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MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 2 RABIA I - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8415 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Get a smart Wi-Fi device as a gift and enjoy the best entertainment With Ooredoo ONE Terms and Conditions Apply Qatar to be in top 10 in Global Deputy PM meets Bosnian counterpart Food Security Index next year

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH THE PENINSULA Qatar ranked 29th in the index in 2017 when the blockade was imposed. With the help of food Qatar is expected to be security programme, Qatar jumped to 22nd among top ten countries in Global Food Security Index position in 2018 and in 2019 it made another by 2021 thanks to the Stra- major achievement securing 13th position. tegic Food Security Project 2019-2023 for fast increasing Qatar achieved self-sufficiency in a number of the produce of fresh foods in the country. fresh products — 106 percent self-sufficiency in “A number of projects are fresh milk and 127 percent in fresh chicken. being implemented in cooper- ation with private sector to The country achieved 75 percent self-sufficiency ensure the food security in the country under national food in fish production and targets 95 percent by 2023 security programme which are with the help of under-construction fish farming helping to enable Qatar among projects on floating cages. top ten countries in the Global Food Security Index by 2021,” said Director of Food Security Department at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman (MME), Masoud Jarallah Al Al Thani met yesterday with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Marri. Herzegovina H E Dr Bisera Turkovic. They reviewed bilateral cooperation relations, in addition to Al Marri was speaking in a issues of common interest. Qatar TV programme yesterday in 2019 it made another by 2023 with the help of under where he highlighted the major achievement securing construction fish farming achievements of Qatar in food 13th position,” said Al Marri. projects on floating cages,” said MoI sets special security sector on the occasion He said that Qatar achieved Al Marri. Private companies of World Food Day which falls self-sufficiency in a number of He said that the fast standards to on October 16. fresh products — 106 percent growing self sufficiency rate “Qatar ranked 29th in self sufficiency in fresh milk in fresh food products indi- go on hiring spree install cameras the index in 2017 when the and 127 percent in fresh cates that food security pro- blockade was imposed. With chicken. grams and projects are being for surveillance the help of food security “The country achieved 75 implemented successfully and SACHIN KUMAR social media, seeking appli- programme, Qatar jumped percent self-sufficiency in fish the strategy is moving towards THE PENINSULA cations from prospective SIDI MOHAMED to 22nd position in 2018 and production targeting 95 percent right direction.`P4 candidates. THE PENINSULA Qatar’s private sector has Companies from con- come forward in stimulating struction sectors are leading Installation of surveillance Minister of State for Foreign Affairs meets UK, US diplomats local job market. Private from the front in terms of cameras at government companies have started mass hiring. Apart from construction, entities and private companies hiring, signalling revival in companies from logistics, are done only if these institu- Qatar’s job market. Many health, food and beverages and tions meet special standards set leading companies are now retail sector are also scouting by the appropriate authority, on hiring spree, highlighting for local talent. according to Capt. Talal Ahmed prominent role being played “The government has Al Mulla, an official at the by Qatar’s private sector in announced many new major General Directorate of Infor- job creation. projects which have created mation Systems of the Ministry UCC holding was among demand for construction com- of Interior (MoI). one of the first companies panies,” a senior official of a “There are special standards which started mass hiring in construction company told The and conditions that differ September, indicating turna- Peninsula. according to the type of company round in the job market which The ongoing hiring is not or institution. Governmental was hit by COVID-19 out- just for blue-collar unskilled institutions have different break. Taking the cue, other workers. Companies are also standards that differ from private leading groups and companies looking for white-collar skilled companies, as well as hotels and have hit the job market and workers. For example, NAAAS others,” Capt Al Mulla said. are scouting for local talent. Holding Group has advertised Accordingly, the Security NAAAS Holding Group, for hiring professionals like Systems Department at the Galfar Al Misnad, National civil engineer, HR Specialist, General Directorate conducts Industrial Contracting Digital Officer and Agricultural inspection drives on important Company (NICC), the CCC Operations Manager. Similarly, institutions to ensure that they (Consolidated Contractors Galfar Al Misnad has adver- meet all specifications. The Company) Group, IMAR tised for Project Managers and Captain also noted that Group, Saleh Al Hamad Al Engineers. important entities in the country Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met yesterday with British Mana and other big names are However, the vacancies as well as hotels and commercial Ambassador to Qatar H E Jonathan Wilks and Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Doha H E looking for talented work- for unskilled workers are complexes, are linked to the Ambassador Greta C Holtz. They reviewed relations between the State of Qatar, the United Kingdom, force. They have placed more than the vacancies for Command Center with the aim and the United States, in addition to issues of common concern. advertisements in print and skilled workers. `P2 of maintaining security. `P4 Environmental QU Health launches Biomedical, Pharmaceutical Research Unit monitoring buoys THE PENINSULA — DOHA collaborate across organisations and installed at Hamad, work at different science disciplines’ Biomedical and Phar- Qatar University (QU) has announced boundaries. Ruwais ports the official launch of a new Biomedical A research strategy strongly pro- maceutical Research and Pharmaceutical Research Unit moting interdisciplinary research for DOHA QNA — (BPRU) under QU Health, which started optimising the use of resources, max- Unit (BPRU) brings operation in January 2017. It aims to imising research/education output, and together researchers The Ministry of Municipality and provide closer alignment and inte- creating a framework that builds on aca- Environment, represented by the gration of the health research sector at demic success is essential. In terms of from several colleges Environmental Monitoring and QU to create a dynamic and diverse educational strategy, one of the scopes forming multidisci- Laboratory Department, supervised environment that embraces qualified of the BPRU is to emphasise the estab- the operations of landing four envi- experts in health care professional lishment of interdisciplinary disease- plinary research teams ronmental monitoring buoys, two education and practice. based graduate programs around the that share resources in Hamad Port, and two in Ruwais QU Health also includes the College various thematic research areas Port, in coordination with Qatar of Medicine, College of Pharmacy, College according to Qatar National priorities. and infrastructure. Ports Management Company of Health Sciences, and the recently Moreover, the interdisciplinary (Mwani Qatar). established College of Dental Medicine. disease-approached research with a The installation of the buoys is The BPRU brings together “problem and solution-based approach” QU by building a critical mass of Thus, BPRU research focuses on the part of the most important activ- researchers from several colleges adopted by this unit will address Qatar’s researchers from other QU Colleges and following mains themes of biomedical ities for establishing the national forming multidisciplinary research grand health challenges with the ultimate Centers with overlapping research & pharmaceutical research: Cancer, network for continuous monitoring teams that share resources and infra- goal of supporting the country’s efforts to scope. The research thematic areas of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Car- and early warning, within the structure. In this dynamic and ever- advance health care. At present, BPRU BPRU have been strategically selected diovascular Diseases, Infectious Dis- project of preparing and imple- changing global research landscape hosts and supports more than 40 Principal based on the research strengths and eases, and Reproductive Medicine. menting a comprehensive plan for environment, universities are adopting Investigators and supporting personnel capacities that QU currently possesses. Another critical research area is Drug monitoring coastal and marine to creating theme-based interdisci- from the four QU Health Colleges. BPRU aims to focus on research discovery and development, an inte- water quality in the National plinary structures, where researchers The unit strives and embraces the addressing the grand challenges that grated component in all of the afore- Strategy 2022. `P4 that share a common vision and interest consolidating health research sector at Qatar’s health sector is now facing. mentioned thematic areas. `P9 02 HOME MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020

Qatar's Health Prosecution OFFICIAL NEWS Amir sends initiative highlighted at GCC condolences to Burkina attorney-generals' meeting Faso President DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin QNA — DOHA The Health Prosecution was Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani The State of Qatar participated formed with specialised sent yesterday cables of condolences yesterday, via video conferencing, in legal and judicial cadres to President of Burkina Faso H E Roch the 12th meeting of attorney generals, Marc Christian Kabore on the victims of public prosecutors, and heads of and experts specialising in the attacks that targeted three villages investigation and prosecution bodies health crimes, which leads in the Seno province, northern Burkina of the Cooperation Council for the Faso, wishing a speedy recovery for the Attorney-General, H E Dr. Ali bin Fattis Al Marri, leading the State of Qatar’s Arab States of the Gulf (GCC). to speed up the litigation injured. Prime Minister and Minister of delegation during the 12th meeting of attorney generals, public prosecutors, and Attorney-General, H E Dr. Ali bin process in this field. Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Fattis Al Marri, headed the State of heads of investigation and prosecution bodies of GCC countries. Abdulaziz Al Thani also sent a cable of Qatar’s delegation to the meeting. condolences to Prime Minister of Burkina The meeting reviewed several services in the GCC, the rules for child 2030, as the Health Prosecution formed with a specialised legal and Faso H E Christophe Dabire on the vic- topics on the agenda, notably the protection during the investigation comes in line with this vision as well judicial cadres and experts special- tims of the attacks that targeted three amendment to the rules for cooper- phase and the mechanism for con- as in the framework of combating the ising in health crimes, which leads to villages in the Seno province, northern ation between the public prosecution ducting the procedures of members coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. speed up the litigation process in this Burkina Faso, wishing a speedy recov- offices and the attorney generals of the public prosecution offices in In March, the Attorney General Dr. field. ery for the injured. — QNA offices. the GCC countries. Ali bin Fetais Al Marri issued a The Health Prosecution role is not Also, it discussed the proposal to During the meeting, they reviewed decision to establish the Health Pros- limited to the COVID-19 pandemic, prepare a draft guide on procedural the experience of the State of Qatar ecution, which is a precedent for the as the Health Prosecution will con- Deputy Prime Minister controls for modern technology in establishing the Health Prose- State of Qatar in the world, as part of tribute to protecting human health in meets Bosnia and crimes, in addition to reviewing many cution, as the state has worked over the precautionary and preventive the State of Qatar, and it will also Herzegovina Deputy PM topics, including completing the the past years to develop and measures taken by the state to pre- work overtime to establish public project of organising the public pros- introduce laws in various fields to serve public health and community prosecutors specialised in medical, ecution and the attorney generals achieve the Qatar National Vision safety, as the Health Prosecution was cosmetic, and other errors cases. DOHA: Deputy Prime Minister and Min- ister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah met Qatar condemns crime of killing yesterday with Deputy Prime Minister Ministry of Justice trains real estate brokers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia 8 people by firing squad in Iraq and Herzegovina H E Dr. Bisera Turko- QNA — DOHA It also aims to introduce the money laundering and ter- vic, who is currently visiting the country. rights and obligations of the rorism financing law promul- QNA — DOHA Foreign Affairs reiterated the During the meeting, they reviewed the The Ministry of Justice’s Legal real estate broker and the rules gated by Law No. 20 of 2019. firm position of the State of bilateral cooperation between the two and Judicial Studies Centre for disciplinary and criminal These axes deal with The State of Qatar voiced Qatar on rejecting violence, countries, in addition to issues of com- launched yesterday a accountability, explain the several important topics, strong condemnation and terrorism and criminal acts, mon interest. — QNA specialised training course for general basis of brokerage or including general provisions denunciation of the heinous regardless of motives and the 4th batch of Qatari real mediation contracts and the for real estate brokerage, the crime which resulted in reasons. The statement Qatar condemns blast estate brokers, within the provisions related to them, and rights and obligations of the killing eight people by firing expressed the State of framework of licensing proce- introduce the broker’s obliga- real estate broker, and the squad and left four missing Qatar’s condolences to the in Afghanistan dures under the provisions of tions in the field of combating pillars and provisions of the in Salah Al Din Governorate families of the victims, and Law No. 22 of 2017 regulating money laundering and terrorist mediation contract. in northern Iraq. to the government and DOHA: The State of Qatar has expressed real estate brokerage. financing. The course also reviews the In a statement issued people of Iraq, wishing its strong condemnation and denuncia- The course aims to provide To deepen the participants' definition of real estate bro- yesterday, the Ministry of safety to the missing. tion of the explosion that targeted police participants with the necessary understanding of the general kerage and real estate broker headquarters in Ghor province, central information and skills to apply objectives of the course, the in Qatari law, the organiza- Afghanistan, and led to deaths and inju- the provisions regulating real course was divided into several tional structure of the real Private companies go on hiring spree ries. In a statement issued yesterday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the estate brokerage business in axes, which were based in their estate brokerage department FROM PAGE 1 Qatari law by explaining the entirety on the provisions of and its terms of reference, the State of Qatar’s firm stance on reject- general provisions of real Law No. 22 of 2017 regulating real estate brokers affairs com- The demand for technical jobs has also surged as com- ing violence and terrorism regardless estate brokerage and the com- real estate brokerage, the mittee and the specialisations panies are looking for HVAC technicians, industrial electri- of motives and causes. The statement petent authority to regulate Qatari companies law promul- entrusted to it, the general con- cians, foreman and surveyors. Companies have also adver- expressed the State of Qatar’s condo- and control them as well as the gated by Law No. 11 of 2015, ditions for granting licenses to tised for carpenters, masons, drivers, steel fixers, crane oper- lences to the families of victims and the provisions for licensing the Law No. 6 of 2014 regulating practice the profession of real ators and labourers. One of the main features of ongoing government and people of Afghanistan, practice of real estate bro- real estate development, and estate brokerage, the proce- hiring is the promise of competitive salaries by companies. wishing the wounded a speedy recov- kerage and licensing civil code law issued by Law No. dures for obtaining it and the They have said the new minimum wage will be applied while ery. — QNA procedures. 22 of 2004, and the combating rules of grievance. recruiting new employees. MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 HOME 03

MoPH: 204 new Kahramaa relaunches Sealine COVID-19 cases, water tanker filling station 188 recoveries THE PENINSULA — DOHA QNA — DOHA The water tanker filling station will facilitate The Ministry of Public Health Qatar General Electricity and the visitors during the camping season. The (MoPH) yesterday announced Water Corporation (Kahramaa) station is operational for eight hours daily. the registration of 204 new has relaunched the seasonal confirmed COVID-19 cases. Sealine water tanker filling Among them, 24 were trav- station (TFS) for the fourth source near the camping site. longest period of the day. ellers returning from abroad. season in a row, to provide safe The station is distinguished It is also worth mentioning Another 188 people have drinking water for the area’s by its proximity to the location that the drinking-water pro- recovered from the virus, visitors during the camping where Hamad Medical Corpo- vided by Kahramaa has the bringing the total number of season. ration’s ambulances are highest quality standards, as recovered cases in Qatar to This comes within the stationed. Kahramaa conducts a general 126,406. All new cases have framework of Kahramaa’s The station also provides all and integrated monitoring been introduced to isolation efforts to provide its quality the necessary equipment for system for its drinking-water, and are receiving necessary services to its subscribers, water tanker filling, in addition following the best international healthcare according to their respond to their needs, and to communication systems and performance indicators where health status. The Ministry also provide continuous improve- electronic devices, while it is the water quality matches the reported the death of a 51-year- ments of services to meet their worth mentioning that the specifications of the World old who was receiving the nec- satisfaction. station operates all week for Health Organization (WHO). essary medical care. It said The station is an initiative eight hours each day, to provide Kahramaa is also com- integrated plans, starting from to its subscribers, to achieve its measures to tackle COVID-19 by Kahramaa to provide the the visitors with water, ensuring mitted to providing water of the production stations, trans- goal of providing sustainable in Qatar have succeeded in flat- area’s visitors with its services, the availability of the service as highest quality, in accordance mission and distribution net- and high-quality electricity and tening the curve and limiting including a water-drinking- well as other needs for the with the framework of its works, and pumping stations, water. the spread of the virus. Region’s first school-based mental health programme reduces stigma FAZEENA SALEEM The Wellness Ambassadors received intensive training on bullying, THE PENINSULA programme is an initiative depression, anxiety, suicide and self harm and they were also trained to refute Region’s first school-based mental aiming to promote mental common cultural misconceptions about health programme has led to a signif- health and reduce mental mental health. They also had ongoing icant change in the knowledge, attitude supervision with school counsellors and and behaviours of the students within illness stigma in Qatar project team,” said Dr. Nazeer. a short span of time. schools. Wellness Ambassadors’ role The Wellness Ambassadors pro- included holding daily talks with peers gramme is an initiative aiming to and family members about mental promote mental health and reduce of our knowledge this is the first and only health-related topics, weekly posts on mental illness stigma in Qatar schools. project of its kind in Qatar and the region. their social media accounts about Teams from Qatar Foundation (QF), This project also offers the ambassadors mental health and stigma, monthly Sidra Medicine, and The Learning an opportunity to advance their social group discussions and seminars, semi- Center worked alongside the three QF and professional skills as well as serving annual joint ambassadors meeting and schools to establish the programme. their community,” he said. group campaigns, and annual ambas- The project was evaluated on a According Dr. Nazeer, it has been sadors conference. number of validated surveys to measure evident in many studies conducted in “The ambassadors were asked to the change of knowledge, attitudes and Qatar and the region that public mental engage in daily talks with their peers behaviours towards mental health health literacy was poor. about mental health, post weekly on before and after the implementation of “Moreover, the stigma against their social media platforms, facilitate the project, according to Division Chief mental illness makes it harder for the monthly seminars where we invited An awareness event of Wellness Ambassadors programme held in early 2020. of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at public to seek knowledge about mental guests to talk about a specific mental Sidra Medicine, Dr. Ahsan Nazeer. health and even hinders seeking health-related topic. “Our data showed that the project treatment sometimes. The Wellness launched in three Qatar Foundation high Medicine and the resident Dr. Ali Khalil, "They were also asked to organise led to a significant change in the Ambassadors project is founded on evi- schools in the academic year of 2019- who is now a forensic psychiatry fellow a group campaign involving all the knowledge, attitude and behaviours of dence-based interventions to improve 2020. The project started with a pre- at Hamad Medical Corporation. ambassadors in the three schools, their the students towards mental health mental health literacy and reduce launch survey to assess the level of mental “Individual students called Wellness campaign for last year was on hazards despite the school year being cut short mental illness stigma,” said Dr. Nazeer. health literacy and mental illness stigma Ambassadors were selected after a rig- of smoking, e-ciagrettes and vaping,” due to COVID-19 pandemic. To the best The pilot trial of the project was in high school students. It was led by Sidra orous selection process. Ambassadors said Dr. Nazeer. 04 HOME MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020

