the great difficulties due between the two countries in 1976, Since the establishment of the to COVID-19 pandemic, the Ambas- Indonesia has always perceived diplomatic relations between sador added. Qatar not only as important player In this context, he praised the suc- for business and economy in the the two countries in 1976, cessful handling of COVID-19 pandemic region and the world, but also a Indonesia has always by the government of the State of Qatar, growing player on the arena of perceived Qatar not only as as well as its continuous and active international politics. involvement in the international arena Indonesia always shares same important player for business under the wise leadership of Amir H H vision with Qatar in building a more and economy in the region and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. prosperous, just and safer world. the world, but also a growing The Qatari government’s response He noted that the endeavor of Qatar to the pandemic , as shown by the and Indonesia to end the conflict player on the arena of numbers of daily new cases, was very in Afghanistan is exemplary evi- international politics. effective in controlling the crisis, since dence how the two countries really the first case of the virus was reported keen on building a better world. in Qatar last February, the Qatari gov- On the other hand, the Indo- successful countries in the world in ernment acted quickly and proac- nesian Ambassador said that he handling the coronavirus (COVID-19) tively, the entire process was trans- was certainly amazed to see how pandemic, and has proved that it has parent and open, and at a time when the Government of Qatar has one of the most effective healthcare many countries are witnessing the worked to prepare every single systems in the world. outbreak of the second wave of the detail for hosting the 2022 World In this context, he expressed the virus, the situation in Qatar is stable Cup, stressing that the prepara- Indonesian Government’s gratitude thanks to the efforts made by the tions are incredible, and that Indo- for all the assistance provided by Qatari government in the examination nesia believes that the 2022 World the Qatar medical authorities to processes, early testing and contact Cup would be a fantastic one. Indonesian citizens infected by the tracing, noting that Qatar has one of He underlined that the Indo- coronavirus and received medical the lowest rates of deaths related to nesian government and the Indo- care in Qatar, adding that Indonesia the virus in the world, he said. nesian people in Qatar are ready also appreciates the decision made The Korean Ambassador praised to work hand in hand with Qatar by the Government of Qatar to open the humanitarian aid provided by the to make the 2022 World Cup a its airport as a transit point for State of Qatar to many countries of the memorable event. repatriating citizens from all over world in response to the coronavirus Meanwhile, the Indonesian the world including from Indonesia pandemic, which included more than Ambassador underlined that the to get back to their home 80 countries. State of Qatar is one of the most countries. SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 NATIONAL DAY 07

Qatar adopted state building pillars laid by Founder: QCAA President QNA — DOHA alleviate human suffering material the air transport sector by the pandemic losses resulting from these risks. while taking into account the preser- President of the Civil Aviation Al Subaey indicated that Qatar He explained that since the vation of all health standards to limit Authority (QCAA) H E Abdullah bin beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, QCAA the spread of the virus in the country. Nasser Turki Al Subaey said that the had adopted the state building has intensified its efforts to issue the Besides, QCAA has continuously coor- National Day occasion has great moral pillars laid by the Founder as the necessary instructions in a manner that dinated with authorities regarding the significance and carries many sublime basis for all its plans, strategies, contributes to curbing the spread of the pursued travel procedures, in con- meanings that are entrenched in the virus by instructing airlines operating junction with the gradual lifting of hearts and minds of everyone who large development projects, and in the country not to accept travelers restrictions imposed in the State of lives in the State of Qatar. its national vision to advance the from some high-risk regions. Qatar to limit the spread of the virus. It is a day of renewing the covenant The QCAA granted many facilities In this context, Al Subaey expressed and promises to consolidate the state and its institutions, to top to airlines by issuing hundreds of his pride in the tireless efforts made meanings of pride, belonging, and the list of the most developing permits for evacuation flights for cit- by the national carrier (Qatar Airways) loyalty, he said, adding that this countries and make one izens of foreign countries, after direct since the outbreak of the pandemic, as important day is an opportunity to coordination with the Ministry of it flew more than 175 million kilo- embody the meanings of unity and sol- achievement after another. Foreign Affairs and the embassies of metres to safely transport more than idarity and to enhance the Qatari peo- those countries in Doha. The work of 2.3 million passengers to their coun- ple’s awareness of the greatness of the airlines in the local market was also tries on board more than 35 thousand Founders’ generation. H E Abdullah bin Nasser Turki Al Subaey became a member of the Committee monitored. Exceptional directives and flights during the COVID-19 crisis. In a statement to Qatar News on Aviation Environmental Protection instructions were issued to preserve the “Over and above, Qatar Airways, Agency on the occasion of Qatar QCAA this year, implementing its plans (CAEP) of the International Civil Avi- rights of travellers who were forced to amid the hardships imposed by the National Day, QCAA President said that emanating from the second national ation Organization (ICAO). During the cancel or postpone their travel due to pandemic, has accomplished what can celebrating the National Day is an development strategy 2018-2022, and year, QCCA signed a contract with the the suspension of flights, as the QCAA be seen as a new achievement when incentive to draw inspiration and how these plans proceed in light of the leading Swedish aviation company IBG, represented by the Air Transport it resumed air traffic to more than half lessons, which are summarised in hard current challenges, Al Subaey said: specialised in management, consulting, Administration continuously followed of its destinations while providing the and serious work to raise the name of “Despite all the great challenges we and training in the aviation sector, to up on travellers’ complaints, of which highest standards of health and safety the State of Qatar. Also, to emphasise faced, we have not wavered from increase the capacity of the Qatari air- over 85 percent have been positively during the flights, for the civil aviation the need to emulate the late Sheikh marching towards achieving our goals space and HIA, to accommodate the resolved. system in the State of Qatar to Jassim bin Mohamed bin Thani, the and plans, and many expected increase during the FIFA Al Subaey stressed that as part of its strengthen the concept of safe travel, Founder of the State of Qatar, who laid accomplishments.” World Cup Qatar 2022, and to provide efforts to counter the pandemic, the which promises the possibility of pre- the foundations of a strong and inde- He said that the efforts made during all the requirements to host the event,” QCAA had issued the “Aviation paring to restore air aviation to the pre- pendent nation that has become a ring this exceptional year to counter the Al Subaey added. COVID-19 Health Safety Guidelines,” COVID time and to overcome the dif- model in all fields and levels. COVID-19 pandemic to contribute to He noted that as part of its efforts which provides directions and guide- ficulties that it had gone through,” he Al Subaey indicated that the State limiting the spread of the virus, ena- to advance the air transport sector, lines for operators and service providers added. of Qatar had adopted the state building bling air traffic to return, and preparing QCAA in 2020 signed the final open in the country, and those concerned Al Subaey affirmed that thanks to pillars laid by the Founder as the basis for the next stage, are a great skies agreement with the Republic of with the civil aviation industry, on how the vision and directives of the Amir for all its plans, strategies, large devel- achievement for the State of Qatar, Uruguay, within the framework of to facilitate the safe and gradual resto- H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al opment projects, and its national vision referring to the results of these efforts, linking the State of Qatar with air ration of air traffic flow management. Thani, our wise government has been to advance the state and its institutions, most importantly, Hamad International services agreements that pave the way Also, issuing the “Aviation COVID-19 able to face all crises, promptly to top the list of the most developing Airport (HIA) obtaining an accreditation for the national carrier to expand its Guidelines” to ensure the safe operation responding to challenges and effi- countries and make one achievement certificate from the British Standards network and reach more international of civil aviation facilities related to air ciently managing the crises in addition after another. Institute (BSI), for implementing the avi- destinations. He added that the number navigation services is an essential pillar to all the efforts exerted and effective “All this is nothing but a consoli- ation health and safety protocols for the of these agreements has so far reached for securing the safety and management measures applied. He said adopting dation and translation of all the great COVID-19, thus making HIA the first in 169, to cover approximately 87.5 of air traffic on the ground and in the procedures and work mechanisms that meanings of the occasion of the National the world to obtain this accreditation. percent of the countries of the world. air. have proven its efficiency and effec- Day, which renews every year, among Al Subaey noted that such an In the same context, Al Subaey He highlighted the authority’s tiveness, stressing that these successes the Qatari people the determination to achievement confirms the main and pointed out that in February, QCAA active participation in the “National reflect the State’s strength and its make all efforts to raise the nation, and important role played by the QCAA to hosted the 11th Gulf Seismological Committee for COVID-19,” where ability to withstand challenges and move forward in development to ensure compliance with international Forum to utilise modern research and efforts have been made to project the overcome obstacles, for the State of achieve more progress,” he added. standards, as well as the pioneering role technologies to apply the necessary economic and operational point of Qatar to present a successful model in On the achievements made by played by HIA. “In 2020, we also measures to reduce seismic risks and view to reduce the damage caused to crisis management. Qatar an important partner for Bulgaria in Mena region: Envoy QNA — DOHA development path at the regional and international Ambassador of the Republic of levels, and domestically in Bulgaria to the State of Qatar H E various fields including the Plamen Stankov Delev, said that economy, education, culture, since the establishment of diplo- health care is remarkable. matic relations, Qatar has become “Qatar is establishing itself as a prospective partner for Bulgaria a platform for peace and dia- in the Mena region particularly in logue. Qatari diplomacy has recent years, and bilateral rela- been successful in facilitating tions have witnessed significant the agreement for bringing development, with both States peace to Afghanistan by seeking to expand in areas of hosting the Intra-Afghan dia- mutual interest. logue in Doha,” he said. The Bulgarian Ambassador “Bulgaria as a European added, in a statement to Qatar Union member state trusts in News Agency, on the occasion of Plamen Stankov Delev the unity of the GCC and we the National Day: “The Republic support the Kuwaiti mediation of Bulgaria highly appreciates our Doha by Unesco and Qatar Foun- of the Gulf crisis. The differences bilateral ties, which are founded dation, and in 2019 Bulgaria took should be settled through dia- on friendship, mutual respect and part for a 4th successive year in logue. I have been impressed by co-operation. I believe that with the European Jazz Festival, held the resilience of the Qatari people the efforts of both countries we at Katara every November.” since the beginning of this rift. My can build on the many achieve- The Bulgarian Ambassador country further supports all inter- ments underlying Bulgarian- said: “Other areas where we national initiatives which could Qatari relations.” expect to deepen our bilateral help finding a solution to the crisis “I hope that the intensive relations are in science and edu- through negotiations and peaceful political dialogue between us will cation. In January 2020, the Bul- dialogue,” he added. soon bear fruits and the level of garian Minister of Education “On the occasion of Qatar’s Bulgarian-Qatari investments arrived on an official visit to Doha National Day, I would like to and trade will correspond to its and a memorandum of under- convey my sincere wishes for intensity. Concerning cultural standing for cooperation in the further development and pros- cooperation, we have had the spheres of education, science and perity of the State of Qatar, as opportunity to be present and technology was signed. I believe well as good health, wisdom and seen in the vibrant cultural life that very soon there will be Qatari success to Amir H H Sheikh in Doha - Bulgarian artists have students studying in Bulgarian Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and exhibited their artwork in Doha universities and Bulgarian the Qatari people. The Republic on a number of occasions, Bul- teachers and students sharing of Bulgaria highly appreciates garian folkloric ensembles have experiences in Doha.” our bilateral ties, which are participated in the annual cul- He praised the outstanding based on friendship, mutual tural diversity festival hosted in progress of Qatar in its respect, co-operation.”

Argentina, Qatar have excellent ties: Acting Charge d’Affaires

QNA — DOHA News Agency (QNA) on the through the implementation occasion of Qatar’s National of projects of common interest Acting Charge d’Affaires of the Day, he said that the Embassy and the accomplishment of Embassy of the Argentine of Argentina will further new far-reaching goals and Republic Gabriel Puente promote the growth of milestones between both gov- stressed that Argentina and friendly ties between ernments and people.” Qatar have developed over Argentina and Qatar in sub- The Acting Charge time excellent relations, which jects linked to the political and d’Affaires of the Embassy of is reflected in all sectors of the institutional life, economy, the Argentine Republic public and private domains commerce and trade, extended his congratulations through the high-level visits, investment, culture, art, edu- to Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin signing of several treaties, cation, tourism and sports, Hamad Al Thani, Father Amir business relationships, adding “our long-standing tra- H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa cultural endeavours and many dition of cooperative bilateral Al Thani and the people of other bilateral achievements. relations will become deeper Qatar, wishing them progress, In a statement to Qatar and stronger in the future prosperity and peace. 08 VIEWS SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 National Day carries great significance Established in 1996 in citizens’ memories: Prime Minister CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI QNA

