Tuesday March 9, 2021 Rajab 25, 1442 Vol.14 no. 5201 QR 2

Fajr: 4:34 am Dhuhr: 11:45 am fine Asr: 3:08 pm Maghrib: 5:41 pm High : 29°C LOW : 19 °C Isha: 7:11 pm

World 7 Business 8 Sports 12 Meghan’s explosive interview Qatargas completes NFB living Bautista Agut withstands barrage about royal life shakes Britain quarters expansion of aces to overpower Opelka

Amir receives message from Saudi king Activities of ‘Doha, Capital of Culture in the Islamic World 2021’ begin Our belief in Islamic culture and heritage is deep-rooted: PM TNN & QNA many scientific literature in various Doha sciences, arts and literature moved to Europe and the world, and was His Highness the Amir of State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has received a verbal message from the Custo- Prime Minister and Minister of In- translated into Latin language until dian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The message pertains terior HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa they became basic references in their to the deep fraternal relations between the two brotherly countries and the ways of enhancing them, in addition to the most bin Abdulaziz Al Thani has said Qa- universities and a source of enlighten- prominent regional and international developments. The message was conveyed by HH Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs tar’s belief in Islamic culture and ment for European and humanity. Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah Al Saud during a meeting with HH the Amir at the Amiri Diwan on Monday. At the heritage is deep-rooted and Qatar The minister noted that the Mus- outset of the meeting, HH Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia conveyed the greetings of the Custo- has adopted, sponsored and imple- lim world today must realise the dian of the Two Holy Mosques to HH the Amir, wishing HH the Amir every success, and the Qatari people further progress mented dozens of initiatives and importance of benefiting from the and prosperity. For his part, HH the Amir entrusted HH Prince Faisal to convey his greetings to the Custodian of the Two Holy pioneering projects. cultures of other nations, building Mosques, wishing him good health and the Saudi people further progress and prosperity. (QNA) “Our culture is enlightenment, be- cultural diversity from engaging oth- cause it contains great human values ers, so that diversity becomes a core that deserve to be taken as a slogan for part of the culture, and a value worthy the activities of Doha, Capital of Cul- Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of care and development that Muslim ture in the Islamic World, which were HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin world strives for today. launched today (Monday) under the Abdulaziz Al Thani. He stressed that this year Doha patronage of His Highness the Amir. will be a cultural space full of poten- No change in quarantine exemption Our belief in Islamic culture and her- and Islamic Affairs, Qatar Foundation tial for cultural work and a mirror for itage is deep-rooted and Qatar has for Education Science and Commu- diversity and dialogue with the other, adopted, sponsored and implement- nity Development (QF), Qatar Muse- which also bears witness to the rich- period at present: Dr Al Maslamani ed dozens of initiatives and pioneer- ums, the Cultural Village Foundation ness of local culture and Qatar’s role ing projects to enhance and embody (Katara), and other state institutions. in promoting culture in the Islamic Tribune News Network the exemption period from the quar- them,” the PM said in a tweet. Qatar Charity and the Social and world, calling for continued efforts in Doha antine may extend to six months or Under the patronage of His High- Sporting Activities Support Fund order for future generations to enjoy more.” ness the Amir of State of Qatar Sheikh (DAAM) are golden sponsors. more human dignity, more breadth of Hamad General Hospital Medical Dr Al Maslamani said, “The sci- Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the ac- A special episode on the launch creativity, making culture a platform Director Dr Yousef Al Maslamani has entific committee in the Ministry of tivities of “Doha, Capital of Culture ceremony of “Doha, Capital of Cul- for dialogue and joint action in the in- said that there is no change in quar- Public Health reviews these matters in the Islamic World 2021” began on ture in the Islamic World 2021” was terest of building minds and building antine exemption period for people and the reports of hospitals around Monday and will continue for a year broadcast on a number of local and the future of humanity. after receiving the two doses of the the world and even the reports issued under the slogan of “Our Culture is Arab stations like Qatar TV, the media For his part, Director-General of COVID-19 vaccine until more scien- by the different countries that have Enlightenment.” partner, Al Rayyan channel, Al Araby ISESCO Dr Salim bin Mohammed Al tific data is available. vaccinated large numbers of their “Doha, Capital of Culture in the TV, and Al Jazeera Mubasher. Malik congratulated Qatar for having At present, the quarantine ex- population.” Islamic World 2021” activities, which In a speech, Minister of Culture Doha as the Capital of Culture in the emption is valid for a period of three Dr Yousef Al Maslamani. “Certainly the strategic committee will take place over the course of 2021, and Sports Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali Islamic World, saying it reflects the months, starting 14 days after the sec- will not hesitate to take the appropri- are being held under the supervision said culture reflect nations’ beliefs status of Doha and its history. ond dose of the vaccine. extend up to six months or more,” Dr ate decision if the data are available of the Ministry of Culture and Sports, and determines relations between dif- He praised the efforts of the Qa- “The available data shows that it Al Maslamani told Qatar TV on Mon- confirming that this procedure will be in cooperation with the Islamic World ferent societies, highlighting that cul- tari government in preparing for the is possible to exempt from quarantine day. appropriate,” he said. Educational, Scientific and Cultural ture plays an important role in defin- year-long event. for a period of three months. If addi- He said, “For us as recipients, the He said people become 95 percent Organization (ISESCO), the Qatar ing the identity of any given society. At the conclusion of his speech, tional information reveals that the ef- vaccine has actually been in existence immune to COVID-19 two weeks after National Committee for Education, He pointed out that the history of he called on member states and Qa- fectiveness of the vaccine can extend for only three months. But if the man- receiving the vaccine’s second dose. Culture and Science, and the strategic the Islamic world’s culture is a testa- tar in particular to support its pro- up to six months or a year, then this ufacturers say the vaccine has proven “People refusing the second dose partners in the country, namely, the ment to the important role that gen- grammes and projects in order to ad- would be a good thing. Then the peri- the same efficacy after six months or of the COVID-19 vaccine in Qatar are Ministry of Education and Higher Ed- erations of scholars, thinkers, writ- vance joint cultural work and protect od of exemption from quarantine may a year, this will be a good thing, and very rare,” he added. ucation, the Ministry of Endowments ers and artists have contributed to in the Islamic world’s heritage.

Qatar 2022: SC boasts of 4.5 mn Take COVID-19 jab, get 10% discount: Widam fans on its social media platforms Widam Food Company has QNA urged community members EAA offers Doha to get vaccinated against the COVID-19 by offering discounts scholarships Ever since Qatar won the bid to host for those who received the vac- the 2022 FIFA World Cup in 2010, the cine. The company said, “Get to 59 students Supreme Committee for Delivery and a 10 percent special discount Legacy (SC) has been telling the story from all company branches QNA of the host country’s journey. for getting the corona vaccine. Doha From the state-of-the-art stadiums, Also, the offer is valid for one month.” (TNN) major infrastructure projects, tourist Expanding higher educa- attractions and legacy programmes, tion opportunities for youth the SC’s social media channels offer a across Qatar, Education behind-the-scenes glimpse of prepa- Contracts to clearly mention tasks, Above All Foundation’s Al rations while looking forward to what Fakhoora programme, in fans can expect from Qatar in 2022. work hours of domestic workers collaboration with the Min- The SC has launched a range of istry of Awqaf and Islamic social media platforms in recent years Domestic workers coming to Affairs (ADLSA), said Alix Nasri, Affairs, awarded a total of and is currently prominent on Face- Qatar will soon have their work Technical Specialist, Labour 59 students with a Dynamic book, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and hours, tasks, leave and over- migration and employment at ILO Futures Qatar Scholar- YouTube. From the state-of-the-art stadiums, major infrastructure projects, tourist attractions and time entitlements clearly de- Doha Office.I t looks at bringing ship as part of the Qatar It is also one of the first major legacy programmes, the SC’s social media channels offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse fined in their labour contracts, the rights of domestic workers on Scholarship Programme, Qatari organisations to have a pres- of preparations while looking forward to what fans can expect from Qatar in 2022. an official at theI LO Project par with workers covered by the in a virtual ceremony. The ence on TikTok, along with dedicated Office in Qatar has said. Qatar labour law, Nasri said. DFQ scholarship aims to Chinese platforms, including Weibo, ish speakers. liver strong engagement on dedicated A new version of the stand- The new version will reduce provide youth aged 17 to Douyin, Kuaishao and Toutiao. Both Across all channels, the SC now has Arabic and English platforms. ard employment contract for miscommunication in employ- 25, who have spent most fan-facing and corporate channels tell more than 4.5 million fans. The SC’s Chinese channels have domestic workers that comple- ment relationships as it accounts of their formative years in the inside story of Qatar 2022 to global The SC’s Facebook account current- also grown massively over the past ments Law No. 15 of 2017 for full transparency of tasks, Qatar, with access to higher audiences, with platforms dedicated to ly boasts more than 1.9 million follow- year, with the total followers currently was recently introduced by both for the employers and the education. page 16 Arabic, English, Mandarin and Span- ers, while Instagram and Twitter de- in excess of 1.3 million. page 13 the Ministry of Administrative domestic workers. Development, Labour and Social —Ailyn Agonia 02 Tuesday, March 9, 2021

Contact US: Qatar Tribune ı EDITORIAL ı Phone: 40002222 ı ADMINISTRATION & MARKETING ı Phone: 40002155, 40002122, Fax: 40002235 P.O. Box: 23493, Doha.

Quick read FM meets Saudi counterpart, receives Muraikhi meets Charge D’Affaires of US Embassy Minister of State for Foreign Affairs HE Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met with message from Paraguay’s counterpart Charge d’Affaires of the United States Em- bassy in Qatar HE Greta Holtz on Monday. QNA During the meeting, they reviewed During the meeting, they reviewed coopera- Doha bilateral relations between the two coun- tion between the two countries. (QNA) tries and the ways to strengthen the pro- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of gress of the Gulf Cooperation Council, in Muraikhi receives Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed addition to the latest developments in credentials of bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met with the region. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Ara- The Deputy Prime Minister and Vietnam ambassador bia Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdul- Minister of Foreign Affairs also re- Minister of State for Foreign Affairs HE lah Al Saud in Doha on Monday. ceived a written message from Minister Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi on Monday The visit comes after the Al-Ula sum- of Foreign Relations of Paraguay Luis received a copy of the credentials of mit in Saudi Arabia as an affirmation of Alberto Castiglioni pertaining to the Ambassador of Vietnam to Qatar HE Tran the strong fraternal relations between bilateral relations and the ways of en- Duc Hung. The minister of state for foreign the two peoples and the two countries hancing them. affairs wished the ambassador success as well as the strong and sincere desire The message was received by Min- in his duties, assuring him of all support of the leaderships of the two nations to ister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan to upgrade bilateral relations between the strengthen Gulf and Arab unity and de- bin Saad Al Muraikhi during his meet- two friendly countries to closer coopera- velop the process of cooperation in a way ing with Ambassador of Paraguay to Qa- tion in various fields. (QNA) that enhances security and peace in the tar HE Angel Ramon Barchini Cibils on Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met with whole region. Monday. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah Al Saud in Doha on Monday. MME’s Mobile Air Quality Monitoring Station moved to Lusail vaccination centre QNA tre continuously and around the clock. Doha A specialised team from the Environ- mental Monitoring Department and The Ministry of Municipality and En- the Environmental Laboratory con- vironment (MME), represented by the ducted a study of the site and chose Monitoring and Environmental Labo- the appropriate place to monitor air ratory Department of the Environ- quality before moving the mobile sta- mental Affairs Sector, in coordination tion to it. with the health authorities and Hamad These efforts come within the Medical Corporation, moved the Mo- framework of ensuring air quality ac- The committee decided to submit its recommendations to the Shura Council. bile Air Quality Monitoring Station to cording to the highest international COVID-19 Drive-Through Vaccination standards, as well as the important Centre in Lusail. role in educating the public about the The move aims to monitor and importance of preserving the environ- Shura Council discusses conditions control the air quality around the cen- ment. to help SMEs overcome challenges QNA Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani play their important role in sup- Rapporteur HE Saqr bin Fahd Al Doha to support SMEs at the beginning porting the national economy. Muraikhi. of the COVID-19 pandemic out- After an extensive discussion, During the meeting, the com- The Shura Council, at meeting held break to help them tackle the dif- the Council decided to refer the mittee studied the conditions of via videoconferencing on Monday ficulties they are facing due to the matter to the Financial and Eco- Qatar University (QU) in light of under the chairmanship of Speaker pandemic. nomic Affairs Committee to study its strategy and future programmes HE Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid A number of members praised it and submit a report thereon to presented by QU president at the Al Mahmoud, discussed the condi- the successful economic policies of the Council. Meanwhile, the Infor- Shura Council’s session on January tions of small- and medium-sized the State, reviewed the challenges mation and Cultural Affairs Com- 25, 2021. The committee decided to enterprises (SMEs) in light of the these companies face and the pos- mittee of the Shura Council held a submit its recommendations to the directives of the Amir His Highness sible solutions for them in order to meeting on Monday chaired by its Shura Council. CNA-Q, HMC join hands to offer Healthy Ageing expert urges family support diabetes education programme to get elderly vaccinated against COVID-19 Tribune News Network over 60 years of age are more Tribune News Network two courses about understanding and Doha likely to get sick, more likely Doha managing diabetes, while the two others to need medical treatment, tackle diabetes in special populations Dr Hanadi Al Hamad, Na- more likely to require admis- The Continuing and Professional Edu- and principles of diabetes education. tional Health Strategy 2018- sion to ICU and, sadly, more cation Department at the College of the Prof Abdul-Badi Abou-Samra, di- 2022 Lead for Healthy Age- at risk of dying as a result of North Atlantic–Qatar (CNA-Q) is join- rector of the Qatar Metabolic Institute, ing, has called upon family severe complications from ing hands with Hamad Medical Corpo- HMC and co-chair of the National Dia- members to support their el- COVID-19,” she explained. ration (HMC) for the sixth year to offer betes Committee, MoPH, commented: derly relatives to get vacci- “The National COVID-19 ‘The Fundamentals of Diabetes Educa- “Diabetes is a major public health issue nated against COVID-19. Vaccination Programme is tion’ programme. in Qatar, it affects 17 percent of adults Dr Al Hamad explained now moving at pace and it is The programme includes tailored and requires a multi-disciplinary ap- that it is the responsibil- pleasing to know that more courses that provide HMC employees proach for its management. Diabetes ity of children and family than half of Qatar’s elderly with the necessary skills and knowledge educators are an important part of the members of elderly relatives population have now re- required to specialise in the field of dia- treatment team. This training pro- to support them to get vac- ceived at least one dose of betes education and contribute to Qa- direction of implementing the Nation- gramme is an answer to the action plan cinated. “Now that we have the vaccine, with 61 percent tar’s National Diabetes Strategy 2016- al Diabetes Strategy. We take pride in set by Qatar National Diabetes Strategy. approved and effective vac- Dr Hanadi Al Hamad of people over 70 years of 2022. The initiative is an important step honourably supporting the healthcare The latter encouraged the increase of cines, elderly people have age and 55 percent of people in actively responding to the diabetes sector to raise awareness about diabe- diabetes educators, and the necessity to the opportunity to become over 60 years of age having health challenge in Qatar. tes, and develop the patient’s ability to equip them with the right training and protected and live free from Dr Al Hamad explained that received at least one vaccine Professionals taking part in this pro- engage and self-manage their disease.” knowledge to support the delivery of our the threat of this virus. it is the responsibility of dose,” added Dr Al Hamad. gramme will acquire a solid foundation Dr Suhaim Khalaf Al Josaiman, comprehensive diabetes services.” I ask anyone with el- children and family mem- Dr Al Hamad said that in diabetes-care management and will manager of CNA-Q’s Continuing and Manal Othman, director of Diabetes derly relatives who are not bers of elderly relatives to getting vaccinated is easy: have the chance to practise and apply Professional Education, said: “The fun- Education at HMC and co-chair of pa- yet vaccinated to support support them to get vacci- vaccines are available in all their knowledge in a safe environment. damentals of Diabetes Education will tient empowerment of National Diabe- your elderly mother, father nated. “Now that we have 27 primary health centers Moreover, participants will be trained give participants the necessary tools tes Strategy, said: “Diabetes self-man- and loves ones to get vac- approved and effective vac- and HMC homecare teams on how to interact with patients of all to plan, deliver and evaluate patient agement is a key element in the training cinated and get protected. are vaccinating housebound ages and from different cultural and education. It is a live example of why curricula. Diabetes educators are being Please ensure they under- cines, elderly people have patients in the safety and ethnic backgrounds. we established the department in the taught how to seamlessly approach pa- stand that the vaccines are the opportunity to become comfort of their own homes. Dr Salem Al Naemi, president of first place. Our aim is to deliver flexible tients, educate them about their condi- safe, and more than 327,000 protected and live free from She said anyone over 60 CNA-Q, said: “We are pleased to join trainings that support the organisations’ tion and how to help them take control doses have been safety the threat of this virus.” years of age should call Pri- forces with HMC and keep offering need and offer their teams development of their own care. Such initiative im- administered to the most mary Health Care Corpora- this valuable programme. This training pathways.” proves the patient’s quality of life and vulnerable people in Qatar,” ed that older people have a tion on 4027 7077 to book a was developed to answer a need in the The programme comprises four ma- reduces the burden of diabetes medical she said. significantly increased risk vaccination appointment at a healthcare sector, and is a step in the jor units for a total of 132 hours. It offers care on the health system”. Dr Al Hamad highlight- from COVID-19. “People primary health centre. Nation Tuesday, March 9, 2021 03 Qatar takes part in 14th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice QNA Kyoto