Ooredoo named GAC participates in 24th Dark Sakar meeting of GCC Customs Union Sponsor for QNA — DOHA of prohibited and restricted The meeting also S’hail 2020 goods. discussed ways The General Authority of The heads of the GCC THE PENINSULA — DOHA Customs (GAC) participated, via customs bodies reviewed the to facilitate the video conferencing, in the 24th results and recommendations of movement of goods Ooredoo is the Dark Sakar meeting of the GCC Customs the committees’ meetings related Sponsor of this month’s Katara Union. Chairman of GAC, H E to several customs issues, between the GCC International Hunting and Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Jammal, including customs procedures countries. Falcons Exhibition, S’hail chaired the Authority’s dele- and computing, the transfer of 2020. The exhibition is the gation in the meeting. customs duties, the harmonised largest international exhibition The meeting discussed many system, and presenting the the periodic meetings in which dedicated to falcons and issues, particularly the follow-up developments of the GCC states’ the Gulf customs authorities par- falconry. of the latest developments accession to some international ticipate and contribute to Hosted by the Cultural related to the GCC unified customs agreements emanating strengthening cooperation Village Foundation, Katara, the customs law and ways to facil- from the World Customs Organ- between the GCC countries in all Exhibition starts tomorrow itate the movement of goods ization, the memorandum of the customs fields, including import and runs until October 24. between the GCC countries General Secretariat on the sixth and export mechanisms and S’hail is well-known for its during the coming period, in joint meeting between the other issues and projects related international standards, and addition to following up the Customs Union Authority and the to international trade and joint this fourth edition of the Inter- Chairman of the General Authority of Customs, H E Ahmed bin results of the approved economic private sector, and other topics regulatory procedures between national Hunting and Falcons Abdullah Al Jammal, attending the GCC Customs Union meeting. operator and reviewing the lists on the agenda. This comes within the Gulf countries. Exhibition will observe all current guidelines on social distancing. Visitors will be required to wear a face mask Qatar to be in top 10 in Global Food Security Index next year and present the green healthy FROM PAGE 1 status on EHTERAZ app upon required several steps Animals farms received “A total 11 projects were “A total of 10 projects were entry as part of precautionary “A number of new projects including activating the fodders, medicines, vaccines launched for producing vege- launched for fattening sheep and preventive measures and programmes were existing farms by providing and salt. Fishermen received tables which are being imple- with the capacity of 5,000 against COVID-19. launched under the national agricultural support, allocating refrigerators, fuels and boxes mented and expected to begin sheep totalling 50,000 sheep S’hail is of great impor- food security strategy in 2018 QR75m annually to support the for marketing,” said Al Marri. production by the end of next in a year. Second phase project tance in Arabic culture, with after blockade in cooperation farms specially to the pro- “Apart from the existing year. Each project will supply will be also launch if needed.” sighting of the star initiating with public and private ductive farms,” said Al Marri. farms, fast track projects were 2,100 tonnes of vegetables to He said that table eggs the hunting season. Offering sectors,” said Al Marri. He said that farms were launched for investors to local market in a year,” said Al projects launched in cooper- insights into traditional Qatari He said that private sector divided into A, B and C cate- increase the self sufficiency Marri. ation with Qatar Development sport and culture, the Exhi- is a main player for food gories according to the rate at certain level by 2023.” He said that the self suffi- Bank and private companies bition will also host an security which received full standards. “Agricultural farms He said that parallel ciency rate of local vegetables to increase the self-sufficiency Ooredoo booth, showcasing a support by the government. were provided greenhouses, projects are based on modern is targeted to increase from 34 in egg products from 34 wide range of exciting digital “The targeted rate of self technologies for rationalizing technologies to produce in percent currently to 70 percent percent to the targeted 70 products and services. sufficiency in the strategy water consumption, seeds. large quantity using less water. by 2023 under the strategy. percent. Director PR at Ooredoo, Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, said: “It is fitting that Ooredoo will Environmental monitoring buoys MoI sets standards to install surveillance cameras be backing this event, the FROM PAGE 1 world centrepiece of demon- installed at Hamad, Ruwais ports large organization. in Qatar if they want to install strating dedication to pre- FROM PAGE 1 Speaking to Qatar Radio, Capt. Al Mulla also said that security cameras. serving and promoting the arts country by the environmental Capt. Al Mulla said, “Before there is a general tendency to The Ministry had earlier of hunting and falconry, held This plan aims to improve sector at the Ministry of Munic- installing surveillance cameras, install cameras in homes, due urged citizens and residents to under the auspices of the coastal and marine water ipality and Environment. the intended party must get to their importance. Though check if a company is approved Katara Cultural Village quality to comply with national The continuous environ- approval from the Security people were previously sur- before purchasing any security Foundation. standards, marine environment mental monitoring buoys act Systems Department. It also prised that cameras were device in order to ensure the "Ooredoo is proud to be sustainability, and early as an early warning of any pol- issues permit to some exhibi- installed at entrances of hotels safe use of home surveillance part of meeting the telecom- warning. The continuous envi- lution or any disruption in the tions and all institutions and public places but have now cameras and devices. munications needs of this ronmental monitoring buoys marine environment through regarding installing cameras.” come to understand that these It also stated that people best-in-class falconry event.” are included in the necessary real-time and continuous mon- He explained that con- cameras are solely for security can check the company’s Visitors are welcome to permit for any development itoring throughout the day by cerning the personal use of purposes. approval by checking the visit the exhibition from 9am work near the marine coasts or the initial indicators and data cameras and installing them at The Moi representative, Security Systems Department to 2pm, and from 4pm to 11pm, any work that may affect the measured by the devices in the homes, is different due to the advised the public to only on the website (http://moi.gov. and on Friday, from 2pm to marine environment of the buoys. number of people compared to contact accredited companies qa). 11pm. MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 HOME 05 Sidra welcomes Brunei Darussalam envoy HBKU signs MoU to collaborate with Istanbul University THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) mission to facilitate positive transformation at home while having a global and regional impact has been boosted following the signing of a Memorandum of Under- standing (MoU) with Istanbul University, recently. According to the MoU both parties will co-develop a range of activities for the mutual benefit of each institution. These include collaborative research projects and studies, joint contributions to academic and scientific pub- As Qatar and Turkey are bound by a friendship based on shared lications, and the exchange of values and likemindedness, the agreement between HBKU and other scholarly documents. The Istanbul University would be a major step in increasing the MoU also paves the way for joint prosperity of our people. We have not only advanced cooperation extracurricular activities in aca- across the full spectrum of our bilateral relationship, but also demic and scientific fields, such Sidra Medicine recently welcomed H E Mohamed Bahrin Abu Bakar, the Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam as certificate courses, confer- deepened our engagement in the pursuit of science and to the State of Qatar, and Norfazerne Md Jaafar, the Second Secretary to its hospital. The Ambassador ences and symposia. In an effort technology, innovation and higher education to empower our and Md Jaafar were welcomed by Mohammed Al Mana, Managing Director and Member of the Board to encourage partner-driven countries in addressing global challenges. of Governors at Sidra Medicine; Prof Ziyad M Hijazi, Acting Chief Medical Officer and Executive Chair of cooperation, both parties will Pediatric Medicine and Hamza Al Kuwari, Chief of Administrative Services. They were taken on a tour regularly exchange research and Prof Dr. Mahmut AK of Sidra Medicine’s specialist pediatric and women’s service wards including the Heart Center. Both teaching staff. parties discussed Sidra Medicine’s role in welcoming patients from Brunei to Qatar and medical tourism. Graduate and under- Rector of Istanbul University graduate students are also set to benefit from closer ties Cybersecurity preparations for 2022 showcased between HBKU and Istanbul looking forward to getting the University. Beyond relevant journey started.” THE PENINSULA — DOHA when organisers were targeted LLC and the White Paper exchange programmes, the Rector of Istanbul University, by sophisticated online scams. Al Summits, the Future Tech Event MoU makes provisions for joint Prof Dr. Mahmut AK said: “As The Supreme Committee for Muftah said: “It is likely our aims to provide a live platform curricular activities in edu- Qatar and Turkey are bound by Delivery & Legacy (SC) recently threats will expand as we draw to discuss and spread cation and teaching, such as a friendship based on shared showcased its cybersecurity prep- nearer to the tournament, awareness of the latest market summer schools and diploma values and likemindedness, the arations for the FIFA World Cup meaning it will be necessary to trends along with educating programs. There will also be agreement between HBKU and Qatar 2022 during Oman’s Future build our cybersecurity skillset, and enlightening attendees opportunities for doctoral stu- Istanbul University would be a Tech Summit and Expo, which grow compliance and maintain about ways in which they can dents to collaborate with coun- major step in increasing the pros- was held earlier this month. all our current capabilities. We adapt to the demands of the terparts, up to and including perity of our people. During her presentation, have developed strong partner- digital and technological revo- the writing of a co-supervised "We have not only advanced Maryam Al Muftah, the SC’s IT ships with major cybersecurity lution. The conference was held doctoral thesis. cooperation across the full Director, highlighted the impor- partners and will continue to using virtual event technology Interim Provost, and Dean, Interim Provost and Dean, spectrum of our bilateral rela- tance of cybersecurity prepa- nurture these relationships. We which offered attendees virtual College of Islamic Studies, Dr. College of Islamic Studies, tionship, but also deepened our rations and the challenges that all need to be vigilant and con- exhibitor booths, networking Emad El Din Shahin said, “This Dr. Emad El Din Shahin. engagement in the pursuit of come with hosting a mega tinue to expand our expertise to and presentation rooms. MoU opens a new chapter in science and technology, inno- sporting event, such as the tackle all aspects of this issue.” Other sessions saw the par- our relations with Istanbul in equal measure. From vation and higher education to potential for cybercrime, data Al Muftah added: “Based on ticipation of a wide range of University, an institution that mutual exchanges of empower our countries in security breaches and infor- the experience of previous experts in fields such as cyber- identifies with our vision to be knowledge to research collab- addressing global challenges. I mation systems failure, SC said mega sporting events, including security, Artificial Intelligence an innovation-based uni- oration, and much more, we’re firmly believe the close relations on its website. the FIFA World Cup and (AI), data protection, digital versity focussed on solving determined to nurture future and friendship which unite our Speaking about the lessons Olympics, we have to anticipate transformation, the Internet of shared critical challenges. The generations of entrepreneurs two countries will continue to learned from other major sporting the same players and adver- Things, block chain technologies, scope and ambition of this and leaders to give further be strengthened. We look events, Al Muftah drew examples saries will look to target Qatar financial technology and fifth five-year agreement is far- impetus to Qatar’s and Tur- forward to working together in from recent FIFA World Cup tour- 2022.” generation communication reaching and designed to key’s knowledge-based econ- fostering Qatar-Turkey bilateral naments and Olympic Games, Organised by Muscat Expo services. benefit faculty and students omies and societies. We’re cooperation.” DOHA TODAY

06 MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020

RAYNALD C RIVERA THE PENINSULA At 4am, the skies over Doha are In fitness and in health: pitch black and the city is still asleep but Alfred is already wide awake. Only the yellow glow emitted Walking in the time of COVID-19 by the lampposts lights up his path as he makes his way to Najma Park. He wipes the sweat dripping down his forehead; his heart beats faster while his strides turn shorter and swifter. Early morning brisk walks have been an integral part of Alfred’s daily routine which, he says, boost his energy making him feel better The Doha Corniche is one of the and healthier considering the major destinations for people nature of his work. who wish to get fit by jogging or “My job as an accountant simply brisk walking. requires that I stay in the office, and PICS: RAYNALD C RIVERA/ most of the time I just sit in front THE PENINSULA of my computer. It can be both boring and risky healthwise, that’s why, over a year ago, I decided to comes a multitude of benefits that’s why, like Alfred, he takes his concrete footpaths, the well-main- see to it that I start my day with which extend to diabetics as well daily walks early in the morning tained beautifully manicured parks regular walks,” he relates. as it has been scientifically proven when there are very few people around the country also serve as The COVID-19 pandemic, to decrease blood sugar, improve walking at the park. good motivation for people like however, halted his daily walks for cardiovascular fitness and control Every morning, the 39-year- Alfred and Shafeeq to engage in There are around 95 public several months, but after a brief weight. old engineer by trade has set a fitness activities. parks across Qatar, majority of hiatus he resumed after restrictions “My has doctor advised me to target number of steps from his On how he consistently wakes had been relaxed three months ago. do some exercise to lower my house to the park, where he com- up every morning to take his walks, which can be found in Doha. Amid the enormous health blood sugar, and I opted for brisk pletes several laps, and back. Alfred says it’s a matter of com- There are a total of 38 parks challenges posed by the pandemic, walking which has been very “I used to walk 7,000 to 8,000 mitment and setting priorities. medical experts recommend mod- effective for me,” said Shafeeq, a steps daily months ago before the “In hindsight, I’ve never located in Doha, followed by Al erate-intensity exercises to achieve diabetic who rarely fails to have pandemic, but in the past three imagined I would be able to Rayyan which is home to 29 a healthy life, a good example of his routine walks every day. months I exceed 12,000 steps achieve what I have, but based on which is brisk walking. Amid the pandemic, he said daily,” he said, expressing satis- my experience I realized that as parks, Umm Salal with five “I started doing 30-minute there’s nothing to be anxious about faction on the effectiveness of his long as a person is determined he parks and Al Sheehaniya with walks five days a week. Now I “as long as you follow all the pre- routine as reflected in the improved will be able to do whatever he puts scaled it up to one hour and I’ve cautionary measures suggested by results of his blood tests. his mind into,” he said while he three parks. never felt healthier. Of course, I experts and authorities, and For a change, Shafeeq some- waves to another person walking always try my best to eat healthy keeping a safe distance from other times visits the Doha Corniche for at the park. every day to fully achieve a healthy people is one of the most important his walks specially during “We have built a sort of com- body,” said Alfred. while walking.” weekends. munity of walkers here. There was With regular brisk walking Safety is foremost to Shafeeq “Good thing about Qatar is that a time when I wasn’t able to visit it offers many options to walk the park to have my morning walks around to get fit and healthy with for a couple of days because I was the many locations it has developed quite busy at work and that person such as Al Bidda Park, Aspire Park, asked me where I was. It feels good and the Doha Corniche just to that we have become familiar name a few,” he said lauding the seeing each other every morning various facilities that can be found that we look after each other even in the parks. though we don’t personally know There are around 95 parks in one another,” he said. Qatar, majority of which can be With the daily struggles brought found in Doha. about by the pandemic, Ultra-modern operating There are a total of 38 parks improvement in one’s sleep and With their clean well maintained concrete located in Doha, followed by Al relieving anxiety are some of the theaters footpaths and other facilities, Qatar’s Rayyan which is home to 29 parks, many benefits of walking according beautifully manicured parks are a magnet Umm Salal with five parks and Al to some experts, while others say for fitness enthusiasts. Sheehaniya with three parks. walking can also potentially spark With their long winding clean one’s creativity. Online educational platform for kids launched in Doha

AYENI OLUSEGUN SKS boasts nine teachers from Nigeria, the virtual event. THE PENINSULA Pakistan, Jordan, Zimbabwe, and India. It will “We live in a multi-lingual world, so we offer classes in Maths, Literacy, Science, Com- will teach the kids as they grow languages Smart Kids Scholastic Academy (SKS), an puting, Social Studies, and History. (Arabic and French) to help them be com- online educational platform for kids aged 2 Other subjects are Geography, Civic Edu- fortable around peers from other parts of the State-of-the-art ambulance to 10, was launched in Qatar during a virtual cation, Physical Education, Language, Arts & world. Also, the online platform creates a bond fleet Open Day. It will begin teaching on October Crafts, Quran & Islamic Studies, and Christian between mother and child because parents 19. Religious Knowledge. are hands-on and can contribute to the child’s The educational platform, which aims to The directors of the educational platform educational growth,” she added. be the first Nigerian Indigenous Online School, Rafiat Ajayi-Ibraheem and Noimot Olayiwola, Also commenting, Noimot said, “Online intends to provide world-class online edu- noted that online learning helps mothers learning has become essential and more cation for growing kids within the comfort of prepare their kids for the traditional schooling popular. It is an interactive mode of learning, their homes. This phenomenon has become system while also providing a stage for parents and with the situation now, who knows how necessary, particularly with the current cor- to be engaged in their child’s academic growth. education will be conducted in the next few nonavirus pandemic. “Most parents don’t understand the years. Online learning is flexible, helping to It offers the internationally recognized concept of homeschooling, so they end up reduce the number of dropouts in devel- British Edexcel curriculum with students in doing that to their kids but without the right oping countries, and it helps bridge the aca- Nursery (2-4 years), Lower Primary (5-7 curriculum. If not done properly, poor home- demic divide between the haves and the years), and Upper Primary (8-10+ years). The schooling can affect a child’s growth and the have nots. tuition fees range from QR874 for nursery parent’s mental health, so at SKS, we provide “We follow a proper curriculum in the kids, QR1747 for lower primary, and QR2620 the right curriculum to ensure parents get the British Edexcel Curriculum. Hence, the cer- for upper primary. process right,” said Ajayi-Ibraheem during tificates will be recognized worldwide.” Highly-advanced patient information systems SIF Qatar celebrates 89th birth anniversary of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