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Prime Minister and Minister of Interior DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin [email protected] Abdulaziz Al Thani underlined that the National Day of the State of Qatar is an important day in the memory of citizens, ACTING MANAGING EDITOR as it reflects the values of unity between MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED citizens, and carries great significance in [email protected] the hearts and minds of all citizens and residents of the country. Speaking to Qatar News Agency DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR (QNA) to mark the National Day celebra- MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI tions, HE Prime Minister and Minister of [email protected] Interior said that the National Day is a historic occasion of when the founder of the state Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani placed the foundation for EDITORIAL establishing the State of Qatar. He added that the National Day now serves as an opportunity to seek inspiration in the Census pivotal to achieve QNV2030 sacrifices offered in order to build a nation that honors the principles of THE State of Qatar is holding every five to 10 years freedom and sovereignty. regular census while it conducted its first national census The Prime Minister and Minister of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani in 1986, and today set to launch one-month long final Interior congratulated Amir H H Sheikh phase of this year’s comprehensive census. Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Father Amir The systematic process of population census pro- H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, that the country is moving forward vides with an integrated picture of the entire society with and all citizens and residents on the The National Day is an important towards achieving all its developmental demographic, social, economic and detailed data about occasion, expressing hope that the occasion that shows the strength of goals. His Excellency added that the households, individuals and establishments along con- country continues to enjoy security and success was also a result of focusing on ditions of the people who are living in the State. stability. the bond between the citizens and the infrastructure projects, with the State In many parts of the world, census is still conducted He stressed that the National Day is wise leadership that puts its peoples placing a high priority on developing an under particular restrictions for a limited period of time an important occasion that shows the interests above all other. infrastructure that was state of the art. to collect accurate data but in Qatar thanks to strength of the bond between the citizens He also noted that development advancement in technology, being applied in every and the wise leadership that puts its H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin efforts focused also on other fields like aspect of daily life, time and efforts have been saved peoples interests above all other. health, education, the economy, and greatly by averting such outdated methods. He added that the National Day is a Abdulaziz Al Thani social affairs among others, in addition to This year Qatar Census 2020, is being conducted in good occasion to be inspired by the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior the commitment to developing capable phases, but no one has been forced to stay at home wisdom of the founder as the country human cadres. waiting for field researchers, due to continuous work of continues in its path of progress towards He highlighted the great leaps made systematic data collection and compilation. The basic sustainable development. It also helps was reflected clearly in the low crime in the education sector, saying that the data are available in the system making many steps of reflect on his journey, which sets an rates compared to international levels, focus now is on providing quality edu- traditional census redundant for the field researchers. example for giving the utmost to serve particularly in terms of major crimes. The cation. He noted that the goal was Not only this, but the Planning and Statistics Authority, the country through selfless acts, particu- Prime Minister that the achievement is realized through the constant revision of has also given people options either to receive field larly during this time that requires efforts even more impressive given the increase academic curriculums, acceptance pol- researcher or prefer to deal with electronic form so that to overcome crises, and continuing to in population growth seen over the past icies, regulating the educational process, they can answer questions at their convenient time. provide one case study after the other in few years. and sending distinguished students to In a statement, the Authority pointed out that the overcoming crises in all sectors. The Prime Minister and Minister of continue their education abroad, while field work consists in collecting and completing data On the achievements of the Ministry Interior underlined that the State of Qatar also establishing prominent foreign edu- on families and individuals, as the researcher will provide of Interior this year, H E Prime Minister enjoys great security and stability, cational institutions in Qatar. the head of the family with three options. Family heads and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin evident by its high rankings in a number He said that development in the are required “to complete his data and his family data, Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani said that of international indices dedicated to the health sector was following a similar either through a direct interview with the researcher, or the Ministry, like other state institutions, issue. He noted that the State of Qatar path to that of education, as the focus has through the enveloped paper form that will be distributed is doing its best to provide high-quality was ranked as the highest country in the shifted to providing comprehensive during the field visit, in a way that allows citizens and services. Middle East and North Africa, and 27th in healthcare to citizens and residents by residents to fill it out in a timely manner and hand it over He added that the Ministry built on its the world, in the Global Peace Index developing the infrastructure, and pro- to field researchers on another day during the census achievements of the past few years by 2020 which is produced by the Institute viding technologies that are necessary to period, or by self-completing the electronic form on the continuing to execute on its strategy in for Economics & Peace. That is in provide good healthcare services, along Authority website”. 2020. The Ministry continued its achieve- addition to being ranked the safest in the with developing the human cadres in the The Authority has deployed for this final stage over 2,000 ments in the various security and service world during the first half of 2020 required specializations. field researchers who will be working until mid of January fields, thanks to the optimal implemen- according to Numbeos crime index. He noted that the development in the 2021 with complete adherence to all precautionary measures tation of strategies on the ground, with On combatting the coronavirus healthcare field was also a result of the imposed by health authorities to combat the spread of high professionalism and according to (COVID-19), His Excellency said that this focus on inaugurating many health facil- COVID-19. The field researchers have received intensive the development and modernization years National Day celebrations come at ities and institutions that reflect the aspi- training on precautionary measures to ensure their safety plans based on providing human, a time when Qatar and all countries rations of the state in the field. and the safety of community members, and made well aware material capabilities, devices and around the world are engaged in a battle On the economy, he said that work is about the culture of the society and manner of approaching equipment, bearing in mind the impor- to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, a ongoing to encourage local investments, individuals and families. tance of excellence and leadership. struggle that have impacted all countries. protect national products, and increasing Census dealing with human capital has a great value The Prime Minister and Minister of He said that the State of Qatar, from production in order to reach self suffi- as a benchmark for setting development plans and Interior noted that the Ministry of Interior the outset, relied on highly-effective ciency in food and water security and achieving the Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030 and is overseeing a number of programs that strategies that saw the state allocate all satisfying the needs for medicine. His beyond. Therefore the Planning Authority has called on came out of the second National Devel- its resources to contain the pandemic Excellency added that there was also all citizens and residents to fully cooperate with field opment Strategy 2018-2022, in addition and maintain the safety of everyone ongoing work to improve the business researchers and to provide accurate and correct data to the strategy related to the main pillars living in the country. climate in Qatar and increase tourism, due to its importance in drawing up the State’s devel- of Qatar National Vision 2030, by He added that the Ministry of Interior noting that these sectors have become opment policies and plans. focusing on having a security per- assumed its responsibilities in enhancing more competitive and more capable of formance that is in line with they highest the efforts of protecting society and con- attracting local and international standards. taining the virus, by following up on the investments. He also noted the constant improve- implementation of the Cabinets decision On foreign policy and enhancing ties ments made to the management of the in that regard, particularly the measures with the international community, the D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR Ministry’s resources by adopting the most related to the Ministry of Interior, in Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign addition to the measures announced by Affairs stressed that the States foreign EMAIL: [email protected] modern systems and technologies in management, in addition to the strong the Supreme Committee for Crisis policy was characterized by inde- commitment to transparency and com- Management pendence and flexibility as it looked to EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 munication with the public. He noted that the Ministry of Interior serve national interests and protect the FAX: +974 4455 7758 His Excellency said that the Ministry fulfilled those roles, and was keen on country’s sovereignty. He stressed that worked on expanding the services providing the public with up-to-date the State will continue to work on MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 available on its website or its mobile app, information on its website, in order to enhancing ties with other friendly coun- whether geographically or in terms of the avoid the spread of rumors and to tries to establish peace and security both DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 type and number of services, in an provide the appropriate guidance regionally and internationally, particu- attempt to save the time of service regarding the measures undertaken by larly when it pertains to facing terrorism LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 seekers. His Excellency noted that these the state to contain the virus. and fighting extremism. efforts were strongly rewarded by a huge The Prime Minister and Minister of He also highlighted that the State of BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 leap in terms of lowering the amount of Interior highlighted the Ministry’s efforts Qatar’s belief in settling conflicts peace- time required to complete different in encouraging the public to interact with fully led the State to act diplomatically SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 services, in addition to improving the it digitally on its website or through the and engage with countries and interna- performance of the different depart- Metrash2 app to help avoid crowding. His tional institutions to explain the Qatari ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 ments offering these services. Excellency added that the ministry con- point of view, something that contributed email: [email protected] The Prime Minister and Minister of tinues that role in a bid to contain the in enhancing communication between Interior stressed that the Ministry of spread of the virus, and to maintain the Qatar, the region, and the world. PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 Interior remains committed to providing health and safety of all members of He added that opening up to the email: [email protected] the best services to all segments of society, while also reminding the public of world and engaging with it to improve society in line with its strategy of offering the importance of adhering to the precau- ties helped build strong international ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 non-centralized services to the public tionary measures adopted in the country. relations based on mutual respect and FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] through various digital platforms and Responding to a question on the avoiding interference in internal affairs. geographic locations. States success in facing different chal- He concluded by saying that even with all CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 As for the security field, Prime Min- lenges, HE the Prime Minister and Min- those achievements, there is a lot more to email: [email protected] ister and Minister of Interior Sheikh ister of Interior said it was thanks to the come thanks to the available expertise Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al- wise leadership of Amir H H Sheikh and capabilities capable of achieving all SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 Thani said that the efforts of the Ministry Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and noted desired goals. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar The probability of a no deal on Brexit trade is higher than of a deal. It is only fair that /Peninsula_Qatar competitors to our own enterprises face the /ThePeninsulaNewspaper same conditions on our own market. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission +974 6698 6188 SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Iran executes journalist who encouraged 2017 protests AP — DUBAI and a channel he created on the intelligence services, denied this year over his work. popular messaging app Tel- inciting violence on Telegram During an interview on July, Iran yesterday executed a once- egram had spread the timings In June, a court at the time. The 2017 protests Zam said he has lost some 30kg exiled journalist over his online of the protests and information sentenced Zam to death, reportedly saw some 5,000 since his arrest in October 2019. work that helped inspire about officials that directly saying he had been people detained and 25 killed. He said following the arrest that nationwide economic protests challenged Iran’s government. convicted of “corruption The details of his arrest still he could meet his father after in 2017, authorities said, just Those demonstrations, on Earth”, a charge often remain unclear. Though he was nine years and his mother and months after he returned to which began at the end of 2017, based in Paris, Zam somehow sister after some six years. Tehran under mysterious represented the biggest chal- used in cases involving returned to Iran and found Zam is the son of Shia cleric circumstances. lenge to Iran’s rulers since the espionage or attempts himself detained by intelligence Mohammad Ali Zam, a reformist Iranian state television and 2009 Green Movement protests officials. He’s one of several who once served in a gov- A file photo of Ruhollah Zam to overthrow Iran the state-run IRNA news agency and set the stage for similar government. opposition figures in exile who ernment policy position in the said that Ruhollah Zam, 47, was mass unrest in November of last have been returned to Iran over early 1980s. The cleric wrote a hanged early yesterday year. town to town, the backlash the last year. letter published by Iranian morning. The reports did not The initial spark for the 2017 turned against the entire ruling France previously has crit- media in July 2017 in which he elaborate. protests was a sudden jump in class. Telegram shut down the icised his death sentence as “a said he wouldn’t support his son In June, a court sentenced food prices. Many believe that Soon, cries directly chal- channel over Iranian gov- serious blow to freedom of over AmadNews’ reporting and Zam to death, saying he had hard-line opponents of Iranian lenging Rouhani and even ernment complaints it spread expression and press freedom messages on its Telegram been convicted of “corruption President Hassan Rouhani insti- Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali information about how to make in Iran.” Reporters Without channel. on Earth”, a charge often used gated the first demonstrations Khamenei could be heard in gasoline bombs. The channel Borders, a group that campaigns Zam’s father yesterday in cases involving espionage or in the city of Mashhad in north- online videos shared by Zam. later continued under a dif- for press freedoms, said Zam’s posted on his Instagram account attempts to overthrow Iran eastern Iran, trying to direct Zam’s channel also shared times ferent name. Zam, who has said hanging was a “new crime of that Iranian authorities had not government. public anger at the president. and organisational details for he fled Iran after being falsely Iranian justice.” A series of a tel- notified his son that he had been Zam’s website AmadNews But as protests spread from the protests. accused of working with foreign evised confessions aired earlier sentenced to execution. Foreign manoeuvres Declarations from Syria on chemical destabilising Algeria: PM arms lacking, say