Qatar is participating in the 14th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Jus- tice, which began in the Japa- nese city of Kyoto on Monday and will continue until March 12. Qatar is represented by a delegation including Perma- nent Representative of Qatar to the United Nations and international organisations in Vienna HE Sultan bin Salmeen Al Mansouri, Am- bassador of Qatar to Japan HE Hassan bin Mohammed Rafi Al Emadi and Second Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of Cabinet Affairs HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi participated in the opening session that was held via video conferencing. Secretary of the Embassy of Qatar in Vienna HE Sheikh Minister of Justice and Jafali Al Nuaimi participated ing. as President of the 13th United tice which was hosted by Doha full support to the new Japa- Abdulrahman bin Nasser Al Acting Minister of Cabinet Af- in the opening session that He handed over the ban- Nations Congress on Crime in 2015, to Japan, stressing nese presidency for the suc- Thani. fairs HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al was held via video conferenc- ner from Qatar, in its capacity Prevention and Criminal Jus- Qatar’s keenness on providing cess of its tasks. ‘Global Programme for Implementation of Doha Public Prosecution Declaration supports UN’s 2030 SDGs agenda’ attends GCC meet QNA in Kyoto titled ‘Strengthening tions, given the great link be- with the aim of transform- crime, corruption, drugs and The Public Prosecution par- Kyoto the rule of law and justice’: the tween the rule of law and sus- ing the political pledges in the terrorism through four pillars: ticipated in the meeting of of- creative implementation of the tainable development, he said. Doha Declaration into projects education, sports, judicial in- ficials of the information tech- Qatar has affirmed that the Global Programme for the Im- Dr Mal added that based on on the ground. tegrity and the rehabilitation nology (IT) departments in the Global Programme for the plementation of the Doha Dec- the long-term view of the Amir He reviewed a number of prisoners. public prosecution agencies in Implementation of the Doha laration towards the achieve- His Highness Sheikh Tamim of features of the Global Pro- He pointed out that the ac- the Cooperation Council for Declaration was able to make ment of the Sustainable bin Hamad Al Thani and Qa- gramme of the Doha Declara- tivities of the programme have the Arab States of the Gulf a clear impact in the areas of Development Goals (SDGs)’, tar’s belief in pluralism, inter- tion, including that it is the reached two and a half mil- (GCC), which was held on crime prevention and criminal Advisor to the Minister of In- national cooperation and soli- largest programme imple- lion people in more than 190 Monday via video conference. justice and has supported the terior HE Major General Dr darity and in order to build on mented by UNODC and fund- countries, adding that more The Public Prosecution implementation of the United Abdullah Yusuf Al Mal said the achievements of the 13th ed by one country, and the first than 1.4 million students have was represented in the meet- Nations 2030 Agenda for Sus- the programme supported the Crime Prevention Conference time in the history of crime benefited from the educational ing by Manager of Informa- Maryam Haji Abdullah. tainable Development Goals achievement of the goals of the held in Doha in April 2015, prevention conferences that a materials of the programme, tion Technology Department (SDGs). sustainable development plan. Qatar launched the Global political declaration of a con- 170,000 people have benefited Maryam Haji Abdullah. bodies, especially the video In his speech to the high- It also implemented poli- Programme for the Implemen- ference became the basis for a from capacity building activi- The meeting reviewed a conference technology, in ad- level event taking place on the cies and programmes that sup- tation of the Doha Declaration practical programme to assist ties and that the Global Ju- number of topics, particu- dition to exchanging informa- sidelines of 14th United Na- port socio-economic develop- in 2016, in cooperation with countries, especially the de- dicial Integrity Network was larly the latest developments tion between the public pros- tions Congress on Crime Pre- ment and adopted transparent, the United Nations Office on veloping ones, to address the launched in April 2018 as part in the electronic programmes ecution agencies in the GCC vention and Criminal Justice credible and resilient institu- Drugs and Crime (UNODC), challenges posed by organised of the programme’s activities. used by the public prosecution countries. (QNA) 04 Tuesday, March 9, 2021 Nation

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY QA celebrates female staff’s contribution to its success Tribune News Network DOHA

On the occasion of Internation- al Women’s Day, Qatar Airways celebrated the contribution of women staff who have been in- strumental to the Group’s suc- cess. As part of Qatar Airways’ Al Darb Qatarisation programme, more than 300 Qatari women have joined Qatar Airways to date, having actively participat- ed in building the airline’s re- markable leadership and excel- lence in Qatar as well as across the globe. Starting with only 100 Qa- tari women in 2015, the Qa- fessional skills. sitions, as well as four cadet pi- portunity for their professional will continue with its strategy to Women are at the forefront of “We expect that the num- tarisation programme now Today, more women choose lots, four pilots and many more development. Qatari women, attract female citizens, diversi- leadership, able to innovate and ber of Qatari ladies joining Qa- includes more than 300 ambi- to work as engineers and pilots, foreign female pilots. bringing their advanced educa- fying its workplace and ensur- re-shape the future of Qatar tar Airways in the framework tious women, offering them a playing a pivotal role in Qatar Qatar Airways Group Chief tion and love for challenges, are ing Qatari women are fully in- Airways and the country. We of the programme will grow unique opportunity to pursue Airways operations and shap- Executive Akbar Al Baker said, making a major contribution tegrated into all operations and are pleased to see the progress exponentially in the following their career aspirations and re- ing the future of the aviation “Qatar Airways is committed to Qatar’s success, empowered senior leadership roles.” of the Al Darb programme and years, showcasing Qatar Air- ceive valuable educational and industry in Qatar and globally. to supporting Qatari women to by the Al Darb programmes Nabeela Fakhri, senior vice- its success in incentivising Qa- ways as a great workplace for training programmes, and to There are currently 30 Qatari follow any career they want to educational aspect and profes- president Nationalisation and tari ladies to take on challeng- highly motivated and skilled support and enhance their pro- women holding engineers’ po- pursue and offering every op- sional guidance. Qatar Airways Special Projects, said: “Qatari ing roles. individuals.” beIN marks IWD with virtual photography Qatar University expo showing power of women in sport marks International Tribune News Network Women’s Day DOHA Tribune News Network In celebration of International Doha Women’s Day on Monday, beIN MEDIA GROUP (beIN) launched Qatar University (QU) commemo- a virtual photo exhibition entitled rated International Women’s Day ‘The Power of Women in Sport’, re- (IWD) to celebrate the important leased globally across the Group’s roles of thousands of women. 43 countries, spanning the MENA The International Women’s Day region, the USA and Australia, is being celebrated this year under the and many other countries. theme ‘Choose to Challenge.’ Several All the inspiring images have female professors at the QU shared Dr Fatima Mraiche been specially donated by beIN’s their feelings about the IWD. partners within the industry, in- Women, in fact, play a key role cluding UEFA, FIFA, The Premier in all aspects of society, and their League, the Women’s Tennis As- presence brightens our future. “As a sociation, the Women’s National female associate professor of Phar- Basketball Association, Genera- macology and Pathophysiology and tion Amazing and many others, recently the Section of Head of Re- and the exhibition beautifully cap- search and Graduate Studies at the tures the inspiring role that wom- College of Pharmacy QU, I have been en play in sport and society. able to be both a pioneer and a role The bold visuals span multi- model for others by being present, ple eras and backgrounds from following my passion and being au- Dr Banan Mukhalalati young girls playing football in thentic. Knowing that all my efforts Doha’s parks to record-breaking will pave the way and benefit others portance of women in the commu- women scoring goals at sold-out always makes my personal achieve- nity. She’s a mother, a sister, a wife World Cups. There are also his- ments more satisfying. As a woman, a and a daughter. Through her innate toric moment-in-time photos of known agent of change, it is essential maternal instinct, she builds genera- Maud Watson winning the first Women’s Day today, we are de- love in the park. beIN is proud Please click Photography exhi- to believe in yourself and believe that tions. When education became com- Ladies’ Singles Championship at lighted to launch ‘The Power of to showcase across our 43-coun- bition - beINSPIRED to access the what you do matters,” said Dr. Fatima monplace, women entered schools Wimbledon and Coco Gauff light- Women in Sport’ virtual photog- try network many milestones of exhibition. Mraiche, Acting Head of Research and earned their degrees and higher ing up the same tournament 136 raphy exhibition in recognition of women’s sport this year – from The photographs show that and Graduate Studies QU. education, which allowed them to years later. inspiring women in sport. The ex- the Olympics in Tokyo to Wimble- sport should have no boundaries, Over the past decades, the role of take up leading positions and ad- Launching the virtual photog- hibition celebrates all women of all don, Roland Garros, the US Open embodying beIN’s “beINSPIRED” women in Qatari society has flour- vance society. Nisrin Mahasneh, raphy exhibition, Yousef Al Obaid- backgrounds, from the trailblazing and the Women’s EHF Champions initiative which aims to provide ished, notably as a result of Qatari Acting Associate Dean for Research ly, CEO of beIN MEDIA GROUP, icons on the world stage to young League, in different local territo- a global platform to under-repre- women’s ability to thrive in a variety and Graduate Studies, said: “Women said: “In honour of International girls simply playing sports they ries.” sented sports and talent. of professional fields. Women’s em- represent half of humanity, without powerment in the community is a them, the picture is not complete, as a result of Islamic teaching, addressing plane needs two wings to fly. Muslim both men and women, and calling for women in the past have also played the protection of women’s rights. an undeniably pioneering role.” MADLSA forum highlights role of women in society Dr. Banan AbdulRzaq Mukha- “Women are essential members lalati, Assistant Professor of Clinical in the process of building societies Pharmacy and Practice Department and nations, as they are active crucial QNA fairs (MoFA), the United Nations cides with International Women’s steadfastness in playing exceptional at College of Pharmacy QU said: partners. Since ancient times, women Doha Economic and Social Commission Day, discussed women’s efforts in roles in the history of their countries “Women in QU have a clear role that have played a variety of roles that for Western Asia (ESCWA), Hamad confronting the repercussions of and societies. is aligned with the vision of Qatar, have no limits. Women have and con- The Ministry of Administrative Medical Corporation (HMC), Qatar the coronavirus (COVID-19), as During the forum, the partici- with the faith in her ability to serve tinue to participate and have a strong Development, Labour and Social University (QU) and the Social De- they were in frontlines to address pants addressed the priorities of the community. We should never for- presence in various fields, without Affairs (MADLSA), represented by velopment Center (Nama), one of the pandemic whether in the medi- women’s full and effective participa- get the names of the many female ac- shedding their identity and values as the Family Affairs Department, or- the centres under the umbrella of cal field or community organisa- tion and decision-making in public ademics and researchers in QU who Arabs and Muslims. It is essential to ganised the International Women’s the Qatar Social Work Foundation. tions and other leaders in various life, eliminating violence against proved themselves by contributing, show appreciation for woman and Day Forum. Those participating The participants of the online fields. them, empowering them, achieving facing challenges and orchestrating their ability to build a community and in the forum included a number forum entitled ‘Women in leader- They also reviewed the progress gender equality, and emphasising change, and who have left a special overcome numerous challenges,” said of specialists in women’s affairs ship: Achieving an equal future in women’s empowerment and some the role and contribution of women imprint.” Dr. Asma Al-Attiyah, Department from the Ministry of Foreign Af- in a COVID-19 world’ which coin- of women’s work, their courage and in various areas of society. No one has doubts about the im- Head of Psychological Sciences. Qatar Stories announces 13 winners of Jwala Awards 2021

Tribune News Network Doha

Doha-based Qatar Sto- ries announced the win- ners of Jwala Awards 2021. The awards celebrate and honour outstanding Indian women excelling in their chosen vocation as part of the International Women’s Shivani Mishra - Sports Lubna Jeffin - Social Media Day observed worldwide on Sushma Harish - Literature Milan Arun - Lifetime Achievement Sindhu Nair - Media Nazia Amir - Radio March 8. Qatar Stories Co-Found- such women for their inno- women’s empowerment and (Healthcare); Kotteswari Service); Pramila Govind Lad er Balaji said, “Jwala Awards vation, creativity and deter- a better future for all.” Magesh (Art); Sindhu Nair (Health Care –COVID19); recognise, celebrate and hon- mination to succeed in their Qatar Stories has named (Media, New York Times Sushma Harish (Literature), our extraordinary achieve- chosen vocation. 13 extraordinary women Qatar & SCALE); Nazia mir Arathi Jain (Special Recog- ments by Indian women who “Jwala Awards encour- who excel in different fields (Radio, Qatari Radio Urdu); nition- Covid19 Service). make noteworthy contribu- age and celebrate women for the year 2021. The win- Lubna Jeffin (Social Media); Qatar Stories will host tion in their chosen fields. who make a difference in ners are: Delhi Public School Aarti Mahajan (Business, Jwala Awards event after the Many women excel in the their community and inspire Principal Asna Nafees (Ed- QTickets); Milan Arun Life- Holy Month of Ramadan, shadows away from the lime- young women and girls to ucation); Shivani Mishra time Achievement Award); subject to official COVID-19 Arathi Jain - Special Recognition Pramila Govind Lad - Healthcare - light. These awards honour excel with the greater goal of (Sports); Dr Reshmi M L Tina Fernandez (Community protocols, said Balaji. for COVID-19 Service COVID-19 work Nation Tuesday, March 9, 2021 05

CHIEF OF STAFF MEETS CHIEF OF DFC launches Homeware Festival OF PAKISTANI NAVAL STAFF Tribune News Network homeware items in a special- Doha designed glass pods between March 8 and April 6. Doha Festival City (DFC) has New retailers will soon announced the launch of its join DFC homeware selection, Homeware Festival showcasing including Maya Paris, a multi- the latest collections from a host brand luxury furtniture store, of retailers offering a myriad of famous US furniture brand giveaways and an array of fami- Bernhardt, as well as Ambi- ly-friendly activities. ance, Eclipse, Tansy Mattress Set to run for a full month and That’s Living kids store. from March 8 until April 8, the DFC General Manager Rob- Homeware Festival will show- ert Hall said, “We are delighted case the largest collection of to launch the Homeware Fes- homeware retailers in Qatar reiterating Doha Festival City concept stores, including The tival and to offer our visitors a available at Festival City and as the one and only choice for One, Butterfly Design, Antoine unique opportunity to discover their unique offering, suitable furnishing and home decor Karam, Laura Ashley, Home the vast and diverse range of for decorating, renovating or shopping in Qatar. Centre, Pan Emirates, Pottery homewares offering at the Mall. designing any home, from a Home to over twenty home Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, West “We would like to invite studio to a villa as well as any furnishing and accessories Elm, and Mothercare who will all our guests to explore the office. stores participating in the fes- also showcase their collections festival booths for each brand As part of the festival, mini- tival, including IKEA, ACE, in stylish minimalist room set installed throughout the mall’s Chief of Staff of Qatari Armed Forces HE Lieutenant-General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Shaheen Al exhibitions in the form of mock MUJI that are exclusive brands up spread throughout the Mall. nodes on the Ground and First Ghanim met with Chief of the Pakistan Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi in room setups will be showcased to the Mall, DFC also boasts the In addition, Villeroy & Floor, and discover the largest Doha on Monday. During the meeting, they reviewed the joint bilateral military cooperation be- in the podiums distributed largest home section in the re- Boch, MADAM COCO, Ka- homeware collections to em- tween the two sides and the means of enhancing them. The meeting was also attended by a across the mall, demonstrating gion from Marks & Spencer. raca, H&M, Harvey Nichols, bellish or refresh their home number of senior officers of the armed forces. (QNA) the diversity of Festival City’s Participating retailers M&S, Tavola, Zara Home and décor and draw inspiration for homeware offering as well as also boast a variety of unique W&B Home will showcase their new design solutions.” Qatar Charity continues to provide aid to internally displaced Syrians Approximately 104 trucks were sent to provide assistance with enough food parcels for one family per month

QRCS constructs new district sewage system in southern Gaza area

Tribune News Network located in the vicinity of the Doha Gaza PS11 wastewater pump- ing station. Adel Al-Zaanoun, a resident Regarding the importance of Gaza, stood in front of his of the project to the public, home to watch the workers Eng. Khalil Mohamed Shaqra, laying sewage pipelines in his Manager of Coordination and Qatar Charity field officials deliver humanitarian aid on a truck to displaced Syrian people as part of its ‘Qatar Relief Convoys’ campaign recently. district, waiting for his home Supervision Department of to be connected to a new net- the Gaza Municipality, said Tribune News Network ing them and helping to alle- their winter needs and secur- 3000 tons of flour, person- for similar projects that would work that would put an end to it would reduce the pollution Doha viate their suffering in these ing food.” al hygiene and household help move families to better many years of suffering. and environmental impact of challenging circumstances. He described the ‘Qatar goods. housing units to protect them “It’s been a tragedy over the soak pits dug by the com- Qatar Charity (QC) said its Ahmed Ismail, director of Relief Coveys’ as a great gift The aid also included 25 from the cold and heat. the last decade,” said Al- munity, which made things field teams continue to deliver the Al-Nour camp located in for the displaced, 90% of caravans, which benefited 25 Qatar Charity has also Zaanoun. worse during the winter. aid to internally displaced the Harem District of Idlib whom are unable to secure families of widows, orphans launched the ‘Qatar Relief “There was no infrastruc- As soak pits mushroomed, people in Syria as part of its Governorate, Syria, said, daily bread and meet the ba- and people with special needs, Coveys’ as part of its Win- ture in my neighbourhood at he said, in spite of the lack of ‘Qatar Relief Conveys’ cam- “The majority of those living sic needs of their children. in addition to the distribution ter Campaign ‘Warmth and all. The soak pits are hazard- financial resources to renovate paign. The number of trucks in the camp have been dis- To date, some 104 trucks of tents. Peace,’ urging benefactors ous to the population, with local infrastructure, municipal loaded with relief materials placed many years ago and have been sent to provide Suhaib Abdel Qaddour, to encourage efforts to max- their pollution and a constant- staff have made a great deal of has so far reached 104. are unable to continue their assistance to displaced Syr- director of the Ikhals camp, imise the number of ben- ly bad smell.” effort to solve this problem. The beneficiaries ex- work, which has made their ian people, carrying enough where 380 families live, eficiaries, including refugees, Supported by the Qatar “As a result of the new pressed their gratitude to the living conditions worse, par- food parcels for one family thanked Qatar Charity for displaced persons and those Red Crescent Society (QRCS) QRCS project, we will be able donors in Qatar for support- ticularly in terms of meeting per month, food, more than providing assistance, hoping affected. for the benefit of 70,000 peo- to regulate the wastewater ple living in southern Gaza discharge in the area and the City, this activity is part of a connection to the PS11 station, project to build a sewage sys- inaugurated by QRCS in 2015. tem in Gaza. It involved laying This way, we can minimize the 7-km wastewater collection environmental risks caused by Children from Qatar shine at 14th Asia and drainage pipelines with a septic tanks and stop pump- diametre of 6-16 inches. ing untreated sewage into the regional Toyota Dream Car Art Contest The $400,000 project is sea,” Eng. Shaqra added.