THE PENINSULA – DOHA Science India Forum Qatar in association with SIF GCC chapters, celebrated the 89th birth anni- versary of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam on October 15. The online event was attended by eminent dignitaries, scientists, patrons and academicians. Padma Shri Dr. YS Rajan, professor ISRO and co-author of the Cutting-edge treatments for book ‘INDIA 2020- A Vision for the New Millennium,’ was the keynote speaker on the cancer occasion. Federation of Indian Nurses in In his opening address, Hemant Kumar Dwivedi, First Secretary (Culture and Education), At Hamad Medical Corporation we Qatar holds blood donation camp Embassy of India in Qatar spoke about how the are utilizing advanced technology and THE PENINSULA - DOHA lives of leaders such as Dr. Kalam are constant being the frontline fighters in such a short period of reminders of the qualities that should be emulated innovative systems to deliver the highest At the special request of the during this devastating time. and passed on to the next generations. quality care to Qatar’s population. Hamad Medical Corporation COVID-19 pandemic, but also IBPC President Azeem He noted that books written by Dr. Kalam had (HMC) Blood Bank, a blood for their great initiatives like Abbas, ICBF Representative inspired students worldwide to be courageous, to donation camp was recently blood donation. More than 60 Juttas Paul and HMC Public dream, innovate and never give up. organized by the Federation nurses joined this noble cause Relations Officer Nasser The keynote speaker, Dr. YS Rajan, recalled www.hamad.qa of Indian Nurses Qatar - FINQ. and donated blood at the camp. Salahi Allyhi were also his experiences with Dr. Kalam at ISRO and The camp was held at the FINQ President Bejoy present. FINQ managing during the writing of the book INDIA 2020. HMC Blood Donors Center. Chacko and Secretary - committee members Deepa Speaking on the theme, ‘Emerging World – The Indian Ambassador to General Hans Jacob said it Benson, Shiny, Anees, Options before Humanity,’ he took a compar- Qatar H E Dr. Deepak Mittal was a great success to have Jamesh, Sujay, Shaiju, Jobish, ative view of before and after the coronavirus lauded the service rendered so many nurses who partic- Siju, Jinto, Arun and Jebin and how it has altered the socio-economic and by the nurses not only for ipated and donated blood led the group. other aspects of society. MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 DOHA TODAY 07 Local startup aims to test autonomous delivery vehicle

ANISHA BIJUKUMAR THE PENINSULA Airlift’s self-driving vehicle is being used as Qatar-based technology startup the first pilot for self- Airlift aims to start pilot testing driving delivery on public its autonomous delivery vehicle roads in the Netherlands. ‘Core’ in the country by the end of this year, with further plans In an event held recently, to introduce 100 vehicles on the project was officially road by the start of 2022. launched in partnership Incubated at the Qatar with Breda University of Science and Technology Park, Applied Sciences (BUAS) Airlift is eager to collaborate with local entities in the country and the Future Mobility to deploy the vehicle here. Network (FMN). “We are looking for tie-ups with local entities and then Ahmed Mohamedali, hopefully by end of this year, Airlift General Manager we can start test pilots here. We are also working tirelessly to ensure that by the start of 2022, we should be able to introduce Mohamedali, Nebras Ozzo, 100 vehicles in Qatar,” said the public roads in the Netherlands. and as of now delivers various and Qatar, Mohamedali said focusing on deploying Core in Chief Technology Officer, Airlift General Manager Ahmed In an event held recently, the non-food goods between three that they foresee commercial Qatar and in Europe, inviting Musab Al Mozien, Lead Mohamedali. project was offically launched buildings on the Breda Campus. deployment in the Netherlands enterprises to experiment with Mechanical Engineer, Munera The current model of Core in partnership with Breda Uni- Along with customisable com- as early as the first quarter of autonomous systems in F Aldosari, Co-founder and is being tested in the Breda Uni- versity of Applied Sciences partment sizes, Core also has an 2021. “As for Qatar, we are open mobility, inspection and sur- Strategist and Fatima Al Kuwari, versity of Applied Science (BUAS) and the Future Mobility anti-tampering compartment for any collaboration and veillance applications. Advisor and early investor, campus in the Netherlands. Network (FMN),” said lock and a touchpad for looking forward to connect with With a brushless 48V eletric Airlift also received funding “Airlift’s self-driving vehicle Mohamedali. unlocking them. potential partners to deploy the motor, Core has 4 wire disc from QSTP - Product Devel- is being used as the first pilot The 4G connectivity-ready When asked about going vehicle,” he added. brakes and dual 1.44 kWh bat- opment Fund and QFRDI - for self-driving delivery on robot can deliver up to 120kg commercial in the Netherlands As of now the company is teries. Founded by Ahmed Innovation Coupon Fund. Qatari Forum for Authors discusses higher education during pandemic

THE PENINSULA – DOHA channel. beginning, universities were closed Addressing the event, Dr. Abdelhak completely waiting for the end of the The Qatari Forum for Authors recently Belabed said that many educational pandemic, but after two months uni- hosted through videoconferencing a systems in the world were affected by versity administrations began number of academics from around the the current global crisis as a result of directing teachers to provide lessons world to review international expe- the spread of COVID-19. He said that through virtual platforms. riences of university education during the pandemic created difficulties From Italy, Dr. Najla Kalash spoke the pandemic. affecting adversely to the classroom about her experience in teaching The guests include Dr. Said Al teaching to students, but the teacher Arabic to non-native speakers from a Participants during the seminar organised by Qatari Forum for Authors. Rahman from Al Alya University in took the challenges to continue distance in light of the spread of coro- India; Dr. Najla Kalash from the Uni- teaching using distance learning navirus. She said that teachers and role in students’ lives and in society complete change to the lifestyle and versity of Italy and Dr. Jaafar Yaouche technologies professors in Italy, like various coun- as a whole. She indicated that cele- method of education. from the University of Algeria. The Indian researcher, Dr. Said Al tries of the world, faced challenges of brating World Teacher’s Day is an He talked about his personal The international virtual seminar Rahman said that the teachers are the pandemic. opportunity to recognise the efforts experience as the transfer was not entitled ‘International Experiences of leaders and they nurture the genera- However, Dr. Najla said that of teachers around the world. difficult for him because he always University Education During Pan- tions so they deserve all respect and teachers continued to perform their For his part, Algerian academic Dr. called for technical training and he demic’ moderated by Dr. Abdelhak appreciation. He also talked about the duties in the best way and were Jaafar Yaouche said that Algerian was the supervisor of the virtual plat- Belabed Professor of Research experience of moving from classroom flexible and determined to lead stu- society like the rest of the world felt forms for publishing data and Methods, Critical Studies and teaching to virtual teaching in India dents in unstable circumstances, as shocked at the beginning of the spread research of professors in the Approach at Qatari University, and in light of the pandemic. distance education required double of the pandemic, considering that the Department of Arabic Language at broadcast on the Forum’s YouTube Dr. Said Al Rahman said that in the effort and they played an important spread of the virus brought about a the University of Algiers. Healthy ways to cope with COVID-19 highlighted

FAZEENA SALEEM Naufar has also launched a THE PENINSULA mental health awareness cam- paign under the theme ‘Are you COVID-19 has had a huge toll OK?’ aimed at encouraging on the mental health of people, people to talk more openly and experts speculate that a big about their emotional mental health crisis is likely to wellbeing. follow the pandemic. Deputy National Lead for Lost jobs, loss of loved Mental Health and Wellbeing, ones, loneliness, uncertainty, Dr. Samya Ahmad Al Abdulla, and increased stress have all said, “COVID-19 has changed contributed to the menace of many aspects the way we live poor mental health, leading to our normal lives and has new symptoms, or a relapse of affected many people’s emo- existing ones. tional health as well as their According to the World physical health. So it is now Health Organization, it is more important than ever that expected that the need for people feel comfortable talking mental health and psycho- openly about feelings of stress, social support will substantially anxiety, and sadness. By asking increase in the coming months ‘Are you OK?’, and asking in the and years. Investment in implemented several initiatives highlights to follow a healthy right way, you can help to start mental health programmes at to support people feeling and balanced diet and eat a conversation with someone the national and international stressed or anxious. healthy balanced meals (fresh who may be finding it difficult levels, which have already suf- The Ministry of Public vegetables and fruits), get to speak openly about their fered from years of chronic Health (MoPH) has started a enough sleep, rest your body, struggles.” SIS holds career underfunding, is now more social media campaign to avoid stress, fatigue and Also in collaboration with important than it has ever encourage people adopt some staying up too late and learn MoPH and PHCC, Mental been. practices to maintain good ways to maintain positive Health Service in HMC orientation Therefore, this year’s World mental health. attitude. The MoPH in collab- launched a helpline to provide Mental Health Day campaign The campaign provides tips oration with Hamad Medical support for people experi- emphasized on increased and advice on dealing with Corporation (HMC), Primary encing mental health problems webinar series investment in mental health. psychological stress associated Health Care Corporation as a result of the current Over the six months Qatar has with COVID-19 pandemic. It (PHCC), Sidra Medicine, and COVID-19 pandemic. THE PENINSULA – DOHA Marwa Salah, Naveen Kelvin, Kelinton Edmond, Pooja As part of the Personalized Thakrar, Altamash Moazzam Guidance Programme, the Mahatae, Adhil Arshad, Salwa 21 students of DPS-MIS participate in a virtual debate Counselling and Career Jalaludeen, Amy Susan Rison Guidance Cell of Shan- and Gracen Yesudas. THE PENINSULA – DOHA tiniketan Indian School (SIS) The sessions covered the organised a career orientation educational and career oppor- QatarDebate organised a workshop named webinar series for Classes tunities in Engineering, Med- ‘Argumentation and Refutation’ October 9-12. icine, Business and 14, 2020 via the web platform Zoom where The event titled, ‘Exploring Accounting, Biochemistry, 21 debaters of Delhi Public School-Modern Career Possibilities; Travel Animation, Psychology, Avi- Indian School (DPS-MIS) along with their through the experience of SIS ation, Transportation Design, coach Jaya Majumder participated enthu- Alumni’ was a webinar series and Fashion Design. siastically. that included three sessions They further oriented the The resource person Mubarrat Wassey to cover diverse career pros- students with the admission conducted the workshop in three segments. pects and courses of studies. processes and requirements The first segment of the workshop focused SIS alumni members in different universities in on the aspect of argumentation when working in different fields in Qatar, India, and other inter- debaters learned how assertion, reasoning, Qatar, India, UK, South Africa, national universities. evidence and impact form an important and Canada guided the stu- The Sessions were highly part of every argument. The second dents through their insightful as the students segment focused on refutation strategies. Participants during online workshop organised by QatarDebate experiences. learned from the first-hand The most important refutation strategy Panelists who shared their experiences of their Alumni being underlying assumption, logic and through a small quiz. role in debate. “The learning of the experiences across various and understood the diverse counter consideration. The refutation strat- The entire workshop was a great help workshop will help all the students to fields were; Sara Mathews, career options ahead of them. egies were explained by various examples. to all the budding debaters to shape their become an efficient debater and will stay Shahinas Shahul, Ashique SIS Principal Dr. Subhash The final segments was ‘Practical’ train of thoughts. with them forever and guide throughout Sunil Kumar, Tahseen Syed, B. Nair expressed his gratitude where debaters tried to form arguments It assisted al in critical thinking since the debating career,” said the Principal, DPS Tharini Salomi S D, Suhaim to the alumni members for through various exercises and tested argumentation and refutation plays a major Modern Indian School. Najeeb, Nanditha Rajesh, sharing their valuable ideas. 08 VIEWS MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020

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CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

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US President Donald Trump claps during a rally at Muskegon County Airport in Muskegon, Michigan, yesterday. EDITORIAL Trump’s Mideast friends brace for Biden IVAN LEVINGSTON, ZAINAB they desired, finding personal defeated, bolstering Trump’s Iran but it’s not willing to go Real estate boom FATTAH, VIVIAN NEREIM affinity with rulers criticized commitment to withdraw after Iran outside Iran,” said — BLOOMBERG in Congress for human rights troops from Syria and Iraq. Prince Talal Al Faisal, a Saudi abuses. Israel arguably got the businessman and junior royal. QATAR’S real estate market is booming again. The Rising from the rocky terrain Now, some leaders are best deal with Trump recog- Trump’s approach in the sector has weathered the fallout from the COVID-19 of the Golan, a sign welcomes trying to capitalize on a nizing its sovereignty over the Middle East was better than his pandemic and is witnessing a significant rise in property visitors to the future site of uniquely friendly White House Golan. His administration predecessor’s, and worked “to deals. This can be gauged from the fact that property “Trump Heights.” before a possible change in US moved the American embassy a degree,” he said, “but they sales reached QR11.4bn in the first six months this Israel’s Prime Minister leadership: they’re pushing for to Jerusalem, a step prede- need a more comprehensive year. Also, in September, real estate transactions Benjamin Netanyahu advanced weapons and stra- cessors said should follow an strategy going forward.” reached QR3.16bn. The figures indicate that the sector announced a new settlement tegic advantages to try and Israeli-Palestinian agreement. The realization that the US is continuing its steady growth and also confirms the there to thank an American salve the potential transition to And Trump’s son-in-law would not ride to the rescue strength of the growing Qatari economy. president who broke with Trump’s Democratic rival Joe Jared Kushner unveiled a prompted policy rethinks in A more welcome step has been the government’s international convention to Biden. Of most concern to peace plan so favorable to the UAE, which withdrew recent decision to allow foreign companies and indi- endorse Israeli sovereignty Israel and Gulf Arab states is Israel it was dismissed by from the disastrous Yemen viduals to own real estate in 25 areas in the country. over Arab land. Yet one of the the possibility the US will many as unworkable, and, war and unveiled ties with An added incentive is that the owners of property that settlement’s main organizers reenter the nuclear accord like the embassy move, sure Israel, formalizing a rela- is worth no less than QR730,000 will be offered resi- is already warning that with Iran. to provoke uproar. tionship based partly on dency for them and their family. Donald Trump’s name could “A lot of piled up requests The backlash never came. mutual mistrust of Iran. It Experts opine that the decision will open up pros- be replaced. are coming in from friends Instead, the UAE and Bahrain hopes that deal will sweep pects for promising and high-return investment oppor- “It depends on his place in and partners,” said Barbara normalized relations with away US reservations over its tunities that benefit local and foreign investors, while history,” says Uri Heitner, a Leaf, US ambassador to the Israel weeks before the US request to buy Lockheed advancing Qatar’s real estate market and contributing campaigner for Israeli set- UAE until March 2018. “All of vote, handing Trump a pre- Martin Corp.’s F-35 warplane. to the realisation of Qatar National Vision 2030 and tlement of the Golan Heights, these Gulf governments know election boost though he’d cut “These dealings were beyond. Recently, the Ministry of Justice and the Min- captured from Syria in the very well that if Biden wins aid to Palestinians, closed already taking place, they just istry of Interior launched an office for Non-Qatari Real 1967 Middle East war. “It and the Democrats take the their diplomatic mission and weren’t always in the open,” Estate Ownership in The Pearl-Qatar, in order to could become a cause for Senate, they’re going to have sidelined their bid for said David Mack, a former US provide real estate ownership and utilization services shame.” a whole different set of calcu- statehood, once the region’s ambassador to the UAE who through one window for investors. From the early months of lations with a very changed touchstone issue. Iran also worked in Saudi Arabia in The ongoing infrastructure projects being carried his administration, Trump political landscape.” emerged as the main fault- the 1980s. “The difference now out despite the pandemic as part of urban development seemed to offer Israel and When Trump arrived in line in the new Middle East. is that the United Arab Emirates plans has had a huge impact on real estate market regional allies Saudi Arabia, the White House in 2016, “I don’t think that Trump and Bahrain said: ‘Oh, we could this year, especially after the opening of new roads, the United Arab Emirates and Islamic State still controlled meant to influence the Middle get favors from the US by doing which facilitated access to many regions. This stimu- Egypt the foreign policy shifts swaths of Iraq and Syria, the East. He meant to control this more openly.’” lated a rise in real estate activity by buying and selling Arab-Israeli peace process American involvement,” said And while Trump’s popu- of different types of properties, including lands and Israel arguably got was frozen, and the Iran deal Haim Tomer, a former official larity in Israel is soaring, buildings, in light of the expansion of the urban areas the best deal with had put America’s Arab allies at Israel’s Mossad intelligence longer term, his policies may and population. Trump recognizing on the defensive. From Egypt agency. The shifts were largely not have the intended conse- In order to facilitate construction and obtaining to Saudi Arabia, trust was low due to regional developments, quences. Sidelining the Pales- building permits, which will ultimately cause a rebound its sovereignty after the Obama adminis- but Trump took “advantage of tinian bid for statehood in the real estate market, the Building Permits over the Golan. tration endorsed the 2011 the opportunity.” means Jews will be increas- Department at the Ministry of Municipality and Envi- His administration uprisings against US-allied Yet Trump’s allies have ingly outnumbered in what ronment, launched the first edition of Building Require- dictators. Four years on, the also been blindsided by they’d envisioned as a Jewish ments Guide. The electronic building permits system moved the American Middle East is a different place. sudden shifts, like the state, leaving territorial dis- provides a single-window for obtaining building embassy to Trump withdrew in 2018 decision to quit Syria, and the putes unresolved and raising licences. Jerusalem, a step from the Obama-negotiated inconsistencies of an Iran difficult questions about the The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is currently Iran pact, reinstating sanc- policy that saw him raise eco- rights of Palestinians living carrying out 33 infrastructure projects to serve more predecessors said tions in a maximum pressure nomic pressure, then flinch under occupation. than 30,000 housing plots distributed over 17 areas should follow an campaign that irked from action when Saudi oil Trump’s approach in the country. And the Authority has announced nine European partners but facilities and Gulf shipping “doesn’t solve Israel’s exis- new construction contracts for roads and infrastructure Israeli-Palestinian pleased Iran’s Arab rivals. traffic were attacked. tential problem,” said Mack. development projects in citizen-owned lands in order agreement. Trump’s decision to assas- “You have, on the one “It’s going to be much harder to serve 5,111 housing plots in different regions across sinate a top Iranian com- hand, throwing sanctions on now to rebuild a peace Qatar. The real estate sector, supported by a series mander hit its regional opera- Iran, talking a big game, but process given how many of policy-driven decisions, is staging a turnaround with tions without eliciting the then you find [the US] hesitant things have been given away property deals expected to increase. retaliation some critics - because it has contradictory to the Israelis without getting warned of. Islamic State was policies. It wants to go after anything in exchange.” As govt compiles new energy plan, consider CO2, steady power supply D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR EMAIL: [email protected] JAPAN NEWS-YOMIURI such as coal and liquefied including hydropower, wind power generated natural gas accounting for accounted for 17% of Japan’s depends on the weather and EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 How should the government 56%. These targets are energy supply in fiscal 2018, other factors and is therefore FAX: +974 4455 7758 deal with the challenge of unchanged from the outlook nearly double its share in unstable. When electricity ensuring a stable supply of compiled in 2015. fiscal 2010. supply and demand are not MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 electricity while curbing The Paris Agreement, an The government launched balanced, there is a risk of greenhouse gas emissions? A international framework for a feed-in tariff program in blackouts. DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 realistic path should be combating global warming, 2012, and that has increased As society becomes explored through sober came into effect in 2016, and solar power generation. The increasingly digitized, a stable LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 debate. the movement to decarbonize government aims to further supply of electricity is The Economy, Trade and energy sources by reducing expand renewable energy by becoming more and more BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 Industry Ministry has begun the use of fossil fuels, which promoting offshore wind important. There is a need for considering revisions to the emit large amounts of green- power. a combination of renewable SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 nation’s basic energy plan for house gases, is spreading. The challenge is the high energy and complementary the medium to long term. The Under the new plan, further cost. The cost of electricity for power sources. ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 plan is reviewed roughly reliance on thermal power, households and businesses If it is not feasible to rely email: [email protected] every three years, and the which uses fossil fuels, will has increased by more than solely on fossil fuels, the most ministry plans to present a not be a feasible option. 10% to 2.4 trillion yen a year effective way would be to use PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 new plan as early as next The government has as a result of surcharges asso- nuclear power. It does not email: [email protected] summer. already decided to suspend or ciated with the program being emit carbon dioxide and it can The current plan, which scrap the use of inefficient added to their electricity bills. generate electricity in a stable ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 was set in 2018, aims to have coal-fired thermal power The amount of increase is manner. Unlike fossil fuels, FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] renewable energy account for plants by fiscal 2030. nearly 10,000 yen per year which are dependent on 22% to 24% of the nation’s In order to decarbonize for a standard household. It is imports, increasing the CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 energy supply by fiscal 2030, energy sources, the focus is also reducing the interna- amount of electricity gen- email: [email protected] with nuclear power on how much renewable tional competitiveness of erated by nuclear power accounting for 20% to 22%, energy can be increased. companies. would increase Japan’s SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 and thermal power sources Renewable energy, The amount of solar and energy self-sufficiency. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