AFP — ALGIERS UN, watchdog

Algeria’s prime minister yesterday criticised “foreign manoeuvres” AFP — UNITED NATIONS he said were aimed to destabilise it, after Washington recognised Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in exchange for Rabat UN officials and a global normalising ties with Israel. watchdog on Friday criticised “There are foreign manoeuvres which aim to destabilise incomplete declarations from Algeria,” Prime Minister Abdelaziz Djerad said, in Algeria’s first Syria on chemical weapons reaction to the US decision. “There is now a desire by the Zionist while its ally Russia sought to entity to come closer to our borders”, he added, in reference to push back against the accusa- Israel. “We are seeing today at our borders... wars and instability tions. around Algeria,” Djerad said, in a speech to mark the anniversary During a videoconference of demonstrations against French colonial rule. at the UN Security Council, officials from the United Nations and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Mystery over whereabouts of Weapons (OPCW) said Syria had failed to respond to a Algeria leader treated for virus series of 19 questions involving toxic arms. AP — ALGIERS, ALGERIA for numerous medical check- Unrest in Yemen Izumi Nakamitsu, UN high ups, with lots of speculation representative for disar- Yemenis chant slogans as they march with banners during a demonstration against the deteriorating Algerian President Abdelmadjid and little information on his mament affairs, said the economic situation in Taez yesterday. Yemen, which since 2014 has been gripped by a war between Tebboune marked a year in whereabouts or health. OPCW had found that because office yesterday but he is Bouteflika rarely appeared Houthi rebels and a beleaguered government faces the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. of unresolved gaps and dis- nowhere in sight since his in public but kept ruling. crepancies Syria’s declarations evacuation to Germany more He was forced to abandon “cannot be considered than six weeks ago for his bid for a fifth term last year accurate and complete in treatment of COVID-19. before being pushed from Turkey and Iran in diplomatic spat accordance with the Chemical The president’s office office under pressure from AP — ISTANBUL Azeri, or Azerbaijani, lands “by Iran.” Weapons Convention.” OPCW issued a statement on street protests and the powerful force.” Iran’s three northwestern Director-General Fernando November 30 saying Tebboune army. Turkey yesterday summoned In a statement yesterday, provinces — West Azerbaijan, Arias said one of the questions had left a “specialised” medical Tebboune left for Germany the Iranian ambassador to Turkey’s communications East Azerbaijan and Ardabil — involved a chemical weapons facility, was continuing his con- October 28. Ankara over Iran’s “aggressive” director Fahrettin Altun said have a predominantly ethnic production facility declared by valescence and should be Prime Minister Abdelaziz reaction to the Turkish presi- Iranians had distorted the Azeri population that speaks a Syria as never having been returning home “in the coming Djerad has been in charge dent’s recitation of a poem on meaning of the poem “to fuel Turkic language. used for chemical weapons days.” during Tebboune’s absence, a visit to Azerbaijan, which senseless tensions.” “It must not be forgotten production. The statement com- conspicuous as the country Tehran deemed to support a Altun said the Iranian that Turkey stood in solidarity Information and material pounded the growing mystery struggles with an economy secession of Azeri ethnic parts ambassador to Ankara was with the Iranian state and gathered since 2014 indicates surrounding the 75-year-old made worse by the coronavirus of Iran. summoned late Friday to the people, despite the risk of the facility was used for “pro- Tebboune, his whereabouts and a host of other issues. The diplomatic spat foreign ministry to convey “our having to endure international duction and/or weaponization and his health. The clinic where Constitutional law pro- between neighbours Iran and strong reaction to the baseless pressures, at difficult times for of chemical warfare nerve he was treated was never made fessor Fatiha Benabou said Turkey began earlier this week accusations of Iranian Iran,” Altun said in his agents,” he said, without spec- public. there is no date limiting the when Turkish President Recep officials.” statement. ifying the location. The absence of the head of time Tebboune can be away. Tayyip Erdogan, who strongly It came after Iran’s foreign Tehran and Ankara have OPCW investigators have state, who also serves as “Authorities have a large backs Azerbaijan, read parts of ministry summoned the Turkish maintained mostly cordial rela- accused President Bashar Al defence chief, recalled the long margin of maneuver,” she said. a poem during a parade in the ambassador to Tehran for an tions, despite finding them- Assad’s regime of sarin gas and absences of his predecessor, “But on a political level, the Caucasian country’s capital of explanation over Erdogan’s selves on opposite sides of chlorine attacks in Syria in Abdelaziz Bouteflika, for absence of the president, who Baku. The verses that Erdogan remarks in Baku. regional conflicts like the Syrian 2017.Russia and Syria have treatment in France of a stroke embodies the essential powers, read included lines about how Altun said the poem does war, and severe US trade sanc- dismissed the charges, saying in 2013 and later in Switzerland is obviously a problem.” a border tore apart ancient not include any references to tions against Iran. Western powers have politi- cized the work of the OPCW. “What we reject is specu- Iran official slams lations and political smear Charges in Beirut port blast stir controversy in Lebanon campaigns, which, unfortu- Morocco-Israel nately, more and more often AP — BEIRUT constitution, a separate council poison the OPCW,” said Rus- normalisation deal made up of judges and politi- sia’s ambassador to the United Top Lebanese politicians and cians and set up by parliament Nations, Vasily Nebenzya. AFP — TEHRAN the militant Hezbollah group is entrusted with trying min- He alleged the organi- rallied on Friday against isters and premiers for crimes sation was relying on remote An adviser to Iran’s supreme charges of negligence levelled of high treason, dereliction of investigations instead of leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei against the caretaker prime duties, and breach of the con- on-site collections of samples. has condemned Morocco’s minister and three former stitution — a body that has In a joint statement ahead normalisation of ties with ministers over the massive never been activated by of the meeting, European Israel. explosion in Beirut’s port, parliament. members of the Security The kingdom on Thursday underscoring the enormous The move by Sawwan to Council expressed their full became the fourth Arab state difficulties facing the investi- exercise his jurisdiction to backing for the OPCW. this year to normalise relations gation. accuse government officials Germany, Belgium, with Israel, in a deal Hezbollah called on inves- came after he sent a letter and Estonia, France and Britain announced by outgoing US tigating judge Fadi Sawwan to documents to parliament last praised “its professionalism, President Donald Trump. reconsider the charges, calling month, informing lawmakers impartiality and well-estab- A view shows damage at the site of a massive explosion in Beirut’s In return, Washington ful- them “political targeting” and of serious suspicions relating to lished technical expertise in port area, in Lebanon, on August 12, 2020. filled a decades-old goal of saying they lacked legal and government officials and asking implementing the Chemical Rabat by recognising its sov- constitutional basis. them to investigate. The law- Weapons Convention and ereignty over disputed Similar criticism was voiced was seen by many as an attempt the death of hundreds of people makers responded by saying tasks assigned by the states Western Sahara. by Prime Minister-designate to block a precedent that might in the catastrophic explosion in that the material they received parties.” The United States also “The deal between the tri- Saad Hariri, who visited the lead to accountability on a high August. At this point, however, did not point to any professional said it “strongly” supported the angle of America, Morocco and accused caretaker Premier level. A culture of impunity has it is far too early to say if any of wrongdoing. global watchdog. Russia and the Zionist regime was done Hassan Diab in a gesture of sol- prevailed in Lebanon for the four will actually face trial. Lawyer Youssef Lahoud, Syria have been under in exchange for Morocco’s idarity. Lebanon’s grand mufti, decades, including among the Diab, who is supported by who represents the Bar Associ- pressure for months by the UN betrayal of Islam (and) the Pal- the top cleric for Sunni Muslims, entrenched political elites. It has Hezbollah and its political allies, ation in the investigation, said and the OPCW to provide clar- estinian cause, selling Muslims’ said the charges are an attack also fostered widespread cor- resigned in the wake of the the parliament’s response does ification on chemical attacks honour to international on “the office of the prime min- ruption that has helped plunge August 4 blast but remains in not prevent Sawwan from exer- carried out in Syria and poi- Zionism,” foreign policy ister” and were a violation of Lebanon into the worst eco- his post in a caretaker capacity, cising his right to criminally sonings of Russian nationals. adviser Ali Akbar Velayati said the constitution. The prime nomic and financial crisis in its as Lebanese officials have failed charge government officials in Although the meeting was on his official website on minister in Lebanon must be a history. to agree on a new Cabinet. the port explosion. The devoted to chemical weapons Friday. Sunni Muslim, according to the “What is happening now The explosion was caused explosion is not viewed as a in Syria, Arias spoke at length He added that the normal- country’s sectarian-based can be summed up in four by the ignition of a large political crime, which would on the case of Russian oppo- isation of ties with Israel was power-sharing system. words: Gangs defending each stockpile of explosive material require the role of parliament, sition leader Alexei Navalny, “not a new thing” as the The four are the most senior other,” tweeted Riad Kobaissi, that had been stored at the port Lahoud said. who says he was poisoned by kingdom had maintained a officials to be charged in the an investigative journalist who for six years, with the The three former ministers the Kremlin. liaison office in Israel in the investigation and are set to be has followed corruption at knowledge of top security offi- charged along with Diab are He particularly regretted past. questioned as defendants next Beirut port. cials and politicians who did allies of Hezbollah. They are that Moscow is still blocking a Rabat severed diplomatic week by Judge Sawwan. In a stunning move, Judge nothing about it. It killed more former Finance Minister Ali technical visit by the OPCW to relations with Tehran in 2018 It was not clear whether the Sawwan filed the charges than 200 people and wounded Hassan Khalil, as well as Ghazi Russia. The OPCW has said accusing it of backing the criticism could have an impact against Diab and three former thousands, devastating large Zeiter and Youssef Fenianos, samples taken from Navalny Polisario, a charge denied by on the investigation — or the ministers on Thursday, accusing parts of the capital of Beirut. both former ministers of public have contained a Novichok- Tehran. charges- but the united front them of negligence that led to According to Lebanon’s works. type nerve agent. 10 AFRICA SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 First NGO aid convoy arrives in Tigray; businesses to re-open REUTERS — ADDIS ABABA restored, but most of the region remains unreachable for jour- The first non-governmental aid nalists and outside aid agencies. Phone and Internet convoy since fighting started The convoy of seven white connections are arrived in the capital of Ethio- trucks that arrived in Mekelle gradually being pia’s northern Tigray region was organised by the Interna- restored, but most of yesterday, as the government tional Committee of the Red the region remains ordered businesses to re-open Cross (ICRC) and the Ethiopian and officials to return to work. Red Cross, the ICRC said. unreachable for The federal government “Doctors and nurses have journalists and outside restricted access to Tigray after been... weeks without new sup- aid agencies. fighting began on November 4 plies, running water, and elec- between its troops and the tricity,” said Patrick Youssef, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front ICRC’s regional director for is returning to normal, despite (TPLF), a political party that Africa. “This medical shipment the continuing restrictions. ruled the province. So far the will inject new stocks, help The federally-appointed conflict in Africa’s second-most patients,” and reduce those provisional administration for populous nation is believed to impossible life-or-death triage Tigray, intended to replace the have killed thousands of people decisions.” TPLF, said it would take office and displaced around 950,000. The government says it has on Sunday and urged local gov- A man carries a sack of wheat while a crowd waits during a food distribution organised by the Ethiopian But the tempo of fighting defeated TPLF forces, and ernment workers to resume government in the city of Alamata, Ethiopia, on Friday. seems to have slowed since the struck a deal with the United their jobs on Monday. government announced the Nations to allow aid. “Peace and stability has capture of the regional capital But some aid agencies and been established in most of the authority, as saying. Gov- It’s unclear what will November. Nearly 15,000 are Mekelle late last month, donors say the agreement is too towns in the region, including ernment workers who were happen to civilians displaced by at Um Rakoba camp, where although information is hard to restrictive and security remains Mekelle. Businesses must return absent would be fired, he said, the fighting. long lines of people waited for verify due to the restrictions. a problem; one UN security to normal from tomorrow,” the and gun owners must surrender Nearly 50,000 refugees, food with plates in their hands Phone and Internet connec- team was shot at last weekend. state news agency quoted Mulu their weapons to security forces mostly Tigrayans, have crossed and new arrivals constructed tions are gradually being The government says Tigray Nega, the head of the interim by Tuesday. into eastern Sudan since early shelters using tree branches. Militants abduct Gunmen raid school in Nigeria, capture several students two aid workers AFP — LAGOS were forced to retreat and were away by the bandits”. being tracked, but the “Nobody can say how many in Nigeria Gunmen have raided a spokesman made no mention students were abducted government secondary school of casualties. because there has not been a AFP — KANO, NIGERIA in northern Nigeria’s Katsina “We are still taking the roll headcount.” Local media state, police said yesterday, in call to determine if any student reported that scores of students Militants have kidnapped two an apparent kidnapping is missing,” he told AFP. might have been abducted. aid workers in Nigeria’s restive attempt for ransom. Nonetheless, reinforce- Katsina, home state of Pres- northeast Borno state as they Local people told AFP ments had been deployed to ident Muhammudu Buhari, is were returning from a several students were captured. search for any missing students. among several in northwest wedding, humanitarian and The attackers on motorcycles “This morning some 200 stu- Nigeria that have been security sources said stormed Government Science dents who fled for safety during repeatedly attacked by yesterday. Secondary School at Kankara the assault have returned to the “bandits” who kidnap for The two were identified as People walk at a school in Kankara district, after it was attacked by late Friday. hostel, “ he added. ransom and rustle cattle. a employee of UN World Food armed bandits, in northwestern Katsina state, Nigeria, yesterday. “The bandits came on Local residents said the In August, seven students Programme (WFP) who had motorcycles firing sporadically attackers had carried off stu- were kidnapped along with just attended his wedding, and and tried to enter the school,” dents, but it was unclear how school and took away several “The school is deserted. All their female teacher from a a colleague from the Interna- said state police spokesman Isa many. students,” Nura Abdullahi said. the students have vacated.” private secondary school in tional Committee of the Red Gambo. “Our men with the “The kidnappers fought “Some of the students who Another resident, Ibrahim nearby Kaduna state. Cross (ICRC) who had been the assistance of the army engaged with security personnel. While escaped returned to the town Mamman, added that most of The hostages were later best man at the ceremony. them in a shootout lasting one the fighting was ongoing this morning but others took a the students had escaped, “but released, but it was not revealed They were seized by and half hours.” The gunmen another group went into the bus home,” he said. some were captured and taken if a ransom was paid. Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on Wednesday near Jakana Buhari disputes village, the sources said. From Africa to Europe ... via the Canary Islands “ISWAP terrorists took the lawmakers’ power two aid workers hostage at a AFP — ARGUINEGUIN, SPAIN groups, politicians and legal deportation be sent to tem- free to do as they please and checkpoint they mounted near to summon him officials. Following the crit- porary detention centres, most had bought plane tickets with Jakana,” a UN source said. BLOOMBERG After a three-day boat trip from icism, the government dis- of which have either been their own means. The hostages were Western Sahara, Mohceine Ait mantled the encampment on closed or forced to radically “The bulk of arrivals in returning to the regional A last minute change of heart Lamadane reached the Canaries November 30, after announcing limit their capacity due to the recent months have been capital Maiduguri from the by Nigerian President and from there travelled to plans to build emergency pandemic, which has also put people who are eligible to be wedding in neighbouring Muhammadu Buhari on Italy, taking advantage of a encampments to house 7,000 repatriations on hold. sent back” to Morocco or other Adamawa state when they answering an invitation by system swamped by arrivals people. In normal times, when Although the government African nations, Hana Jalloul, were stopped at a bogus lawmakers has triggered a and slowed by the coronavirus. someone enters Spain illegally, has dismissed the idea of trans- Spain’s junior minister for checkpoint around 1230 GMT, constitutional dispute over the “I paid ¤2,000 ($2,430) for the police identify him or her ferring migrants to mainland migration, said last month. the source said. power of the country’s the crossing,” 23-year-old and issue them a deportation Spain — as demanded by the But some people “have just The WFP worker “had his parliament to summon the Lamdane told AFP in late order, except in cases where authorities in the Canary left, because they’re free and wedding on November 28 and head of state. November after disembarking they qualify for international Islands — officials admit that they have family networks the Red Cross colleague was The president initially at Arguineguin port in Gran protection as a refugee. some managed to make the (elsewhere),” she said. his best man,” said the UN accepted an invitation to Canaria where Spain’s coast- The process must be carried journey themselves and from In the throes of a diplomatic source. appear before the House of guard drops off migrants picked out within the first 72 hours as there, travel to other parts of offensive to reactivate depor- A military source in Jakana Representatives on Thursday up at sea. after that “detention is illegal,” Europe. tations, the interior ministry confirmed the kidnap of “two to discuss widespread inse- And barely 10 days later, he explains Daniel Arencibia, a Ahead of Arguineguin’s does not provide figures on humanitarian staff by ISWAP curity in Africa’s most pop- was in Italy “with his two lawyer who works with closure, many people turned up such cases. terrorists.” On Wednesday, the ulous nation. However, Buhari brothers”, confirmed his cousin migrants in Gran Canaria. at the port to search for rela- Jose Luis Guedes, secretary- UN issued a memo informing opted not to turn up following Moulay Omar Semlali, 40, who They are then sent to a tem- tives or friends. general of the SUP police union its staff about the abduction of pressure from his political lives in Gran Canaria, the archi- porary camp where they wait Abdel Rostom, a Moroccan in the Canary Islands, says a “UN national staff embarking party and advice from his pelago’s largest island. until they are sent back home. national who lives in Gran many North Africans arrive on a private trip... by NSAG attorney general. It was Semlali who picked But the three-day deadline Canaria, came to look for the with all their passports and (non-state armed group)”. The lower chamber of the him up from Arguineguin, a hasn’t always been respected relative of a friend who arrived identity cards intact. The memo did not state National Assembly requested small fishing port that has in by the authorities, who have by boat “in order to send him “They know they can’t be which UN agency the kid- the president’s presence at the recent months taken centre been completely swamped by over to mainland Spain”. expelled, that they’re free, and napped staffer worked for. start of the month after Boko stage in the crisis, with its tem- the arrival of nearly 20,000 And when around 200 they manage to travel by their The incident happened Haram insurgents killed as porary camp — that was only people this year, 10 times the migrants showed up in the own means to mainland Spain along the 120km Maiduguri/ many as 110 civilians in Borno set up to process migrants and number in 2019. southern city of Granada, the and there they disappear,” he Damaturu highway which state on November 28, run virus tests – completely In November, a local judge Spanish government’s said. “They go to France, passes through Jakana, said according to the United swamped. At one point, more spoke out to remind the author- rightwing and far-right oppo- Belgium, Germany which is the memo. Nations. The day before than 2,100 people were staying ities that migrants can no longer nents accused it of chartering a their real destination,” he In a statement on Friday, Buhari’s expected appearance there, mostly sleeping rough on be held “against their will” plane to fly them all over. explained. “They don’t want to ISWAP said it seized “two on Dec. 10, Abubakar Malami, the ground in conditions beyond the initial 72 hours. But the government denied stay in the Canary Islands, it’s Christians working for the Red his attorney general and deplored by international rights Nor can those awaiting the allegation, saying they were just a stepping stone.” Cross organization”. justice minister, said the House of Representatives had exceeded its constitutional Lisbon offers Mozambique bounds. “The nation’s security architecture cannot be support in fight against militancy exposed for the sake of getting publicity,” he said in an AFP — LISBON “The dialogue with the emailed statement. Mozambican authorities has The leadership of the Portugal has offered to help been very positive, very prac- ruling All Progressives Con- Mozambique fight the insur- tical. We talked about how we gress, which controls both gency threatening the can work together,” he added. chambers of parliament, is also resource-rich north of the Assistance would include opposed to the president country, particularly with training and logistical support respecting the request, military training, the Portu- “so that Mozambicans are able Buhari’s spokesman Garba guese defence minister said to do what is necessary to find Shehu said by text message. yesterday. peace in Cabo Delgado,” said Malami’s argument is Militants have stepped up the minister whose country will “completely inappropriate,” attacks in Cabo Delgado take over the rotating European said Freedom Onuoha, a province, where 2,400 people Union presidency in January. political science lecturer at the have been reported killed and The Militants are now University of Nigeria in the a million displaced over the last present in 10 of the province’s southeastern town of Nsukka. three years. “I am convinced 17 districts, according to The constitution “clearly that we will be able to put in Mozambique military sources. empowers the National place from the beginning of Details about the militants Assembly to summon any 2021 a cooperation that will are sketchy. They call them- public officer to appear in allow Mozambique to fully selves Al Shabab but have no person or provide evidence for exercise its sovereignty over its known link to the group of that any issue of national concern,” A day's catch entire national territory,” Joao name operating in Somalia. he said by phone on December Gomes Cravinho told TSF radio Last year, they pledged Trek net fishermen haul in their catch on Fish Hoek beach in Cape Town, South Africa, on Friday. 10. “It did not exempt the after a visit to Mozambique, a allegiance to the Islamic State president.” former Portuguese colony. group. SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 ASIA 11 Modi says govt committed to farmers’ welfare IANS — NEW DELHI Farmers protesting on has surpassed the cities and more than half of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi the national capital’s startups are in Tier-2 and Tier-3 said yesterday that agricultural different borders cities. reforms will usher in new Mentioning the recently investments into the sector. yesterday announced approved PM WANI (Prime The Prime Minister said this their plan to expand Minister Wi-Fi Access Network during a video conference on the demonstrations Interface) for public Wi-Fi the occasion of the 93rd annual hotspots, he said that entrepre- general meeting of industry and expand them to neurs should become partners body Federation of Indian a ‘pan-India’ scale, in the rural connectivity efforts. Chambers of Commerce and “It is certain that in the 21st Industry (Ficci). appealing all sections century, India’s growth will be Modi said that agricultural of society, including driven by villages and the small reforms will increase synchro- cities and entrepreneurs like nisation in the sector and help girls and women, to you should not lose out on the create better logistics and cold- join them. opportunity to invest in the vil- chain infrastructure. lages and small cities. Your The Prime Minister told the investment will open new doors gathering that investment in Furthermore, Modi cited for our brothers and sisters in technology, cold storage and the that private sector investment the rural areas and in the agri- agri-sector will benefit the in the agriculture sector is not culture sector” the Prime Min- farmers. Besides, he also dwelled up to the mark. ister said. on the steps to help the farmers He said in the fields of He also called upon the and the agri-sector at length. supply chain, cold storage and India Inc to strengthen the local According to the Prime Min- areas like fertilisers etc, both the value and supply chain and Students hold placards as they shout slogans in support of farmers during a protest against the recent ister, through policy and interest and investment of the expand India’s role in global agricultural reforms, in Amritsar, Punjab, yesterday. intention, the government is private sector is needed. supply chain. committed to the welfare of the There is a huge scope in “India has market, man- farmers. rural agro-based industries and power and also the capability government about rolling back representatives of 32 different Addressing a press con- Noting the increasing a friendly policy regime is in to work in mission mode,” he the three contentious farm laws unions jointly announced their ference at Singhu border, Kisan vibrancy of the agri-sector, he place for that, the Prime Min- said. enacted in September, farmers plans for a ‘pan-India’ protest if Sangharsh Samiti President talked of the new alternatives ister said. In addition, the Prime Min- protesting on the national cap- the government does not accept Kawalpreet Singh Pannu said: available to the farmers to sell Making a strong pitch for ister said that the country pri- ital’s different borders yes- their demands and withdraws “We have decided to expand their produce outside the the positive change happening oritised the lives of the citizens terday announced their plan to the three laws — The Farmers this movement pan India.” The mandis, modernisation of in the rural, semi-rural and during the pandemic and that expand the demonstrations and Produce Trade and Commerce farm leader said that farmers mandis and option of selling Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, the yielded good results. expand them to a ‘pan-India’ (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, will move from Rajasthan’s produce on electronic platform. Prime Minister invited senior The circumstances scale, appealing all sections of 2020; The Farmers (Empow- Shajapur to Delhi borders He pointed out that all this business and industry leaders improved with the same speed society, including girls and erment and Protection) blocking the Delhi-Jaipur route is directed to make the farmer to take benefit of the opportu- in which they had deteriorated women, to join them. Agreement of Price Assurance on Sunday and all District Col- prosperous as prosperous nities in such areas. initially, Modi said. Declaring that they’ll hold a and Farm Services Act, 2020; lector offices would become the farmer means prosperous He said that the number of Meanwhile, getting no pos- day long ‘hunger strike’ on and The Essential Commodities Centre of the protest on nation. Internet users in the rural areas itive signal from the central December 14, farmers (Amendment) Act, 2020. December 14. Australia won’t use controversial carbon credits: PM North Korea accused of