Tribune News Network Doha

Children from Qatar have won prizes in all the three categories at the 14th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest in the Middle East and Central Asia Divisional contest organised by Toyota Motor Corporation. The winners of the contest were announced at a virtual award ceremony held recent- ly. The event was attended by Sohan Sandeep’s creation officials fromT oyota Motor Corporation led by Akitoshi monuments that are sub- can manage resources and re- Takemura, division general merged in the sea beds that sponsibilities for dealing with manager, the winning chil- Winners of the TDAC with Akitoshi Takemura and the winners at the are yet to be discovered. all humanitarian aspects of dren, their parents and repre- online ceremony Nemsith said, “I am really emergencies in order to lessen sentatives from Toyota deal- happy to be a winner in the the impact of disasters. ers across the Middle East Middle East and Central Asia Toyota Dream Car Art and Central Asia Division. Division of Toyota Dream contest invites children from Takemura congratulated Car Art Contest and thank all corners of the globe to all the winners wishing them my parents and teachers for share ideas about the future good luck. their inspiration and support. of mobility by drawing their Sohan Sandeep from MES I also thank Toyota Japan and dream cars. Indian School won the prize Toyota Qatar for organising Qatar contest was held in the category 1 (below 7 this event.” from November 20 to Decem- years old) for his dream car Nandana Bijukumar, win- ber 15, 2020. ‘TOYOTA H3’ (Heal, Hope, ner in the 3rd category (12 to R. K. Murugan, acting Happy). 15 years old), said: “I am really chief executive officer, said: Sohan wishes that his happy and honoured to re- “As one of AAB’s community- dream car heals wounded ceive this award from Toyota oriented initiatives, the ‘Toyo- people in war areas. His Motor Corporation. I appreci- ta Dream Car Contest’ held a dream car is a hope for el- Nemsith Nimpura’s creation ate Toyota’s initiative to en- special place in their hearts as derly people and abandoned courage young artists around it involved children, the future children. It provides food, Sohan said, “I am happy and Shantinikentan Indian School the world.” ‘guardians of the world.” medicines, toys and books. excited to receive this prestig- won the prize in category 2 (8 Nandana, student of Birla He also expressed the The vehicle runs on recycled ious award for my Dream Car. to 11 years old) for his dream Public School, won the prize company’s happiness in see- fuel from paper, plastic and I love colours and I enjoyed car ‘History Finder Car’. for her dream car ‘Disaster ing the increasing number of glass wastes. drawing my dream car.” Nemsith believes his Managing Car’. children and schools taking After receiving the award, Nemsith Nimpura from dream car will help to find She believes her dream car part in such a contest. 06 Tuesday, March 9, 2021 World

hamad bin suhaim al thani chairman adel ali bin ali managing director Established September 3, 2006 dr hassan mohammed al ansari editor-in-chief

Afghan leaders UNENDING CONFLICT News angered by in brief Blinken on Eight killed in fire peace process at migrant facility in war-torn Yemen dpa Washington Sana’a: At least eight people died on Sunday and Afghan politicians reacted 170 others were injured in angrily on Monday to the tone a fire at a holding facility for of a letter sent by US Secretary migrants in war-devastat- of State Antony Blinken to ed Yemen, the UN migration the government in Kabul that agency said. “Eight people made suggestions about ac- confirmed dead; the total celerating the peace process, death toll is reported to be including by convening a UN- much higher,” the Internation- facilitated conference. al Organization for Migration Blinken made the sugges- (IOM) wrote on its Twitter tions in a letter to President account. The cause of the Ashraf Ghani seen by Afghani- fire at the facility in Yemen’s stan’s TOLOnews. The New rebel-controlled capital York Times also reported on Sana’a remains unclear. The the letter, citing US and Af- IOM said that more than 90 ghan officials who confirmed of the 170 people injured in its existence. the blaze were in a serious Blinken reportedly made condition. (DpA) proposals to facilitate discus- sion between the two sides to form a negotiated settlement Syrian president and ceasefire, and suggested Assad, wife Asma a meeting in Turkey between test +ve for COVID both sides to finalize a peace agreement and a revised pro- Damascus: Syrian Presi- posal for a 90-day reduction in dent Bashar al-Assad and violence. his wife Asma have tested According to both reports, positive for the coronavirus Blinken wrote that the US had Forces loyal to Yemen’s Saudi-backed government get into position during clashes with Houthi rebel fighters in Taez on Monday. (afp) but are in good health, ac- not decided whether to with- cording to a statement from draw the remaining 2,500 the presidency. They did a American troops from Afghan- PCR test after experiencing istan by May 1, as outlined in “mild symptoms.” “They are its agreement with the Taliban. in good health and stable He expressed concern that Saudi confirms drone condition and will continue “the security situation will their work during their home worsen and that the Taliban quarantine, which will last could make rapid territorial two or three weeks,” the gains” following a US with- statement adds. Syria has drawal. so far officially recorded Blinken requested Ghani’s attack on its oil facility 15,900 coronavirus cases “urgent leadership” in the let- and 1,063 deaths, but the ter, which the New York Times actual number is estimated characterized as “unusually The Saudi confirmation came shortly after Yemen’s Houthi rebels said they had attacked an Aramco facility to be much higher. (DpA) blunt.” The State Department declined to comment on the dpa ing to the official. sponsibility for the attacks al- lition confirmed the strikes, letter but said in a statement Sana’a/Riyadh The Saudi Defence Minis- though Saudi Arabia and the describing them as painful. Afghanistan to the New York Times that try called both attacks a “ter- United States blamed Iran, “The military operation receives 468,000 “all options remain on the ta- A Saudi oil facility was on Sun- rorist, cowardly aggression,” which denied involvement. targets the Houthi capabilities vaccine doses ble” regarding US troop with- day the target of a drone at- targeting the world’s energy In recent weeks, Saudi in the occupied capital Sana’a drawal. tack, an energy official in the supplies. Missile attack Arabia has been the target of and a number of [Yemeni] Kabul: Afghanistan has Responding to Blinken’s kingdom said. The Saudi confirmation increasing drone and missile provinces,” the coalition, said, received its first shipment of letter, Afghan Vice President “One of the oil storage came shortly after Yemen’s Shrapnel from a ballistic attacks by the Houthis. according to the official Saudi COVID-19 vaccines from the Amrullah Saleh said Washing- yards at the Ras Tanura port Houthi rebels said they had missile fell near a residential Earlier Sunday, the Saudi- news agency SPA. international vaccine-sharing ton can decide on the fate of [in eastern Saudi Arabia] came attacked an Aramco facility at quarter of the Aramco oil led coalition said it had in- Yemen has been roiled by a programme Covax, the World only the remaining US forces on Sunday morning under the Ras Tanura port and other company in Saudi Arabia’s tercepted and destroyed 10 devastating power struggle be- Health Organization said in Afghanistan, and not on the a drone attack coming from sites in neighbouring Saudi eastern city of Dhahran, where drones fired by theH outhis tween a Saudi-backed govern- on Monday. The 468,000 fate of 35 million Afghans. the sea,” the unnamed official Arabia that is leading an alli- thousands of the targeting civilians in the oil- ment and the Houthis since doses delivered are a frac- “We do feel the need for said, according to Saudi state ance fighting the Iran-linked firm’s employees and their rich monarchy. late 2014. tion of the nearly 3 million peace, but not a dictated television al-Ekhbariya. rebels. families from different The coalition also de- In 2015, the Saudi-led coa- that are to be eventually peace,” Saleh said angrily. “We In the evening, shrapnel A total of 14 drones and stroyed two ballistic missiles lition started a military cam- provided for free to Afghani- will not accept surrender.” from a ballistic missile fell eight ballistic missiles were nationalities live launched by the rebels to- paign against the Houthis in stan, an official at the WHO, A senior advisor to Ghani, near a residential quarter of used in the operation, Houthi wards Jazan, Saudi state tel- Yemen. Najibullah Safi, said. Covax Mohammad Mohaqiq, said the Aramco oil company in military spokesman Yehia caused a fire at a distribution evision al-Arabiya reported. US President Joe Biden is a joint effort by the WHO the US letter dictates urgency Saudi Arabia’s eastern city of Serae said in an online state- station, but that fuel supplies The coalition on Sunday has declared an end to US sup- and the Gavi alliance, because of Washington’s will- Dhahran, where thousands of ment. were not affected. mounted a series of airstrikes port for the military campaign a public-private vaccine ingness to leave the country, the firm’s employees and their He vowed more “painful” In a much bigger incident on Yemen’s rebel-held capital in Yemen led by Saudi Arabia, programme that coordinates while parliament member Arif families from different nation- military operations in Saudi in 2019, two Aramco facilities Sana’a, local residents said. a regional rival of Iran. the project. The scheme’s Rahmani went further and alities live, the monarchy’s En- territory. were attacked, temporarily At least four civilians were Biden also named long- aim is to reduce the vaccine wrote on Twitter that it was ergy Ministry said. The Houthis targeted Ara- disrupting crude oil produc- injured in the bombardment, time diplomat Tim Lenderk- divide between wealthy and an “order and a threatening Both attacks resulted in no mco in November, with Riyadh tion. pro-Houthi television al-Ma- ing as US special envoy for the poorer countries. (DpA) letter.” casualties or damage, accord- later saying that the attack had The Houthis claimed re- sirah said. The Saudi-led coa- country. Pope returns from Iraq visit, Pakistan women rally for rights in criticises treatment of women defiance of religious hardliners dpa dpa made for this year’s march and the organ- Baghdad Islamabad izers made it mandatory for participants to wear face masks and maintain distance due On his return flight from Bagh- Thousands of Pakistani women rallied to the coronavirus. dad, Pope Francis reviewed his across the country on Monday, defying re- Equal rights, freedom for adults to four-day trip to Iraq and criti- ligious hardliners to demand equal rights. choose their life partner, an end to forced cised the treatment of women. Rallies were organized in all major cit- marriages in the name of culture and re- The plane with the Vatican ies, where thousands of women, men and ligion, and an end to sexual harassment delegation that had been vac- children marched carrying placards with were among the demands of the marchers. cinated against COVID-19 and slogans against sexual harassment, lack of Islamic groups and right-wing politi- more than 70 journalists landed opportunities and injustice. Women march during a rally to mark cal parties oppose these marches because in Rome on Monday afternoon. “We are committed to ensure a secure Women’s Day in Lahore on Monday. (AFP) they believe women are only entitled to Speaking to journalists dur- and enabling environment for women to the rights prescribed within the confines ing the flight, the 84-year-old play their rightful role in our nation’s de- 2018, when women from different walks of of Islam. denounced the treatment of velopment,” Prime Minister Imran Khan life marched through Pakistan’s port city They accuse participants of being “un- women on the occasion of Inter- said on the eve of International Women’s of Karachi demanding equal rights. Since Islamic” or foreign-funded, for example. In national Women’s Day, which Pope Francis bids farewell to his hosts as he departs from the Iraqi Day marches according to his office. then, there have been annual demonstra- 2020, activists were attacked by misogynist fell on Monday this year. capital’s Baghdad International Airport on Monday. (AFP) The Aurat March or Women’s March tions in major cities. extremists on the sidelines of an event in The head of the Catholic was founded in the South Asian country in Special security arrangements were the capital, Islamabad. Church said he could not be- The tight programme with was a prudent and wise man lieve it when he was shown lists journeys across Iraq had been and very respectful at the meet- on which women were offered exhausting for him, the pope ing behind closed doors in the for sale, just as the terrorist mi- said. southern Iraqi city of Najaf, he litia Islamic State had done with The ruins of houses of wor- said. Israel starts vaccination of Palestinian workers Yezidis. ship in the city of Mosul, de- “He usually never stands up Human trafficking was tak- stroyed during the war against during visits, but he stood up dpa points for this purpose. day. there so far, and ordered sup- ing place everywhere and also Islamic State, and the meeting twice with me,” the pope said. Tel Aviv “[The measure is] in our Some 100,000 Palestinians plies have not arrived. in the centre of Europe, he said. with the highest Shiite cleric in A document had not common health and economic hold work permits for Israel. The distribution of the first In Rome, he had met women Iraq, Grand Ayatollah Ali al- emerged at the meeting, as The Israeli authorities have interest, as we live in a single Many of them work in con- vaccine doses by the Palestini- who had been exploited and Sistani, left a great impression in Abu Dhabi with the grand officially started COVID-19 vac- epidemiological region,” said struction. Those willing to be an Authority (PA) to footballers abused. on him, he continued. imam of Egypt in 2019. At cinations of Palestinians who the head of the Coordinator of vaccinated could make appoint- and ministers, among others, “Women are more coura- The meeting with the the time, the declaration was have a work permit for Israel Government Activities in the ments through their Israeli em- caused anger. geous than men, that’s the way 90-year-old grand ayatollah worked on in secret for more and the West Bank settlements. Territories (COGAT), Major ployers. About 4 million people In Israel, about 5 million it is,” the Argentinian pontiff had done him “good in his than six months in advance, Vaccination stations have General Kamil Abu Rukun, ac- live in the West Bank. There people have received a first vac- noted. soul,” Francis said. Al-Sistani Francis revealed. been set up at several check- cording to a statement on Mon- has been very little vaccination cination so far. World Tuesday, March 9, 2021 07

Italy tightens Meghan’s explosive interview COVID curbs as Campania turns red zone about royal life shakes Britain dpa Rome dpa London Queen and Prince Philip did not speak Italy has tightened restrictions about Archie’s skin, says Oprah in several regions due to rising The reverberations from coronavirus numbers. Meghan and Prince Harry’s dpa “He did not share the Many schools will be closed bombshell interview were be- London identity with me but he again as of Monday, and res- ing felt on Monday as Queen wanted to make sure that I taurants in affected areas are Elizabeth II’s former press sec- Oprah Winfrey said that knew, and if I had an opportu- no longer allowed to open for retary denied there is racism in conversations about the skin nity to share it, it was not his guests. The southern Italian hol- the royal family and politicians colour of Prince Harry and grandmother nor his grandfa- iday region of Campania, which called for an investigation into Meghan’s son Archie were ther that were part of those includes Naples and the Amalfi the duchess of Sussex’s claims. not had by Queen Elizabeth conversations,” Oprah said. Coast, is now the third region in Charles Anson, who II and her husband Prince Meghan, who is bira- the country of 60 million inhab- worked for the queen from Philip. cial, told the US television itants to become a red zone with 1990 to 1997, spoke about the In a new interview on icon in their bombshell the strictest measures, as deter- issue of racism after Meghan “CBS This Morning” on Sunday interview that Prince mined by the Ministry of Health told US television icon Op- Monday, Oprah Winfrey, Harry faced “concerns and in Rome on Friday. rah Winfrey that there were who interviewed the couple, several conversations” about So far, Basilicata in the south “concerns and several conver- stated she had a follow-up “how dark Archie’s skin might and the small Adriatic region of sations” about “how dark Ar- with Prince Harry after their be when he was born” prior Molise are already red zones: In chie’s skin might be when he conversation. to the youngster’s birth. these areas, all schools must be was born.” closed, and people should leave Meghan, a biracial actress their homes as rarely as possible. from the US whose mother is allegations of racism were core and does not reflect British Since autumn 2020, Italy’s black and father is white, de- Britain’s Prince Harry (left) and his wife Meghan (centre), Duchess of Sussex, in a conversation with US “distressing, shocking” and values,” spokesperson Graham government has been dividing clined to say who it was that had television host Oprah Winfrey. (afp) urged Buckingham Palace to Smith said. regions into several colour-cod- the conversations with husband treat them “with the utmost “Most people in the UK ed risk zones in its fight against Prince Harry about son Archie’s be most active on social media also revealed that she suffered which he remembered being seriousness” and said they don’t give a second thought the pandemic. skin colour as it would be “very and individuals.” When pre- with her mental health dur- “very responsive” to members should be “fully investigated.” to the royals, they’re just not On Monday, further areas damaging” to them. senter Martha Kearney raised ing her time as a senior royal, of staff and members of the Meanwhile, a group which is that interested. The monar- were also upgraded to orange “I don’t think there’s a that was not what the couple stating she “didn’t want to be royal family. The interview campaigning for the monar- chy is tolerated because of a zones in this system due to rising strand of racism within the roy- said, he added: “I do take that alive anymore” and claimed also prompted a response from chy to be abolished said the in- carefully managed but dishon- infection levels. al household at all,” Anson told point ... and obviously one that she sought help from a senior politicians, with British govern- terview highlighted how “rot- est image that’s been created Among them is Veneto in the the BBC on Monday. needs to be considered.” In the member of the royal family but ment’s opposition party Labour ten” the institution is. over the past few decades.” He north. The neighbouring Lom- “I think it’s much more, interview, which aired on US never received it. calling for an investigation into “This interview has only added that the monarchy “will bardy, where about 10 million not even in the main print and television network CBS on Sun- Anson responded that Meghan’s claims. served to highlight what a lot always be part of our history” people live, already belongs to broadcast media, I think such day and will be shown in full in there is a “medical household” Shadow Education Sec- of people have known for years: but said it “must not be part of the medium risk zone. The same racism that exists tends to Britain later Monday, Meghan within the palace structure retary Kate Green said the the monarchy is rotten to the our future.” applies to Tuscany and Umbria. More deaths reported during mass protests in Myanmar New Zealand purchases dpa to safety, no one was arrested, reached its bloodiest peak so enough Pfizer vaccine Yangon it added. far: According to UN figures, Many journalists are cur- 38 people died on Wednesday for entire population Security forces in Myan- rently in hiding for fear of im- alone. International appeals mar fired live ammunition at prisonment amid a military and sanctions imposed on the anti-coup protesters again on crackdown on all critics. generals by the US and Brit- dpa with jabs of the Pfizer/Bi- Monday. “The first threat for free- ain, for example, have so far Wellington oNTech shot given to heath- In Myitkyina in the north- dom of press is to detain the had no effect. care workers. It is expected ern state of Kachin, at least two journalists. On Sunday evening, the New Zealand has purchased to take until the end of the men were killed and at least ... It leads to the dark age army carried out numerous enough of the COVID-19 year for everyone in the three others were seriously in- again,” said Myint Kyaw, head raids in the largest city, Yan- vaccine jointly developed country of some 5 million to jured, a witness told dpa. Pho- of training at the Myanmar gon, formerly known as Ran- by Pfizer and BioNTech to be fully vaccinated. tos on social media showed the Journalism Institute. goon. Loud gunshots were vaccinate the entire popula- The Health Ministry is lifeless body of one victim. On Sunday evening, police reported from several areas of tion, Prime Minister Jacinda working with Pfizer on a de- “Our protest started this fired on a group of people in the the former capital. Ardern said on Monday. livery schedule and inocula- morning around 9 am [0230 city of Htilin as they demanded Security forces deployed “I’m very please to an- tions for the general public GMT] but the military broke the release of an arrested pro- in front of hospitals and uni- nounce today that we have will accelerate in the middle up the demonstrations when tester. One man was killed and versities, among other places, signed an advanced pur- of the year, Ardern said. we were 20 people collectively Protesters use fire extinguisher to create smoke cover against riot several others were wounded, and patrolled residential areas. chase agreement with Pfizer Adern said the decision together ... we scattered and police during a demonstration against the military coup in Yangon according to Myanmar Now. There was initially no informa- for an additional 8.5 million to rely only on Pfizer was moved to other places, when on Monday. (AFP) Across the country, tens tion on the number of dead or doses of the vaccine. The ex- due to the jab’s high efficacy the protest was about 400 peo- of thousands of people took to injured. Numerous people were tra doses will be enough to rate and that having just one ple together, they fired shots,” gunshot to the stomach, accord- sion to produce news using any the streets again at the start of reportedly arrested. vaccinate 4.25 million peo- formulation to handle “will activist Kyaw Zin Oo said. ing to local media. medium or technology. read an the week to protest the military On February 1, the military ple,” she said at a press con- simplify, in some respects, “Two men were killed by Six other protesters were in- announcement by the military- coup that took place at the start staged a coup against Suu Kyi. ference. [the] vaccine roll-out.” New gunshots and another three jured. Five independent media backed state broadcaster. of February. The 75-year-old had clearly won The additional doses on Zealand has been spared by were badly injured. The people outlets that had strongly report- Myanmar Now said that For five weeks, demonstra- the parliamentary election in top of the initial purchase the pandemic compared to were killed ... in front of the Ro- ed against the coup in recent security forces had entered its tors have been demanding the November. order means the government most countries, thanks to man Catholic church in Myit- days had their licences stripped. Yangon offices and confiscat- release and reinstatement of the Since the coup, mass pro- “will be buying enough for strict border closures and kyina city,” Kyaw Zin Oo said. Mizzima, DVB, Khit Thit ed computers and documents detained head of government, tests have continued. The mili- everyone in New Zealand to robust contact-tracing. In Pyapon, south of Yangon, media, Myanmar Now and 7 in a raid. Aung San Suu Kyi. tary is increasingly trying to be fully vaccinated with the The country has reported a 30-year-old man died from a Day no longer have permis- As all staff had been taken Last week, the violence break the resistance. Pfizer vaccine,” Ardern said. a little over 2,000 cases of New Zealand began its Covid-19 and a total of 26 vaccine roll-out last month deaths. Under-fire lawmakers step down in Germany’s mask scandal dpa debate for the last few days. “In order to avoid any fur- him to follow Loebel and also corruption. Berlin Christian Democrat ther damage to my party, I will resign immediately. The controversy has be- (CDU) Nikolas Loebel and resign my Bundestag mandate Both men are accused of come a hot topic ahead of state Two German politicians from Georg Nuesslein from the with immediate effect,” he said. receiving six-figure sums for elections in Baden-Wuerttem- the governing conservative bloc allied Christian Social Un- Nuesslein, who had been helping negotiate contracts for berg and Rhineland-Palatinate have been forced to leave their ion (CSU) left after coming the deputy leader of the coronavirus face masks. Loe- on Sunday; the conservative respective parties in a scandal under immense pressure CDU-CSU bloc in parliament bel confirmed on Friday that CDU/CSU bloc is also looking surrounding profits from the from party colleagues and until he stepped down from he was involved in businesses to make sure nothing damages sale of coronavirus masks, just other politicians. the post on Friday, said that that dealt with face masks, their chances of coming out days ahead of regional elec- After initially saying that he he would like to stay on as a and that the deals had made on top in national elections in tions. would resign his parliamentary lawmaker until the end of the his firm about 250,000 euros September. Party leaders across the mandate by the end of August, current legislative period in (297,000 euros). CDU leaders have said they spectrum have weighed in on Loebel on Monday announced September. Prosecutors in Munich cannot rule out further cases the so-called “mask-affair,” that he would leave his job But the CSU party leader, are investigating Nuesslein on connected to the affair coming which has dominated political straight away. Markus Soeder, has called for possible charges of bribery and to light. New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in Wellington recently. (AFP) Trial of ex-police officer accused of killing George Floyd begins