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/ThePeninsulaQatar The door is still ajar for post-Brexit talks to continue with the EUropean /Peninsula_Qatar Union if officials in the bloc change /ThePeninsulaNewspaper their position on key points. Michael Gove, Britain's Chancellor of the +974 6698 6188 Duchy of Lancaster MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 HOME 09 NU-Q webinar focuses on peace process in Palestine THE PENINSULA — DOHA between Israel and the United and understandings regarding Arab Emirates and Bahrain, economics, security, political A webinar organised by the Recent policies passed by explaining that Egypt, Jordan, issues, and mutual interests,” Palestine Student Club at North- Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and the case with the UAE and western Qatar on ‘The Future the US and Israel should Tunisia have historically Bahrain was “very different.” of the Question of Palestine’ be seen as a culmination enjoyed beneficial ties with Unlike previous attempts included analyses and critical of interventions that have Israel that involved the sharing to normalise relations with insights from a senior Palestine disregarded Palestinian of security information, among Israel, he said, the recent cases policy fellow at Al-Shabaka, The rights and aspirations for other economic and diplomatic reveal a “blatant excitement” Palestinian Policy Network, incentives. in “falsifying undisputed facts Yara Hawari and Assistant sovereignty for decades. “I really think that, about the conflict” as well as professor at the Doha Institute amongst all of this doom and they intersect “with Israel’s for Graduate Studies, Tariq Yara Hawari, Senior gloom, it really offers us Pal- strategic vision and historical Dana. Palestine Policy Fellow at estinians a chance, an oppor- ambition for positioning itself The event, which was co- Al-Shabaka tunity, to recalibrate the Pal- as a regional and military sponsored by the Liberal Arts estinian strategy and to think power.” Program and moderated by in a more international or These outcomes, Dana Kayan Khraisheh ’22, president internationalist outlook argued, are ushered in by a of the student club, focused on and to contextualise this as part because what happened in global economy in which the CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Acting director of the Liberal Arts the status of the peace process of ongoing policies vis-à-vis the Palestine isn’t only happening very notion of a peace process Program, Sami Hermez; Assistant professor at the Doha Institute in Palestine in light of recent Palestinian struggle for in Palestine — it’s happening is nonexistent, “simply because changes and developments both liberation”. for Graduate Studies, Tariq Dana; Senior Palestine Policy Fellow beyond,” she said. the basic conditions of peace in the region and globally. Recent policies passed by at Al-Shabaka, The Palestinian Policy Network, Yara Hawari; and Dana, however, noted that are not attainable today,” and While the events sur- the US and Israel, she urged, NU-Q Palestine Student Club President, Kayan Khraisheh there’s something “peculiar” they come at a time when “Pal- rounding Palestine seem to be should be seen as a culmi- about the recent normalisation estinians are at their weakest accelerating at an “alarming nation of interventions that the shock and the hype,” she tinians as a possible future.” deals with Israel in the region, point,” both due to “counter- and disheartening pace”, have “disregarded Palestinian added, “they did not really Hawari said that the same explaining that while peace revolutionary” efforts and the Hawari argued for the need to rights and aspirations for sov- break from what has been pre- dynamic informs the recent accords are generally “con- “incompetence” of the Pales- be “sensible and responsible ereignty” for decades. “Despite viously presented to Pales- normalisation of relations cerned with formal agreements, tinian leadership. GU-Q, EAA to host ‘Working Together during COVID-19’ talk THE PENINSULA — DOHA The public talk is part the dean of GU-Q, Dr. Ahmad To discuss the pressing chal- of the EAA and GU-Q Dallal, said: “Institutional part- lenges that lie ahead, Geor- Series, the result of nerships allow us to learn from getown University in Qatar a new multi-project each other and share resources (GU-Q), in partnership with the and best practices, and to focus Participants during the workshop. collaboration aimed at Education Above All Foundation on developing real solutions that (EAA), is hosting Managing raising awareness of address the needs of underserved ‘Experience CMU-Q’ welcomes Director of Global Policy and the two institutions’ or unserved communities.” important dialogue reflects our Advocacy for the Bill and Melinda shared commitment Dean Dallal also stressed the commitment to finding tangible Gates Foundation, Joe Cerrell to equitable access to role of universities in global solutions that address the chal- record number of students (pictured) for a public talk. development, and the need for lenges of our world. Through The event “Working Together education as a path to direct engagement with private timely knowledge-exchange, we THE PENINSULA — DOHA students logged in from India, During COVID-19: A Global peace and sustainable sector humanitarian organiza- can co-develop and build a safer Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Approach to Development,” will development. tions, saying “We look forward to future for our children. We are Nearly 200 high school Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, be held virtually tomorrow learning the perspectives of a key proud to be part of this initiative students from 25 countries Pakistan, South Africa, and (Tuesday). leader from the Gates Foundation, and look forward to taking tuned in to ‘Experience Uzbekistan. Joe Cerrell will be drawing on support increased global to hear how the development another step towards joint sus- CMU-Q,’ a Carnegie Mellon The ‘Experience CMU-Q’ his experience overseeing the engagement and progress on landscape is changing, and what tainable development.” University in Qatar (CMU-Q) workshop is held twice a year Gates Foundation’s relationships global health and agriculture. it will take to close the gaps we Registration for the upcoming workshop for exploring study for pre-college students to with donor governments, corpo- The public talk is part of the are aware of, and to anticipate webinar is open to the public and and career options in science, learn more about the academic rations, foundations, and other EAA and GU-Q Series, the result those that we will soon be facing.” available on the university’s technology and business. programs at CMU-Q. non-governmental organizations of a new multi-project collabo- Communication Manager website. The EAA and GU-Q Series CMU-Q is a Qatar Foundation CMU-Q is now accepting in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the ration aimed at raising awareness and Head of Advocacy at EAA, is part of the GU-Q Virtual Hub for partner university. applications for fall 2021 Middle East. of the two institutions’ shared Mubarak Al Thani said, “The Global Dialogue: Engaging Com- This is the first time that enrolment. The early decision He will also discuss how his commitment to equitable access COVID-19 pandemic has cer- munities, Finding Solutions initi- CMU-Q has offered ‘Experience deadline for students who have team seeks to expand the foun- to education as a path to peace tainly pushed us to rethink our ative, an online platform that CMU-Q’ virtually, which previously attended a CMU-Q dation’s partnerships with these and sustainable development. approach to global collaboration comprises the university’s broad allowed students outside of workshop is November 1. The governments, but also corpora- Remarking on the impor- as the backbone of human capital efforts to bring the community Qatar the opportunity to par- deadline for regular applica- tions, foundations and other non- tance of pursuing collaborative and development. We have a together for engaging discussions ticipate. In addition to Qatar, tions is February 1, 2021. governmental organizations, to efforts to address global issues, shared responsibility, and this on a wide variety of issues. DI launches 'My Academic Discipline' initiative MoCI recalls Kia Pegas 2019-2020 models THE PENINSULA — DOHA The recall campaign comes within the QNA — DOHA Public Administration and Devel- “The Communication and External framework of the Ministry’s continuous opment Economics. Relations Department will provide the The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, efforts to protect consumers and ensure that As part of the preparations to open Director of Communication and necessary logistics and technical in cooperation with Al-Attiya Motors and car dealers follow up on vehicle defects and student admission for the upcoming External Relations Department, Ali support to ensure the required follow- Trading Company, dealer of Kia in Qatar, repairs. The Ministry said that it will coor- academic year, the Doha Institute for Menadi Al Kaabi, said, “The aim of this up by interested students, whereas the has announced the recall of Kia Pegas dinate with the dealer to follow up on the Graduate Studies (DI) has announced initiative is to provide an opportunity initiative will make it easy for them to models of 2019-2020 due to incorrect maintenance and repair works and will its new interactive initiative “My to distinguished students to learn more know about the disciplines available software within the Tire Pressure Moni- communicate with customers to ensure that Academic Discipline.” about the programmes, communicate at DI, associated study plans, enrolment toring System (TPMS) which results in they carried out the necessary repairs. The The initiative will be held weekly directly with faculty members and ask requirements, and professional orien- failure to light up the warning light on the Ministry has urged all customers to report in the form of meetings via Doha questions.” He highlighted the role of tations,” Al Kaabi added. instrument cluster when a tire’s pressure any violations to its Consumer Protection Institute social media platforms to the initiative in bridging the distance Doha Institute for Graduate Studies becomes low. and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department. introduce the eighteen master pro- between students wishing to complete announced the opening of online grammes that are distributed over two their postgraduate studies on the one admission for the next academic year, schools: the School of Social Sciences hand and the program they want to join starting from Tuesday, October 20, and Humanities and the School of on the other. 2020, until February 15, 2021. QU Health launches Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit FROM PAGE 1 BPRU is actively pursuing national and international research ties to secure more funding opportunities and eying impactful meaningful quality research. Dr. Michail Nomikos, the Head of Research and Graduate Studies of the College of Medicine and the Acting Head of the BPRU, said, “It took almost a year of preparations until the official establishment of this unit. Thanks to the hard work of the QU Health imple- mentation committee and Dr. Feras Alali (Director of Research and Graduate Studies at QU Health), and the continuous support from the Deans of the four QU Health Colleges, the Vice-President for Medical and Health Sciences and the President of Qatar University the Unit has now become functional.” Dr. Feras Alali added, “We are excited to witness the rapid expansion and the structural solidification of bio- medical research at QU Health under this new unit." "I believe this unit would be a huge asset and step forward in securing QU among the key players in health research in Qatar and the globe,” said Dr. Alali. 10 MIDDLE EAST MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 UN arms embargo has been lifted: Iran

AGENCIES — TEHRAN “As of today, all world had stood with Tehran restrictions on the “in defiance of the US regime’s Iran said a longstanding UN transfer of arms, efforts”. But it stressed that embargo on arms sales to and “unconventional arms, from the Islamic republic related activities and weapons of mass destruction expired yesterday in line with financial services to and a buying spree of conven- a 2015 landmark nuclear deal tional arms have no place in with world powers from which and from the Islamic Iran’s defence doctrine”. Washington has withdrawn. Republic of Iran... Despite pulling out of the Tehran, which could now are all automatically nuclear deal, the Trump admin- purchase weapons from Russia, istration insists it is still a “par- China and elsewhere, has terminated,” the ticipant” and can therefore go hailed the development as a foreign ministry said in ahead with reimposing sanc- diplomatic victory over its arch a statement. tions. Washington has said it has enemy the United States, which decided to unilaterally reinstate had tried to maintain an indef- virtually all of the UN sanctions inite freeze on arms sales. statement on Twitter. on Iran lifted under the accord. “As of today, all restrictions It insisted that under the But the US legal argument has on the transfer of arms, related terms of the deal, struck with been rejected by almost the Iran-Afghanistan talks activities and financial services the United States, China, entire Security Council, with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif (left), during a meeting with the Chairman of the High to and from the Islamic Britain, France, Germany and European allies of the United Council for National Reconciliation of Afghanistan, Abdullah Abdullah (right), in Tehran yesterday. Republic of Iran... are all auto- Russia, “the lifting of arms States saying the priority is to matically terminated,” the restrictions and the travel ban salvage a peaceful solution to foreign ministry said in a were designed to be automatic Iran’s nuclear programme. statement. The embargo on the with no other action required”. Iran urged the US to Iran appoints sale of conventional arms to US President Donald Trump “abandon its destructive Pro-Ankara leader Tatar Iran was due to start expiring withdrew his country from the approach vis-a-vis Resolution ambassador progressively from October 18 nuclear deal in 2018 and has 2231”, adding that American wins Turkish Cypriot runoff under the terms of the UN res- unilaterally begun reimposing attempts to “violate” the reso- in rebel-held olution that confirmed the 2015 sanctions on Iran. lution had been “categorically AP — NICOSIA Tatar added. Tatar appears to nuclear deal between Tehran But Washington suffered a rejected several times in the have benefited from a higher Yemeni capital and world powers. setback in August when it failed past three months by the Ersin Tatar, who favours even turnout in the runoff, managing “As of today, the Islamic to win support from the United Security Council”. closer ties with Turkey won a to rally supporters from the AFP — TEHRAN Republic may procure any nec- Nations Security Council to The statement added that presidential election runoff approximately 200,000-strong essary arms and equipment indefinitely extend the arms in the case of measures yesterday with almost 52% of electorate who may not have Tehran’s new ambassador to from any source without any embargo. It was “a momentous amounting to a “material votes. Tatar, 60, clinched a voted in the first round. Yemen has arrived in the legal restrictions, and solely day for the international com- breach of the resolution and the surprise victory in the second Akinci, 72, is a champion of rebel-held capital of the based on its defensive needs,” munity,” the Iranian ministry purposes” of the deal, Iran round of presidential elections, Turkish Cypriots who oppose war-torn country, the Iranian the ministry added in the said yesterday, adding the “reserves the right to take any winning 51 percent of the vote, Turkey’s complete domination foreign ministry said on necessary countermeasures to official results showed. of their affairs. Tatar, 60, advo- Saturday, five years after the secure its national interests”. He edged out incumbent cates fully aligning Turkish last ambassador departed. Pompeo warns of sanctions Moscow said in September Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Cypriot policies with those of “Hassan Eyrlou... ambas- that it was ready to boost military Akinci, 72, a supporter of reuni- Turkey, the region’s patron. sador for the Islamic Republic for any arms sales to Iran cooperation with Tehran, while fication with the Greek Cypriot The Mediterranean island of Iran in Yemen, has arrived Beijing has also spoken of its will- south on the divided island. nation of Cyprus was split in in Sana'a,” foreign ministry AFP — WASHINGTON ingness to sell arms to Iran after In his victory speech, Tatar 1974 when Turkey invaded spokesman Said Khatibzadeh October 18. Washington main- thanked Turkish President after a coup by supporters of told the Fars news agency. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that arms sales to Iran tained it will seek to prevent Iran Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with union with Greece. Only “He has presented his would breach UN resolutions and result in sanctions, after from purchasing Chinese tanks whom he has strong relations. Turkey recognises a breakaway letters of credentials to Mehdi Tehran said the longstanding UN embargo on arms trade with and Russian air defence systems. “They will never tear the ties Turkish Cypriot state in the Al Mashat, head of Yemen’s the Islamic republic had expired. Iranian Foreign Minister between us and Turkey,” he said. north that is economically and supreme political council,” he “The US is prepared to use its domestic authorities to sanction Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a “In light of the approval we militarily dependent on Ankara. added, referring to an exec- any individual or entity that materially contributes to the supply, tweet that the international com- received, it is the preference of The island’s internationally rec- utive body formed by Huthi sale, or transfer of conventional arms to or from Iran,” Pompeo munity had “protected” the nuclear our people in all disputes to lay ognised government has its seat rebels. Iran backs the Houthis said in a statement. “Every nation that seeks peace and stability in deal and Sunday marked the “nor- claim to our own state, to lay in the Greek Cypriot south and in Yemen’s civil war against the Middle East and supports the fight against terrorism should malisation of Iran’s defence coop- claim to our land and lay claim is part of the 27-nation European an internationally recognised refrain from any arms transactions with Iran.” eration with the world”. to the guarantorship of Turkey,” Union. government that is supported by a Saudi-led military coa- lition. The recognised gov- ernment has been based in Kuwait reports 663 new COVID-19 cases, seven deaths Yemen’s second city, Aden, for the past five years, after the QNA/AFP — KUWAIT are still receiving the necessary brining the recoveries up by preschools, kindergartens, park, said it had been full of Houthis seized the capital. treatment to 7,585 cases, Kuwait’s 86.9 percent, said the Ministry beaches and national parks, children last week — but had Eyrlou’s predecessor left The Kuwaiti Ministry of Health Kuna reported. The Kuwaiti Min- in a statement reported by the with numbers of new infections emptied with the reopening of Sana'a in September 2015 and reported yesterday 663 new istry of Health announced earlier Oman News Agency (ONA). falling. kindergartens. in October last year Iran’s cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) the recovery of 752 people over Patients who have been iso- Public radio said about a Businesses not involving foreign ministry said the in the past 24 hours, bringing the the past 24 hours, bringing the lated in hospitals due to infec- million young children returned face-to-face contact with the process of sending a new total of confirmed cases in the total number of recoveries to tions in the past 24 hours to kindergartens and other public were allowed back to ambassador was hindered by country to 116,146, while seven 107,860. reached 48, bringing the total facilities yesterday. Talia Zinkin, work, and a contentious ban on “attacks on the embassy”. deaths have been recorded, The Omani Ministry of to 518, while patients in the 40, said she “hesitated a lot” individuals moving more than bringing the total number of Health announced that the total intensive care units reached before sending her two-year- one kilometre from their homes Top PLO official deaths in Kuwait to 701 so far. of reported cases of COVID-19 203, the statement added. old son to daycare. was lifted. That rule had The ministry’s spokesman in the Sultanate reached Meanwhile, Israel started “But I felt he would enjoy sparked anger among some Erekat’s health Dr. Abdullah Al Sanad said that 109,953. “cautiously” emerging from a being with other children,” she Israelis who claimed it was the patients in intensive care The total of deaths due to second coronavirus lockdown said. “We have to try to live nor- designed to stem a wave of pro- worsens after units have reached 138, bringing COVID-19 reached 1,101, while yesterday after a month of tight mally.” Zinkin, playing with her tests against Prime Minister contracting virus the total of confirmed cases that the recoveries reached 95,624, restrictions, re-opening younger child in a Jerusalem Benjamin Netanyahu. AFP — RAMALLAH