BLOOMBERG — CANBERRA 2030 target without the need to biggest emitter per person — prices while reducing carbon draw on our carry-over credits has steadfastly refused to join capture and storage technology human rights abuses Australian Prime Minister Scott that Australians earned from developed peers in targeting costs, he said. AP — UNITED NATIONS The country’s closure, along Morrison said he is “very overachieving on our Kyoto-era emissions neutrality by 2050 as “Global targets are with a series of natural dis- confident” the nation won’t use commitments,” he said. it champions oil and natural gas important,” Morrison said. Eight mainly Western nations asters over the summer, dealt controversial emissions- Morrison’s commitment exports in pulling the country “But unless those practical accused North Korea on Friday a heavy blow to the North reduction credits to meet its comes as the United Nations out of the pandemic-induced targets can be met with these of using the pandemic “to crack Korean economy, which has Paris Agreement commitments. Climate Action Summit meets recession. types of technologies, then down further on the human been under punishing US-led Australia has beaten its on Saturday. He isn’t attending That contrasts with they will only remain ambi- rights of its own people,” sanctions. A major virus out- emissions-reduction targets and has indicated he would announcements by its three tions and the emissions will pointing to reports of an uptick break could have dire conse- under the Kyoto Protocol by 459 provide commentary on the biggest customers — China, continue to rise.” in executions related to the quences because its health care million tonnes and has nation’s policies rather than Japan and South Korea — that The speech is unlikely to be coronavirus and strict controls system remains crippled and “improved” its position in make an ambitious pledge to cut they will pursue targets to effec- well received by the Pacific on movements in and around suffers from a chronic lack of achieving its 2030 goal in the greenhouse gas emissions. tively eliminate emissions. Island Forum given Morrison the capital. medical supplies. past two years, Morrison said. Local media reported Mor- Morrison steered clear of the “tried to convince regional Their statement was read South Korea’s spy agency Currently, the nation’s emis- rison had initially planned to commitment Friday, saying leaders that climate ambition virtually after the UN Security told lawmakers in late sions are almost 17 percnet use the event to indicate the Australia will make new goals was not as important as investing Council discussed North November that Kim had below the level they were in credits — that help countries ahead of the next round of in technologies like carbon Korea’s human rights situation ordered at least two people 2005, he said in text of a speech skirt their pledges to lower pol- global climate talks, known as capture and storage, mainly used behind closed doors. Germany executed, banned fishing and to the Pacific Islands Forum lution — wouldn’t be used to COP26, in 2021. to sell the notion of clean coal,” had sought an open meeting salt production at sea to Friday night. meet its commitment to cutting Instead, focus should be on said Richie Merzian, climate and but Russia and China, both prevent seawater from being “Australia is very confident greenhouse gas emissions. producing so-called green steel energy director at the Australia neighbours of North Korea, infected with the virus, and that we will now achieve our Australia — the world’s third and aluminum at competitive Institute. objected. Diplomats said the locked down Pyongyang as part Germans couldn’t muster the of frantic efforts to guard nine “yes” votes needed for an against the coronavirus and its New Zealand open meeting of the economic damage. 15-member council. According to a lawmaker, to reopen Seven council members — a high-profile money changer Germany, Belgium, Dominican in Pyongyang was executed in border with Republic, Estonia, France, October after being held United Kingdom and United responsible for a falling Cook Islands States — joined by Japan said exchange rate and a key official in the statement that North was executed in August for vio- Korea was putting nuclear lating government regulations AFP — WELLINGTON power and military might over restricting goods brought from its people. abroad. New Zealand took tentative The government’s decision The statement by the eight steps yesterday towards “to prioritise its weapons pro- nations pointed to “the serious reopening its borders for the grams over the needs of its threat posed to international first time in the COVID era, but people and their isolation from peace and security” by North only with the tiny Cook Islands the international community, Korea’s “longstanding, sys- in the South Pacific. is inevitably worsening the tematic, widespread and gross The government impacts of the pandemic on the violations of human rights.” It announcement made no North Korean population,” they cited the Commission of mention of any plans for a said. Inquiry on human rights in the broader expansion to take in North Korea sealed its country, which said North Australia, which introduced a border with China, its biggest Korea commits crimes against one-way travel bubble in trading partner and aid bene- humanity and the gravity and October allowing quarantine- factor, as the coronavirus scale of its violations “reveal a free travel from New Zealand to started spreading in January. state that does not have any Australia but not vice-versa. Kim Jong Un’s government parallel in the contemporary New Zealand has been Metro test-run in Hanoi maintains it hasn’t found a world.” widely praised for its strict han- single coronavirus case on its North Korea has repeatedly dling of the coronavirus which Hanoi city’s first urban metro train runs along the Cat Linh-Ha Dong line in Hanoi yesterday on the soil, a claim disputed by outside rejected accusations of human has caused just 25 deaths in a first day of safety evaluation test runs. experts. rights abuses. population of five million. In a brief statement, the government said planning was now under way for quar- South Korea sees record 950 cases in COVID-19 ‘emergency’ antine-free travel with the Cook Islands to begin in the REUTERS — SEOUL domestically transmitted cases in a Facebook post. today, which made me worried, Sye-kyun said the government first quarter of next year. were from Seoul and its neigh- South Korea is likely to see because I’m afraid I might be will make all-out efforts to halt “It will allow people to South Korea reported a record bouring areas, where about half a further rise in the caseload exposed to the risk of infection. the third wave. travel more easily between our 950 daily coronavirus cases of the nation’s 52 million people with significant increases in I will try to return home as soon “If we don’t curb the two countries, while acknowl- yesterday, exceeding the late live. testing, he added. as possible.” spread now, escalating social edging that the priority February peak of 909, with the “This is indeed an emer- The surge has been a blow The third wave comes distancing restriction to remains to protect our popu- president calling the country’s gency situation,” said Pres- to South Korea’s vaunted pan- despite tougher social-dis- Level 3 would be inevitable,” lations from COVID-19,” Prime third wave of COVID-19 an ident Moon Jae-in, ordering demic-fighting system, which tancing rules that took effect on Chung told an emergency Minister Jacinda Ardern said. “emergency”. the mobilisation of police, used invasive tracing, testing Tuesday, including unprece- meeting. It has been more than The South Korean author- military personnel and public and quarantine to blunt pre- dented curfews on restaurants Authorities urged people to three weeks since the last case ities warned they may tighten medical doctors in an effort vious waves without lock- and most other businesses. The stay home and cancel all face- of community transmission in social-distancing restrictions to to curb the further spread of downs, keeping daily infections country has reported about 600 to-face meeting as new infec- New Zealand, and the Cook their strictest level but held off the coronavirus, chiefly below 50 for much of the cases a day this week. tions have been spotted from Islands are COVID free. for now. driven by small, widespread summer. Greater Seoul is under level personal meetings. Cook Islands Prime Min- Of the Friday cases reported clusters.. “I was worried when I heard 2.5 restrictions. Raising that to “While we cannot avoid ister Mark Brown said the free by the Korea Disease Control “We plan to extensively the daily coronavirus count was 3, the highest of the five levels, contact with our family at movement of people between and Prevention Agency (KDCA), expand drive-through and beyond 900 infections,” Chae would require schools to switch home, meetings with your New Zealand and his country 928 were locally transmitted walk-through coronavirus Hyeong-chan, 29, told Reuters to remote learning, allow only friends and colleagues at work “is central to our close rela- and 22 were imported, bringing testing methods... as on a visit to Seoul for a doctor’s essential workers in offices and are not safe. Please cancel tionship” and integral to the the total to 41,736 infections preemptive measures to track appointment from the port city ban gatherings of more than 10 them,” senior KDCA official Cook Islands’ recovery from with 578 deaths. down infected people and Incheon. people. Lim Sook-young told a the coronavirus. More than 70 percent the block the spread,” Moon said “I had to take the subway Prime Minister Chung briefing. 12 ASIA SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 Hong Kong media tycoon charged under security law AFP — HONG KONG Jimmy Lai is the most further investigate. This included examining Hong Kong media tycoon and high-profile figure more than a thousand messages Beijing critic Jimmy Lai charged under the from Lai’s Twitter accounts, a appeared in court yesterday to number of media interviews the face a charge under a sweeping national security law, tycoon gave, and a number of new national security law that which has targeted overseas visits in relation to see him jailed for life. calls for US sanctions against He is accused of colluding the city’s pro- Hong Kong and China. with foreign countries by calling After the hearing, Lai’s sup- on overseas governments to democracy movement porters shouted words of sanction Hong Kong and China but brought a encouragement, which he in response to the crackdown returned with a heart-shape on pro-democracy activism in semblance of calm hand gesture. the city. to the finance hub Lai’s popular Apple Daily Lai, 73, is the most high- newspaper, citing sources, said profile figure charged under the after months of often- the bulk of the police case law, which has targeted the violent protests. revolved around social media city’s pro-democracy posts and interviews Lai gave movement but brought a sem- to Western media. blance of calm to the finance It reported that the police Media mogul Jimmy Lai, founder of Apple Daily, walks to a prison van to head to court, after being hub after months of often- by requesting that a foreign allegations said Lai had fol- charged under the national security law, in Hong Kong, yesterday. violent protests. country or institution, organi- lowed 53 people on Twitter The police’s new national sation or individual “impose including US Secretary of State Twitter after the security law headquarters in August and be heard behind closed doors, security department charged sanctions or blockade, or engage Mike Pompeo, Taiwan Pres- came into force. arrested a string of senior or even be tried in mainland him Friday with “collusion with in other hostile activities” against ident Tsai Ing-wen and a It also said Lai had given company figures, including Lai. China. a foreign country or with Hong Kong and China. member of Britain’s Conserv- interviews to CNN, Fox News, Last week, he was denied Beijing’s clampdown on external elements to endanger Lai, dressed in a suit and ative Party, Luke de Pulford, Bloomberg, the New York bail and remanded in custody Hong Kong, especially prom- national security” under the calm throughout, said he and that he had 120,000 fol- Times, BBC Chinese and other until April after being charged inent political figures, has dra- tough law imposed on the city acknowledged the charge. lowers including Tiananmen foreign media calling for with fraud. He was set to apply matically accelerated since it by Beijing. The offence carries Chief Magistrate Victor So, student protest leaders Wang support from the West and for bail on that charge at the imposed the security law in a penalty of up to life one of the six magistrates hand- Dan and Wuer Kai Xi. sanctions on China. High Court on Tuesday. June. imprisonment. picked by the city’s pro-Beijing The report also said the Lai’s Apple Daily is una- He was denied bail Opposition lawmakers have The prosecutor told the court leader Carrie Lam to handle prosecution accused Lai of pub- shamedly pro-democracy and yesterday. been disqualified from the leg- that Lai broke the security law national security cases, said the lishing remarks that targeted fiercely critical of authorities. The controversial security islature and leading democracy between July 1 and December 1 prosecution needed time to China and Hong Kong via Police raided the paper’s law also allows some trials to activists have been jailed. Turkmenistan JUI-F chief accused of having secret foreign contacts honours former INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD Mehmood Ahmed Madni was He said that it was Maulana collected concrete evidence would be talks on any issues except PM of Japan also present. Fazlur Rehman who issued a about benami properties of on the graft cases against them, A top minister of Prime Minister “Tell the nation what was religious decree against the Maulana Rehman worth billions adding, if the opposition wanted AFP — ASHGABAT Imran Khan’s administration the reason behind the secret then prime minister late Benazir of rupees. to talk on this condition, we are accused Jamiat Ulema-e Islam- rendezvous with Ajit Doval,” he Bhutto that a woman could not Shibli Faraz said that the ready to hold talks with them. Turkmenistan’s autocratic Fazl (JUI-F) chief Fazlur questioned. become the prime minister of government would not come However, the minister leader has awarded Japanese Rehman of having contacts with In the same breath, the min- an Islamic country, but under any pressure due to the claimed that several MNAs and ex-premier Shinzo Abe with a British spy agency MI6 besides ister accused the cleric of being withdrew his fatwa when she “drama’ staged by the opposition MPAs of the opposition parties state medal, state media secret rendezvous with India’s in “contact with some foreign issued a permit to him for sup- parties through collection of res- - both the PPP and the PML-N reported Saturday, after Tokyo National Security Advisor Ajit powers” ahead and during his plying diesel to Afghanistan. ignations from their lawmakers - were in constant contact with invested heavily in the Doval. “Azadi March” onto Islamabad “Now, that very cleric is to hide their past corruption. the government as they were gas-rich country to counter Speaking at a press con- in October 2019, soon after heading the PDM, and rightly He termed “resignation not willing to resign from the China’s clout. ference, the Minister for Prime Minister Khan high- so after all, he is a man who has threat from the assemblies” as assemblies. Abe, who resigned his post Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit- lighted the issue of Kashmir at great experience in theft and nothing but a “planned drama”, Faraz said that the oppo- earlier this year owing to poor Baltistan Ali Amin Gandapur the international level. plundering national wealth, and as they would have no guts to sition parties would fail in their health, was among the more along with Minister for Infor- He also accused the JUI-F’s those part of the PDM are also submit them to the speaker. designs, and they have no than 20 foreign dignitaries to mation Shibli Faraz, accusing top cleric of being involved in certified thieves,” he added. About making contacts with political future, adding their receive medals from Gur- the heavyweight cleric, ques- creating sectarian valence among He said that the cleric had opposition to call off their anti- state of mind and bewilderment banguly Berdymukhamedov tioned: Can Fazlur Rehman tell Shia and Sunnis in the country, plundered the national kitty government protests, Faraz demonstrates that their politics as Turkmenistan celebrated a the nation what were the and getting foreign funding. with billions of rupees by vehemently denied the reports, stand buried. He said that Prime quarter-century of reasons of being in contact with “I’ve irrefutable evidence remaining in power with saying “why would we contact Minister Imran Khan would not neutrality. MI6. against the cleric (Fazlur Rehman) respective governments in the them as we are a transparent give any NRO to the corrupt Other recipients included He said that the cleric held of whatever I’ve said against him, past, and now he knows no one and democratically-elected leaders, adding giving NRO UN Secretary-General Antonio a meeting with Ajit Doval, in and I dare him to drag me to the can save him from government”. (national reconciliation ordi- Guterres, his predecessor Ban which Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind’s court, if he thinks these are mere accountability. He said that as the prime min- nance) to the “thieves” means Ki-moon and the Russian executive director Maulana allegations,” he maintained. Gandapur said that he has ister had openly stated that there destroying the country. ambassador to Turkmenistan Alexander Blokhin. There were no Chinese nationals on the medal list. Imran calls for exploring Under Abe, Japanese banks and firms began pouring money into Turkmenistan, potential of ecotourism mostly in industrial projects that tapped the desert nation’s INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD those of Naran and Nathiagali, vast gas reserves. were damaged due to Experts saw the trend as Pakistani Prime Minister Imran unplanned tourism and part of Tokyo’s bid to balance Khan said with Pakistan having constructions. China in ex-Soviet Central the most beautiful and undis- The prime minister, Asia, which has fallen firmly covered tourist sites in Khyber however said that he believed under Beijing’s economic sway Pakhtunkhwa province and that the TREK initiative, under during the last decade. Northern Areas of the country, byelaws for environmental China imports more than there was a need to explore and protection, would help protect 30 billion cubic metres (1.1 promote the huge untapped the beautiful tourist sites like trillion cubic feet) of Turkmen tourism potential, including the Kumrat Valley. natural gas annually via the mountain tourism, local media The installation of a cable Central Asia-China Gas reported yesterday. car at the Kumrat Valley would Pipeline that was completed Switzerland, which is just not only add to the beauty of in 2009 and saw Beijing dis- half of Khyber Pakhtunkhawa area but would also help attract place Moscow as the region’s province in terms of area, is more tourists, he added. top gas purchaser. earning $80bn per annum Imran Khan said unlike Turkmenistan’s reserves through skiing alone, whereas Pakistan, where permanent are the fourth largest in the Pakistan’s annual exports are concrete structures were built world but the republic of six of around $25bn, he added. at beautiful tourist locations, million people has struggled Snowfall woes The prime minister was moveable structures were to diversify export routes and addressing the launching and made at various tourist resorts remains heavily reliant on Tourists push their mini bus as they cross a street covered with snow during a snowfall in Murree, partnership signing ceremony in the world, including Kenya sales to Beijing. some 65km north of Islamabad in Pakistan, yesterday. of ‘Travel Responsibility for Safari Park to protect the Experiencing Eco Tourism environment. (TREK)’ here between the Gov- The prime minister said the ernment of Khyber initiatives like TREK would also Kin of HK detainees in plea for trial information Pakhtunkhwa, World Bank and encourage the local people to Nestle Pakistan. take care of the tourist areas in AP — HONG KONG in a very long time — it’s almost suspicion of organising an The request TREK initiative includes terms of cleanliness and pro- four months. Please tell me illegal border crossing. The collaboration for awareness tection of natural beauty from Relatives of a dozen Hong Kong (about the trial). I’m just an group has been locked up in underscored the sharp campaigns on responsible pollution. residents who have been ordinary mother.” Shenzhen, a southern contrast between the tourism, waste collection, He referred to the govern- detained in mainland China for The 12 were arrested at sea Chinese city that borders management and recycling ment’s initiative of protecting more than 3 1/2 months made in August while they were Hong Kong. relatively open legal activities. The initiative is the wildlife habitat, including a plea yesterday to be informed apparently making a bid to flee The relatives covered their system in Hong Kong, aimed at promoting ecot- ibex in Chitral, and said due to of the timing of any trials and to Taiwan after a tough national faces with masks, and some a semi-autonomous ourism whereby environ- the government’s efforts the whether they can attend. security law took effect in Hong wore sunglasses, caps or mental protection of tourism preservation of ibex had been The request underscored Kong earlier this year. hoods to hide their identities Chinese territory, and sites in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa ensured for the protection of the sharp contrast between They were picked up after as they spoke at a news con- that of the mainland. will be ensured. wildlife habitat as well as for the relatively open legal entering mainland waters for ference. They did not give Imran Khan, while congrat- the benefit of local system in Hong Kong, a semi- crossing the maritime border their names. ulating KP Chief Minister community. autonomous Chinese ter- without permission. At least Owen Chow, an activist who purportedly from their detained Mehmood Khan for taking lead, The prime minister said ritory, and that of the some took part in anti-gov- has been helping the families, relatives, saying they were said the promotion of tourism owing to the government’s mainland, where often little ernment protests in 2019 and said they wanted to know being held in a good envi- especially eco-tourism would policy of promoting tourism, information is divulged until were facing charges in Hong whether the trials would be ronment and not abused. not only help the country there was a historic increase in a trial is over. Kong. open to the public and if family “The only thing I can do achieve enhanced economic tourism, especially local “I miss my son so much,” Though Hong Kong is a part members could attend. is to have dissatisfaction and development but would create tourism and a large number of the mother of Wong Wai-yin, of China, travellers must still He and some family be angry,” said a relative of more employment opportu- people were seen rushing to the one of the detainees, said, pass through immigration when members questioned the Tang Kai-yin, another nities for local population. KP and Northern Areas in choking up. “I want to visit him going to and from the mainland. authenticity of letters some of detainee. “I don’t know what He said unfortunately the summer and winter seasons so badly. I haven’t seen my son Two are being held on the latter had received, else to do.” country’s tourist sites, including alike. SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 EUROPE 13 Countries must declare ‘climate emergency’: UN chief