dpa of the 12 jurors and four alter- decision. Judge Cahill said jury breathe, according to footage Washington nates was initially postponed The death of Floyd, an selection could still begin. of the arrest. until Tuesday by Judge Peter unarmed black man, last The main hearing is to start Floyd lost consciousness Almost one year after the Cahill. year triggered mass pro- on March 29. and instantly died, according death of George Floyd, the trial Cahill rejected prosecutor The death of Floyd, an un- to the autopsy. of one of the former police of- Matthew Frank’s request to de- tests against police vio- armed black man, last year Chauvin, an officer who ficers involved in his brutal lay the start of the trial to await lence and racism in US triggered mass protests against was expelled from the police arrest kicked off in the United a decision by a higher court. police violence and racism in force and later released on bail, States on Monday. “We are not trying to delay this the US. Many people demon- also faces second-degree man- Derek Chauvin, the main case, we want to try this case with third-degree murder, strated in other countries as slaughter charges, punishable defendant, a white man, faces but we want to try it right and which carries a 25-year sen- well. with an additional 10 years in charges including second-de- we only have the ability to try it tence, but an appeals court had The 46-year-old Floyd died prison. gree murder, punishable with once,” Frank said. said on Friday that the judge on May 25, 2020, after being Three other former police up to 40 years in prison in the Chauvin’s lawyer, Eric Nel- should allow the charge. arrested under suspicion of officers involved in the opera- state of Minnesota. son, opposed the delay. At is- That decision is not final, paying with a fake 20-dollar tion are facing charges of aid- The court in Minneapolis sue in the dispute was the ad- however; it could still end up bill. Police officers pushed him ing and abetting second-degree began on Monday with mo- mission of an additional count. before the Minnesota state su- to the ground on the street and murder and second-degree Demonstrators protest outside the Hennepin County Government Center tions on the conduct of the Judge Cahill had originally preme court. Prosecutor Frank Chauvin kneeled on Floyd’s manslaughter. before jury selection begins at the trial of former Minneapolis Police trial. The scheduled start of rejected the prosecution’s re- therefore argued that the case neck for eight minutes while A separate trial has been set officer Derek Chauvin in Minneapolis, Minnesota on Monday.( AFP) the time-consuming selection quest to also charge Chauvin should wait for the final court Floyd begged to be able to for them, to start on August 23. Barwa gets nod for dividend of QR0.125 per share page 9

Tuesday, march 9, 2021

31,905.95 10,052.23 50441.07 1,681.00 +409.65 pts +48.04 pts +35.75 pts Gold -1.03 % Hamad Port Project awarded for role Dow QE sensex in economic diversificationpage 10 Price percentage Price percentage 25.23 Brent 67.94 -2.05 % WTI 64.72 -2.07% Silver -0.23 % QEWC to build new power plant in 2027: Kaabi

among the largest solar power pro- Qatar, most notably the Zen pro- QEWC shareholders approve dividend jects in the region in terms of size ject in the Netherlands, the Oryx and capacity, is expected to be com- project in Jordan, the solar energy distribution of QR0.63 per share pleted by first half of 2022, with a project in Brazil, the Stockyard capacity of 800 MW of electricity,” Hill wind power project in Austral- Tribune News Network nation sector, in cooperation with Kaabi said. ia, the Carthage Power Company Doha Qatar General Electricity and Wa- “One of the most prominent lo- in Tunisia, and the Amin renew- ter Corporation to meet the coun- cal projects in this context is the able energy project in Oman.” Qatar Electricity and Water Com- try’s electricity and water needs construction of Ras Abu Fontas In addition, he said, the com- pany (QEWC) is planning to build with high efficiency and the highest station with a capacity of 2,600 pany has developed a future plan another new plant similar to the Ras standards.” MW of electricity and 100 MIGD for the next decade, in line with the Abu Fontas Power Plant in terms The Ordinary General Assembly of desalinated water. The project country’s growing needs for electric- of production capacity and finan- meeting approved the proposal of is scheduled to be completed in ity and water and to support infra- cial returns in 2027, the company’s the board of directors to distribute the third quarter of 2024 at a cost structure projects and 2022 FIFA chairman said on Monday. dividend to the shareholders at the of approximately $3 billion with World Cup. Addressing the company’s Or- rate of 63 percent of the nominal an IRR of 7 percent to 8 percent,” Regarding the company’s finan- dinary General Assembly meet- value of the share, amounting to he said. cial performance in 2020, he said, ing held via ZOOM, Minister of QR0.63 per share for 2020. In terms of foreign invest- “The company achieved a strong State for Energy Affairs and QEWC “The company is working active- ments, he said, “The company fo- performance despite the difficul- Chairman HE Saad Bin Sherida Al ly to diversify its revenue sources, cused its activities on diversifying ties and challenges imposed by the Kaabi said, “Despite the challenges operations and raise the level of per- Minister of State for Energy Affairs and QEWC Chairman HE Saad Bin Sherida Al and developing its investments, pandemic. The company achieved faced with the repercussions of the formance efficiency to preserve the Kaabi and other dignitaries take part in the general assembly meeting on Monday. entering into new projects and a net profit of QR1.158 billion, and Coronavirus pandemic, the com- natural and environmental resourc- taking advantage of the best global accordingly, the company’s board pany has continued its commitment es. In this framework, the company company is currently working on MIGD and the project is expected to investment opportunities. The of directors recommends distribut- to its vision and mission to support completed Umm Al Houl Power the expansion project, which will in- be fully commissioned during the company, through Nebras Power ing 63 percent of the company’s net the growth of the national economy project, which is operating at its full crease the water production capac- second quarter of 2021,” he said. Company, acquired major stakes profitsfor the current year, equiva- in the electricity and water desali- electricity and water capacity. The ity of the plant by 45 percent to 198 “Siraj 1 project, which is one in various energy projects outside lent to QR0.63 per share.” Qatargas completes NFB Oil surges living quarters expansion above $70 Structure consists of five decks, helideck and six bridge links to existing living quarters as economy Tribune News Network Doha recovers Qatargas Operating Com- pany Limited (Qatargas) on Agencies home and avoided trave- Monday announced comple- Brent crude on Monday ling, hoping to avoid in- tion of its North Field Bravo surpassed $70 per barrel fection. Oil futures briefly (NFB) Living Quarters Ex- for the first time in over traded below $0 a barrel pansion project that provides a year, gaining $1.14 to last spring before settling an additional 90-person ac- $70.47 a barrel. It surged around $40 a barrel for commodation facility to the $2.62 on Friday. months, well below what NFB offshore operations. Benchmark US crude oil most producers needed to The project’s scope in- added $1.10 to $67.19 per survive. cluded a four-legged jacket barrel, up 1.7 percent, fall- Many US producers cut and piles weighing approxi- ing back from bigger gains production dramatically, mately 2,200 tonnes to sup- earlier in the day. It jumped others filed for bankruptcy port the additional living $2.26 to $66.09 per barrel protection. Workers lost quarters platform weighing on Friday. jobs by the thousands. approximately 2,800 tonnes. Prices have been re- Eventually, prices began The structure consists of covering in the past few to recover as demand trick- five decks, a fully equipped months after plunging last led back. In January, after helideck and six bridge year with the onset of the Saudi Arabia announced it links to the existing living pandemic. would cut production by 1 quarters. The devastating winter million barrels per day on The fabrication, construc- freeze that hit Texas and top of cuts the Kingdom tion, load-out, sail away and other parts of the southern already made through its modification activities on the United States last month agreement with the OPEC Living Quarters Expansion knocked out production of cartel, prices for US bench- project were carried out safe- roughly four million barrels mark crude pushed above ly and involved 2.98 million Living Quarters Expansion project provides an additional 90-person accommodation facility to the NFB offshore operations. per day of US oil, pushing $50 a barrel. The upswing man-hours, with a peak man- prices above $60 a barrel. continued through Febru- power level of 900 people. (NKOM). The safe delivery of Operations departments, to- this major milestone. erational needs of Qatargas Last week, with oil pric- ary, when Saudi Arabia’s Commenting on this mile- this project is a testament to gether with their partners “I would like to thank Trains 1 and 2. The offshore es rising, some observers cuts went into effect. stone project, Qatargas Chief the commitment of Qatargas Rosetti Marino (EPIC Con- everyone from the various accommodation expansion were expecting the OPEC Natural resources con- Executive Officer Khalid bin to quality and flawless execu- tractor), NKOM (Fabrica- Qatargas groups that have project was initiated to cater cartel and its allies to lift sultancy Wood Mackenzie Khalifa Al Thani said, “I am tion in developing state-of- tion Contractor for EPIC contributed to this momen- for the changes in the opera- more restrictions and let reports it is forecasting pleased to announce the com- the-art LNG facilities in the Contractor), and Heerema tous milestone as well as our tional requirements following the oil flow more freely. But that oil prices will trade in pletion of this significant pro- country.” Marines (Transportation & Shareholders for their con- various expansion projects. OPEC agreed to leave most the $70-$75 range in April ject which saw, for the first He added that a dedicated Installation Contractor), had tinued support and valuable Modifications were also restrictions in place, de- and that global demand time in the Qatar, a major team of experts from Qatar- worked exceptionally well to contribution,” he said. done on the existing living spite growing demand. will increase in 2021 by 6.3 offshore platform fabricated gas’ Project Management, overcome various challenges, The original NFB accom- quarters and platform to Oil prices crashed as million barrels a day from a locally at the Erhama Bin Operations Expansion and including those posed by the modation, installed in 1995, properly integrate the new millions of people stayed year earlier. Jaber Al Jalahma shipyard Startup (OES) and Offshore COVID-19 pandemic, to reach was designed for the op- additional living quarters. Qatari stocks begin week on positive note as QSE rises 48 points

Satyendra Pathak traded increased to 267.2 mil- Shares of Zad Holding, results for 2020. The com- major Gulf markets were Doha lion on Monday from 216.5 which announced positive pany announced that it reg- mixed. million in the previous ses- results on Sunday, jumped istered a net profit of QR6.57 Saudi Arabia’s bench- Qatari stocks began the sion and the value of shares the maximum daily limit of million for 2020 compared mark index finished 0.3 per- week on a positive note as decreased to QR465.182 mil- 10 percent. Investment Hold- to net loss amounting to cent higher. In Dubai, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) lion from QR466.7 million in ing Group gained 6.056 per- QR15.37 million in the previ- main share index eased 0.2 general index gained 48.04 the previous session. cent, while Qatar Industrial ous year. percent hit by a 1.9 percent points, or 0.48 percent, when Six out of the seven sec- Manufacturing 5.36 percent. The company’s earning fall in blue-chip developer the bourse closed trading at tor indices closed in the posi- Qatar Islamic Insurance per share (EPS) amounted to Emaar Properties and a 1.1 10,052.23 points on Monday. tive territory. The QSE Total and Qatar National Cement QR0.024 for 2020 compared percent retreat in sharia- With March 7 (Sunday) Return Index increased 0.48 gained 3.836 percent and to a loss per share of QR compliant lender Dubai Is- being a holiday for financial percent to 19,686.87 points 2.385 percent respectively to 0.052 in the previous year. lamic Bank. institutions in Qatar includ- and QSE Al Rayan Islamic be among the top five gainers Meanwhile, Saudi Ara- The Abu Dhabi index ing the QSE, the local bourse Index gained 0.59 percent to for the day. bia’s stock market recouped closed 0.1 percent lower, began trading for the week 4,235.54 points. The QSE All The day saw Dlala Broker- earlier losses to end higher driven down by a 1.6 percent on Monday. Share Index added 0.56 per- age and Investment Holding on Monday, led by gains in drop in Abu Dhabi Commer- The Qatar Stock Exchange building in Doha. The volume of shares cent to 3,150.23 points. disclose its annual financial financial shares, while other cial Bank. Tuesday, March 9, 2021 09 Economy & Business Barwa shareholders approve dividend distribution of QR0.125 per share

01 02 03 04 Total Most of Barwa assets of the Total Group financial Barwa Group reach equity of the The average indicators in 2020 are a value of QR33.2 shareholders of the occupancy rate has better than the previous billion by the end of parent company exceeded 90 percent year despite facing 2020, an increase reach a value in many of challenges imposed by of QR1.2 billion of to QR20.3 billion Barwa Group’s the COVID-19 over 2019 by the end of 2020 residential projects pandemic