Long-time chief Palestinian Top cleric urges Lebanese negotiator Saeb Erekat, diag- nosed with coronavirus, was parties to agree on govt being hospitalised in Israel yesterday after his condition REUTERS — BEIRUT deep economic crisis, further worsened, the Palestine Liber- complicating efforts to agree a ation Organization (PLO) and Lebanon’s top Christian cleric new premier. his brother said. urged leaders to stop delaying “The responsibility and The PLO said in a talks on forming a government accountability is collective. statement that “following his in a scathing sermon in which Who among you officials has contraction of Covid-19, and he blamed them for the coun- the leisure of time to delay con- due to the chronic health try’s financial crisis and sultations to form a gov- problems he faces in the respi- political deadlock. ernment?” he said. ratory system, Dr Erekat’s con- Patriarch Bechara Boutros “No one is innocent of Leb- dition now requires medical Al Rai, leader of the Maronite anon’s (financial) bleeding.” attention in a hospital.” church, was speaking a day In another sermon, Greek “His situation is not good,” after demonstrators marched Orthodox Archbishop Elias Saber Erekat said, adding that through Beirut to mark the first Audi also lambasted the his brother was being taken anniversary of a protest political elite. to the Rabin Medical Centre movement which erupted last “The number of ministries in the Israeli city of Petah October against corruption and and the names of ministers and Tikva, outside Tel Aviv. mismanagement. quotas is still more important Erekat underwent lung- In the year since, Leba- (to politicians) than the fate of transplant surgery in the non’s problems have been Lebanon and the Lebanese,” he United States in 2017. compounded by the corona- said. The 65-year-old has been virus pandemic and a devas- “Return to your conscience, Yemen starts school year a key figure in Palestinian pol- tating explosion in Beirut in leaders... be humble and listen itics for decades, often serving Students chanting the national anthem during the morning drills at the beginning of the school year August. to the pain of your people.” as a main interlocutor for amid the spread of the coronavirus disease in Sana’a, Yemen, yesterday. “Take your hands off the Hariri, who quit as prime foreign envoys and the inter- government and liberate it. You minister last October in the face national media. are responsible for the crime of the nationwide protests, has He has consistently voiced of plunging the country into said he is ready to lead a gov- support for a two-state total paralysis in addition to the ernment to implement reforms Probe ordered after 8 executed in northern Iraq solution to the Israeli-Pales- implications of the corona pan- proposed by France as a way tinian conflict. demic,” the patriarch said in his to unlock badly needed inter- QNA — BAGHDAD reasons, in the village of armed party had kidnapped 12 The Jerusalem-born sermon. national aid. Farhatiya in Balad district in young people from the village Erekat serves as the PLO’s sec- His remarks came after two Parliamentary consulta- Eight young men were shot northern Iraq. and took them to an unknown retary-general and remains a main Christian parties, the Free tions to name a new prime dead, and four others were The source added that four destination. stalwart presence in the inner Patriotic Movement (FPM) and minister were due to be held missing in Salah Al Din Gover- other young men are still He explained that after only circle of Palestinian president Lebanese Forces, said this week last Thursday, but President norate, northern Iraq. missing. The Governor of Salah one hour, eight of them were Mahmoud Abbas. There have they would not back the nom- Michel Aoun postponed the dis- An Iraqi security source said Al Din, Ammar Jaber Khalil found to have been shot dead, been 42,490 confirmed cases ination of former prime min- cussions after receiving that unidentified persons exe- called for an immediate inves- most of them in the head and of the novel coronavirus in the ister Saad Al Hariri to lead a requests for a delay from some cuted the eight men by firing tigation into Farhatiya crime, chest, and they do not yet know occupied West Bank, including new government to tackle the parliamentary blocs. squad, without knowing the saying that an unidentified the fate of the other four. 381 deaths. MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 AFRICA 11 Sudan offers support to ICC over Darfur war crimes cases AFP — KHARTOUM top commander of the gov- ernment-backed Janjaweed Sudan Prime Minster Abdalla Our commitment to forces accused of carrying out Hamdok yesterday promised achieving justice is not some of the worst atrocities in cooperation with International only an international one, Darfur, surrendered to the ICC Criminal Court prosecutor but a direct response to in June this year, and is now in Fatou Bensouda as she gathered deliver on the slogans of custody. information on war crimes in He faces trial on 53 counts Darfur. the December revolution. of war crimes and crimes “This historic visit is a tes- against humanity. timony to the total reform of the Abdalla Hamdok Bensouda, who also met new Sudan,” said Hamdok, who Sudan Prime Minister Justice Minister Nasredeen succeeded toppled autocrat Abdulbari, arrived Saturday and Omar Al Bashir. is in the country until Bashir is in jail in Khartoum, Wednesday. but is wanted by the ICC to face Sudan Prime Minster Abdalla Two other suspects, Ahmed charges of genocide and crimes slogans of the December revo- Hamdok Haroun, the ex-governor of against humanity. lution,” Hamdok added in a South Kordofan state, and The former president, who statement. month that he had spoken with Abdelrahim Mohamed Hussein, oversaw the civil war in Sudan’s No reference was made to the ICC about the option of a former defence minister, also western Darfur region in which Bashir himself, who has already trying Bashir in Sudan, poten- face ICC charges of war crimes 300,000 people died and 2.5 been convicted at home on cor- tially in a “hybrid court”. and crimes against humanity. million were forced from their ruption charges and is on trial State news agency SUNA Both are in custody in homes, was overthrown fol- in Khartoum for the 1989 coup said Bensouda’s visit focused on Sudan. A fifth man wanted by Sudan Minister of Justice Nasruddin Abdel Bari (left) with International lowing mass protests that began that brought him to power. He two items — discussing coop- the ICC, rebel leader Abdallah Criminal Court prosecutor Fatou Bensouda, in Khartoum yesterday. in December 2018. potentially faces the death eration between the ICC and Banda, remains at large. “Our commitment to penalty if found guilty on that Sudan’s judiciary, and “gath- Sudan’s transitional gov- achieving justice is not only an charge. ering information” related to ernment, which has promised leaders, has previously said that ICC, but the trial venue is a international one, but a direct However, Hamdok told the the case of Ali Kushayb. democratic reforms and is led war crime suspects including Al matter for negotiations with The response to deliver on the Financial Times earlier this Militia leader Kushayb, a by a mix of civilian and military Bashir would be tried before the Hague-based court.

Morocco reopens Guinea votes in elections as President seeks third term some mosques REUTERS — CONAKRY Conde, who has described The United Nations has the constitutional reform as fair warned about divisive appeals even as cases rise Voters in Guinea went to the and democratic, says he needs to ethnic affiliations on the polls yesterday as octogenarian more time to finish major campaign trail. Conde and AP — RABAT President Alpha Conde sought mining and infrastructure Diallo both draw much of their to extend his decade in power projects in the West African support from their respective Moroccans across the country after pushing through a new country. ethnic communities. performed their first weekly constitution that allowed him “We have laid the founda- Guinea has been plagued by prayers in more than seven to run for a third term, sparking tions of development,” he told sporadic political unrest since months as authorities eased months of violent protests. supporters at his final campaign independence from France in some restrictions aimed at At least 50 people have been rally on Friday at a soccer 1958, often fuelled by ethnic containing the virus pandemic. killed over the past year during stadium in Conakry. “Likewise, tensions. Morocco announced the demonstrations against the new we are going to commit our- Armed men attacked a mil- suspension of prayers in constitution, Amnesty Interna- selves to the social conditions itary base in western Guinea mosques back in March to tional said, and violence of Guineans.” late on Thursday and killed the limit the spread of the corona- erupted repeatedly during cam- Guinea has made progress camp’s commander, but it was virus, including the five daily paigning in recent weeks. developing its mineral riches, not clear if the assault was con- prayers and the important In the capital, Conakry, including bauxite and iron ore, nected to the election. Friday prayers. dozens of voters queued quietly and gross domestic product has Pro-democracy activists are The restrictions were lifted at a polling station in a primary doubled under Conde’s presi- concerned that the election —and for 10,000 mosques across the school whose exterior wall was dency. But many Guineans a presidential vote due later this country Friday, but another plastered with posters of Conde. complain the mining boom has month in neighboring Ivory Coast 40,000 remain closed because “I hope that things will not ended frequent power cuts — may damage democracy in a of growing new infections. happen in peace,” said Mariama Guinea President Alpha Conde casts his ballot during the presidential and unemployment. region that had previously won Scores of worshipers Camara, a housewife. elections in Conakry, yesterday. The national election com- praise for its leaders’ adherence attended the Friday prayers in “I voted for change,” said mission said on Saturday pro- to term limits. the Hay Riyadh mosque in the Mamadou Diallo, a trader. constitution in a referendum in Diallo, a former prime minister visional results would be pub- Ivorian President Alassane capital Rabat amid strict pre- While no reliable opinion March - although that vote was who finished runner-up to lished within three days after it Ouattara, who first won power cautionary measures. polls are available, many boycotted by the opposition. Conde in elections in 2010 and receives the last polling station in 2010, is also seeking re- The prayer hall was disin- political analysts expect Conde Conde, 82, faces 11 chal- 2015, has warned about fraud tally. The constitutional court election, having argued that a fected. Worshipers had their to prevail after he won over- lengers, including his long-time and said he will challenge any will then have eight days to new constitution in 2016 reset temperature checked before whelming approval for the new rival Cellou Dalein Diallo. irregularities. declare a winner. the clock on the two-term limit. entering the mosque and were asked to bring personal prayer mats and wear masks. Boko Haram kill Entry and exit areas were 14 Nigerian troops killed in base attack: Sources indicated by signs on the 3, abduct children ground. Washrooms remained AFP — KANO fight, including the com- known crossing route for included Jakana. closed as a preventive in Cameroon manding officer and another ISWAP fighters moving It was not clear if the raid measure. Worshippers were Militants linked to the Islamic officer,” one source said. between their camps in the was in response to the military required to carry out their pre- AFP — DOUALA State group killed 14 Nigerian Several other soldiers were Benisheikh forest area of Borno offensive. prayer wash at home instead. soldiers in an attack on an army missing and presumed to have and their hideouts in the Buni On Friday ISWAP claimed The Ministry of Islamic Boko Haram fighters killed base near northeast Nigeria’s either escaped or been captured Yadi area of Yobe. to have killed 30 troops when Affairs rolled out detailed pre- three villagers and abducted main city, military sources said. by the militants, said the second The village and the base its fighters repelled an attack cautions for worshipers, five children in the far north Two sources told AFP on source who gave the same toll. have repeatedly been raided by on their position in Doksa including limiting the duration of Cameroon, where Islamic condition of anonymity that The sources asked not to be the IS fighters who splintered village in Borno’s Damboa of sermons to 15 minutes and State militant groups are fighters from the Islamic State identified as they were not from the main Boko Haram district. closing mosques after prayers. increasingly active, local offi- West Africa Province (ISWAP) authorised to speak. group four years ago. AFP could not independ- Morocco has reported cials said late Saturday. group had attacked the base in The insurgents seized four On Monday the Nigerian ently verify the claim, although more than 170,000 virus The attack took place Jakana on Friday evening, firing trucks fitted with machine guns military began an extensive a military source in the region infections since the outbreak overnight Thursday to Friday machine guns and rocket-pro- in the raid, the sources said. military operation against confirmed there were clashes of pandemic and 2,878 related in the village of Oudal, six kil- pelled grenades. Jakana, 25km from regional ISWAP in an area between between troops and jihadists in deaths, according to a tally by ometres (four miles) from the “We lost 14 soldiers in the capital Maiduguri, lies on a Borno and Yobe which the area. Johns Hopkins University. country’s border with Nigeria, where the IS group is based, local mayor Boukar Medjeweh said. Two dead in Ivory Coast The victims were all men and the abducted children were between the ages of pre-election violence three and 15, Medjeweh also said. AFP — BONGOUANOU, CÔTE Affi N’Guessan, a former Mahamat Chetima Abba, D’IVOIRE prime minister, said on Sat- traditional chief of the nearby urday that his house in Bong- Mozogo commune, con- At least two people were killed ouanou was burned down. firmed the attack and also in election-related violence in About 15 people were killed attributed it to Boko Haram. Ivory Coast, witnesses said in inter-communal violence in Attacks in this border yesterday, two weeks before August and September in region by members of Boko presidential polls are due to be several cities across the country Haram and a dissident held in the West African nation. after President Alassane branch, the Islamic State in The clashes broke out Ouattara announced his West Africa Province Friday in and around the city of intention to run for a third term. (ISWAP), have become Bongouanou, a stronghold of Many observers fear a crisis increasingly frequent in opposition candidate Pascal Affi may be sparked comparable to recent months, as they have N’Guessan 200km north of the post-election violence in along Nigeria’s borders with economic hub Abidjan, the wit- 2010-11 when 3,000 people Chad and Niger. nesses said. died and Ivory Coast was Civilians, particularly A trader from the Agni plunged into chaos. women and children, are fre- ethnic group considered pro- Friday’s clashes erupted quently abducted. opposition was shot and hacked when young backers of Affi The Boko Haram insur- to death, a family member said. N’Guessan set up roadblocks on Burnt cars are seen in Bongouanou yesterday, after two days of inter-community violence ahead of gency originated in 2009 in At least one person from a two major arteries of Bong- the country’s October 31, 2020 presidential election. northeastern Nigeria before group considered pro-gov- ouanou in response to an oppo- spreading to neighbouring ernment was also killed in the sition call not to take part in Ouattara officially launched The ethnic Agnis and candidates were barred from countries. area, according to several wit- electoral events and cam- his campaign on Friday, Dioulas, from the north of Ivory running in the election, Since then, more than nesses and a hospital source. paigning in a step towards a addressing thousands in a rally Coast, blamed each other for the including former president 36,000 people have been An AFP journalist reported potential boycott. in Bouake. Affi N’Guessan violence, which occurred Laurent Gbagbo and ex-rebel killed, mostly in Nigeria, and that in Bongouanou itself many Several high-profile figures, alleged on Saturday that despite a sizeable deployment chief Guillaume Soro, both of 3 million have been forced to shops and restaurants were including Affi N’Guessan, have assailants were “transported of police and paramilitary whom played key roles in the flee their homes, according looted and set on fire, and also called for “civil disobe- from Abidjan” to target him and police. crisis that engulfed the country to the UN. several cars were torched. dience” in recent weeks. other opposition figures. Dozens of would-be after disputed elections in 2010. 12 ASIA MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 New Zealand Premier vows to deliver reform AFP — WELLINGTON After facing criticism increased state housing, more renewable energy and other New Zealand Prime Minister since winning office in infrastructure investment. Jacinda Ardern vowed 2017 for not delivering She also spoke of more yesterday to “crack on” with training programmes, job cre- delivering her vision following on key promises ation, protecting the envi- a landslide election victory, such as protecting ronment and a determination after a string of disasters frus- the environment to tackle issues such as climate trated reform in her first term. change, poverty and Ardern won a historic out- and reducing child inequality. right majority in Saturday’s poll poverty, Ardern Opposition leader Judith — the first since New Zealand Collins conceded voters had adopted proportional voting in said she now had a given Ardern free rein to 1996 — allowing her to mandate for change. implement change, but said that implement policies without also meant the prime minister support from minor parties. could no longer claim her policy After facing criticism since want to crack on with,” Ardern failures were caused by reform- winning office in 2017 for not said. shy coalition partners. delivering on key promises such The 40-year-old, who has “The government has got New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks to the media a day after her landslide election as protecting the environment been hailed internationally as the mandate to do all the things win, in Auckland, yesterday. and reducing child poverty, a standard-bearer for pro- that they’ve promised to do, so Ardern said she now had a gressive politics, admitted the they can’t blame anyone else for which Collins said boosted Ard- Asked if she had enjoyed a percent of the vote was its best mandate for change. need to placate minor-party not delivering,” Collins told ern’s standing in an electorate lie-in after an exhausting cam- election performance since The charismatic leader said coalition partners “slowed reporters. anxious about the pandemic. paign, Ardern replied: “No, I was 1946, while National’s 26.8 was the scale of the victory, Labour’s down” reform in her first term. Campaigning during the However, Ardern received a dealing with COVID.” the second-worst since the biggest since 1946, meant more She also dealt with New vote centred on the govern- pointed reminder that the threat She said the case appeared party was founded in 1936. voters were backing her centre- Zealand’s worst terrorist attack, ment’s successful coronavirus remained potent when health to be contained and would not Collins said she would left party and its reformist agenda. a deadly volcanic eruption and response, with Ardern dubbing authorities yesterday announced prompt a change to New Zea- remain as National leader but “I think they were endorsing the country’s deepest recession it the “Covid election”. a new case of community trans- land’s virus alert level, currently commission an independent the work we’ve done and the in 30 years. New Zealand has recorded mission in Auckland, two weeks on its most relaxed setting, review into how the party’s vote plan we have to go forward, and In her victory speech late on only 25 coronavirus deaths in a after she had announced: “We Level One. slumped almost 18 points from there are some areas we do Saturday, Ardern flagged population of five million, beat the virus again.” Her Labour Party’s 49.1 the last election in 2017.