AFP — LONDON more than 3.0 degrees this state of the planet and a string than to low-carbon energy. century,” he said. of scientific reports warning “This is unacceptable. We UN chief Antonio Guterres “That is why today, I call Speaking at the opening of the dangers of inaction. cannot use these resources to called on governments on all leaders worldwide to of the Climate Ambition The UN says emissions lock in policies that burden yesterday to declare a “state declare a State of Climate summit, held online to must fall 7.6 percent annually future generations with a of climate emergency” and Emergency in their countries through 2030 to keep the 1.5C mountain of debt on a broken make good on their promises until carbon neutrality is mark five years since the temperature cap in play. planet,” he said via to slash carbon pollution as reached,” he added. Paris climate deal, In 2020, as the pandemic video-link. they recover from the UK Prime Minister Boris Guterres warned that brought lockdowns and Guterres urged countries pandemic. Johnson, China’s President Xi nations’ current restrictions on movement, that had already announced Speaking at the opening of Jinping and France’s commitments were “far emissions fell a record seven net-zero targets to make good the Climate Ambition summit, Emmanuel Macron are among percent, the UN said this week. on their promises and to accel- held online to mark five years leaders taking part in the from enough” to limit Yet Guterres said govern- erate emissions cuts in line since the Paris climate deal, virtual summit. temperature rises to 1.5 ments were missing the with the science. Guterres warned that nations’ More than 75 heads of state degrees Celsius. chance to green their eco- “Every country, city, current commitments were are expected to announce nomic recoveries. financial institution and “far from enough” to limit renewed emissions cutting He said G20 nations — company needs to adopt plans temperature rises to 1.5C targets or signal great intent United Nations Secretary-General responsible for the lion’s share to reach net zero emissions by degrees Celsius. to help the most vulnerable Antonio Guterres sweeping cuts to greenhouse of carbon pollution —were 2050 — and start executing “If we don’t change course, nations deal with increasingly gas emissions. But progress spending 50 percent more in them now, including by pro- we may be headed for a cata- frequent climate disasters. nations to limit warming to has stalled even in the face of their rescue packages on viding clear short-term strophic temperature rise of The Paris deal enjoined “well below” 2C through growing public anger over the sectors linked to fossil fuels targets,” he added. UK puts naval ships on standby to protect fishing if Brexit talks fail