Tribune News Network Barwa pays special attention to Doha workers and has a unique position in providing real estate solutions Barwa Real Estate Company to serve them. Barwa offers a wide held its Ordinary General Assem- range of amenities and services to bly Meeting on Monday after the ensure securing a sustainable liv- completion of the quorum required ing environment for them. for the meeting that reached 57.05 Barwa is keen to implement percent. safety and security measures in The Ordinary General As- its projects in accordance with the sembly approved the proposal of frameworks established by the the board of directors to distrib- Government of Qatar. Moreover, ute cash dividends at the rate of Barwa constantly works towards QR0.125 per share, 12.5 percent of enhancing security and safety the nominal value of the share with measures in all aspects of its busi- a total of QR486.4 million. ness, as it listens to the needs of Speaking on the occasion, Bar- its employees and customers and wa Real Estate Chairman Salah develops plans that simulate the bin Ghanem Al Ali said, “The fis- needs of local communities. cal year 2020 witnessed many Barwa Real Estate Group CEO challenges and difficulties due to Abdulla Jobara Al Romaihi said, the repercussions of the Coronavi- Board members of Barwa Real Estate Company at the company’s Ordinary General Assembly meeting held online on Monday. “The group has adopted a com- rus (COVID-19) pandemic, as the prehensive business strategy with global economy witnessed many the profits of real estate investment Moreover, the risk management precise measures to deal with the negative impacts that affected valuation. The Group is on course to include 8,148 residential policy plays a crucial role in creat- repercussions of the COVID-19 most economic activities in various Total assets of the Group units, 37,300 residential rooms for workers, 336,552 ing suitable work frames in order to pandemic. This plan has so far countries of the world. Thanks to reached a value of QR33.2 billion manage projects and investments proven its efficiency as it provides the wise leadership of the country, by the end of 2020, an increase of square meters for shops, showrooms and offices, in an effective way, while control- a successful model in overcoming the Qatari economy has been able QR1.2 billion over 2019, and the 445,779 square meters for workshops and warehouses, ling operational, economical and the side effects which accompany to overcome these repercussions total equity of the shareholders and 701 hotel rooms in its real estate portfolio relevant legal risks,” he said. the pandemic. It’s also ensuring with limited effects. The govern- of the parent company reached a Barwa Real Estate applies an business continuity, with no inter- ment has adopted many support- value of to QR20.3 billion, he said. internal control system, with the ruption of any plans or projects. ive economic measures since the “Barwa Real Estate won the addition to the close to completion regions around the world.” purpose of establishing trustwor- These exceptional circumstances beginning of the pandemic to sup- Public Works Authority’s tender for of the third and final phase of the “It also includes rationalising thy standards and regulations that have in fact refined our experiences port the national economy in gen- the development and maintenance project, which led to increasing operational, administrative and contain internal control methods. to deal with different variables.” eral and the real estate sector in of eight public schools for the Min- the rental income during the year financing expenditures to achieve These control methods ensure the “The past year witnessed tre- particular.” istry of Education and Higher Edu- 2020. This is in addition to the the maximum possible benefit accuracy and reliability of Barwa’s mendous efforts from the Barwa He said, “Barwa Real Estate cation, Package 1, which is the first completion of construction work without affecting the quality of the accounts and records, the integrity team to plan for the upcoming was able to face the challenges im- Public-private partnership (PPP). for the Second Phase of Al Khor projects and services provided. Im- of transaction licenses and the pro- years. We were able to support posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This investment guarantees rent- Workers Sports Complex in the proving the Group’s brand and rais- tection of the Group’s assets. It also Barwa real estate portfolio with Moreover, the majority of its finan- al income from the government first quarter of 2020, and the leas- ing the efficiency of the corporate ensures the disclosure of any risks new projects which generate sus- cial indicators were better than the for the Group over a period of 25 ing has started during the year. system by providing the best qual- that threaten the company’s posi- tainable returns for the sharehold- previous year. The financial state- years,” he said. The Group has continued the ity services at competitive prices, tion, as well as compliance with ers and achieve a balanced asset ments showed achieving net profits “Construction works have been development of its operational which satisfy the aspirations of cus- systems and regulations, in order portfolio. While focusing on the attributable to the shareholders of launched in each of the Madinatna real estate portfolio to include tomers, in addition to its on-going to set the record straight. social and human dimensions to the Group amounting to QR1.214 project, which is a residential city 8,148 residential units, 37,300 contribution towards national and “Barwa believes that the human which those projects contribute, billion and earnings per share of for families, as well as in the Bara- residential rooms for workers, social initiatives,” he said. factor is the key to the company’s and eventually supporting the val- QR0.31. The Group also succeeded hat Al Janoub project, which is 336,552 square meters for shops, Barwa has also expressed its success, through attracting and re- ues of quality, a sustainable living in achieving total recurring operat- a residential city for the working showrooms and offices, 445,779 keenness to adhere to governance, taining highly qualified employees. which is also able to cope with the ing income of QR1.637 billion, an class, and both projects are locat- square meters for workshops and systems, risk management and The Group has a strong company urban growth of the state,” he said. increase of 7 percent compared to ed within Al Wakra Municipality. warehouses, and 701 hotel rooms. internal control, as the company culture that is continuously being Romaihi said, “Barwa real es- the year 2019.” The total cost of developing the The average occupancy rate has ex- stresses the importance of pro- guided by Purpose and Values in tate projects are distinguished by “Moreover, general and admin- two projects exceeds the value of ceeded 90 percent in many of the moting and spreading a culture of every part of its business. We urge quality and integration, they cover istrative expenses were reduced by QR5 billion. The two projects will Group’s residential projects. integrity, transparency and credi- everyone to maximise their poten- the different regions inside Qatar, a value of QR24 million, equivalent increase operating revenues and As for the Group’s plans for bility in its commercial and admin- tials at Barwa and explore the op- reaching south to Abu Hamour, to 10 percent compared to 2019, enhance the sustainable growth the current year 2021, he said, “As istrative transactions by ensuring portunities that await them within Mesaimeer, Industrial Areas, Al- and financing costs decreased by of shareholder returns. They will the impact of the COVID-19 pan- the highest levels of full compli- the company,” he said. Wakra and Mesaieed, North to Lu- QR39 million, equivalent to 11 per- also enhance the levels of support demic continues to take its toll on ance with the Corporate Govern- “We value our people by provid- sail City and Al Khor City, and west cent compared to 2019. This is in for the partnership with the State the global economy during the year ance Code of Listed Companies, as ing them with our best support, pri- to Mukaynis and Dukhan. This addition to a 9 percent decrease in of Qatar, as the two projects will 2021, Barwa Real Estate is keen to regulated by the Qatar Financial oritising their health and safety and expansion outside the city of Doha the ratio of rental expenses to rent- be used during the year 2022 to work on various aspects during the Markets Authority. providing essential training and has always aimed to serve the ur- al income,” he said. meet the needs of the World Cup year, which the Group considers to Barwa Real Estate Group con- development programmes to them. ban development of Qatar and ad- During the fiscal year 2020, the events,” he said. be the pillars of its business. Those siders corporate governance one We have also invested in technolo- dress the real needs of the people; chairman said, the Group also suc- “The Group also started the aspects are increasing revenues of the main pillars that form the gies that allow employees to work eventually fulfilling the objectives ceeded in signing financing con- sales activities for the units of Dara through achieving a balanced mix guidelines of its operational and more flexibly and encourage diver- of Qatar National Vision 2030.” tracts worth QR3.4 billion, with the (A) project in Lusail City and deliv- of operational projects that meet administrative activities, and deal- sity and inclusion throughout the During the year 2021, he said, aim of refinancing existing credit ering them to their owners during the needs of the real estate market ings with all stakeholders. workplace,” he said. “We will continue to focus on our facilities in a manner that contrib- the year 2020, through our sub- in Qatar and lower the potential With this philosophy in mind, Barwa Real Estate is commit- developmental investments which utes to strengthening the Group’s sidiary Waseef Asset Management of risks linked to it. In addition to he said, the board by delegating ted to its social responsibility by were launched in the past year. We cash position during the coming company. This residential project working on master plans and fea- the authority to the executive man- developing many targeted long- view them to be the cornerstone of period. strengthens the Group’s cash po- sibility studies for many new pro- agement seeks to accelerate com- term initiatives, whether through our future journey and the com- He said that the decrease in sition, as well as achieves growth jects on the existing lands of the mercial operations, eliminate com- its residential communities devel- pass which leads our investment the consolidated net profit for the in revenue levels from real estate Group, as the Group owns a stock plications and ensure the highest oped specifically for workers, its plans, we are currently studying a year 2020 compared to the year sales,” he said. of land that reaches an area of 7.7 levels of operational efficiency. Safety and Security initiatives or number of promising investment 2019 resulted from a decrease in The Group completed the de- million square meters, 68 percent “This has a positive impact on through support which the Group opportunities, and moving ahead the profits of some items that are velopment and operation of the of which is inside Qatar, and the the company’s projects and serves offers as part of national events with our efforts to diversify our not recurring in nature, such as entire first and second phases, in remaining 32 percent is in other the interest of the shareholders. and celebrations. source of revenue.” 10 Tuesday, March 9, 2021 Economy & Business Yellen plays GameStop down inflation jumps again fears, pushes as retailer for relief bill eyes digital Agencies

shift Treasury Secretary Janet Agencies Yellen says fears that the ad- ministration’s $1.9 trillion re- GameStop took a step lief bill could trigger a rapid toward a more digital fu- rise in inflation are misplaced. ture Monday, naming an In an interview on MSNBC activist investor to lead on Monday, Yellen said the company efforts to push measure, which will provide more of its business on- $1,400 checks to millions of line. American along with other as- The stock, which has sistance, will provide needed become the focus of feder- relief and help the economy al regulators after online return to full employment by traders challenged more next year. institutional investors and Asked about concerns sent shares gyrating wild- by some economists that the ly, jumped 12% in early measure could rev up the econ- trading. omy too fast and trigger higher Ryan Cohen, the co- inflation, Yellen said, “I really founder of the online pet The ceremony was attended by Capt. Abdullah Al-Khanji, CEO of Mwani Qatar and Eng. Nabil AlKhaldi, Executive Director of Hamad Port Project. don’t think that is going to hap- supply company Chewy, pen. We had a 3.5% unemploy- will chair the company’s ment rate before the pandemic new Strategic Planning and there was no sign of infla- and Capital Allocation tion increasing.” Committee. The jobless rate in February Cohen took a huge Hamad Port Project awarded for of last year, before 24 million stake in GameStop before jobs were lost to the pandemic, the online frenzy over stood at a half-century low of company shares began in 3.5% with inflation running January. He has been seen well below the Fed’s 2% target. as an agent of change and role in economic diversification Yellen said inflation was someone who knows how “too low” during that period of to make a traditional busi- very low unemployment. ness more nimble through The Hamad Port Project aims to attract trade and industrialisation to diversify the economy in line with QNV 2030. She said if inflation does technology. become a problem “there are Cohen won a seat on Tribune News Network During the event held at CT2 is to ensure the sustain- tools to address that” and poli- GameStop’s board early Doha the Ministry, Nataly Almanza, able growth of local trade and cymakers will be monitoring this year about a month Country Director of The Busi- to improve the port’s competi- the situation closely and will be after the company re- In a ceremony attended by HE ness Year referred to the rea- We at The Business Year have been first-hand witnesses to tiveness by transforming it into prepared to act. vealed plummeting sales Jassim Saif Ahmed Al-Sulaiti, sons behind this recognition: the development of this project since our arrival in the a regional transshipment hub. The House is expected to in its third quarter. He Minister of Transport and “We at The Business Year have With a team of researchers give final passage to the relief has since lobbied to move Communications of the State been first-hand witnesses to country. 2021 will be the year in which Hamad Port on the ground, The Business bill this week and the admin- GameStop’s focus away of Qatar, The Business Year the development of this pro- becomes operational at full capacity; the delay caused by Year has witnessed closely the istration has said the president from store locations, and presented an award to recog- ject since our arrival in the 2020 has been minimum. transformation of Qatar into will sign the measure as soon toward a more online ex- nise Hamad Port as “Economic country. 2021 will be the year a more diverse and resilient as it reaches his desk. Expand- istence. DiversificationProject of the in which Hamad Port becomes Nataly Almanza, Country Director of The Business Year economy since the advent of ed unemployment benefits for Cohen’s arrival helped Year”. operational at full capacity; the Qatar National Vision 2030 Americans are scheduled to to spark a stock buying The ceremony was attend- delay caused by 2020 has been (SEZs) in Qatar that encour- Port have encouraged shipping and fully recognizes the im- run out on March 14 if no new frenzy in which smaller, ed by Capt. Abdullah Al-Khan- minimum. Container Ter- age entrepreneurship and help lines to call their mainline ser- portance of Hamad Port for legislation is passed. online investors chal- ji, CEO of Mwani Qatar and minal 2’s inauguration is the foster growth among small vices to Hamad Port directly. the realization of the country’s “This is a bill that will really lenged massive GameStop Eng. Nabil AlKhaldi, Executive big milestone of the year that and medium-sized enterpris- The Hamad Port is cur- lofty 2030 goals. With the im- provide Americans the relief short positions held by Director of Hamad Port Pro- we are all expecting to occur. es. Hamad Port Project has rently handling more than 24 pact of COVID-19 disrupting they need to get to the other hedge funds that believed ject. Phase II of Hamad Port will simply helped Qatar to suc- direct services of all the ma- international supply chains side of this pandemic,” Yellen the company was over- “Hamad Port’s strong be a great improvement and cessfully overcome the domi- jor global shipping lines every and the logistics sector, recov- said saying the scope of the valued and in for a rough capabilities, modern facili- the final stage of a 10-year trip, nance of natural resources and week. These direct mainline ery will be predicated on the measure would provide the re- ride. ties, and advanced systems but, at the same time, will only the shackles of geography. The services have opened various success of institutions such as sources needed to “fuel a really A share of GameStop are leading its position as the be the beginning.” impact of Hamad Port Project new trade routes and oppor- Hamad Port, which can guar- strong recovery.” that could be had for less gateway to Qatar and a trans- According to WTO, eco- also comes in the form of af- tunities to bolster the growth antee an efficient, technology- Yellen predicted the bill that $20 at the start of the shipment and a re-export hub nomic diversification happens fecting the day-to-day business of trade and industry in Qatar. enhanced, and safe exchange would allow the country to get year, rocketed north of in the region, increasing the when factors of production are operations and investment de- Hamad Port is instrumental in of supplies with the rest of the back to full employment by $480 by the end of Janu- volume of trade between Qatar moved within and across dif- cisions in Qatar by providing the efficient shipping of prod- world. next year, noting that the Con- ary. Trading for more than and the rest of the world. Last ferent sectors towards higher appropriate incentive frame- ucts that companies handle for This and other milestones gressional Budget Office had $150 on Monday, shares year, Hamad Port achieved a productivity uses, which is works, investment and policy clients. will be included in The Busi- estimated that without the re- are still up 720% this year. record container volume for directly linked to structural reforms aimed at slashing The commencing of CT2 ness Year: Qatar 2021, the lat- lief package, the country would GameStop, based in the fourth straight year in a transformation and trade di- trade costs, and effective poli- is another milestone added est annual publication on the not get back to full employ- Grapevine, Texas, also row with transshipment vol- versification. In the case of cies to support the reallocation to Hamad Port’s record of Gulf economy, which is yet to ment until 2024. said Monday that it has umes rising by 106%. The in- Hamad Port, this comes in the of some of Qatar’s resources achievements. The additional be published. The publication Yellen said once the the re- appointed a chief technol- crease in transshipment is an form of the efficient manage- towards new activities. This 624 meters of quayside with will include a wide range of lief measure is passed, the ad- ogy officer, hired execu- important sign of the port’s ment of goods and services was the key to achieving Qa- 380,000 sqm of storage fa- interviews with high-level cor- ministration will turn to win- tives to lead its customer role in the region. Multiple transportation, the focus on tar’s economic independence cilities, remote-controlled porate and public-sector fig- ning approval for a “Build Back care and e-commerce container terminals at Ham- export growth, FDI attraction and diversification. The Ham- quay cranes, and environmen- ures, as well as feature articles Better” bill that would boost functions, and begun the ad Port have been planned and on increasing the range of ad Port Project is being un- tally friendly RTGs and trac- and analysis on topics such as infrastructure spending and search for a new chief fi- to facilitate the expansion of goods and services exported. dertaken to attract trade and tors have boosted CT2’s huge private sector participation provide support for improving nancial officer with expe- container handling capacity, The Umm Al-Houl Special industrialization to diversify potential, modern facilities, through the new PPP scheme, education and job training op- rience in tech or e-com- commensurate with the grow- Economic Zone, situated close the economy in line with Qatar and advanced systems for in- digitalization of the economy, portunities as well as including merce. ing traffic of cargo demand,” to Hamad Port, is one of sev- National Vision 2030. The ser- creasing Qatar’s trade with and Qatar’s strong response to improved child care and paid stated the Minister. eral Special Economic Zones vices and facilities at Hamad the world. The development of COVID19. family leave provisions. MENA sees an accelerated shift towards digital entertainment due to COVID-19: PwC

Tribune News Network Middle East said: “This accel- their potential and ease of Doha erated shift in the entertain- entry, and navigate the con- Highlights ment and media landscape in tent production ecosystem, COVID-19 has had an ex- ● COVID-19 has favour of digital content is an and work with regulators to traordinary impact on enter- accelerated the shift in opportunity for media com- understand their obligations. tainment and media revenues panies in the region to rein- Telecom operators: Grow and patterns of consumption consumer behaviour, vent their relationship with their presence in the sec- in the Middle East and North requiring companies to their audience, transform the tor through acquisitions and Africa (MENA), just as it has change their business capabilities of their teams, partnerships with media across the world, says PwC models to capture the and reduce their reliance on companies. Middle East’s MENA Enter- growth in on-demand advertising expenditure in Government and regula- tainment & Media Outlook content markets where consumers tors: Deploy the right digital 2020-2024 report. are willing to pay for content. infrastructure to allow audi- The report describes the ● Entertainment and This is not an optional path ences to access new channels shift to digital entertainment media revenues in MENA for media companies in the and forms of content, support and paid content, the new are expected to increase region, but a strategic neces- innovation and the creation business models and infra- by 3% up to 2024 from sity that will determine their of local content, and ensure structure required to support 2019 levels future.” customer data is protected, this change, and what gov- According to the PwC markets are driven by healthy ernments and regulators can report, all stakeholders will competition, and that content do to support the evolution of 2024, exceeding the 2% rise cess, and content delivery video subscribers increased in 2020 than in 2019, com- have a major role to play in is appropriate and does not the industry. forecast globally. networks to enable content the amount of time they spent pared with an 11% increase the shift to digital forms of break with societal norms. The damage to physi- Fadi Komati, Technology streaming and new content watching. Subscription ser- globally. Digital audio – both media and entertainment: Moving forward, media cal media spending – from Consulting Partner at PwC consumption experiences at vices such as Netflix, Shahid streamed or downloaded mu- Regional media compa- and entertainment compa- cinema box office takings to Middle East, said: “COVID-19 home and on the go. (owned by MBC) and Dubai- sic and podcasts - has been nies: Develop and evolve digi- nies, both local and inter- concerts, corporate events and its after- effects have Additionally, the advent based Starzplay Arabia have another beneficiaryof cap- tal business models, and lev- national, need to transform and newspaper and magazine pulled the future forward, as of newer 5G technologies has added more local content as tive lockdown audiences. In erage the opportunity to build their business models to keep advertising – means revenues consumers in the region take provided opportunities to en- unique user numbers and 2020, Anghami reported a direct-to consumer relation- pace with new audience ex- in the region are expected to more control of their own hance government transpar- hours spent watching both 25% increase in music listen- ships; identify and develop pectations and to consider fall by 8.3% to $19.7bn. How- media ency and enabled new and increased between 2019 and ers, compared with 2019. the digital competencies they developing an optimal mix ever, spending is estimated to consumption, faced with more inclusive ways of engag- 2020. As a result, digital revenue need, and assess the optimal of ad-funded and consumer- gradually recover to 2019 lev- an ever-expanding range of ing with the public.” Online gaming has also is expected to make up 46% ways to scale these through paid revenues. Keeping up el based on a successful COV- channels and content. This The pandemic has ac- enjoyed tremendous popular- of total entertainment and acquisitions or partnerships; with the changing media ID-19 vaccine being widely would not have been possible celerated the adoption of ity in the region, where peo- media revenue in MENA in and differentiate themselves landscape also requires gov- available in the region, and to without the accelerated adop- streamed video content (OTT ple aged 24 and under make 2024, up from 37% in 2019. through local content and ernment and regulatory sup- continue to grow from 2022 tion of 5G technology in some video) and music in the region up close to half the popula- Karim Sarkis, Partner insights that require strong port to expand the necessary onwards. Overall, entertain- markets, which has enabled and boosted the popularity of tion, and lockdowns have with Strategy&, part of the competencies in consumer digital infrastructure, and to ment and media revenues are governments to expand online gaming even further. given the industry a further PwC network, and the leader data and analytics. ensure regulation protects expected to increase by 3% in digital infrastructure such In fact, when national lock- boost. Gamers in MENA have of the firm’s Media and En- Multinational media com- consumers without stifling the region between 2019 and as high-speed broadband ac- downs began, 50% of OTT spent 24% more time playing tertainment sector in the panies: Prioritise markets by innovation. Economy & Business Tuesday, March 9, 2021 11 Qatar winners of Huawei Middle East ICT Competition receive awards