37,000 families affected by floods Thai democracy protesters defy ban for fourth day AFP — BANGKOK to power in a 2014 coup. But police kept a low-key the kingdom’s conservative mil- tips from Hong Kong’s pro- in southern India Police also used water presence yesterday as local itary-aligned government. democracy protests. Tens of thousands of protesters cannon on demonstrators in media said more than 20,000 “There are groups of people Another protest site in Asok, IANS — HYDERABAD defied a ban on gatherings of Bangkok’s central shopping dis- people descended on the claiming the monarchy for their a popular shopping and res- more than four people to mass trict on Friday in an escalation landmark from late afternoon own benefit and to get rid of their taurant district, drew a smaller Torrential rains and flash at a major Bangkok landmark of tactics that sparked outrage shouting “Free our friends” while political opponents,” said a group of protesters. floods in Hyderabad have yesterday, carrying posters across Thai society. carrying posters of those arrested. 24-year-old graduate who asked Gatherings were planned affected over 37,000 families, portraying activists detained in But the crackdown has Those portrayed included not to be identified. “We will not across the country — from a top civic official said four straight days of strident served only to embolden the human rights lawyer Anon get true democracy if there’s no Phuket in the south to Khon yesterday. anti-government rallies. movement’s mostly young sup- Numpa, Parit “Penguin” Chi- monarchy reform,” he said. Khaen in the northeast, where The heavy rains and floods The youth-led movement has porters, who have turned up in warak, and Panusaya “Rung” Victory Monument, one of students held up a portrait of on October 13-14 and again on suffered several blows this week, large numbers to rallying points Sithijirawattanakul — three of Bangkok’s busiest thorough- Prayut with the words “Get out” October 17 inundated many with scores arrested after dem- announced at short notice in a the most recognisable faces in fares, was blocked off by pro- scrawled on it. areas, affecting 37,400 onstrators surrounded a royal bid to outwit authorities. the movement and who have testers, but they made way for The group Thai Lawyers for families. motorcade and flashed “I cannot let the students consistently called for reforms emergency vehicles and sent Human Rights reported that at Greater Hyderabad “democracy salutes” at Queen fight alone,” said 24-year-old to the monarchy. supplies down human chains least 80 people have been Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Suthida. Phat, a first-time rallygoer at Among their demands is the formed along streets leading to arrested since Tuesday So far, Commissioner Lokesh Kumar The government reacted Bangkok’s Victory Monument. abolition of a draconian royal the roundabout. charges against the protesters said due to heavy rains on with emergency measures — National Police spokesman defamation law — which shields Since the movement started have ranged from breaking October 13, various localities including banning gatherings Yingyos Thepjumnong warned King Maha Vajiralongkorn from in July, the social media-savvy emergency measures to sedition. were inundated and about of more than four people in protesters earlier yesterday that criticism — and a call for the protesters have harnessed On Friday, however, two 35,309 families were affected. Bangkok — and the arrest of no rallies “causing unrest and monarch to stay out of the unorthodox ways of spreading activists were charged under a Another 2,100 families protest leaders who have called disorder” would be allowed. country’s turbulent politics. their messages, sending alerts rarely used law banning “vio- were evacuated to safer places for the removal of Prime Min- “If they defy it, police will Once-taboo in Thailand, the through newly formed groups lence against the queen” — car- on October 17. ister Prayut Chan-O-Cha, a do whatever is necessary to demands for royal reform is one on Telegram — a secure mes- rying a maximum sentence of He said that the GHMC former military chief brought enforce the law,” he said. of the biggest challenges facing saging app — and borrowing life in prison if convicted. intensified relief operations and were taking steps to bring back normalcy in inundated areas. Zonal Commissioners, Singapore face scan plan Additional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners are in sparks privacy fears the field and monitoring the relief operations and distri- bution of the Chief Minister’s AFP — SINGAPORE such as national identity cards, relief kits to the affected passports and employment people. Singapore will become the passes. Since the weather office world’s first country to use Safeguards ensure the has forecast more rains in the facial verification in its national process is secure, said Lee Sea next couple of days, the GHMC, ID scheme, but privacy advo- Lin of digital consultancy as a precautionary measure, cates are alarmed by what they Toppan Ecquaria, which is is evacuating residents of low- say is an intrusive system working with GovTech to lying areas. vulnerable to abuse. implement the technology. The official said the CM’s From next year, millions of “We want to have relief ration kits, along with people living in the city-state assurance that the person three blankets, totally worth will be able to access gov- behind the device is a real Rs2,800, are being distributed ernment agencies, banking person... and that it is not an to the affected families. services and other amenities image or a video,” Lee said. Till now 20,000 ration with a quick face scan. The technology is being inte- kits and blankets were dis- This biometric check will do grated into the country’s digital tributed, and remaining kits away with the need to identity scheme and is being tri- and blankets will be dis- remember a password or alled now at some government tributed soon. Similarly milk, security dongle when per- offices, including the tax authority bread, and biscuits are also forming many everyday tasks, and the city’s pension fund. being distributed among the its creators say. Private firms can sign up to affected. It is part of the financial the initiative, and Singapore’s The authorities also dis- Sanitising Taj Mahal premises hub’s drive to harness tech- biggest bank DBS is part of the tributed 90,000 meals during nology, from ramping up the trial. lunch time and 60,000 meals Workers sanitise the premises of Taj Mahal as a preventative measure against the coronavirus use of electronic payments to Face scanning technology for dinner. pandemic in Agra, India, yesterday. research on driverless remains controversial despite its transport. growing use and critics have “We want to be innovative raised ethical concerns about it in applying technology for the in some countries — for instance, Melbourne eases curbs as virus cases fall benefit of our citizens and busi- law enforcement agencies nesses,” Kwok Quek Sin, who scanning crowds at large events AFP — MELBOURNE essentials, socialising and work the past several days, after They urged Andrews to works on digital identification to look for troublemakers. in essential professions. running at up to several speed up the reopening of busi- at Singapore’s technology Singapore authorities are Lockdown restrictions in But Daniel Andrews, the hundred in August. nesses, particularly in the res- agency GovTech, said. frequently accused of targeting Australia’s second-biggest city premier of Victoria state which The outbreak in Victoria taurant and hospitality sector, Facial verification has government critics and taking a were eased slightly yesterday encompasses Melbourne, came after other parts of Aus- which they said was losing 1,000 already been adopted in hard line on dissent, and activists following a steady decline in new rejected growing calls for an end tralia had successfully contained jobs every day of the lockdown. various forms around the are concerned about how the coronavirus cases, but officials to all limits on people being able the epidemic and begun to But Andrews insisted social world, with Apple and Google face scanning tech will be used. stopped short of ending a contro- to leave their homes and for a reopen their economies, notably distancing measures needed to implementing the technology “There are no clear and versial “stay-at-home” rule. broader reopening of restaurants in neighbouring New South continue to prevent another for tasks like unlocking phones explicit restraints on government More than 100 days after the and other retail businesses. Wales, which includes Sydney. outbreak. and making payments. power when it comes to things lockdown was imposed on Mel- He said the stay-at-home Conservative politicians in “I have announced today Governments have also like surveillance and data gath- bourne’s five million residents rule could be lifted and other other states, and the federal gov- what is safe, but will not deployed it at airports for ering,” said Kirsten Han, a free- to fight an out-of-control surge business restrictions eased on ernment, have been increasingly undermine the sacrifice, the security checks on travellers. lance journalist from the city. of COVID-19 cases, authorities November 1 if community critical of Andrews’ centre-left hard work, the pain, the But Singapore’s rollout is “Will we one day discover said that as of midnight they transmission of the virus government for maintaining the amazing efforts that Victorians one of the most ambitious yet, that this data is in the hands of were lifting a two-hour limit on remains under control. strict lockdown in Victoria, have put in,” he said. and the first to attach facial ver- the police or in the hands of the time people could spend “I’m not doing what is saying it was undermining Successes in Australia stand ification to a national identifi- some other agency that we outside their homes for per- popular, I am doing what is safe, national recovery efforts. in stark contrast to the situation cation database. didn’t specifically give consent mitted activities. because we don’t want to be back “Every day Victoria remains in Europe, where authorities The technology captures a for?” Those behind the Sin- They also extended from here again” if there is a new wave under restrictions... comes at a from Spain to Britain have this series of photos of a person’s gapore scheme stress facial five to 25km the distance people of infections, Andrews said. heavy cost,” Prime Minister week moved to implement face in various lights. verification is different to rec- could travel from their homes The number of new daily Scott Morrison said in a joint tough new lockdown measures These images are matched ognition as it requires user for several activities, including coronavirus cases in Victoria statement Sunday with his in the face of a continent-wide with other data already consent, but privacy advocates exercise, shopping for has fallen to low single digits for treasurer and health minister. surge in infections. available to the government remain sceptical. MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 ASIA 13 Preventing next war as vital as ending this one: Afghans

AP — KABUL “We must understand that there has been “We must understand that Afghanistan, often seen at Even if an intra-Afghan deal there has been suffering on all meetings with Karzai’s suc- is reached, many Afghans fear At a Kabul museum honoring suffering on all sides, all Afghans have suffered sides, all Afghans have suffered cessor, President Ashraf Ghani. that the country’s many fac- Afghanistan’s war victims, at different times,” Hamid Karzai, the first at different times,” Hamid Mujahedeen warlords like tions, including the Taliban, will talking to visitors reveals just democratically elected president after the Karzai, the first democratically Sayyaf have remained powerful fight for power if US and Nato how many layers and genera- elected president after the Tal- since the 2001 US-led invasion troops leave. tions of pain and grief have Taliban’s collapse, said in an interview in Kabul. iban’s collapse, said in an and head heavily armed fac- Under Washington’s deal piled up during four decades of interview in Kabul. tions. They include men like with the Taliban, US troops are unrelenting conflict. “Everyone has done (their) Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, who was to withdraw by April, 2021, pro- Fakhria Hayat recalled an Reyhana Hashimi told of and American forces’ eventual part, unfortunately, in bringing on the US terrorist list until he viding that the Taliban honour attack that changed her family how her 15-year-old sister, withdrawal. The Americans suffering to our people and to signed a 2017 peace pact with their promise to fight terrorist forever. It was 1995, and the Atifa, was killed by Afghan championed the deal as Afghan- our country,” said Karzai, who Ghani’s government, and Uzbek groups, most notably the Afghan capital was under siege, security forces. It was 2018. istan’s best chance at a lasting left office in 2014 after serving warlord Marshal Rashid Islamic State affiliate. Trump pounded by rockets fired by Atifa had left home to take her peace. two terms. “No one can (point) Dostum, who has been impli- recently surprised his military rival mujahedeen groups. Her exams, only to get entangled in Afghans are not so sure. a finger toward someone to say cated in a litany of human rights by upping the withdrawal date world exploded: A rocket a demonstration protesting the They say preventing the next you’ve done it.” But individual crimes. to the end of the year. slammed into her yard, killing arrest of a Hazara leader. war is as vital as ending the Afghans can. They know who In the immediate aftermath “Unfortunately, each time her brother and leaving her Afghan forces opened fire on current one. caused tragedies to their of the Taliban’s 2001 defeat, we’ve had a change, someone sister forever in a wheelchair. protesters. Afghanistan has been at war families. revenge attacks multiplied, and has tried to take power. It Danish Habibi was just a “They shot my sister right in for more than 40 years. First Hayat, one of those visiting ethnic Pashtuns, who made up doesn’t work. It hasn’t worked," child in 2000 when the Taliban the heart,” Hashimi said. “No was the Soviet invasion in 1979 the Kabul Center for Memory the backbone of the Taliban, said Karzai. “So let’s learn our overran his village in Afghani- one from the government even and nine years of fighting. The and Dialogue on a recent day, were initially harassed and per- lessons and move forward.” stan’s serene Bamiyan Valley. came to apologize. They tried Soviet withdrawal opened a said the rockets that killed her secuted when they went back “The day after peace, we must His memories of those days are to say she was a protester. She bitter civil war in which mujah- younger brother and maimed to their villages. recognize that all Afghans reoccurring nightmares. Men wasn’t. She just wanted to write edeen factions tore the country her sister 25 years ago were As a result, many eventually belong to this country... that this were forcibly separated from her exams.” Today, those accu- apart battling for power and fired by the men of warlord returned to the mountains or Afghanistan belongs to each wives and children. Dozens mulated, unresolved grievances killing more than 50,000 Abdul Rasul Sayyaf. fled to safe havens in neigh- individual of this country, and were killed. Habibi’s father dis- cast a long shadow on the intra- people until the Taliban took Sayyaf was notorious for his bouring Pakistan. That allowed that we must live as citizens of appeared only to return a Afghan negotiations underway over in 1996. The militants’ ties to al-Qaida in the 1990s and the Taliban to regroup. Today, this country,” said Karzai. beaten, broken man, never able in the Gulf nation of Qatar. repressive rule lasted until the was the inspiration for the Phil- the insurgent group is at its “Only then can we live in a to work again. Habibi wonders Washington signed a deal US-led invasion in 2001. Ever ippine terrorist group, Abu strongest since 2001, controlling country that looks toward a how he will be able to accept with the Taliban in February to since, the country has been Sayyaf. He is also a powerful or holding sway over nearly half better future.” So far, there’s peace with the Taliban. pave the way for the Doha talks bloodied by insurgency. politician in post-Taliban of the country. little sign of that happening. 12 dead, over 100 wounded by car bomb targeting Afghan police HQ

AFP — HERAT month, but violence has con- “All contents of the US- tinued unabated on the Islamic Emirate agreement A car bomb yesterday ground. are unambiguous, but the targeting an Afghan police Thousands of families opposite side has violated its headquarters in the western were forced to flee from their commitments on numerous province of Ghor killed at least homes in the restive southern occasions, are engaging in 12 civilians and wounded province of Helmand this provocative actions and more than 100, officials said. month as fierce fighting bombing non-combat zones,” The attack took place in erupted between the Taliban the Taliban said in a Feroz Koh, the capital of Ghor, and government forces. statement on Sunday. a province that has not seen Sporadic fighting con- The US military dismissed much violence compared to tinued yesterday as gov- the Taliban’s accusation. some other regions of the con- ernment forces pushed with a “US airstrikes in Helmand flict-wracked country. counter-offensive to retake and Farah have been and con- “The terrorists detonated some of the lost ground in and tinue to be solely in defence an explosives-filled car... as a around the provincial capital of the ANDSF as they are being result 12 civilians were killed of Lashkar Gah, officials said. attacked by the Taliban,” US Firefighters try to extinguish a blaze in a four-storey commercial building that houses mobile, laptop and more than 100 people Earlier this week, top US military spokesman Colonel and electronics shops, in Lahore yesterday. were wounded,” the interior top negotiator Zalmay Kha- Sonny Leggett said on Twitter ministry said. lilzad said the Taliban had referring to Afghan gov- Juma Gul Yakoobi, a Ghor assured US forces of reducing ernment forces. health official, said victims attacks and casualties. Under the February deal, Massive fire hits Lahore electronics plaza also included members of “At present too many the Taliban said they would security forces. Afghans are dying. With the not attack cities while the US INTERNEWS — LAHORE and spread to the fourth floor. The Gulberg Main Boulevard The presidency blamed the re-set, we expect that number said it would refrain from The fire brigade was called Road has been closed for traffic Taliban for the attack. to drop significantly,” Kha- assaults on the insurgents A massive fire erupted inside soon after the fire broke out due to relief activities being “Continuation of violence lilzad, who negotiated a Feb- except to defend the Afghan Hafeez Centre located in around 6am in the morning. So far, carried out in the area. and attacks by the Taliban will ruary 29 deal with the Taliban forces. Lahore’s Gulberg main boul- no loss of life has been reported Twelve fire brigades and 60 seriously challenge the peace to pull out US forces, wrote on Afghan officials accused evard area yesterday morning but it is being said that electronic rescue officials are carrying our efforts by government of Twitter. the Taliban of breaching the due to an electrical short circuit. items worth millions have been relief activities in the area. Reports Afghanistan and its interna- The Taliban, however, agreement with an assault on As per rescue officials, the destroyed by the flames. from the ground state that eight tional partners,” it said. charged American forces with Lashkar Gah. fire broke out in a shop on the The fire has engulfed 30-40 fire brigades have run out of Peace talks between the violating that deal by carrying The attack prompted the second floor of the plaza, where shops in total and has spread to water. Authorities have called for Taliban and Afghan gov- out air strikes in Helmand US to call in air strikes to laptops, mobile phones and the shopping centre’s backside more fire brigades at the spot due ernment began in Qatar last against their fighters. defend Afghan forces. other electronic items are sold as well, the rescue official said. to the intensity of the fire. Soldier dies in Baluchistan China approves new law to handle epidemics AFP — BEIJING It takes effect from April 15 But China has been trying law, urging for reforms of authorities should announce attack on next year. “Any work unit or to reshape this narrative, with mechanisms to prevent major warnings and adopt prevention China has passed a new law to individual has the right to report authorities seeking instead to outbreaks. measures. security patrol improve its handling of disease acts that endanger biosecurity,” model the country as a van- Under the new law, those Although Beijing established outbreaks — including the regulation said. guard in the pandemic fight. who conceal information, omit an information system after the AP — QUETTA protecting whistle-blowers — “When a report is required Although doctor Li Wen- making reports or prevent 2002-2003 SARS outbreak that following a cascade of criticism according to the law, no work liang who alerted colleagues to others from reporting infectious allowed for real-time reports Militants killed a Pakistani over its coronavirus response unit or individual shall conceal the new coronavirus in late diseases could be given of outbreaks, provincial author- paramilitary soldier and and accusations of an early (it)... or hinder others from December was at first repri- warnings or suspended. ities came under fire during the wounded three others in an cover-up. making a report,” it added on manded, a national outpouring The new law also calls for coronavirus outbreak for per- ambush on a security patrol The new biosecurity law, infectious diseases and of grief and anger over his death systems including to regularly ceived incompetence, including in southwestern Baluchistan approved by lawmakers on epidemics. prompted Beijing to redirect monitor biosafety risks, and to delays in announcing the public province, the country’s Saturday, flags the right to China’s approval of the law criticism to local officials and trace the origins of incidents. health emergency. military said yesterday. report “acts that endanger comes in the face of Western crit- subsequently paint him as a Disease prevention agencies The new biosecurity law The Frontier Corps patrol biosecurity” and calls for risk icism on the coronavirus, over hero. are also to help predict the also takes aim at the man- came under gunfire in the dis- prevention systems, ranging accusations that it covered up the President Xi Jinping in Feb- occurrence and prevalence of agement of research facilities, trict of Turbat on Saturday from active monitoring to initial outbreak and silenced ruary raised the need to speed emerging diseases. flagging the need for emergency afternoon, triggering a emergency plans. early whistle-blowers. up establishing the biosecurity Based on these predictions, plans for biosafety incidents. shootout between the attackers and paramilitary troops. The attack came two days 11 soldiers dead, 11 missing after militants had ambushed a convoy of state-owned oil in Vietnam landslide and gas company workers, escorted by paramilitary AFP — HANOI “From 2am, there have troops, on a coastal highway been four to five landslides, near the town of Ormara. Eleven soldiers are dead and a exploding like bombs and it Seven employees, who frantic search is under way for feels like the whole mountain were working as security, for 11 others after a huge landslide is about to collapse,” said local Pakistan’s Oil and Gas Devel- hit central Vietnam yesterday, official Ha Ngoc Duong, opment Company were killed, as the country battles its worst according to the VnExpress along with eight members of flooding in years. news site. Pakistan’s Frontier Corps, Heavy rain has pounded the Lieutenant General Phan which was providing security region for more than a week Van Giang, the army’s chief of for the convoy. and at least 64 people have general staff, warned there No group has yet claimed been killed in floods and land- could be further landslides in responsibility for Saturday’s slides, according to Vietnam’s the area and said rescuers ambush on the Frontier Corps. disaster management needed to find a safer way to Similar attacks in the past, authority, with concerns access the site. including Thursday’s, have mounting that waters could rise Eleven bodies have been been carried out by Baluch further. recovered so far, the gov- separatist groups. Rocks rained down on the ernment said. Baluchistan is the scene of barracks of a military station It comes just days after 13 a long-running insurgency by Post-pandemic music celebration in China in Quang Tri province, with 22 members of a rescue team Baluch secessionist groups like People wearing face masks listen to a band playing during the Rye Music Festival in Beijing, China, soldiers believed to have been were found dead after a failed Baluchistan Liberation Front yesterday. buried underneath thick mud, attempt to save workers from and the Baluchistan Liberation an official government website a hydropower plant engulfed Army. said. by a landslide. 14 EUROPE MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 Tens of thousands march in Belarus; over 100 detained