AFP — LONDON train of English exception- — already enforce UK and EU alism” after headlines backing fisheries law. Britain yesterday readied the military threat in the Daily The Ministry of Defence armed Royal Navy ships to Mail -- “We’ll send in gun- confirmed it has conducted patrol its fishing waters if boats” — and Daily Express — “extensive planning and prep- tempers flare after a “no-deal” “Gunships to guard our fish”. aration” for a range of post- Brexit as a make-or-break “Heaven knows where it is Brexit scenarios from January deadline approached for talks going to take us in the end,” he 1, and has 14,000 personnel on with the European Union. said, calling Johnson, whose standby to help with the Four 80-metre vessels have Brexit stance has boosted transition. been placed on standby to support for Scottish inde- The four offshore patrol guard British waters from EU pendence and distanced boats would be part of a trawlers in case the two sides Northern Irish allies, “an “robust enforcement measures decide to abandon efforts to English nationalist”. in place to protect the UK’s secure a free-trade agreement Tobias Ellwood, a former rights as an independent today. British Army captain and now coastal state” that could also The development is part of chairman of parliament’s include helicopter increased contingency planning defence select committee, said surveillance. on both sides of the Channel, confrontations in the Channel WTO terms would mean and evokes memories of the would only be welcomed by tariffs and quotas, driving up “Cod Wars” with Iceland over Britain’s enemies. prices for businesses and con- Protest against ‘Global Security Bill’ fishing rights in the North “We’re facing the prospect sumers, and the re-intro- Atlantic in the 1960s and 70s. of our overstretched Royal duction of border checks for Demonstrators hold placards during a demonstration against the “Global Security Bill’’, that right Prime Minister Boris Navy squaring up to a close the first time in decades. groups say would make it a crime to circulate an image of a police officer’s face and would infringe Johnson has said it is “very, very Nato ally over fishing rights,” That has already raised the journalists’ freedom in the country, in Paris, France, yesterday. likely” the talks will fail, and he told BBC radio. prospect of heavy traffic Britain will revert to World “This isn’t the Elizabethan clogging roads leading to sea- Trade Organization (WTO) times anymore. It’s Global ports in southern and southeast terms with its largest single Britain,” he added, referring to England, as bureaucracy Former king of Spain dents image of trading partner. the country’s new post-EU lengthens waiting times for European leaders have also foreign policy. imports and exports. been told the chances of a deal “We need to be building Transport companies have monarchy further with tax settlement are slim with both sides at log- alliances not breaking them also warned that EU member gerheads over rules to govern apart.” But retired Admiral Ireland could see import AFP — MADRID The settlement is linked to a enjoyed as head of state. fair competition and fishing Alan West, who as chief of volumes shrink in the event of probe made public last month by It is the first time that Juan rights in British territorial naval staff and First Sea Lord new customs procedures for By settling a back tax bill, Spain’s Spain’s attorney general into Carlos, who is already the target waters. from 2002 to 2006 was Brit- goods routed through Britain. former king Juan Carlos I is trying whether the scandal-hit former of two other investigations over Deal or no deal, Britain will ain’s highest-ranking naval “As an industry we’re to avoid an embarrassing lawsuit, king used cards linked to his financial affairs, has acknowl- leave the EU single market and officer, said readying the looking to plan ahead but but he has further dented the accounts not registered in his edged having withheld income customs union on the evening Fishery Protection Squadron there’s so many unknowns it image of the monarchy and name — which could constitute from the tax office. While the tax of December 31, more than four was a sensible move in case becomes difficult,” said Road deepened tensions within the a possible money-laundering settlement reduces the risk of a years after a landmark refer- tensions spill over. Haulage Association director country’s leftist coalition offence. lawsuit, it does “enormous endum on membership of the “It’s absolutely appropriate Martin Reid. government. Judicial sources said they damage” to the reputation of the bloc. that the Royal Navy should Logjams at the Felixstowe His lawyer issued a two-par- were looking into funds monarchy, which was already Hardline Brexit-supporting protect our waters if the container port in eastern agraph statement on Wednesday deposited in several Spanish tarnished by other affairs Conservative MPs have sought position is we’re a sovereign England and elsewhere have night announcing that Juan bank accounts held by a Mexican involving the once-popular assurances from Johnson that state and the government says already raised fears of more to Carlos, who fled into self- businessman and a Spanish Air former king, said political con- the navy should be deployed we don’t want any other come, and delays in deliveries imposed exile in the United Arab Force official, and whether they sultant Euprepio Padula. to protect British waters. nation’s fishing boats there,” to shops, businesses and Emirates in August, had “pre- had been accessed by the Prosecutors are also exam- Lawmaker Daniel Kawc- he told BBC radio. industry. But the government sented the fiscal authorities with 82-year-old former monarch. ining a Saudi high-speed rail zynski said it would help The River-class patrol said they were mainly caused a spontaneous declaration” The credit card payments contract that was won by a con- “prevent illegal French fishing” vessels of the Fishery Pro- by a “global spike” in demand which “settled” a tax debt took place after Juan Carlos abdi- sortium of Spanish companies in when EU access ends. tection Squadron — the Royal for consumer goods and the amounting to 678,393 euros cated in 2014, which could mean 2011, seeking to establish Former Tory party Navy’s oldest frontline effect of the coronavirus out- ($821,453), including interest and that he is not shielded by the whether the then-monarch was chairman Chris Patten voiced squadron with a history dating break on shipping patterns and fines. immunity from prosecution he paid a commission. concerns about a “runaway back more than 500 years container capacity.

French police hold small but Merkel to discuss tighter curbs with German states today bold protest near Eiffel Tower REUTERS — BERLIN

German Chancellor Angela AP — PARIS ago with Brut, Macron Merkel will discuss with state It was a small protest, but bold. rejected the term “police leaders today tightening About 50 police officers brutality,” but denounced lockdown restrictions to stem gathered with their vehicles on violence perpetrated both by a rise in coronavirus infections, Friday at a spot overlooking and against police. Officers with school and shop closures the Eiffel Tower and blared who are violent “must be on the agenda, people familiar their sirens to protest Pres- punished,” he said. with the matter told Reuters. ident Emmanuel Macron He announced that an Germany has been in partial saying it is “unbearable” that internet platform would be lockdown for six weeks, with people of colour are more set up in January so “people clubs and restaurants closed. likely to be stopped by law can say where they are dis- Some regions have already enforcement than white criminated against and in imposed tougher measures. people. what way.” It is not meant to The discussions today will Two unions threatened focus only on police actions, include whether shops should be to stop carrying out identity he said.. closed before the Christmas checks after Macron’s Police misconduct holiday and the timing of such a remarks a week ago in an received new attention in move, said the people, who spoke interview with the online France after footage posted on condition of anonymity. outlet Brut, meant to capture on social media last month “We must take steps in the the youth audience. showed police officers coming days that are very far- “We just want to say to the beating up a Black man, trig- reaching and very hard-hitting,” Riot police officers take away an anti-government protester after a demonstration of coronavirus president and politicians that gering a nationwide outcry. German Finance Minister Olaf sceptics was cancelled amid the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, in Frankfurt yesterday. we are neither racist nor Four officers were placed Scholz told members of his Social violent,” one officer said, under investigation and two Democratic party at an online adding that they are just of them jailed. event. infections have climbed to wait until after Christmas to their own. Starting yesterday, police officers keeping the An article in new security Germany, which has 28,438, while the daily death toll react. people in Baden-Wuerttemberg, peace. He said unions were legislation that would make Europe’s largest economy, was was 496, data from the Robert “We have to clarify how in southwest Germany, are not part of the protest, “which it illegal to publish images of more successful than many Koch Institute (RKI) for infec- things will continue now,” he banned from going outside risks growing if they don’t officers with intent to cause European countries in keeping tious diseases showed said. “Otherwise the pandemic between 8pm and 5am except listen to us.” Police officers in them harm drew sharp crit- the pandemic under control in yesterday. will get completely out of for work and essential reasons France have no right to strike icism over fear it could hurt the first wave in March and Economy Minister Peter Alt- control.” and will also be encouraged to or protest so the small but press freedoms and make it April, but it has been struggling maier told the RND newspaper Merkel has favoured stricter stay at home during the day. noisy gathering was symbol- more difficult for citizens to to turn the tide in the second group yesterday that hospital pan-German measures but was Since Wednesday, people in ically significant. decry police brutality. The wave with what has been intensive care units were unable to get agreement from Bavaria have been allowed to In an interview a week measure is being rewritten. dubbed a “lockdown lite”. beginning to be stretched to their nation’s 16 states. But some states leave home only for essential Daily new coronavirus limits and that Germany couldn’t have since clamped down on reasons. 14 EUROPE / AMERICAS SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020

Mexico approves Peru suspends emergency use of Pfizer vaccine clinical trials of AP — MEXICO CITY

The Mexican government’s Chinese vaccine medical safety commission approved the emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech coro- AFP — LIMA The National navirus vaccine on Friday, making Mexico the fourth Peru has temporarily suspended Institute of Health country to do so. clinical trials of a coronavirus said yesterday that Assistant Health Secretary (COVID-19) vaccine made by Hugo López-Gatell said Mex- Chinese drug giant Sinopharm it had decided to ico’s approval came after after detecting neurological interrupt the trial Britain, Canada and Bahrain. problems in one of its test The United States announced volunteers. after a volunteer had its own approval of the vaccine The National Institute of difficulty moving their shortly after Mexico. Health said yesterday that it had Mexico is set to receive decided to interrupt the trial arms, according to 250,000 doses of the vaccine, after a volunteer had difficulty local media. enough for 125,000 people, moving their arms, according because each person requires to local media. two shots. López-Gatell has “Several days ago we sig- disorder which affects the said that front-line health naled, as we are required, to the movement of the arms and legs. A COVID-19 patient remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the Alberto Sabogal Sologuren Hospital, in workers will get the shots first. regulatory authorities that one Peru declared a temporary Lima, yesterday, amid the new coronavirus pandemic. Vaccinations are expected of our participants (in trials) health emergency in five to begin as soon as next week. presented neurological regions in June last year fol- Peru’s clinical trials for the inoculate two-thirds of its from the coronavirus, which López-Gatell said the approval symptoms which could corre- lowing multiple cases. Sinopharm vaccine were due population. as of Friday had caused 36,499 “is of course a reason for spond to a condition called In the 1970s a campaign to to conclude this week, after About 60,000 across the deaths and 979,111 hope,” though initial rounds of Guillain-Barre syndrome,” said innoculate Americans against testing around 12,000 people. globe have already taken the infections. shots are not nearly enough for chief researcher German a supposedly devastating strain If they are successful — Sinopharm vaccine, including The pandemic has hit the Mexico’s estimated 1.6 million Malaga in comments to the of swine flu ground to a halt which won’t be known until volunteers in Argentina, Russia South American country’s health care workers. press. after some 450 of those vacci- mid-2021 — the Peruvian gov- and Saudi Arabia. economy hard, with GDP López-Gatell downplayed Guillain-Barre syndrome is nated developed the syndrome, ernment was expected to buy Peru has one of the world’s plunging more than 30 percent reports of allergic reactions a rare and non-contagious which can also cause paralysis. up to 20 million doses to highest per capita death rate in the second quarter. among some vaccine recip- ients in Britain, noting that “the immense, immense, immense majority of people in Mexico Russian nuclear submarine tests four missiles and the world will be able to take this vaccine.” AP — MOSCOW in northwestern Russia, the Yesterday’s launch followed West as relations have sunk to deployed nuclear warheads and Mexico posted a record ministry said in a statement. sweeping drills of Russia’s stra- post-Cold War lows after Mos- 700 deployed missiles and increase of 12,253 virus cases A Russian nuclear submarine The Vladimir Monomakh is tegic nuclear forces on cow’s 2014 annexation of bombers, and envisages Friday, for a total of 1,229,379 yesterday successfully test-fired one of the new Borei-class Wednesday. As part of those Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula. sweeping on-site inspections to infections during pandemic. four intercontinental ballistic nuclear submarines that carry maneuvers, a Russian nuclear The series of missile verify compliance. Officials also reported 693 missiles in a show of readiness 16 Bulava missiles each and are submarine performed a practice launches comes less than two After both Moscow and more deaths related to of Moscow’s nuclear forces intended to serve as the core of launch of an intercontinental months before the New START Washington withdrew from the COVID-19, bringing the coun- amid tension with the US. the naval component of the ballistic missile from the U.S.-Russian arms control 1987 Intermediate-Range try’s total to 113,019. However, The Defence Ministry said nation’s nuclear forces for Barents Sea, a ground-based treaty expires in early February. Nuclear Forces Treaty last year, even official estimates place that the Vladimir Monomakh decades to come. Another sub- ICBM was launched from the Moscow and Washington have New START is the only the real death toll at closer to submarine of the Pacific Fleet marine of the same type per- Plesetsk facility in northwestern discussed the possibility of its remaining nuclear arms control 150,000, due to Mexico’s launched four Bulava missiles formed a similar launch of four Russia and Tu-160 and Tu-95 extension, but so far have failed deal between the two countries extremely low level of testing. in quick succession from an Bulava missiles in 2018 — a strategic bombers fired cruise to overcome their differences. still standing. Mexico City has become underwater position in the Sea costly demonstration of the effi- missiles at test targets at an New START was signed in Arms control advocates the central focus of increasing of Okhotsk. Their dummy war- ciency of the country’s nuclear Arctic range. 2010 by US President Barack have warned that its expiration cases in the country. The cap- heads hit their designated deterrent mimicking the con- Russia has expanded its mil- Obama and Russian President would remove any checks on ital’s hospitals were 78 percent targets on the Chiza shooting ditions of a major nuclear itary drills in recent years amid Dmitry Medvedev. It limits each US and Russian nuclear forces, full Friday, a level that worried range in the Arkhangelsk region conflict. tensions with the country to no more than 1,550 in a blow to global stability. officials. Protest in northern ICC prosecutor wants probe Albania leaves an officer injured into Ukraine war crimes