Tribune News Networks This year’s winning teams gap, and how the country highlighted the important Doha were chosen from 15 finalists can leverage ICT education role of collaboration between in Qatar, who competed fol- to empower women. Partici- government bodies, academia The Qatar winners of the lowing the preliminary round pants in the seminar included entities, and private compa- 2020 Huawei Middle East ICT involving more than 155 com- Dr. Khaled Al Abdel Qader, nies to support the education Competition, held in partner- petition entries from eight Vice President at Commu- initiatives such as Huawei’s ship with the Ministry of Edu- universities. nity College of Qatar (CCQ), ICT competition, a great op- cation and Higher Education, Congratulating the win- who praised Qatar’s efforts portunity for the students to were awarded recently. ners, Frank Fan, CEO Huawei in developing educational expose themselves to the lat- The annual competition Technologies LLC Qatar said, programs and training work- est ICT technologies that can welcomes thousands of col- “Our congratulations go out shops, and establishing alli- build their innovative and lege and university students to the winning national teams ances with major companies. leadership skills in the ICT from Qatar and the wider as well as everyone who par- He also touched on CCQ’s sector. Middle East, enhancing stu- ticipated in this year’s com- contribution to enhance na- Huawei is committed to dents’ future employment petition. Such robust partici- tional capabilities by empow- growing the global ICT tal- prospects through knowledge pation has demonstrated the ering women in the fields of ent ecosystem by investing in sharing on the latest ICT de- immense capacity for Qatar’s technology and providing youth and providing develop- velopments. youth to combine innovation qualified IT cadres who are ment and training opportu- Due to social distancing and creativity in using digital able to support the digital nities that will enable them rules, this year’s Huawei Mid- solutions. Building local ICT transformation programs in to become leaders in the ICT dle East ICT Competition saw talent is an investment in the the country. field. By openly collaborating students participating virtual- future of the country itself, Also, Dr. Mounir Hamdi, with public and academia en- ly in the annual competition. and will ultimately equip Qa- Dean of the College of Sci- tities, such as ICT academies All registered students took tar to better pursue digital in this essential sector. We are Embassy of the People’s Re- Huawei in Qatar has been ac- ence and Engineering at and AI & 5G labs in Qatar part in a Preliminary Compe- transformation, their national proud to have supported this public of China in the State of tively fulfilling its corporate Hamad Bin Khalifa Univer- University, Community Col- tition and Training Enable- development plans, and ambi- initiative once again, as we Qatar said: “I am delighted to social responsibility through sity (HBKU), Dr. Abdulla lege of Qatar, and Hamad ment, followed by a National tious visions.” believe in the value of nurtur- see that Huawei is committed talent enabling and attract- Khaled Al Ali, Head of Com- Bin Khalifa University, Hua- Exam that was held online in Dr. Khalid Al-Ali, the Act- ing young talent who will rep- to building a healthy and dy- ing more than 500 gifted uni- puter Science and Engineer- wei Qatar seeks to enhance the country. The winners of ing Assistant Undersecretary resent a connected future for namic ICT talent ecosystem in versity and college students ing Department at Qatar Uni- knowledge transfer, promote this year’s competition were for Higher Education Affairs our country thus contributing Qatar that aims to bridge the in Qatar to participate in the versity (QU), and Dr. Salah Al a greater understanding of Maria Rauf Mahsood and at Ministry of Education and to our national vision for digi- digital gap, develop young lo- programs.” Sharhan Dean School of Busi- and interest in the technology Khamarunnisa Pazhayakath higher Education, said: “The tal transformation and socio- cal ICT talent and ultimately During the event, a semi- ness and Information Tech- sector, and encourage local from Qatar University, and Huawei Middle East ICT economic development.” enable more people to benefit nar was held to discuss the nology at College of North participation in the growth Zainab Ameema from Texas Competition is an exceptional Yang Song, Economic and from the digital transforma- challenges and solutions in Atlantic Qatar (CNAQ) par- of the digital community and A&M University - Qatar. platform to foster an interest Commercial Counsellor at tion. Over the past few years, bridging Qatar’s ICT talent ticipated in the seminar and economy of the country.

Apollo Global to buy insurance affiliate S&P 500, Dow advance as Athene for $11 bn stimulus bill gets Senate nod Agencies

Apollo Global Manage- Prospects of more ment Inc said on Monday government it will merge with Athene Holding Ltd in an $11 bil- Lucrative fees spending and faster lion all-stock deal, bringing economic growth in-house an annuities pro- Apollo has been getting vider that helped turned it paid lucrative fees by have stoked fears of into one of the world’s larg- Athene, in which it currently est corporate credit inves- holds a 27% stake, for a spike in inflation tors. more than a decade, Apollo has been get- providing asset allocation ting paid lucrative fees by services and directly Agencies Athene, in which it cur- managing a portion of rently holds a 27% stake, Athene’s assets across its The S&P 500 and the Dow for more than a decade, investment platform, climbed on Monday, led by providing asset allocation primarily in its ever-expand- stocks poised to benefit the services and directly man- most from an economic re- aging a portion of Athene’s ing credit business. bound as the U.S. Senate assets across its investment passed the $1.9 trillion COV- platform, primarily in its ing a premium of about ID-19 relief aid, while heavy- ever-expanding credit busi- 16.5% to Athene’s closing weight tech-related stocks ness. share price on Friday. swung between gains and Yet Athene’s shares The company’s shares losses. underperformed the in- were up nearly 19% in pre- President Joe Biden said surance sector following market trade, while Apollo he hoped for a quick passage its stock market debut in was up 4.7%. of the revised coronavirus re- Most tech-related stocks, including Apple Inc, Microsoft Corp, Tesla Inc and Amazon.com Inc resumed a slide from the past three weeks on 2016, prompting a bid from Existing Apollo share- lief package by the House of fears of higher interest rates, after the recent run-up in U.S. bond yields. Apollo for its assets. holders will own about 76% Representatives so he could Apollo said it estimated of the combined company, sign it and send $1,400 direct rose 419.45 points, or 1.33%, the tax-free combination and Athene investors will payments to Americans. Asian shares mostly lower in choppy trade to 31,917.43, the S&P 500 could result in its earnings own the rest. The deal is Prospects of more gov- gained 18.75 points, or 0.49%, in 2021 more than dou- expected to be completed ernment spending and faster Asian Stocks ended mostly lower in choppy trade on Monday as rising bond yields globally on to 3,860.69, and the Nasdaq bling year-on-year. in January 2022. economic growth have stoked the back of encouraging economic data and US stimulus cheer sparked fears that central Composite lost 80.27 points, “We will have total Apollo also said that the fears of a spike in inflation, banks would tighten policy. Chinese shares led regional losses after the country’s foreign or 0.63%, to 12,838.36. alignment to optimize our conflicts committee of its sending the benchmark 10- minister made ominous comments about the self-ruled island of Taiwan. The benchmark Banks added about 0.8% strategy and allocate capi- board has approved chang- year Treasury yield to near Shanghai Composite index fell 80.57 points, or 2.30 per cent, to 3,421.41 while Hong Kong’s as the yield on the benchmark tal efficiently,” said Marc es that would result in a one-year highs. 10-year note stood near a Rowan, Apollo’s incoming simpler, more transparent U.S. Treasury Secretary Hang Seng index ended down 557.46 points, or 1.92 per cent, to 28,540.83. Investors 13-month high, while airlines chief executive, who helped corporate structure that is Janet Yellen, however, said ignored official data showing that China’s export growth jumped to the highest in over two jumped about 5%. set up Athene in 2009. expected to be put in place the package would fuel a “very decades. Japanese shares fell for a third consecutive session on concerns that the passage Wall Street’s fear gauge Rowan, who co-found- by January 2022. strong” U.S. recovery and she of a fresh US coronavirus relief package could cause inflation to soar. The Nikkei average slid hovered near 25 points. ed Apollo 31 years ago, has The private equity firm did not expect the economy to 121.07 points, or 0.42 per cent, to 28,743.25 while the broader Topix index closed Walt Disney Co jumped been tasked with running said last month it would run too hot because of the in- 0.14-per-cent lower at 1,893.58. Heavyweights Fast Retailing and SoftBank fell 1.7 per cent about 4.5% as California the New York-based firm look into changing its cor- creased spending. and 2.4 per cent, respectively, while chip testing equipment maker Advantest lost 3.4 per health officials set new rules after board Chairman Leon porate governance struc- The Dow was less than 100 cent. Takeda Pharmaceutical surged 3.9 per cent after the drug maker said it had sought that would allow Disneyland Black said in January he ture, getting rid of shares points below its record clos- approval for the use of Moderna’s Covid-19 vaccine. I n economic news, the value of overall and other theme parks, stadi- would step down as chief with special voting rights ing high. The materials sector bank lending in Japan was up 6.2 per cent year-on-year in February, while the country’s current ums and outdoor entertain- executive by July, following that currently give Black neared an all-time peak, while account surplus fell an annual 2.3 per cent in January, separate reports showed. ment venues to reopen as early an independent review of and other co-founders ef- industrials and financials hit as April 1. his ties to the late financier fective control of the firm. record levels. Only the tech- GameStop Corp surged and convicted sex offender Founded in 2009, nology sector was in the red. thony Denier, chief executive the recent run-up in U.S. bond The Russell 1000 growth about 30% after the company Jeffrey Epstein. Athene also serves as Apol- “This is an ideal traders’ officer of trading platform We- yields. index that includes technology said it had tapped shareholder Under the terms of the lo’s partner insurance com- market with certain sectors bull. Tech stocks are particu- stocks dropped about 0.4%, Ryan Cohen to lead a transi- deal, each outstanding pany and had total assets and individual stocks per- Most tech-related stocks, larly sensitive to rising yields underperforming a 1.3% rise tion to an e-commerce busi- class A common share of worth $202.8 billion at the forming better than the wider including Apple Inc, Microsoft because their value rests heav- for its counterpart value index, ness. Athene will be exchanged end of 2020, with opera- market, as investors pick and Corp, Tesla Inc and Amazon. ily on earnings in the future, that consists of cyclical stocks Advancing issues outnum- for 1.149 shares of Apollo tions in the United States, choose individual stocks that com Inc resumed a slide from which are discounted more such as financials and energy. bered decliners for a 1.9-to-1 common stock, represent- Bermuda, and Canada. will perform better as the the past three weeks on fears deeply when bond returns go At 11:47 a.m. ET the Dow ratio on the NYSE and a 1.5- economy reopens,” said An- of higher interest rates, after up. Jones Industrial Average to-1 ratio on the Nasdaq. Wary Japan firms looking out for signs of risk in Myanmar chaos

Agencies people. An extended period More than 400 Japanese Japan Bank for International emergency and detained State foreign and economic policies “Political instability will of chaos may prompt Japa- companies have entered My- Cooperation. Counsellor Aung San Suu of the NLD-led government. be a negative for businesses. Sparked by a coup a month nese firms to hold off on new anmar, a key link between Investment from Japan Kyi, President Win Myint and “The military would not There could be companies ago, the recent turmoil in My- investments and review their India and Southeast Asia, stood at $768 million, or other members of the ruling have imagined that interna- scaling back operations, end- anmar has many Japanese business strategies, experts triggered by the county’s shift roughly 14 percent of total for- National League for Democ- tional criticism would increase ing joint partnerships (with companies on the alert for any say. from military rule in 2011. eign investment between 2019 racy. The coup followed the like this. There are no guar- Myanmar firms) and new in- signs of change in prospects “We can say the coup is Before the coronavirus and 2020, and more than the NLD’s landslide victory in the antees that they can rule the vestments would disappear,” for what they see as a promis- against democracy, but as one pandemic and current tur- $553 million that came from November general election, an country in a stable way with Nemoto said. ing market. company what we can do for moil, the economy grew 6.8 China, according to the Direc- outcome disputed by the mili- public sentiment against the For now, the impact from The Myanmar military’s now is to keep close tabs (on percent in 2019, ranking 10th torate of Investment and Com- tary as fraudulent. As interna- military growing,” said Kei the political unrest remains seizing of power on Feb 1 and what comes next),” an official as a market with growth po- pany Administration, a gov- tional concerns grew over the Nemoto, a professor special- modest even as manufacturers subsequent protests have cast at a Japanese company that tential over the next three ernment agency in Myanmar. turn of events, commander- izing in the modern history of such as Suzuki Motor Corp. a shadow over the Southeast does business in Myanmar years in a 2020 survey on Jap- The Myanmar military in-chief Senior Gen. Min Aung Burma (Myanmar) at Sophia had to halt production tempo- Asian nation of 54 million said. anese manufacturers by the declared a yearlong state of Hlaing pledged to carry on the University. rarily when the coup occurred. QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Teenaged Swedes make it to main draw of 4-star Katara Beach Volleyball Cup TUESday, MARCH 9, 2021 page 14 Bautista Agut withstands barrage of aces to overpower Opelka Karatsev sweeps Dominic Thiem. into 2nd round I still really to meet Thiem Agencies love to watch Doha Federer play, Roberto Bautista Agut won the Doha title in 2019, and says Thiem the World No. 13 showed a champion’s mettle on Mon- Tribune News Network day evening at the Khalifa In- Doha ternational Tennis & Squash Complex. World No. 4 Dominic Thiem The fifth seed rallied past is looking forward to welcom- American Reilly Opelka 4-6, ing Roger Federer back to the 6-3, 6-4 in two hours and four ATP Tour this week at the Qa- minutes to reach the second tar ExxonMobil Open. round of the Qatar ExxonMo- “We are rivals, and of course bil Open 2021. we want to beat each other in the The Spaniard withstood 22 tournament, (but) I still really aces to take a 2-1 ATP Head- love to watch him play tennis,” 2Head series lead against the said Thiem, who is the top seed big-serving 23-year-old. in Doha. “(He) looks so nice, “I feel very good on this the way he plays, the way he ap- court. I have a lot of good proaches the game of tennis. memories from 2019. I’m just “On the one hand, I’m happy to be here again in Qa- also a big fan of his still, and tar and more happy because that’s why I really love that I played a really good match he’s back and that I can watch and I beat a really, really good him again. That’s what pretty opponent,” Bautista Agut said much everybody is thinking, in an on-court interview. “I’m Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut lets off a cry after defeating American Reilly Opelka in the opening round of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2021 at the Khalifa International tennis & and I hope that he’s coming really happy that I won today, Squash Complex on Monday. Bautista Agut won 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. back strong, as well.” now I want to recover well for The Austrian headlines the next match.” the ATP 250 field in Doha. Bautista Agut’s ninth and Order of Play Tuesday Federer, who is competing for most recent ATP Tour title CENTRE COURT start 2:30pm D. Lajovic (SRB) vs M. Fucsovics (HUN) the first time in more than 13 came in Doha two years ago. J. Chardy (FRA) vs D. Evans (GBR) M. Arevalo (ESA) / M. Middelkoop (NED) months after two right knee The 32-year-old will next [LL] N. Gombos (SVK) vs [WC] M. Jaziri vs [2] N. Mektic (CRO) / M. Pavic (CRO) surgeries, and last week’s ABN play Kazakhstani wild card Al- (TUN) COURT B start Not Before 3:30pm AMRO World Tennis Tour- exander Bublik, who knocked N. Basilashvili (GEO) / A. Bublik (KAZ) nament champion Andrey out Indian qualifier Ramku- Not Before 6pm vs F. Nielsen (DEN) / T. Puetz (GER) Rublev also feature. mar Ramanathan 6-4, 6-2 in [Q] L. Harris (RSA) vs [7] S. Wawrinka (SUI) Not Before 5pm Thiem is competing for the 73 minutes. [6] D. Goffin (BEL) vs F. Krajinovic (SRB) K. Krawietz (GER) / R. Opelka (USA) vs [4] first time since a fourth-round Bublik has already M. Melo (BRA) / J. Rojer (NED) exit to Grigor Dimitrov at the reached two ATP Tour finals COURT A start 2:30pm A. Karatsev (RUS) / A. Rublev (RUS) vs L. Australian Open on 14 Febru- this year at the Antalya Open [Q] C. O’Connell (AUS) vs V. Pospisil (CAN) Sonego (ITA) / A. Vavassori (ITA) ary. The 27-year-old will play (lost to De Minaur) and the J. Millman (AUS) / D. Vega Hernandez COURT 1 start Not Before 5pm Russia’s Aslan Karatsev in the Singapore Tennis Open (lost (ESP) vs [WC] B. Rola (SLO) / M. Zayed After Suitable Rest - J. Chardy (FRA) / F. Doha second round. to Popyrin). (QAT) Martin (FRA) vs J. Erlich (ISR) / A. Vasilevski “The (Doha) draw is un- Aslan Karatsev returned Not Before 5pm (BLR) believably strong, so (you) to his winning ways at the never know what’s (going to) Khalifa International Tennis & Ramkumar Ramanathan (IND) happen, but I just try to have Squash Complex in Doha. tralia 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 in one 6-4, 6-2 a good start and to be there on Two months on from win- hour and 52 minutes. Taylor Fritz (USA) bt Lorenzo a good level from the very first ning three matches at the Basilashvili will next face Sonego (ITA) 7-6 (50, 6-4 point,” said Thiem, the 2018 venue to qualify for the Aus- wild card Malek Jaziri of Tu- Richard Gasquet (FRA) (Q)- Doha semi-finalist. tralian Open in Melbourne, nisia or Slovakian lucky loser Blaz Rola (SLO) 6-4, 6-4 “It’s going to be my first where he reached the semi- Norbert Gombos. (WC)-Aslan Karatsev (RUS) bt tournament and (my) first finals (lost to Djokovic), the Russian Aslan Karatsev returned to his winning ways at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex Gombos replaced Borna (WC)- Mubarak Shannan Zayid match (in almost) a month, Russian swept past fellow on Monday sweeping past fellow wild card Mubarak Shannan Zayid 6-4, 6-0. Coric, who pulled out due to a (QAT) 6-4, 6-0. since (a) pretty devastating wild card Mubarak Shannan shoulder injury. (atptour.com) loss at the Australian Open… I Zayid 6-4, 6-0 in 65 minutes. to Dimitrov. great memories playing here. best to win.” Doubles needed some time to digest eve- Karatsev won 24 of 27 first- Richard Gasquet, the 2013 It’s one of the best tourna- Earlier, American Taylor Results Round of 16 rything, to analyse everything service points and now plays champion, eased past qualifier ments in the world, so of Fritz took a 2-1 lead in his ATP Round Of 32 (1)- Juan Sebastian Cabal & (and) to settle down a little bit. top-seeded Austrian Dominic Blaz Rola 6-4, 6-4 for his first course it’s great for me to Head2Head series with Lor- 5-Roberto Bautista Agut Robert Farah (COL) bt (WC)- “Now it’s time to focus on Thiem in the second round at victory of the season. come back and I hope to play enzo Sonego by beating the (ESP) beat Reilly Opelka (USA) Malek Jaziri (TUN) & Mubarak new things. The tournament the ATP 250 event. The Frenchman will next good,” Gasquet said in an on- Italian 7-6(5), 6-4. 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 Shannan Zayid (QAT) 6-3, 6-2 in Doha is the first chance to Thiem is competing in play red-hot Russian Andrey court interview. Elsewhere, Georgia’s Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) bt Marcus Daniell (NZ) & Philipp play better again, to get good his first tournament since a Rublev. “I know the next oppo- Nikoloz Basilashvili snapped John Millman (AUS) 2-6, 6-4, Oswald (AUS) bt (3)-Ivan Dodig results, to get confidence and fourth-round exit at the Aus- “Of course it’s great for nent will be tough, but I have a five-match losing streak by 6-2 (CRO) & Filip Polasek (SLO) to forget (a) pretty tough start tralian Open where he had lost me to come here... I have nothing to lose and I’ll try my beating John Millman of Aus- Alexander Bublik (KAZ) bt (Q)- 6-3, 6-7 (2), 11-9. of the season.” (atptour.com) Ooredoo announces Silver Sponsorship Djokovic eclipses Federer’s all-time for Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2021 Tribune News Network off on Monday at the Khalifa In- ner Roger Federer has con- record for most weeks as world No. 1 Doha, Qatar ternational Tennis and Squash firmed he will challenge for Complex in Doha, and is ongo- the trophy this year, joined by DPA/ATP my childhood dream is a beautiful confir- Ooredoo has announced it ing until 13 March 2021. two-time Grand Slam winner Berlin mation that when you do things out of love is to reprise its role as Silver The event attracts a large stan Wawrinka and Dominic and passion, everything is possible.” Sponsor of the Qatar Exx- number of the world’s top Thiem, the 2020 Australian Novak Djokovic made history after break- ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi said: onMobil Open at this year’s players, who are keen to use Open finalist. ing Roger Federer’s record for most weeks “Novak’s many achievements in tennis are event. the opportunity to warm up Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, as world number one on the ATP Tour. nothing short of extraordinary. Among The Qatar ExxonMobil for Grand Slam events later in Director PR at Ooredoo, said: Djokovic surpassed Federer after begin- them this record may stand as his single Open 2021, the 29th edition of the year. “We’re delighted to have our ning his 311th week as the number one most impressive. Reaching No. 1 is some- the ATP 250 tournament, kicked Multiple Grand Slam win- name linked with the ATP player in the men’s rankings on Monday. thing many players dream of and very few Tour again in 2021 at this Serbian star Djokovic reclaimed the ever accomplish, and to have held the top prestigious event. top ranking from fellow superstar Rafael make his long-awaited ATP comeback in spot for longer than anyone is testament Supporting events that Nadal in February 2020 and finished as Qatar this week - and Nadal. to the levels of sustained excellence that promote a healthy, active life- year-ending number one for the sixth Nadal remains second, though he is Novak has redefined in our sport.” style is a key focus for us at time - tying the mark set by Pete Sampras. set to be leapfrogged by Australian Open Djokovic, who captured his 9th Aus- Ooredoo, as is helping to bring Djokovic, who first topped the men’s runner-up Daniil Medvedev in the next tralian Open trophy and 18th Grand Slam as many high-profile interna- rankings in July 2011, went on to cele- rankings release on March 15. title last month, also holds a record 36 tional sporting events to Qatar brate a record-extending ninth Australian Russian Medvedev will be the first ATP Masters 1000 trophies and first at- as possible. Open title at Melbourne Park in February. player, other than Djokovic, Nadal, Federer tained the No. 1 ranking on 4 July 2011. We look forward to wel- With Federer turning 40 in August and Andy Murray, ranked in the top two He has since held the top spot in the rank- coming some of the world’s and Nadal a year older, the 33-year-old since July 2005. “It really excites me to ings across five different stints for a record greatest tennis stars to Doha, Djokovic has time on his side in pursuit of walk the path of legends and giants of this 311 weeks, one week longer than Federer, and to seeing some awesome more history. Djokovic has won 18 Grand sport,” said Djokovic. “To know that I have who broke Pete Sampras’ record of 286 tennis!” Slams, two adrift of Federer - who is set to earned my place among them by following weeks at No. 1 on 16 July 2012. Sports Tuesday, March 9, 2021 13 Qatar Olympic Committee marks International Women’s Day with inspiring video series Tribune News Network Doha