AFP — MINSK free, when members of law enforcement begin to defend Belarusian police yesterday Tikhanovskaya, who the people, and rule of law and detained more than 100 people was granted shelter in honest elections return to as tens of thousands marched EU member Lithuania Belarus,” she said. against strongman Alexander after the vote, has Belarusian authorities Lukashenko in defiance of deployed military trucks on police threats to open fire after called on Lukashenko Sunday and phone networks weeks of demonstrations. to quit power before were heavily disrupted. Crowds of demonstrators October 25, warning he Local operator MTS Belarus descended on a gritty industrial would otherwise face a said it had been ordered to limit neighbourhood in southeast crippling general access to “ensure national Minsk for a march along Par- security”. tisan Prospect, a key transport strike. Ahead of The Nexta Live channel on artery and home to a number yesterday’s protest, social-media platform Tel- of factories. she urged Belarusians egram, which has coordinated Some protesters chanted to press ahead with protesters, urged Belarusians to “Strike!” and “You and your riot their demands. express solidarity with workers police get out!” The ex-Soviet during the protest, dubbed the nation has been gripped by his- “March of Partisans”. People attend an opposition rally to reject the presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus, yesterday. toric protests after Lukashenko “We, descendants of glo- claimed victory in August 9 rious warriors and partisans, elections over Svetlana Pensioner Maria Petrovich are worthy of our forefathers Several people have died country”. to step up pressure over the Tikhanovskaya, a popular said demonstrations would con- who already defeated fascism and thousands have been He did not say who was crackdown on protesters. opposition candidate. tinue until Lukashenko quits. once,” the channel said in a arrested in a post-election behind the alleged plot but said A Norwegian MP said yes- Belarusian interior ministry “The level of violence per- message to its more than two crackdown, with harrowing the organisers and their terday he had nominated spokeswoman Olga Chemo- petrated by the authorities is million subscribers. accounts emerging of abuse in “foreign-based supervisors” Tikhanovskaya and two other danova said that more than 100 unprecedented,” she said. During World War II, Nazi- jails. Many said they had been planned to criticise law top members of the Belarus people had been detained in Tikhanovskaya, who was occupied Belarus had Europe’s tortured, beaten and humiliated enforcement for tackling the opposition for the 2021 Nobel Minsk. granted shelter in EU member largest partisan movement. in detention. provocations. Peace Prize for organising the Protesters took to the streets Lithuania after the vote, has The protest movement has Police have acknowledged Lukashenko, who has been peaceful protests. despite threats by police this called on Lukashenko to quit kept up a series of large-scale using water cannon and stun in power for 26 years, has Geir Toskedal, of the week to use lethal force from power before October 25, demonstrations for the past two grenades against demonstrators refused to step down and has Christian Democratic Party, told now on “if necessary”. warning he would otherwise months, with 100,000 people but the use of live ammunition secured backing from Russian the Vart Land daily he had Protester Anzhela Kras- face a crippling general strike. or more taking to the streets would mark a major escalation counterpart Vladimir Putin. nominated Tikhanovskaya, ovskaya said she was not afraid. Ahead of yesterday’s every Sunday. in the two-month standoff. The European Union has Maria Kolesnikova and “There’s no way back for protest, she urged Belarusians Tikhanovskaya, who main- Ahead of Sunday’s march refused to recognise the results Veronika Tsepkalo “for their us,” Krasovskaya said. “If they to press ahead with their tains she won the August polls, Ivan Tertel, head of the KGB of the disputed vote. Last week struggle for fair elections and start shooting then there would demands. says Lukashenko must release security service, said provoca- EU foreign ministers agreed to for inspiring peaceful oppo- be even more people in the “We will stop only when political prisoners and halt tions were being prepared to impose sanctions on sition against the illegitimate streets.” every political prisoner walks “state terror”. “destabilise the situation in our Lukashenko as the bloc seeks regime in Belarus”.

Protesters demand UK ‘needs’ to impose 3-week lockdown curbs immediately prosecution of REUTERS — LONDON restrictions will not bring the the test-trace-isolate systems fully was two to three weeks ago, but Sky News yesterday. Spain’s former king transmission rates down suffi- functional, and save lives,” he said. it wasn’t too late now. Gove did concede that there Britain needs to impose a three- ciently or prevent the continued Farrar, who is director of the Senior minister Michael Gove, were problems with the level of REUTERS — SEVILLE week period of national lockdown spread of the virus,” he said. Wellcome Trust and a member of however, said a two or three- compliance with the rules already restrictions immediately to stop “A three-week period of the government’s Scientific week national lockdown — in place for those who tested pos- Waving red, purple and yellow cases of COVID-19 spiralling, nationally increased restrictions, Advisory Group for Emergencies, named a “circuit breaker” by itive for COVID-19. republican flags, demonstrators government scientific adviser with the right levels of financial said the response needed to be some — was not being He said the level of gov- in 24 Spanish cities yesterday Jeremy Farrar said, adding that support, will allow us to reset immediate because putting it off considered. ernment support available for called for the prosecution of the current regional measures would before winter, stop transmission would only worsen and lengthen “The spread and the nature of those who were required to self- former king Juan Carlos who not be effective. spiralling, protect and prepare the crisis. He told Sky News that the disease does not merit that isolate was kept under constant left Spain embroiled in contro- “The current tiered health services, give time to get the best time to have locked down approach at the moment,” he told review. versy. The 82-year-old former monarch has been living in the United Arab Emirates since No Saturday night party for leaving Spain in August to avoid further embarrassing his son, Parisians as curfew begins King Felipe VI. “We are here to call for the REUTERS — PARIS France, like other European corrupt former king to be pros- countries, is grappling with how ecuted and to demand a The streets and terraces of Paris to slow the virus’ spread and ease republic,” said Juan Morillo, 74, and eight cities in France emptied pressure on a once-again strained a retired teacher, who joined on Saturday night as people were healthcare system while keeping hundreds of demonstrators in asked to stay home to stem a its $2.7 trillion economy open and Seville. second wave of the coronavirus protecting jobs. While not formally under that caused a record daily “For restaurateurs I under- investigation, Juan Carlos could number of infections in the stand that it is difficult but there become a target in two inquiries country. is a moment when it is necessary in Spain and Switzerland into French President Emmanuel to make a balance between alleged corruption associated Macron last week ordered nightly public health and economic with a 6.7bn euros (£6.1bn), curfews in cities where the coro- health,” said Bastien Delaunay, a high-speed Saudi train contract navirus was the most active, 22-year-old law student. won by Spanish firms. saying it was spreading at parties The number of new corona- The former king has not and private gatherings and action virus infections in France jumped commented publicly but his was needed or else hospitals more than 32,000 in one day yes- lawyer Javier Sanchez has said risked being overwhelmed. While terday for the first time since the he is at the disposition of pros- some people understood the need start of the epidemic, health min- ecutors if necessary. to contain the virus, restaurant istry data showed. The 9pm to managers cautioned about the 6am curfews will last at least four Tribute to French teacher impact on a sector that already weeks. Tony Blair accused suffered major losses during the “On Saturday night we used spring lockdown. to go out all the time. We of breaking People gather at the Place de la Republique in Paris, to pay tribute to Samuel Paty, the French teacher “There will surely be organised many things and now quarantine rules who was killed on the streets of the Paris suburb of Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, France, yesterday. employees who will lose their that’s over. At 9 p.m. we must go jobs, several restaurants will go home. That’s the time when we bankrupt,” said Stefano Anselmo, used to go out,” 22-year old REUTERS — LONDON 44, manager of Italian restaurant Jeanne Baudin, said while sitting Bianco in Paris. “It’s a disaster.” on a terrace with friends. Former British Prime Minister Ireland to impose nationwide Tony Blair has been accused of breaking UK COVID-19 restric- Swiss govt imposes tighter tions after failing to self-isolate COVID-19 restrictions today for two weeks following a two-day trip to the United REUTERS — DUBLIN virus rules as cases jump States, the Sunday Telegraph 232, the 12th highest rate COVID-19, to Level 4 of its reported. among the 31 countries mon- five-step framework on AFP — BERN Friday it reported 3,087 new The newspaper said it had Ireland will bring in “decisive” itored by the European Centre Wednesday and banned most cases. obtained pictures showing Blair, nationwide COVID-19 restric- for Disease Prevention and visits to homes across the The Swiss government said Switzerland is the now who served as prime minister tions today but will stop short Control. country. The other 23 counties yesterday it was making the European country where virus from 1997 to 2007, leaving a of reintroducing the kind of “The government will act are on Level 3, which bans all wearing of masks in indoor infections have progressed the London restaurant 10 days after lockdown imposed earlier this tomorrow, the action will be indoor restaurant dining. public spaces compulsory fastest in the past week, with a his return from Washington last year, Higher Education decisive and it will be Under Level 4, only under new measures intro- rise of 146 percent according to month. The Sunday Telegraph Minister Simon Harris said nationwide action,” Harris, essential retail can stay open, duced after a “worrying” rise data. said it understood that Blair yesterday. who was the health minister although the government has in coronavirus infections. Total deaths have reached appealed to Whitehall officials The government rejected during one of Europe’s broadened that category since It said gatherings of more 1,822, out of a population of 8.5 for special dispensation from the a recommendation by health strictest lockdowns from the March. Under level 5, people than 15 people in public would million. COVID-19 rules, but that he was chiefs two weeks ago to jump end of March to mid-May, told would be asked to stay at also be banned under the rules “This last week infections not issued with the formal Level 5, the highest level of national broadcaster RTE. home, other than to exercise to take effect today, while have doubled,” President exemption letter he would have COVID-19 curbs, and instead “Tomorrow we will have within 5km, and restaurants service in restaurants and clubs Simonetta Sommaruga told a needed to avoid a 14-day iso- tightened restrictions in a to bring in more restrictions. can only operate a take away would be restricted to seated press conference as she lation period. varied regional approach that Level 3 has not worked... I and delivery service. customers only. unveiled national restrictions Blair was in Washington for Harris said was no longer don’t want to be pedantic “In relation to businesses, “The sharp increase in the to contain a crisis that had been a White House ceremony at sufficient. about the phrase lockdown we’re trying to get the balance number of contaminations in previously been the respon- which Israel signed agreements On Saturday, Ireland but I don’t think that’s exactly right here. We want to keep recent days is worrying. Indeed, siblity of Switzerland’s regions establishing formal relations broke its record for the where we’re going but there as much open as we can but it concerns all age groups and or cantons. But some Swiss are with Bahrain and the UAE. number of cases recorded in will certainly be more restric- we can’t prolong the inevi- all cantons,” the government not happy at the new restric- The newspaper quoted a a single day for the fourth tions.” The government table either... What gov- said in a statement. tions, with several hundred spokesman for Blair as saying time in the space of a week, moved three counties on its ernment is trying to do is try Although the pandemic had people staging a demonstration he was invited by the US gov- bringing cases per 100,000 open border with Northern to find that landing spot,” initially largely spared the outside the government’s ernment, describing the cer- people in the past 14 days to Ireland, which is harder hit by Harris said. wealthy Alpine nation, cases Federal Palace in Bern emony as a “diplomatic have been now soaring and on yesterday. conference”. MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 AMERICAS 15 Trump, Biden court voters as campaign gathers steam