AP — TIRANA AP — THE HAGUE

Demonstrators in a northern The International Criminal Albanian city damaged the Court’s prosecutor said on left-wing governing Socialist Friday that a preliminary probe Party’s offices and injured a has found “a reasonable basis police officer yesterday, at this time to believe” that authorities said, as part of crimes against humanity and ongoing protests this week war crimes have been after a fatal shooting by police committed in Ukraine which enforcing a COVID-19 curfew. merit a full-scale investigation. Police said the illegal The six-year preliminary protest began at 11am in probe by prosecutors at the Shkodra, 110km north of the global court looked at allega- capital, Tirana. Demonstrators tions of crimes starting with the first hurled objects at the local brutal crackdown on pro- the court and does not accept party offices before raiding it, European Union protests in its jurisdiction. taking out furniture and other 2013-14, the Russian annex- Without going into details materials and burning them in ation of Crimea in 2014 and the of the alleged crimes, Bensouda The weapons and ammunition seized by police in Vienna yesterday. the street. One officer was drawn-out conflict in eastern said in a statement that her injured after being struck by a Ukraine. preliminary investigation found object thrown by protesters. Fighting there between three “clusters of victimi- Albanians have defied a ban Austria police seize cache of weapons Ukrainian forces and separatist zation;” crimes committed on public gatherings because of rebels has killed more than during hostilities, during deten- the pandemic, and have clashed REUTERS — ZURICH as part of an investigation ini- while more than 100,000 14,000 people in the last six tions and crimes committed in with police in recent days, tially into drug-related crime, rounds of ammunition were years. Crimea. mainly in Tirana. The protests Austrian police seized a huge but officers also uncovered found in a warehouse in lower Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda “My Office furthermore follow the death of Klodian cache of automatic weapons, links between far-right groups Austria. (pictured) said the suspected found that these crimes, com- Rasha in the capital during explosives and hand grenades and organised crime, the min- Overall 76 automatic and crimes and the failure of courts mitted by the different parties curfew hours early Tuesday. intended to arm right-wing ister said. semi-automatic weapons were in Ukraine and Russia to suc- to the conflict, were also suffi- Police say he ignored officers’ extremist groups in Germany, The network was active in recovered, along with 14 cessfully prosecute them mean ciently grave to warrant inves- calls to stop, and ran away. Interior Minister Karl Germany, with officers from handguns and ammunition and that the next step for ICC pros- tigation by my Office, both in A police officer has been Nehammer said yesterday. Bavaria and North Rhine-West- six hand-grenades, as well as ecutors will be to request quantitative and qualitative arrested and is being investi- Five people were arrested phalia also involved in the detonators and explosives. authorization from judges to terms,” Bensouda said. gated for “homicide in excess following a series of house inquiry. Some had been packed for open a formal investigation. The ICC is a court of last of necessary self-defence.” searches, Nehammer told a The raids led to the seizure transportation. She did not give a timeframe resort that only takes cases During the four days of press conference in Vienna. of 25 semi-automatic and fully Investigations in Germany for that to happen. when member states do not or protests, hundreds of people “We have struck a massive automatic weapons, believed meanwhile had led to two Ukraine is not a member of cannot prosecute them in have thrown stones, flares and blow against the right-wing to have been bought with the arrests and the seizure of a the court but has twice domestic courts. firecrackers at police guarding extremist scene in Austria and proceeds of drug trafficking, large quantity of drugs, Mimra accepted its jurisdiction, asking Earlier Friday, Bensouda public buildings, including organised crime, and how they said Michael Mimra from the said, adding that “investigators it first to investigate the whose term as prosecutor at Prime Minister Edi Rama’s are connected,” Nehammer told state criminal police office in are now trying to establish the crackdown on protesters in the ICC is drawing to a close, offices. They have damaged reporters. The group had built Vienna. The haul included Uzi origin of the weapons, with 2013-2014 under former pres- said she also was ready to seek traffic lights, signs and other up the arsenal with the goal of sub-machine guns, AK-47 forensic examinations ident Viktor Yanukovych and authorisation for a full-scale objects in the city, including in attacking society, democracy assault rifles, Scorpion machine underway to see if they have later extending the jurisdiction investigation into the conflict Tirana’s main Skanderbeg and basic freedoms, Nehammer guns and ammunition. been used in crimes. The inves- to cover conflicts in Crimea and between Nigerian forces and Square. Officers have added. More weapons and ammu- tigation has only just begun. “It eastern Ukraine. the Boko Haram extremist responded with tear gas and The raids were carried out nition were seized on Thursday, will last a while.” Russia is not a member of group. water cannons. Rama has apologised for what he called the “inexpli- cable and completely unrea- Amazon community files lawsuit against Chinese firm over gas flaring sonable” shooting, and his interior minister resigned AFP — PUERTO FRANCISCO DE a process known as flaring. “Our very survival is threatened province of Orellana has a high munity of about 150 people pre- Thursday. But that failed to ORELLANA, ECUADOR Leaders of the Waorani as a result of climate change.” concentration of oil burners, sented the complaint. dampen the protests, which village of Miwaguno went to a The local people are objecting and the Waorani say the smoke An NGO supporting the spread to other cities. Indigenous Waorani from Ecua- court in Francisco de Orellana, to the widespread practice of produced is contaminating their Waorani’s case, Accion Ecologica, Albanian politics has been dor’s Amazon filed a lawsuit the main town of Orellana flaring, where oil producers — in land and water sources. said that if the flares are extin- mired by infighting since the against state-owned Chinese oil province east of Quito, to file the this case PetroOriental — delib- “The rainfall tastes like coal. guished, the gas could be used to shooting, with Rama accusing company PetroOriental, lawsuit “as victims.” erately burn off millions of cubic We still use it because we don’t generate electricity. That would opposition politicians, including accusing it of contaminating “We have seen our way of metres of natural gas produced have drinking water,” said demand heavy investment in the President Ilir Meta, of inciting their ancestral lands by burning life altered forever,” the com- from oil wells. Menare Omene, a 52-year-old face of the cheaper option of the violent protests. off natural gas from oil wells in munity stated in the complaint. Environmentalists say the Waorani woman, whose com- burning it, it said. SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 AMERICAS 15 US okays emergency use of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine

AP — WASHINGTON In a still unfinished study of nearly 44,000 vaccinate 20 million people by people, the FDA found the Pfizer/BioNTech the end of December. They hope Emergency use means the The US gave the final go-ahead vaccine was safe and more than 90 percent to have enough for another 30 to the nation’s first COVID-19 million people in January and vaccine still is experimental. vaccine, marking what could be effective across recipients of different ages, 50 million in February. the beginning of the end of an including older adults, races and those with Globally, Sahin said pro- Most important for would-be outbreak that has killed nearly health problems that put them at high risk duction should scale up consid- recipients to know: 300,000 Americans. erably in February, with the com- Shots for health workers from the coronavirus. It’s authorized for panies projecting 120 million to and nursing home residents are people aged 16 and up. 130 million doses a month to expected to begin in the coming reach 1.3 billion doses in 2021. days after the Food and Drug Getting shots into arms is Administration authorized an told The Associated Press. amount is to be held in reserve the big challenge, especially as emergency rollout of what The world desperately needs for those recipients’ second a new poll from The Associated promises to be a strongly pro- multiple vaccines for enough to dose. The government still is Press-NORC Center for Public áSome protection begins after the first dose, but it takes a tective vaccine from Pfizer Inc go around, and the Pfizer- hammering out final recom- Affairs Research found only half second dose three weeks later for full protection. It’s unclear and its German partner BioNTech shot is the first based mendations, but expected to of Americans want the vaccine how long protection lasts. BioNTech. on rigorous scientific testing to follow health workers and when it’s their turn. About a Initial doses are scarce and emerge from that worldwide race nursing homes are other quarter say they won’t get it and áThe vaccine protects against COVID-19 illness, but no one rationed as the US joins Britain — a record-setting scientific essential workers, older adults the rest aren’t sure. yet knows if it can stop the silent, symptomless spread that and several other countries in achievement that shaved years and people at high risk because Political interference has accounts for roughly half of all cases. The ongoing study will scrambling to vaccinate as off the usual process. of other health problems. complicated health authorities’ attempt to answer that but for now, the vaccinated still will many people as possible ahead The US is considering a US authorities don’t expect message that the testing was need to wear a mask and keep their distance. of a long, grim winter. second vaccine, made by enough for the general popu- rigorous and cut no corners. It will take months of work Moderna Inc, that could roll out lation before Spring, and that’s Trump bashed the FDA, again, áExpect a sore arm and some flu-like symptoms such as to tamp down the coronavirus in another week. In early assuming there are no manu- for taking too long, complaining fever, fatigue, headache and chills after the second dose. that has surged to catastrophic January, Johnson & Johnson facturing glitches. “We would that the agency “is still a big, old While uncomfortable, those reactions only last about a day. levels in recent weeks and expects to learn if its vaccine is need at least until March, April, slow turtle”. One of his deputies already claimed 1.5 million lives working in final testing. to have an impact on the pan- even pressed FDA chief Stephen áAuthorities are investigating several allergic reactions globally. The FDA decision came President Donald Trump demic,” Sahin said. Hahn to clear the shots by the reported in Britain by health workers with a history of severe only after public review of data said that Pfizer had “passed the In a still unfinished study of end of the day or face possible allergies. The FDA said people must have treatments for from a huge ongoing study. gold standard of safety", in a nearly 44,000 people, the FDA firing, two officials said. allergic reactions on hand before they are administered the The move sets off what will video statement hailing the found the vaccine was safe and The FDA is unique in ana- COVID-19 vaccine, and not give it to those with a known be the largest vaccination cam- vaccine as “one of the greatest more than 90 percent effective lyzing drugmakers’ raw data, a history of severe allergic reactions to any of its paign in US history — but it also scientific accomplishments in across recipients of different ages, process that takes longer than ingredients. has global ramifications history”. including older adults, races and many other countries’ regulatory because it’s a role model to About 3 million doses of the those with health problems that reviews. In addition, the FDA á Every vaccine recipient must be given an FDA-written fact many other countries facing the vaccine are expected in the first put them at high risk from the insisted that large COVID-19 sheet about the vaccine and its known risks and benefits. same decision. It offers the shipments around the country, coronavirus. It’s authorized for vaccine studies track at least half áFDA didn’t forbid the vaccine’s use in pregnant women but ability “in this situation where according to officials with Oper- people age 16 and up. the participants for two months noted there isn’t enough evidence to determine its safety in the pandemic is out of control, ation Warp Speed, the Trump If emergency use of Mod- to look for side effects, a time that group. to bring hope to the people,” Dr. administration’s vaccine devel- erna’s vaccine also is period when historically any Ugur Sahin, CEO of BioNTech, opment program. A similar authorized, the US expects to vaccine problems appear. Top court dismisses US executes another inmate Trump-backed Texas before Trump bid to upend results leaves office AFP — WASHINGTON AFP — WASHINGTON were “unconstitutional” because of their heavy use of US authorities on Friday The US Supreme Court yes- “fraud-prone” mail-in votes carried out their 10th exe- terday dismissed a bid by Texas during the virus pandemic. cution of the year, the last in a to overturn the results of the It offered no proof of sig- series of capital punishments presidential election, which nificant fraud, and didn’t chal- that President Donald Trump’s Republican Donald Trump lost lenge the use of mailed ballots administration has carried out to Democrat Joe Biden, in a fresh in states Trump won. The suit before he leaves office. setback for the President. cited numerous alleged Alfred Bourgeois, a Black The longshot suit lodged on examples of potential fraud man sentenced to death for the Tuesday against four states key already rejected by lower courts. murder of his two-year-old in the November 3 vote — Trump lawyer Rudy daughter, was executed by Michigan, Georgia, Pennsyl- Giuliani insisted the allegations lethal injection at a prison in vania and Wisconsin — chal- were “sound”. “They have to be Terre Haute, Indiana. lenged Biden’s victory in each tested but that’s what the court “Bourgeois was pro- jurisdiction. is for. They can’t just dismiss it nounced deceased at 8:21 pm But the Supreme Court, like that,” he told Fox News. Eastern Standard Time by the Trump supporters rally made up of nine justices White House spokeswoman Vigo County Coroner,” the including three appointed by Kayleigh McEnany said on Fox federal prison said. The exe- Former General Michael Flynn, President Donald Trump’s recently pardoned national security adviser, Trump, said Texas — which that the court “dodged” and “hid cution occurred a day after arrives to speak during a protest of the outcome of the 2020 presidential election outside the voted for the President — “has behind procedure”. In a tweet another convicted prisoner, Supreme Court, in Washington, DC, yesterday. Thousands of protesters who refuse to accept that not demonstrated a judicially following the verdict, President Brandon Bernard, was also President-elect Joe Biden won the election are rallying ahead of the electoral college vote to make cognizable interest in the Trump said the court had “let us executed in Terre Haute. Trump’s 306-to-232 loss official. manner in which another State down” and accused it of having Following a paternity test, conducts its elections”. “No Wisdom, No Courage!” Bourgeois, a 55-year-old The court’s decision “is an Trump and his allies have former truck driver, took tem- important reminder that we are filed dozens of lawsuits in porary custody of his daughter Trump signs one-week funding a nation of laws, and though several key states, almost all of and brought her on a trucking some may bend to the desire which have been thrown out route for part of the summer of a single individual, the courts by the courts. On Tuesday the of 2002. He severely abused stopgap, averting shutdown will not,” tweeted Michigan Supreme Court also refused his her and eventually smashed Attorney-General Dana Nessel. bid to overturn his loss in her skull on the windshield. AFP — WASHINGTON Trump signed it on Friday spending bill. But bickering Biden spokesman Mike Gwin Pennsylvania. Since the crime took place evening, the White House said, over reaching a deal on pan- said the ruling was “no surprise”. The lawsuit came as all 50 on a military base where he The US Senate approved and hours ahead of a midnight demic relief and federal funding “Dozens of judges, election offi- states plus Washington, DC was making a delivery, he was President Donald Trump signed deadline that would have seen for fiscal year 2021, which cials from both parties, and have formally certified their tried in federal court and sen- a one-week budget stopgap on funding for federal operations began October 1, is setting up Trump’s own Attorney-General vote tallies, opening the way to tenced to death in 2004. Friday that avoids a government dry up. The one-week reprieve an intense final few days of leg- have dismissed his baseless convene the Electoral College. He remained on death shutdown and allows lawmakers averts — for now — the islative work before the attempts to deny that he lost the There is no doubt that Biden row, with the United States to continue negotiations over stunning prospect of a gov- Christmas holiday. election,” he said. won the presidency, with state- having suspended federal exe- getting pandemic relief to mil- ernment shutdown even as the The temporary fix had faced The Texas suit had been by-state wins giving him 306 cutions beginning in 2003, in lions of Americans. country endures spiking multiple procedural threats, seen as audacious and legally electoral votes to Trump’s 232. particular because of ques- The Senate passed the COVID-19 infections and deaths including from an unlikely duo, unsound, given that no one The Democrat snagged 51.3 tions over the legality of drugs measure by voice vote days without new economic relief for conservative Senator Josh state has any legal right to percent of the ballots compared used in injections. after the House of Representa- families and businesses strug- Hawley and far-left Senator interfere in another’s voting to Trump’s 46.9 percent, a Bourgeois was the 17th tives approved the so-called gling through the pandemic. Bernie Sanders. processes. Even so, it was seven million vote margin. The person executed in the United continuing resolution, which Lawmakers now have extra Both are seeking a new backed by 106 Republican law- Electoral College is set to affirm States in 2020. He was the 10th extends current funding for all time to craft a rescue package, round of rebate checks sent makers and 17 state attorneys Biden’s win on December 14, executed at the federal level, federal agencies through which many have sought to directly to Americans as part of general. Texas alleged that the and he will be sworn in on the highest in more than a December 18. include in a sweeping omnibus any pandemic relief package. results in the other four states January 20. century. Car hits protesters in NY, many injured AFP — NEW YORK Eyewitnesses said they saw at least “They hit, to my knowledge, at least six people hurt. They were protesting six of our non-violent protesters,” she A motorist struck about half a dozen against the detention of immigrants told the network, adding that she ran people taking part in a protest in New by Immigration and Customs out of the car’s way. York City on Friday, causing injuries but Enforcement agents. “I heard people screaming... I looked no deaths, police and eyewitnesses said. The protesters were marching in behind me, (and) a woman is plowing A spokesman for the New York support of detainees on hunger strike. through,” she said. Police Department said that the vehicle Local media initially reported that The protester added that she saw hit “multiple” people in Manhattan’s the protest had been a Black Lives Matter “bodies flying” through the air as Murray Hill area at 4:08 pm (21:08 GMT). demonstration. people scrambled to get out of the “An unknown number of people ABC News said between 40 and 50 vehicle’s path. “I look up, the car is have been injured. They have been taken protesters were in the area at the time. speeding, people are trying to run. to various hospitals. It is not thought that The outlet said the demonstration had There were bodies and people fleeing any of the injuries are life-threatening,” spilled onto the street and that protesters to people sitting on the sidewalks who he said. The spokesman added that the had surrounded a car. got hit.” driver, a woman, had stayed at the scene The car then drove into the pro- A protester called Joey, who declined and was in custody. testers, injuring at least six of them, to give his surname, said that he thought The spokesman said it was “too early ABC added. An eyewitness told NBC the woman had accelerated into the A woman is arrested by the New York City Police Department during a US to tell” whether it was intentional or a that the car was a navy BMW with two crowd on purpose. “It was absolutely Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protest on Friday in New York traffic accident, and it is not yet known women, who were white, sitting in the intentional. (She) just drove right City. The unidentified woman was arrested after driving her car through a whether the driver will face charges. front seats. through,” he said. group of protesters and then attempting to flee. SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER 2020 16