The Qatar Olympic Com- mittee on Monday marked Women have, and continue to play, a central International Women’s Day with the launch of a week-long role in the development of sport and society campaign dedicated to cham- in Qatar. It is important that we champion pioning women in sport in Qa- the role they play and promote their stories tar and sharing their inspiring stories and experiences. to inspire others. The QOC is committed to The video series, which ensuring equal opportunities for women and will be broadcast on Al Kass channels and on the QOC’s so- men and to promoting greater women’s cial media channels, will fea- participation in sport. Women in Qatari sport ture influential women from Qatar. It is important that we Al Bader and will run every day have achieved at many levels in recent the world of sport including: champion the role they play with a different personality un- Hannah Al Bader, Team Qa- and promote their stories to til Monday 15th of March. decades. Continuing development, starting tar Handball player; Reem inspire others. While great Hannah Albadr: (West with grassroots all the way up to elite, is an Al Sharshani; Team Qatar’s progress has been made, we Asian handball gold medal, Skeet Shooter; Maryam Al must always be looking to do several GCC gold medals, important factor that will ensure a bright Thani, Qatar Museum’s Cura- more and analyse where we 2014 YOG young ambassa- future for all women athletes in Qatar. tor, a mountain climber, and can improve. dor), said, “Women’s sport in a triathlon athlete; Al Anood “The QOC is committed Qatar has come a long way in HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, Al misnad, Head of Events at to ensuring equal opportuni- recent decades. The develop- President, Qatar Olympic Committee Aspire Logistics; Fatima Al ties for women and men and ment of world class facilities Ghanim Director of Market- to promoting greater women’s and the plethora of top inter- ing and Communications at participation in sport. Women national events taking place in ally you will be rewarded.” at Aspire logistics. I would like the norms. I invite all women in added “ Sports made me curi- Doha Film Institute, and Fa- in Qatari sport have achieved the country, has opened a lot The Head of Events at As- to encourage all women in the Qatar to step out of their com- ous about challenging myself tima Al Naimi, Communica- at many levels in recent dec- of opportunities for me and pire Logistics, Al Anood Al Mis- sport sector to believe in your- fort zone and challenge them- and to follow my passion spe- tions Director at the Supreme ades. Continuing develop- my fellow women athletes to nad added on her behalf “I grew self, be confident, and maxi- selves in a new activity. If you cially in Triathlon and moun- Committee of Delivery and ment, starting with grassroots thrive and progress. My mes- up in a sporting family and I mize all the opportunities that put your mind on what your tain climbing. Legacy 2022. all the way up to elite, is an im- sage to all women participat- had the chance to participate are provided to you. love and dedicate your energy “On women’s day I encour- QOC President HE Sheikh portant factor that will ensure ing in sport is to continue what in multiple sports like foot- Team Qatar Skeet Shooter, towards it you will pave the age all the women in Qatar to Joaan Al Thani, said: “Women a bright future for all women you’re doing, keep putting in ball, volleyball, and padel. My Reem Al Sharshani said: “As path for the future generations” follow your dreams and get in have, and continue to play, a athletes in Qatar” the effort, and keep being op- passion for sport pushed me a shooter competing in a male Mariam Al Thani, who is touch with like-minded people central role in the develop- The series began today timistic. As long as you’re put- to pursue a career in sport ad- dominant sport, I knew that I a curator of photography and who want to push themselves ment of sport and society in with an interview with Hannah ting in the hard work eventu- ministration as head of events had to be fierce and challenge exhibitions at Qatar Museum and conquer goals”

Supreme Committee’s social media platforms deliver FIFA 2022 Euro Qualifiers exponential growth as Qatar 2022 edges closer Hungary to host Qatari national football team’s first three matches

QNA It was also agreed that Ire- Doha lands third match would be in the same stadium and that Qa- The Qatar Football Associa- tar would be the host. tion has selected Nagyerdei The European Football Stadion in the Hungarian city Association (UEFA) invited of Debrecen as alternative to QFA to participate in the first Generali Arena Stadium to be European qualifiers for the the venue for the first three FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 , matches involving Qatar this in a move that reflects Dohas Fatma Al Nuaimi: Executive Director, Communications, Supreme month in the European Quali- position on the international Committee for Delivery & Legacy. fiers for the 2022 FIFA World sporting scene. Cup which will be held this It is to be mentioned that nticipation is build- engagement on dedicated Ara- month. the Qatari national team will ing across the globe as bic and English platforms. The The change came due Qatar will start its European AQatar ramps up prepara- SC’s Chinese channels have also to the strict procedures for campaign against Luxem- tions for the first FIFA World grown massively over the past movement between Euro- bourg on March. 24, the sec- Cup™ in the Middle East and year, with the total followers pean countries because of the ond meeting will bring it and Arab world. currently in excess of 1.3 mil- COVID-19 pandemic, which the Azerbaijani national team Qatar will host the 22nd lion. necessitated the national team on March.27, and concludes edition of football’s premier Fatma Al Nuaimi, the SC’s to make changes to the venues the first round matches by international tournament in Communications Executive after an agreement with UEFA meeting his Irish counterpart under two years’ time. Eight Director, is proud of the expo- pose and long-term resource and their member federations. in March. 30, 2021. stadiums will host 64 matches nential growth the channels to cater for it.” over 28 days, with more than have delivered in recent years. The SC also works with so- a million fans expected to de- Across all channels, the SC now cial media influencers across scend on Qatar from all corners has more than 4.5 million fans. the globe in order to reach as of the globe. The final will take “Our objective is to engage many people as possible. India’s Manika books clash place at Lusail Stadium on 18 with as many football fans as “We have a growing selec- December 2022 – Qatar’s Na- possible in the lead-up to 2022 tion of local, regional and global tional Day. It promises to be an – and that is why we are cur- influencers, who help us to tell against Japan’s Ito unmissable event. rently operating platforms in our story and show off Qatar in The World Cup is more four languages. We are always an authentic way to their en- Tribune News Network than a decade in the making, keen to use social media to gaged audiences,” said Al Nu- Doha following Qatar’s successful showcase all our communica- aimi. “We know that however bid in 2010 – and excitement tion activities,” said Al Nuami. big our channels grow, the ex- India’s Manika Batra entered is already reaching fever pitch “We know that everything panded social universe of part- the Round of 32 at the World levels across the region. And we post on our fan-facing chan- ner channels will always be even Table Tennis Star Contender while football fans look forward nels needs to drive interest and bigger, so digital collaboration tournament on Monday with a to cheering on their heroes in excitement in the tournament. is the key to success.” 3-0 win over Chinese Taipei’s Qatar, the Supreme Commit- Our amazing stadiums, human As the tournament ap- Hsien-Tzu Cheng. tee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) interest stories, behind-the- proaches, Al Nuaimi is acutely At the Losail Sports Are- has been telling the story of the scenes content and fan experi- aware that every World Cup na, Batra beat Cheng 11-5, 11- host country’s journey. From ences all help to showcase what fosters innovation in how fans 9, 11-9. The world No. 63, who the state-of-the-art stadiums, visitors can expect when they engage with the games. During had faltered in the qualifying major infrastructure projects, arrive in Qatar in 2022. the early years of the tourna- stages of the WTT Contender tourist attractions and legacy “It is also imperative we ment, radio and TV allowed last week, will take on Japa- programmes, the SC’s social answer the key questions millions of fans direct access nese world No.3 Mima Ito media channels offer a behind- that fans have – in relation to to the matches, while in recent today. Ito, the top-seed, had the-scenes glimpse of prepara- things like local culture, Qatari years the social media boom has won the singles title at the Egypt’s Dina Meshref in action tions while looking forward to cuisine, safety and security, generated huge engagement WTT Contender. during the World Table Tennis what fans can expect from Qa- accommodation, affordability across the globe. Other Indian paddlers too Star Contender tournament at the tar in 2022. and many others.” “Thanks to social media, won their matches. Losail Sports Arena on Monday. The SC has launched a In addition to fan-facing the World Cup has touched Sathiyan Gnanasekaran range of social media platforms channels, the SC also prioritises the lives of more and more came back from two games Choi to move into the next in recent years and is currently communicating with the media The SC now has more than 4.5 million fans on its social media platforms. people in recent years – and down to beat Frenchman Em- round. Chinese Taipei’s Kim prominent on Facebook, Twit- and stakeholders thanks to ded- we have no doubt that trend manuel Lebesson 9-11, 7-11, Ha-young, ranked No. 122 in ter, Instagram, LinkedIn and icated accounts on LinkedIn, about our legacy programmes, jor organisations in Qatar to use will continue during Qatar 11-7, 11-4, 11-4. the world, defeated Hungary’s YouTube. It is also one of the Twitter and Instagram. such as Generation Amazing, TikTok. We’ve also been an ear- 2022,” said Al Nuaimi. “The The World No. 37 Sathiyan 66th-ranked Dora Madarasz first major Qatariorganisations “Our local audiences, in- Challenge 22 and the Josoor ly adapter of Kuaishao, a short- established social media will face world No. 5 Japanese 11-6, 4-11, 11-6, 12-10. to have a presence on TikTok, cluding the media and strategic Institute, which have already form video platform which is channels will continue to play prodigy Harimoto Tomokazu In the men’s singles, along with dedicated Chinese stakeholders, are incredibly im- positively touched the lives of popular in China. We also uti- a huge role in showcasing this in the Round of 32. Egypt’s, Ahmed Ali Saleh, platforms, including Weibo, portant, so we created channels millions of people around the lise new features on existing massive event to huge num- Later in the day, Achanta ranked number 50 in the Douyin, Kuaishao and Toutiao. to tell the stories which matter world. As an organisation, we platforms, such as Instagram bers of people – but there is Sharath Kamal also came back world, beat Japanese Yukiya Both fan-facing and corporate most to them,” said Al Nuaimi. know that the benefits of Qatar Reels and Twitter Fleets. always the possibility that from a game down to beat Oda 12-10, 8-11, 11-6, 8-11 to channels tell the inside story of “These channels also help us to 2022 will be felt for years to “With social media, we a new platform could come Puerto Rico’s Brian Afanador set up a clash against Ger- Qatar 2022 to global audiences, explain to local people the in- come – not just in our coun- constantly need to keep our along and dominate the atten- 8-11, 11-8, 11-7, 11-1 and will many’s Dimitrij Ovtcharov, with platforms dedicated to credible amount of work which try but across the region and finger on the pulse. Innovation tion of fans by the time 2022 now play Germany’s Patrick who won the contender Arabic, English, Mandarin and goes into delivering a tourna- around the world.” is at the centre of everything comes around. That is what is Franziska for a place in the event last week. Spanish speakers. ment of this scale. It is not sim- Constant innovation is we do and we strive to con- so exciting about this sector pre-quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Qatar’s The SC’s Facebook account ply about eight stadiums and 28 one of the hallmarks of the stantly expand – albeit strate- and is something that keeps Meanwhile, Egypt’s Dina Ahmed Khalil Al Mohannadi currently boasts more than 1.9 days of football.” SC’s social channels, as Al gically because we know that us committed to innovation Meshref scored a compre- lost his Round of 64 match to million followers, while Insta- Al Nuaimi continued: “It Nuami explained. every new platform or feature during the lead-up to the tour- hensive 11-6, 11-8, 11-8 win Slovakia’s Wang Yang 8-11, gram and Twitter deliver strong is also vital we inform people “We are one of the first ma- needs to have a specific pur- nament and beyond.” over South Korea’s Hyojoo 3-11, 4-11. 14 Tuesday, March 9, 2021 Sports Katara Beach Volleyball Cup Barwa named title sponsor for Grand Prix of Qatar Tribune News Network Doha