REUTERS — LAS VEGAS/DURHAM Some 27.7 million Americans have already cast ballots either by mail or in person ahead President Donald Trump and Democratic challenger Joe Biden of the November 3 election, according to were courting early voters the US Elections Project at the University of yesterday in the competitive states of Nevada and North Florida. The record-shattering figure is being Carolina, as the final presidential driven in part by concerns about crowds debate looms later this week. Some 27.7 million Amer- at polling sites on Election Day amid the icans have already cast ballots coronavirus pandemic. either by mail or in person ahead of the November 3 election, according to the US her he would win the 2020 day leading up to Thursday’s Elections Project at the Uni- election. Trump put a handful of debate in Florida, including stops versity of Florida. The record- $20 bills into an offering bucket in Arizona and North Carolina, shattering figure is being driven and bowed his head during a campaign spokesman Tim Mur- in part by concerns about prayer. taugh said. crowds at polling sites on Biden flew to North Carolina, While Trump lags in opinion Election Day amid the corona- a battleground where 1.4 million, polls at a national level and in virus pandemic. or 20 percent, of the state’s reg- many battleground states, Biden Trump, a Republican, was istered voters had already voted campaign manager Jen O’Malley spending his Sunday in Nevada, as of yesterday morning. Dillon said over the weekend a state he hopes to wrest away The former vice president’s that the national figures are mis- from Democrats after narrowly campaign said he would urge leading because must-win states losing it in 2016. residents to make a plan to vote are close. Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden waves to supporters at the end of his speech at the The president, who rarely as early as possible at an event “We cannot become com- Riverside High School in Durham, North Carolina, during a campaign stop yesterday. goes to church but has remained in Durham, while also detailing placent because the very searing popular among evangelical his proposals to lessen economic truth is that Donald Trump can Wisconsin, two battleground crowd to yell back “Lock her the United States and ham- Christians for his opposition to inequality for Black still win this race, and every indi- states he narrowly won in the up!” several times. mered the economy. abortion and for appointing Americans. cation we have shows that this 2016 election. Whitmer said yesterday’s While the virus is deadliest conservative judges, began his His pick for vice president, thing is going to come down to In Muskegeon, Mich, he “Meet the Press” on NBC that for older people, the pandemic day by attending a service at the Senator Kamala Harris, can- the wire,” she wrote in a memo attacked Michigan Governor the president’s rhetoric was is motivating young voters as International Church of Las celled in-person events over the to donors. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, “incredibly disturbing” and well, according to a Reuters/ Vegas. weekend as a precaution after US presidential elections are for imposing restrictions to slow “dangerous” for her and her Ipsos poll conducted between Trump, who recently came an aide tested positive for determined by electoral votes, the spread of the coronavirus family as well as other politi- September 29 and October 13. down with his own bout of COVID-19. She will return to the allotted to US states and terri- and made light of a right-wing cians whom he targets. Among likely voters aged 34 COVID-19, did not wear a mask campaign trail on Monday with tories based largely on their pop- plot uncovered by the FBI to Opinion polls have shown a and under, 25 percent named for the indoor service. a visit to Florida to mark that ulations, rather than by a tally of kidnap her. high level of concern among COVID-19 as their top concern One of the church’s pastors, state’s first day of early in- the popular vote nationwide. “Hopefully you’ll be sending voters about the coronavirus when picking a president, while Denise Goulet, said to Trump person voting. Trump campaigned on Sat- her packing pretty soon,” pandemic, which has killed jobs and the economy were from the stage that God had told Trump will campaign every urday in Michigan and Trump said, prompting the more than 219,000 people in cited by 20 percent. NY healthcare workers ‘will be first to receive vaccine’ Twitter raps virus REUTERS — NEW YORK long-term care residents would based on the prevalence of the on what funding the federal gov- be among the first to receive a virus, Cuomo said. ernment would provide for the New York Governor Andrew vaccine. “This is a larger operational effort. Cuomo said yesterday that In the second phase of undertaking, I would argue, than “States cannot do this on adviser to Trump healthcare workers and high-risk vaccine rollout, first responders, anything we have done during their own,” he said. populations, including some school staff, other public-facing COVID to date,” he told A New York state task force long-term care residents, would frontline workers and people reporters. will carry out its own review of as cases rise in US get priority in his state to receive whose health conditions put The programme will likely coronavirus vaccines authorsed a COVID-19 vaccine when one them at extreme risk would get seek to deliver some 40 million or approved by the federal gov- REUTERS — WASHINGTON Friday, up from 46,000 a month is approved and available. priority for the vaccine. doses of a vaccine to state resi- ernment due to concerns of ago. Total US cases have sur- According to the five-phase In Phase 3, it would be dents, as New York’s population politicisation of the approval Twitter yesterday removed a passed 8 million. preliminary plan for New York’s administered to people over 65. is around 20 million and the vac- process, according to Cuomo, a “misleading” tweet downplaying Trump, who was hospi- vaccine administration pro- All remaining essential workers cines in development may Democrat who has blasted Pres- the efficacy of masks posted by talised with the disease for three gramme, some details of which would receive the vaccine in a require two doses to be effective, ident Donald Trump’s handling a top coronavirus adviser to nights in early October, has been Cuomo announced at a news fourth phase, and healthy adults Cuomo said. of the coronavirus pandemic. President Donald Trump, while criss-crossing the country in a briefing, healthcare workers in and children would receive it in He said the state had sent the “I think that will give people US cases surged before the surge of 11th-hour campaigning patient-care settings, long-term a fifth phase. Prioritisation would drafted plan to the federal gov- added surety in the vaccine,” November 3 election. as he lags in many public opinion care facility workers and some also vary by geographic location ernment, along with questions Cuomo said yesterday. As the Trump administration polls. His rallies draw thousands fends off accusations that its of supporters in close quarters, mixed messaging on wearing with many not wearing masks masks hampered the fight despite federal coronavirus Bolivians vote in against the coronavirus, Dr. Scott guidelines. Atlas continued to minimise the Despite data showing oth- importance of masks with a erwise, Trump has said election expected Twitter post on Saturday, saying, repeatedly in recent weeks that “Masks work? No.” Twitter Inc the country is “rounding the to bring upheaval removed the tweet yesterday, turn” on coronavirus. saying it violated its misleading Yesterday, Trump again AFP — LA PAZ information policy on COVID-19, attributed the latest surge in which targets statements that coronavirus cases to more Voters expect social upheaval for the have been confirmed to be false testing, but health experts cite second time in a year no matter who wins or misleading by subject-matter increases in hospitalisations and yesterday’s general election in Bolivia. experts. the rates at which people are Polls opened at 8am in an election The White House had no testing positive for the virus to that will not feature former president immediate comment on the show cases are indeed rising. Evo Morales for the first time in 20 decision. “The United States shows years. Atlas has downplayed the more CASES than other coun- It comes a year after Morales won wearing of masks, a coronavirus tries, which the Lamestream an unconstitutional fourth term in an containment measure that has Fake News Media pounces on election that sparked weeks of been widely endorsed by health daily, because it TESTS at such a protests. experts but not enthusiastically high (and costly) level,” he wrote Morales, who resigned and fled into promoted by the president. on Twitter. exile, is barred from taking part but his Trump, a Republican, is Dr. Scott Gottlieb, a former successor as leader of the Movement seeking re-election on Food and Drug Administration for Socialism (MAS) party, Luis Arce, has November 3 against Democratic commissioner, said the United topped every poll since he was nomi- An indigenous woman casts her vote at a polling station in Quillacollo, Cochabamba presidential candidate Joe Biden States is probably entering the nated in January. Department, Bolivia, yesterday. in the midst of a pandemic that worst phase of the pandemic Tensions have been running high has weakened the economy and without a national strategy. with MAS warning of a pending “fraud” added Cordero. Observer missions from killed more than 217,000 “I think the next three and threatening to protest should they Polls suggest centrist former the European Union, OAS and the Carter Americans. months are going to be very not get their way, while misinformation president Carlos Mesa, 67, Center were present while United New infections have been challenging. There’s really no has been circulating freely. will take enough votes to Nations General Secretary Antonio rising fast in the United States, backstop against the spread that “Obviously there will be social Guterres has called for the result to be according to an analysis, with we’re seeing,” Gottlieb told CBS’s upheaval... we just hope it won’t last ensure there is a run-off, respected. more than 69,400 reported on “Face the Nation” yesterday. long,” Clara Quitalba, 49, from the MAS which he would be expected The vote will bring to an end the bastion of EL Alto on the outskirts of La year-long interim presidency of con- Paz, said. to win with the other four servative Jeanine Anez, who withdrew Last year protests broke out against candidates likely to then from the race a month ago as criticism Several injured in blast, fire Morales’s victory following a 24-hour rose of her handling of the coronavirus halt in the live vote count that saw the endorse him. pandemic that has left more than 8,400 at Virginia shopping centre incumbent’s lead jump dramatically people dead and infected 130,000. once it resumed. Landlocked Bolivia, one of the AP — HARRISONBURG Gov Ralph Northam A later audit by the Organization of other four candidates likely to then poorest countries in the region despite tweeted that state emergency American States found clear evidence endorse him. its rich natural resources, is also expe- Officials said an investigation personnel had been deployed of fraud. “While the margin will be close, we riencing its worst economic crisis in 40 was underway into the cause to the area after what he called “Hopefully it will be calm because remain of the view that Mesa will take years with GDP expected to contract by of an explosion and large fire a gas explosion. But Harri- we don’t want to go through what hap- the race to a 29 November runoff, which 6.2 percent in 2020. at a shopping centre in Harri- sonburg Fire Chief Matt Tobia pened last year. It was terrible,” said he would be favoured to win,” said As well as choosing a new president, sonburg, Virginia, on Saturday told reporters the cause was Renata Zapata, 24, in La Paz. Eurasia Group’s analyst for Brazil and the 7.3 million eligible voters will elect morning that injured several under investigation. The protests did not end with Bolivia, Filipe Gruppelli Carvalho. a new Congress, where both chambers people. Tobia said when crews Morales’s exile as his supporters took But there is reason to be hopeful of are currently controlled by MAS. Three people were hospi- arrived, the injured were to the streets in turn. a return to democracy and stability after Although likely to remain the largest talised as a result of the incident outside of the building. The fire In total, the unrest left 36 dead and Morales tried to hold onto power despite party, MAS is expected to lose its overall that was reported around 8.30 has since been contained. 800 injured. the constitution limiting a president to majority in the chambers. am, the Daily News-Record Harrisonburg, in Virginia’s Arce is expected to win Sunday’s first two successive terms. Mesa’s Civic Community party and reported, and several others Shenandoah Valley, is a city of round but the question is whether the “It’s the end of a cycle of the Evo Creemos (We Believe) of right-wing were injured but treated around 50,000 that’s home to 57-year-old can achieve the required Morales government and the political presidential candidate Luis Fernando on-site. James Madison University. 40 percent with a 10-point lead to avoid crisis,” political scientist Carlos Cordero Camacho -- who is third in the polls -- City spokesman Mike Parks The university said in a a run-off. from the Catholic University, said. should dominate the rest of the seats. told the newspaper a search of Facebook post that three stu- Polls suggest centrist former pres- Morales, Bolivia’s first indigenous “Governing will be difficult, there the remains of the building had dents from the school’s Army ident Carlos Mesa, 67, will take enough president, ruled for nearly 14 years. could be these golden benches that tip not turned up any other victims, ROTC programme who had votes to ensure there is a run-off, which “We hope a process to strengthen the balance, like Camacho’s,” said but a second search was being been participating in a 10-mile he would be expected to win with the the (political) institutions will begin,” Cordero. conducted on Saturday race were among those afternoon to be sure. injured. MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020 16

Qatar Museums initiative for Culture Pass members Throughout the month of November, Culture Pass members can look forward to a host of PRAYER informative and culturally stimulating events TIMINGS that will introduce them to the many public PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING artworks and artists who have contributed to Qatar’s vibrant public art scene. FAJR 04.17 am SUNRISE 05.34 am THE PENINSULA - DOHA inspired by MIA’s collection by DHUHR 11.19 am British artist, Liam Gillick. ASR 02.36 pm As part of its continued mission The month-long drive also MAGHRIB 05.05 pm to take art beyond four walls, features a Public Art Tour of the ISHA 06.35 pm Qatar Museums (QM) is to host National Museum of Qatar Fannek, a month-long public art (NMoQ) on November 21, initiative that provides a gateway spanning both its outdoor and for the museum’s Culture Pass indoor spaces with focus on art- members to explore Qatar’s works such as Jean-Michel Oth- public art scene through tours, oniel’s fountain sculptures ‘Alfa’ talks and workshops. and Sheikh Hassan bin Throughout the month of Mohammed Al Thani’s ‘Moth- November, Culture Pass erland’, representing the region’s members can look forward to a last generation of women who WEATHER host of informative and culturally wore the battoula. TODAY stimulating events that will Acting Director of Public Art introduce them to the many Department at QM Eng Abdul- public artworks and artists who rahman Ahmad Al Ishaq said: have contributed to Qatar’s “Our annual Fannek initiative is Jean-Michel Othoniel’s fountain sculptures ‘Alfa’. vibrant public art scene. dedicated to highlighting the These include a tour of the importance of public art in Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) Park humanising urban spaces and while imagining its future.” Meanwhile, on November 28, Doha’s new urban surroundings o o on November 7, which is home sparking constructive debate on A trip to Zekreet on QM invites Culture Pass members against the city’s traditional 27 C 35 C to some of Doha’s first public art- topical issues of global November 14 invites Culture Pass to meet some of the artists who backdrop at the Fire Station. Minimum Maximum works commissioned by QM. relevance. members to explore East-West/ have collaborated in rejuvenating For a full list of the dates and This tour will give guests the “Our Culture Pass members West-East by renowned artist, some of the city’s shared urban timings of the Fannek tours, Relatively hot daytime with some clouds, mild by night. chance to experience Richard can look forward to a host of Richard Serra. The installation spaces as part of the ‘Jedariart’ ini- please visit: https://www.qm.org. Serra’s famous ‘7’ overlooking tours and workshops that will spans over a kilometre in length tiative — an open call that invited qa/en/fannek-programmes. Visit Doha’s skyline as well as an showcase the striking public art and crosses the peninsula of the artists to activate Doha’s city walls https://www.qm.org.qa/en/cul- W ALRUWAIS : 29o → 32o interactive artwork entitled installations that weave together Brouq Nature Reserve con- with public art pieces. The tour turepass to become a Culture W ALKHOR : 20o → 34o ‘Folded Extracted Personified’ the country’s past and present necting the waters of the Gulf. provides a chance to experience Pass member. W DUKHAN : 24o → 32o W WAKRAH : 23o → 30o W MESAIEED : 23o → 30o Greater flexibility in new private associations and foundations law W ABUSAMRA : 27o → 34o QNA — DOHA importance of partnership and assemblies to enjoy their full while in the past they were limited on behalf of more than one HIGH TIDE cooperation between the state rights without the need to com- to registered mail only, in order member, or a member of the 06:10 – 17:26 The Ministry of Administrative institutions and the private asso- plete six months after joining the to enhance communication board of directors acting on behalf Development, Labour and Social ciations and foundations to assembly as it was previously. between members and the asso- of any other member, in order to LOW TIDE 00:38 – 13:25 Affairs (MADLSA), in coordi- implement the national devel- According to the statement, ciation, and equal opportunities limit interference with the will of nation with the competent opment plans, praising their role the new amendments regulate among members to attend the the members of the free general authorities in the country, in providing many social, edu- the mechanism for conducting general assembly meetings and assembly in electing members of studied a new law for private cational, scientific, cultural and the general assembly elections participate in the elections. the board of directors. associations and foundations, professional services. for the board of directors, in a The amendments also provide The amendments specify the aiming to contribute to the The Minister added that the way that contributes to equal for the formation of an election period for the associations to keep 2.2 million ads implementation of social Ministry is working continuously opportunities among all committee from members of the their financial and administrative protection programmes in the to activate this partnership and members of the association, and general assembly, in a move that records and the types of records, on Facebook national development strategies. provide a helping hand and allows them to view the records would achieve independence for thus reducing the burdens of Decree Law (21) of 2020 has support to these national bodies, of the members who have the associations in managing the keeping all kinds of records for an and Instagram been issued regarding private calling for more cooperation, right to run and be elected. The election process for their boards indefinite period. The amend- associations and foundations. It coordination and real partnership board of directors is obligated to of directors. ments also allow members of the rejected includes amendments aimed at to serve the national interest. publish a list of the names of the The amendments include the general assembly to view all the addressing the problems that Meanwhile, the MADLSA, members of the general assembly regulation of the functions of the association’s records in a step that AFP — PARIS faced the associations, their said in a statement on the who have fulfilled their obliga- general assembly in its ordinary would achieve more transparency boards of directors and issuance of the new private tions towards the association, at and extraordinary meetings, and and activate the general assembly A total of 2.2 million ads on members of their general associations and foundations its headquarters or on its website, the right of each member to del- oversight of the board of directors. Facebook and Instagram have assemblies, in implementing law that the amendments or both, at least 60 days before egate another member to rep- The amendments include a been rejected and 120,000 some of the articles of the law. approved in the new law would the date of the general assembly. resent him in the meetings of the progression in the penalties posts withdrawn for attempting In a statement, Minister of contribute to achieving greater The amendments also allow general assembly, provided that involved in the event that a person to “obstruct voting” in the Administrative Development, flexibility for registering private more formal methods of commu- the delegation is by an official commits a violation that harms upcoming US presidential Labour and Social Affairs H E associations and foundations. nication between the association power of attorney, before the date the association and its objectives, election, Facebook’s vice pres- Yousef bin Mohammed Al The amendments also allow and its members in all forms or set for the meeting, and it is not and allow for reconciliation in the ident Nick Clegg said in an Othman Fakhro underlined the members of the general means available electronically, permissible for a member to act crimes stipulated in the law. interview published yesterday. In addition, warnings were posted on 150 million examples Differently abled student conquers of false information posted Stars of Science jury joins remotely online, the former British the highest peak in Greece deputy prime minister told the French weekly Journal du in another unprecedented milestone REUTERS — DRAMA endurance races in places as Dimanche. diverse as the Arctic and the Facebook has been THE PENINSULA - DOHA A Greek university student with desert, had to move fast to increasing its efforts to avoid a disabilities has achieved her assemble a small team before repeat of events leading up to Qatar Foundation’s Stars of lifelong ambition of reaching the onset of snow. the 2016 US presidential Science has undertaken several the summit of Mount Olympus, “There were many diffi- election, won by Donald measures to continue filming Greece’s highest peak strapped culties. It was a project that was Trump, when its network was Season 12, overcoming the diffi- to the back of a friend. taking place for the first time. used for attempts at voter culties presented by COVID-19 Eleftheria Tosiou, who has We had to organise a big team manipulation, carried out from while ensuring the safety of been wheelchair-bound all her of people,” said Giannakou, who Russia. There were similar contestants, jury members, life, was carried to the summit carried Tosiou in a modified problems ahead of Britain’s experts, and filming crew. on October 5 mainly by Marios backpack. 2016 referendum on leaving And in this week’s episode Giannakou, a long-distance “But the most difficult part the European Union. as international flights ground endurance runner who has was the psychological one. A “Thirty-five thousand to a halt jury members Pro- already scaled the 2,917-metre man lost his life there a day employees take care of the fessor Fouad Mrad and Pro- high mountain about 50 times. before.” security of our platforms and fessor Abdelhamid El-Zoheiry Two other friends helped “There was some fear contribute for elections,” said were forced to join remotely carry Tosiou some of the way because there were cliffs to my Clegg, who is vice president of through video call. This unex- Stars of Science presenter, Khalid Al Jumaily, announcing the but Giannakou covered the front, and to my back, but there global affairs and communica- pected change prompted Qatar studio audience votes. most difficult stretches, was not real fear that we tions at Facebook. Science and Technology Park’s including the final approach to couldn’t make it,” Tosiou said. “We have established part- (QSTP) Executive Director, engineering prototyping a finalist on Season 11 last year, the summit. The achievement drew the nerships with 70 specialised Yosouf Al Salehi and a former episode, contestants were given joined the episode as a co-host. “The feelings were very attention of Greek Prime Min- media, including five in France, member of the show’s jury, to four weeks to produce a fully He shared his experiences as a intense,” said Tosiou, 22, who is ister Kyriakos Mitsotakis who on the verification of infor- return to Stars of Science, functional prototype of the former contestant and shed light a biology student and a fan of congratulated both through a mation”, he added. joining the jury members to envisioned final product. Qatari on the importance of the engi- extreme sports. “I was happy, I video call. Clegg added that the help instil an additional level of participant Eiman Al Hamad neering phase. Khamis’ inno- was moved... In the end it was “I have never done some- company also uses artificial scrutiny of the contestants’ noted that she and her peers vation journey with his Smart most intense when we came thing more beautiful,” said intelligence which has “made work. showed perseverance as they Educational Prayer Rug, Sajdah, down, and realised what we had Giannakou. “I think it has com- it possible to delete billions of “This crisis showed us the raced to complete their proto- continued after Stars of Science done,” she said. pleted me as a person.” posts and fake accounts, even importance of investment in types despite the obstacles that with the selection of his Tosiou and before they are reported by science and technology. QSTP’s lay in their paths. invention for the technology- Giannakou, 28, users”. leadership continues to pour “Innovation is all about focused programme at the QSTP both from the Facebook also stores all resources into finding solutions adapting, and we have shown Incubation Center, which aims northern Greek advertisements and infor- that will help our communities our ability to do so,” said Al to foster local tech entrepre- town of Drama, mation on their funding and combat the pandemic,” Al Hamad. neurship in the country. met for the first provenance for seven years “to Salehi said. “Witnessing the constant Stars of Science will air time in September insure transparency,” he said. “Stars of Science drives the flow of changes to the show, every week on eight channels through a mutual In 2016, while he was still promotion and retention of such as the introduction of across the region, until the friend and she told deputy prime minister, Clegg innovative talent while dem- remote critiques, is a surreal Grand Final episode on him of her dream. complained to the Journal du onstrating the Arab World’s experience, yet that’s what November 6, where the With winter Dimanche that Facebook had capacity to develop technol- makes our Stars of Science remaining contestants will approaching, not identified or suppressed a ogies that are increasingly journey even more compete for a share of a Giannakou, who single foreign network inter- critical in every industry.” memorable.” $600,000 prize in seed has run ultramar- Eleftheria Tosiou speaks on the radio after fering in the US election. Before this week’s Abdulrahman Saleh Khamis, funding. athons and reaching the peak of Mount Olympus, Greece.