Qatar Philharmonic holds first concert PRAYER TIMINGS since the pandemic PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING RAYNALD C RIVERA THE PENINSULA FAJR 04.48 am Following the MoPH SUNRISE 06.10 am Nostalgic, exuberant, and guidelines, only 90 DHUHR 11.28 am hopeful. The Qatar Philhar- people were allowed to ASR 02.26 pm monic Orchestra’s first ever watch each of the two MAGHRIB 04.47 pm appearance on stage since the shows yesterday, all ISHA 06.17 pm pandemic hit the audience right in the feels. wearing face masks and Wearing face masks during observing social their performance, 40 members distance. of the orchestra came together in one stage yesterday playing for the audience with the same passion despite the challenges but I’m sure everybody will posed by COVID-19. enjoy,” Kurt Meister, Executive Following the Ministry of Director of Qatar Philharmonic Public Health’s guidelines, only Orchestra, told The Peninsula WEATHER Audience give a standing ovation at the conclusion of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra’s concert at 90 people were allowed to before the start of the first of TODAY the Qatar National Convention Centre yesterday. PIC: RAYNALD C RIVERA/THE PENINSULA watch each of the two shows at the two concerts yesterday the Qatar National Convention evening. Centre Auditorium 3, all For the first time, the to Tchaikovsky to Beethoven, by Johann Strauss, Jr., Palladio and two selections from Pyotr wearing face masks and orchestra would play without a among others. by Karl Jenkins, Giuseppe Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s The Nut- observing social distance all conductor, said Meister, amid Opening with the first Verdi’s La Traviata’s Prelude to cracker including March and throughout the show. all the challenges of the pan- movement of Felix Men- Act 1 and Morning Mood from Russian Dance. o o “We are very happy that we demic including on travel. It delssohn’s Fourth Symphony in Edvard Grieg’s Peer Gynt Suite But the show saved the best 18 C 25 C are performing today for the was the concertmaster, French A Major, the well-applauded No. 1 were met with numerous for last when the whole Minimum Maximum first time after a long lockdown. violinist Lyonel Schmit who led show concluded with the first ovations from the excited orchestra greeted the audience Moderate temperature daytime It’s a pity that it’s the last the orchestra during the concert movement of Ludwig van audience. Happy New Year followed by a with scattered clouds, relatively concert of the year and we which lasted for only one hour Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony in Completing the diverse rep- surprise performance of Sleigh cold by night. have limited time and number but was packed with classical C Minor followed by an encore. ertoire were the first movement Ride by Leroy Anderson which of musicians onstage — only 40 and romantic staples and Familiar and famous pieces of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s cheered and lifted everyone’s W ALRUWAIS : 20o → 22o — and 90 audience are allowed concert favourites from Mozart On the Beautiful Blue Danube Symphony No. 25 in G Minor, spirits up. W ALKHOR : 15o → 24o W DUKHAN : 19o → 21o W WAKRAH : 14o → 25o W MESAIEED : 14o → 25o Owner delays sale of home after Banksy mural appears W ABUSAMRA : 15o → 21o AP — LONDON knocking down buildings. to think about it, but it’s not The creation was dis- changing anything in terms of HIGH TIDE Banksy’s latest mural has covered on the wall of the sem- the house sale for us,” Makin 03:32 – 14:21 delayed a homeowner’s plans idetached house on Thursday. said. He said the sale has been to sell in England after it British media reported that put on hold for 48 hours and the LOW TIDE 10:40 – 22:00 recently appeared on the the owners, who had previously family was trying to ensure the house’s exterior wall. put a “sold” sign outside, were artwork would be protected. The elusive British street pulling out of the sale, because Banksy has posted the piece artist’s piece — titled “Aachoo!!” Banksy’s art could send the on his website and Instagram — depicts an elderly woman property’s value soaring. page and his publicist con- ‘Zodiac Killer’ sneezing, sending her dentures However, Nick Makin told firmed he created the artwork. flying out of her mouth. the BBC yesterday that it wasn’t He began his career spray- message decoded It is painted on the side of true his mother, Aileen Makin, painting buildings in Bristol and the house on a steep street in had taken the house off the has become one of the world’s after more than the southwestern city of Bristol. market. best-known artists. A person photographs a mural created by British artist Banksy on The resulting effect is that “It does increase the value, Some of his art sells in the the side of a house in Bristol, southwest England, on Friday. 50 years her sneeze appears to be and you have to take a moment millions.

AFP — LOS ANGELES French winner A team of cryptography enthu- Korean film director Kim Ki-duk dies from COVID-19 siasts announced on Friday hits ¤200m that they had successfully AFP — RIGA and shot his last movie, “Dissolve”, in cracked one of the coded Kazakhstan. lottery jackpot messages sent over 50 years Acclaimed South Korean film director Kim Prominent Russian film critic Andrei ago by the “Zodiac Killer,” who Ki-duk, who won global recognition for his Plakhov said that the “enfant terrible” of AFP — PARIS terrorised northern California violent works and faced allegations of Asian art-house cinema was appreciated in the late 1960s and remains abuse, died from coronavirus in Latvia on in Russia for his “passion and devil-may- A record jackpot of ¤200m unidentified. Friday, the country’s top film official said. care attitude.” ($242m) was won on Friday in The message was sent in “Unfortunately, the sad news about Kim His movies — many featuring gruesome France by a ticket holder who November 1969 to the San Ki-duk’s death from coronavirus in Latvia violence — divided audiences, with some has 120 days to claim the prize, Francisco Chronicle news- is true,” Dita Rietuma, head of the National accusing him of misogyny and others the EuroMillions lottery said. paper by the alleged serial Film Centre of Latvia, told AFP. hailing his cinematography and unflinching The win is the biggest ever killer, its code consisting of a “It is known from his contact persons portrayal of a social underclass rarely seen scooped by a player of the series of cryptic letters and that he died in a hospital in Riga around in other films. EuroMillions lottery with the symbols. 1:30 am earlier today (Friday),” she added. Laced with this trademark violence, his previous record standing at Sleuths hoped the coded The Korean director, whose works film “Pieta” won the Golden Lion prize at ¤190m, won a number of South Korean director Kim Ki-duk poses message contained the identity enjoyed huge acclaim at European film fes- the Venice Film Festival in 2012. times, most recently in with the Golden Lion for Best Film award he of the killer, who committed tivals where he scooped several awards, He directed more than 20 films October 2019. at least five murders in 1968 died just nine days shy of his 60th birthday. won for ‘Pieta’, during a press conference including “Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter... Friday’s staggering prize and 1969 but claimed 37 in According to Rietuma, he was on a in Seoul on September 11, 2012. and Spring” — an uncharacteristically went up for grabs after the total and inspired other serial private visit to Latvia and was not planning serene film exploring the cycle of life jackpot rolled over twice last killers. any filming. line with the wishes of the director’s through a Buddhist monk’s existence. week. According to the trio said Local media reported that the director daughter. “Kim’s films are modern myths,” Players in France have to have broken the code, the was planning to buy a property and apply Kim won global fame with his bold por- Plakhov wrote for Kommersant broadsheet. picked up 110 out of 499 message includes boasts and for residence in the Baltic eurozone state. trayal of extreme violence and human bru- “There is always temptation and Euromillions jackpots — defiance of authorities without Artur Veeber, an Estonia-based pro- tality in allegory-rich movies, but was redemption. And there is also God watching nearly a quarter — since it any real clues on motive or ducer, said the two worked together on a accused of misconduct against actresses. the human tragicomedy.” began in 2004, followed by identity. new project and Kim was expected back in The director had not responded to these Another prominent Russian critic, Anton Britain which has had 108 It includes to message: “I Estonia in mid-December for a retro- allegations. Dolin, writing for Meduza news portal, said winners and Spain with 105. hope you are having lots of fun spective show marking his birthday. But over the past few years he trained that for Europe and the United States Kim Apart from France, in trying to catch me... I am not “Yesterday I learnt that the situation his sights on Russia and other post-Soviet had become the embodiment of “Asian EuroMillions tickets can be afraid of the gas chamber was critical,” Veeber told AFP, referring to countries where he worked on new extreme.” bought in Austria, Belgium, because it will send me to Kim’s condition. projects. State Russian television hailed Kim, Britain, Ireland, Luxembourg, paradice (sic) all the sooner Reached by AFP, Kim’s translator Darya He presided over the main jury of the saying “there were no taboos for him in his Portugal, Spain and because I now have enough Krutova said she would not comment in Moscow International Film Festival last year study of human nature.” Switzerland. slaves to work for me.” It took several computer programmes and years of work for David Oranchak, a 46-year-old Disney+ to get flood of new shows as subscriptions soar American web designer, to decipher the complex code he BLOOMBERG with an eye toward becoming New York trading Friday. The Yet with its new subscriber growing over the next few started working on in 2006. a streaming behemoth in four stock has about doubled since goals — including hopes for as years. The COVID-19 pandemic He was helped by Sam Walt Disney Co. shares hit an years. The company expects its March on the strength of the many as 260 million Disney+ forced many Hollywood studios Blake, an Australian mathe- all-time high after it issued a programme spending to reach streaming business. customers — the company to slow production this year. matician, and Jarl Van Eykcke, bold forecast for its new $14bn to $16bn annually by “The enormous success of would surpass where industry Future plans include 10 a Belgian logistician, he told streaming services, projecting then. Disney+ inspired us to be even pioneer Netflix Inc. is today. series from the Marvel division, the San Francisco Chronicle, a Netflix-like trajectory that Disney+, the entertainment more ambitious,” Executive As part of the presentation, 10 Star Wars TV series, and which confirmed the discovery could bring the company as giant’s flagship streaming Chairman Bob Iger said at the Chief Executive Officer Bob another 15 programmes from with the FBI, the federal many as 350 million subscribers platform, also is getting a price event. “Our pipeline is much Chapek said Disney+ has soared Disney live action, Disney ani- agency in charge of the inves- worldwide by 2024 thanks to hike. The US monthly rate will more robust than we initially past 86.8 million subscribers in mation and Pixar. tigation. A first message sent an onslaught of programming climb $1 to $8 in a move that anticipated,” he said, adding a little over a year. The The programming slate also to Californian newspapers was from Marvel, Star Wars and executives telegraphed earlier that the Disney+ cadence should company closed the last quarter includes feature-length films, such decoded by a schoolteacher Pixar. this year. In Europe, the price soon hit 100 new titles per year. with almost 74 million. as the Disney animation picture and his wife in 1969. In a presentation to will rise 29% to ¤9 ($11) a Disney, like other Hol- Disney executives, including “Raya and the Last Dragon,” “I like killing because it is investors on Thursday, the month, although there it is lywood studios, is reorienting new distribution head Kareem which will debut on Disney+ the so much fun,” it said, again world’s largest entertainment getting additional content its film and TV business toward Daniel, outlined aggressive same time as in theaters. Chapek referring to “slaves” that he company outlined plans for aimed at adults. home entertainment, and has plans to stock the Disney+ said that 80% of projects are now claimed to collect to serve him dozens of new movies and TV Shares of Disney rose as leapfrogged many competitors service with new programming headed to streaming, rather than in the afterlife. shows from those major brands, much as 11% to a record $171 in with its fast subscriber growth. to keep the subscriber pipeline the big screen.