Dorna Sports on Monday announced Barwa as the title sponsor for the 2021 Grand Prix of Qatar. The event takes place at Losail International Circuit from the 26th to the 28th of March and will be officially named the Barwa Grand Prix of Qatar. Founded in 2005, Barwa is the largest listed real estate company in Qatar in terms of development and has become a key con- tributor to the stratospheric growth of the country. Yamaha STR’s Franco Morbidelli. Dorna said Barwa’s com- mitment to the development There was still a little bit of of Qatar makes the company wind swirling across the track a perfect partner for one of but nowhere near as bad as the country’s best established the Shakedown and Satur- international sporting events. day’s first OfficialT est Day Pau Serracanta, Managing Di- – great news for the runners. rector of Dorna Sports: “I’m Midway through Sunday’s ac- very happy to announce that tion, HRC test rider Stefan Barwa will take top billing Bradl had beaten Aleix Espar- at the first Grand Prix of the garo’s Day 1 pace – albeit by Action from the opening day of FIVB Katara Beach Volleyball Cup 4-star tournament which began at the Katara Beach courts on Monday. season. Qatar is a spectacular mere thousandths – and the place to race and welcoming pace would get quicker as the a new title partner is great day passed by. news for both parties, further Quartararo didn’t enjoy cementing MotoGP as a key the best return to track on Teen Swedes reach main international sporting event in Saturday as he finished out- the country and region.” side the top ten and struggled readjusting to his M1, but the Quartararo quickest on 21 year-old was much more Day 2 as the pace hots comfortable from the begin- up in Doha ning on day two. Asked about draw at first 4-star event Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo his feelings and trying out the was the fastest rider on day new chassis package, Quar- letov and Ruslan Bykanov also 2 of the official MotoGP test- tararo said: “Well yes, today Eight teams from had to work hard for their spot ing at the Losail International the feeling was much better. It in Tuesday’s main draw. They Circuit on Sunday night. The is still difficult to evaluate be- seven countries won their first match of the Frenchman becomes the first cause we didn’t stay with the progress from qualifiers in straight sets, but and so far only rider to dip into same package as yesterday. So only after taking the upper hand the 1:53 seconds. it was not easy to make clear Doha men’s in the longest set of the day. Ducati’s Jack Miller was comments about the 2021 In an all-Russian clash with less than a tenth off his Yama- chassis. We also tried a new qualifications Petr Bakhnar and Valeriy Samo- ha rival and once again, Aleix swing arm, but the feeling was day, Likholetov and Bykanov Espargaro (Aprilia Racing not the best, so we need to try Agencies won by 2-0 (21-15, 34-32). Then, Team) was up the sharp end it better and in all conditions.” Doha they went to three sets against on the brand-new RS-GP – a Maverick Vinales ended Czechia’s Patrik Manas and Jiri 1:54.152 saw the Spaniard the day two Day 2 in P7, 0.455s Two rounds of tough qualifica- Sedlak to take a 2-1 (21-15, 21- place 0.212 off Quartararo. from his teammate Quartara- tions for the men’s main draw 23, 15-12) victory and advance Day 2 brought the best ro. It wasn’t a totally slick day at the Katara Beach Volleyball in the tournament. conditions the riders have for Vinales, both he and test Cup 4-star stop on the 2021 Austria was the only coun- faced since pitlane opened rider Cal Crutchlow crashed FIVB Beach Volleyball World try to push two duos through at the Losail International at Qatar’s notorious Turn 2 – Tour saw eight duos from seven Monday’s qualifications in Qa- Circuit on Friday afternoon. both were perfectly ok. different countries snatch the tar, as Alexander Huber and available spots to complete the Christoph Dressler won both 32-team line-up in Doha. their matches in straight sets, At their first ever 4-star while their compatriots Robin tournament, 19-year-old Seidl and Philipp Waller shut Swedish sensations David Ah- out Brazil’s Saymon Barbosa man and Jonatan Hellvig won Santos and Fabio Rodrigo two hard-fought three-setters Castro Bastos in their only to progress in the tournament. qualification fixture. The 2018 Youth Olym- pair Stefan Boermans and It was an amazing comeback about how we played in the Top-seeded Quincy Aye pic champions, seeded 24th Yorick de Groot to claim an- in the second match. We had it first game. We started the sec- and Arnaud Gauthier-Rat of in the qualification bracket, other tie-breaker victory – 2-1 very tough in the first set and ond match pretty badly actu- France, second-seeded Jose started off with a 2-1 (21-18, (16-21, 21-19, 15-8). the beginning of the second ally, but we made a really good Luis Rubio Camargo and Jos- 28-30, 15-9) win over Bel- “It feels amazing to make set. We hope to make it even comeback to win that match,” ue Gaston Gaxiola Leyva of gium’s Dries Koekelkoren it to the main draw at our first further in the tournament, but, Hellvig added. “We really look Mexico, Murat Giginoglu and and Tom van Walle. 4-star tournament ever,” Ah- as I said, it’s our first 4-star forward to a tough challenge Volkan Gogtepe of Turkey and In the second round, the man exclaimed. event...” of playing against some of the Jasper Bouter and Ruben Pen- Swedish wild cards came back “It’s unbelievable, after “We had two really tough best teams in the world.” ninga of the Netherlands were from a set down against Dutch these two very tough games... matches. We’re really happy Russia’s Alexander Likho- the other four teams to qualify. Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo. We created new history Qatar Airways congratulates Al Sadd on for Al Sadd: Coach Xavi winning 2020-21 QNB Stars League title

Tribune News Network DOHA

Qatar Airways, the Official Partner, has congratulated Al Sadd Sports Club who claimed their 15th QNB Stars League title after a thrilling 3-0 vic- tory against Um Salal. Coached by Xavi Hernan- dez, Qatar’s most successful club claimed the Falcon Shield with four games to spare, while maintaining their un- beaten league run. Goals from Baghdad Bounedjah, Yusuf Abdurisag Al Sadd coach Xavi Hernandez. and Rodrigo Tabata clinched the win for the Wolves, sweep- Tribune News Network He added: “I am happy ing the domestic double on Doha to be in this group of play- their home turf. Al Sadd SC’s ers, officials, technical and 15th league title is all the more Al Sadd head coach Xavi Her- medical staff. Our goal is to praiseworthy after emerging nandez expressed his happi- win all the tournaments we winners with most goals scored, ness after winning the 2020- participate in.” least goals conceded and exhib- tional style. The club continues UEFA EURO 2020™, Qatar the national vision of Qatar. Asia to be awarded a Skyt- 2021 QNB Stars League title, Finally, the coach thanked iting outstanding performances to set high standards in region- Airways continues to strength- Qatar Airways recently be- rax 5-Star COVID-19 Airport following the 3-0 win over all the fans. throughout the season. al and international competi- en its presence in the world of came the first global airline in Safety Rating. Umm Salal in Round 18. “Special thanks to the fans Qatar Airways Group Chief tions and we are proud to have sport; with the likes of FIFA, the world to achieve the pres- These recognitions pro- Speaking to media after of Al Sadd who supported the Executive, Akbar Al Baker, them as part of our diverse CONMEBOL, Paris Saint-Ger- tigious 5-Star COVID-19 Airline vide assurance to passengers the match, Xavi said: “We cre- team with full force through- said: “The QNB Stars League sporting sponsorship portfolio. main, AS Roma, Boca Juniors, Safety Rating by international across the world that airline ated a new history for Al Sadd. out the season, and we prom- holds a special pride of place We look forward to witnessing FC Bayern Munchen, K.A.S. Eu- air transport rating organisa- health and safety standards I am happy to win the league ise them to continue working in the annual Qatari football their continued success in fu- pen and Al Sadd SC well placed tion, Skytrax. are subject to the highest title for the first time as a to make them happy and win calendar, and we are delighted ture competitions.” in the carrier’s global football This follows HIA’s recent possible standards of profes- coach with Al Sadd, after win- more championships for the to witness Al Sadd SC win their With the recent announce- sponsorship portfolio, further success as the first and only sional, independent scrutiny ning it as a player.” club,” said Xavi. 15th league title in such excep- ment as the Official Airline for representing its alignment with airport in the Middle East and and assessment. Tuesday, March 9, 2021 15 Reports by Catherine W Gichuki For events and press releases email [email protected] or African Panorama call (974) 4000 2222

The new executives of SOHOM SOHOM, a group that unites all cultures Anika Moosa, who was recently appointed president of the Spouses of Heads of Missions (SOHOM) group, said their programmes aim to foster friendships between members and the local Qatari people with an aim to create unity while exploring and embracing diversity

he was recently appointed den, visit the Grand Mosque to expe- as the president of Spouses rience the cultural and beauty of the of Heads of Missions (SO- mosque with our members, as well as HOM) group. Ms Anika some charity work, for example create Moosa, the spouse of the toiletries packs for a women’s shelter, SSouth African Ambassador to Qatar, visit a children’s home and give out previously held the position of presi- some food parcels in the holy month of dent of Africa Women Diplomatic Ramadan. Group before she was appointed as the “We would also like to do some envi- leader of SOHOM. ronmental awareness programmes such Anika, who was appointed as SO- as taking a tour at Elite Recycling and HOM president on January 24, 2021, learn more about Qatar and its people.” said the group has a total of 63 members Talking about how SOHOM inspires who support each other by welcoming people especially young women who each member at the beginning of their look up to the members of the group, residency, which coincides with the ac- Anika said, “We would like to lead by creditation of their spouses into Qatar. example, and in so doing, inspire and “We also bid them farewell when their encourage women, especially younger term ends. Qatar has people of various women, to follow the example of caring races, each with its own culture and dif- for the environment.” ferences. Our programmes are centered She said they want to create an en- on ensuring and fostering friendships vironment of understanding and unity between members and the local Qatari in diversity within SOHOM. “We would people with an aim to create unity while Ms Anika Moosa like to inspire others to be more toler- exploring and embracing our diversity,” ant of different cultures and religions, she noted. beliefs. as well as encourage young people to She said she felt honoured to have “We also promote cultural, environ- get involved in charity work, to make been appointed as the leader of the mental and social understanding and a difference, and to focus on their group even though it came at the chal- integration. Besides, we act as a point education. lenging time of the pandemic. “This has of contact and encourage friendship “We believe that education is the been a challenging time but at the same between SOHOM and the local Qatari defining factor to creating a better mor- time it has been a revelation, in teach- people, to enable a better understand- row.” ing us that we are resilient.” ing of our host country, and promote As part of her International Wom- Anika is the first African national to diversity,” said Anika. en’s Day Message, Anika said that wom- lead the SOHOM group in Qatar. “My Talking about SOHOM’s pro- en have been historically disadvantaged previous experience as the President of grammes and activities, Anika said the across the globe and are still so in the the Africa Women Diplomatic Group group has pioneered various social pro- year 2021 in some parts of the world. has put me in a good position to be able grammes, such as visiting various tour- “Yet, there are countless examples of to lead a broader group like SOHOM. ist attractions in Qatar and dhow trips, women in leadership around the world I am proud to not only represent my among other programmes aimed at see- and in our history that prove that wom- country, South Africa, but also Africa ing and appreciating Qatar’s beauty as en are most capable and it’s time that as a continent, within this international well as learning about the culture of the women are given the opportunities to space. I am grateful to SOHOM for giv- Qatari people. showcase their leadership capabilities.” ing me this opportunity and I hope to The group, she pointed out, has also Sending a message to all women, make a positive impact in the one year done some charity tours such as visit- she said, “All women in leadership, of my appointment.” ing patients in hospitals, Dreama Chil- share your expertise with other women She reiterated the key role of SO- dren’s Home, among other activities. so we can rise stronger together! SO- HOM group in the society, particularly However, due to the COVID-19, the HOM has made an impact to promote in Qatar, aiming to provide support to group has had to limit social gatherings. their respective countries and also pro- the ambassadors and their spouses, When things get better, more activities vide support for each other and our and promote international fellowship, are on the pipeline. community even though 2020 was a friendship and goodwill by developing “However, as restrictions are be- difficult year with COVID-19. Women and understanding the life and culture ing lifted slowly, we would like to visit across the world still manage to attain of different national groups regardless Baladna Farm, tour and conduct a great heights in terms of empowerment of race, religion, gender and political workshop at Qur’anic Botanic Gar- and development.”

African women celebrate International Women’s Day

African woman expatriates in Qatar joined women from various nationalities to celebrate the International Women’s Day. The event was organised by Bayanihan ng Mangagawa sa Konstruksyon ng Qatar (BMKQ) in association with global union federation of Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI), International Domestic Workers Federation (IDWF) and Kenyan Household Service Workers’ Association (KHSWA), among others. The African countries represented at the event included Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Cameroon and Tanzania. At the event, Miss Nigeria Tolulope Ifabiyi was presented the Mother Earth Award while Miss Kenya was the second runners-up after Miss Nepal. Miss Kenya also was appreciated for the question and answer session. Women from 11 different nationalities participated in the event. 16 Tuesday, March 9, 2021 The Last Word PM receives message from Korean PM, meets Charge d’Affaires of US Embassy QU researchers aim to restore threatened coral reefs in region Tribune News Network Doha

Coral reefs are one of the most important natural as- sets in the Arabian region, particularly in Qatar. Increas- ing natural and anthropogenic Prime Minister and Minister Minister of the Republic of Ko- message was handed by Am- The prime minister and Holtz. During the meeting, they stressors in the last few dec- of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid rea Chung Sye-kyun pertaining bassador of Korea to Qatar HE minister of interior also met reviewed relations between the ades have resulted in overall bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al to bilateral relations between Kim Chang-Mo during a meet- with Charge d’Affaires of the two friendly countries and as- negative trends of coral cover Thani on Monday received a the two countries and the ing with the prime minister and Embassy of the United States pects of their development in and diversity across the region. written message from Prime means of enhancing them. The minister of interior on Monday. of America in Qatar HE Greta various fields. (QNA) As a result, urgent but science- based action needs to be taken to conserve the remaining coral reefs and restore the damaged ones. Dr Radhouan Ben-Hamadou Qatar University (QU) re- searchers are working on a se- global warming, protection of 59 students receive DFQ Scholarship ries of interconnected projects marine resources, enhancing aptly titled ‘RESTORE’ and learning and training of under- ‘QataREEF’ aiming to bridge graduate and graduate students science to policy and apply ad- and junior researchers in Qatar vanced scientific knowledge as well as developing a scientific from EAA’s ‘Al Fakhoora’ programme and tools to achieving coral reef and technology provider lead- sustainability in Qatar and the ing role in the region for sus- region. Researchers at QU are tainability of marine resources. The scholarship aims to provide expatriate youth aged 17-25 years with access to higher education using an innovative approach These projects, developed through artificial reefs to create in collaboration with TOTAL, Tribune News Network Dr Salem Al Naemi com- so many talented, driven stu- ‘coral colonisation’ to ensure the Ministry of Municipal- Doha mented: “We have great re- dents from around the world. the dispersion of coral. ity Environment as well as spect for Qatar Foundation We know that the QF students Although coral restoration SEABOOST, France and Nova Expanding higher educa- and the Education Above All who have just received the technologies have been evolv- Southeastern University, Flori- tion opportunities for youth Foundation, and for all part- DFQ scholarship will make us ing rapidly, there is a clear need da, US, also strengthen QU col- across Qatar, the Education ners who are working tirelessly proud as they go on to make a to combine and adapt restora- laboration with local industry, Above All Foundation’s (EAA) to ensure education is available difference.” tion protocols and guidelines to government bodies and inter- Al Fakhoora programme, in to all with no exception. Edu- Talal Al Hothal, director local species and environmen- national collaborators. collaboration with the Ministry cation is key to creating a de- of EAA’s Al Fakhoora pro- tal conditions. Accordingly, Dr Radhouan Ben-Ham- of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, veloped and innovative society gramme, said: “EAA supports ‘RESTORE’ and ‘QataREEF’ adou, associate professor of has awarded 59 students with a that will achieve sustainable millions of children and young will be focused on validating lo- Marine Sciences at QU, leads Dynamic Futures Qatar (DFQ) growth. College of the North people across the world to en- cally tested innovative restora- the team of scientists based in Scholarship as part of the Qa- Atlantic – Qatar is proud to be sure they have access to safe, tion technologies to support the Qatar. He says, “Our environ- tar Scholarship Programme, in part of this initiative that pro- quality education. Today’s recovery process of damaged ment is our health, our food, a virtual ceremony recently. vides education to those who ceremony underlines this com- coral reefs in the Arabian Gulf. our shelter and therefore we The DFQ scholarship aims lack the means to realise their mitment and solidifies the Qatar is an adequate place should actively work to ensure to provide youth aged 17 to 25 wish.” promise our DFQ scholarship to conduct such a project, its sustainability. That does years, who have spent most As part of the partnership makes to the next generation mainly because the Arabian not mean that we don’t take of their formative years in agreement with QF for the DFQ of leaders and changemakers Gulf has an extreme environ- advantage of natural resources Qatar, with access to higher Scholarship, QF is co-funding in Qatar. We are determined ment. It is considered the hot- but that these resources are education. They can apply to four of the awarded scholar- to provide life-changing oppor- test sea in the world, therefore exploited in a way that all hu- distinguished universities in ships. Sheikh Salman bin Has- tunities to deserving youth, so new restoration technologies man beings can have access to the country, including Qa- san Al Thani commented: “It is that they can pursue successful that will work here will be pos- safe water, food, sanitation and tar University (QU), Stenden Qatar Foundation’s dedication and rewarding careers to sup- sibly replicated elsewhere, con- wellbeing in the long run.” University of Applied Sciences to inclusivity in education, and port and strengthen their com- sidering the warming of the While coral reefs represent – Qatar, College of the North to removing obstacles that may munities.” world’s oceans. The Qatari seas only 0.1 percent of the total Atlantic – Qatar (CNA-Q), of the General Department of said: “We are looking forward prevent young people from ful- DFQ is a needs-based schol- are then considered a testing ocean area, they support more University of Calgary in Qatar Endowments at the Ministry to seeing the students’ im- filling their goals and their po- arship offered by EAA through laboratory of how other seas than 25 percent of the known (UCQ), and partner universi- of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs; pact on the future, and seeing tential. This has led us to devel- its Al Fakhoora programme to will behave in the future. marine biodiversity. Dr Radh- ties of Qatar Foundation (QF). Fahad Al Sulaiti, CEO of EAA; them raise the status of Islam op a portfolio of scholarships deserving expatriate youth in The ‘RESTORE’ and ‘Qa- ouan says, “We are the first gen- EAA celebrated students Sheikh Salman bin Hassan Al by equipping themselves with and financial aid opportunities Qatar. To learn more about the taREEF’ research projects are eration to witness the impacts from both the second and third Thani, chief financial officer at useful knowledge and shar- that have opened the path to eligibility criteria and how to aligned with the university’s of global changes -- like climate cohort in the virtual ceremony, QF; and Dr Salem Al Naemi, ing it, so that ceaseless charity a quality, meaningful learning apply, visit: https://education- Research Road Map and ad- change -- and we are definitely which was attended by Sheikh president of CNA-Q. continues and knowledge can experience within the universi- aboveall.org/#!/event/q-and- dress numerous objectives in- the last generation that can do Dr Khalid Al Thani, director Sheikh Dr Khalid Al Thani go on for generations to come.” ties based at Education City for a-session-for-dfq cluding mitigating impact of something about it.” All-women panel puts spotlight on Mexico, France gear up to jointly migrant domestic workers’ issues host Generation Equality Forum Ailyn Agonia DOHA Embassies of Mexico and France in Doha detail the global gathering for gender equality Labour rights advocates and experts from key organisations Ailyn Agonia weighed in on important labour DOHA reforms and improvements in Qa- tar and around the world geared The embassies of Mexico and towards the protection of domestic France in Doha hosted a press con- workers, during a virtual panel dis- ference on Monday on the occasion cussion held on Monday. of International Women’s Day to The initiative, which has also introduce the Generation Equality raised awareness on the need to “Today, many domestic work- governments and civil society to en- Forum, a global gathering for gender further strengthen existing meas- ers have a voice. They are able to sure that domestic workers enjoy the equality convened by UN Women Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Doha Anna Paolini, Mexican Ambassador HE ures and reforms, particularly for tell people what their needs are and same rights as all other workers. and co-hosted by the governments Graciela Gomez Garcia and French Ambassador HE Franck Gellet at a press meet in Doha. the sector, was organised by the US what they want and how to improve “We welcome the many positive of Mexico and France. and Canadian embassies in Doha their livelihood. The world has reforms undertaken by the Qatari The event, which will kick off also shed light on actions of women Ambassador Gomez Garcia. on the occasion of International changed so much since IDWF start- government over the past year to im- in Mexico City in a virtual format in the areas of sports and culture. Anna Paolini, director at UN- Women’s Day. ed 10 years ago. More governments prove labour rights and I join others from March 29 to 31 and culminate Ambassador of Mexico to Qatar ESCO Regional Office in Doha and In her opening remarks, HE are working with them, hearing in supporting the government’s ef- in Paris in June, will bring together HE Graciela Gomez Garcia added UNESCO Representative in the Arab Ambassador Greta C Holtz, Charge their voices and creating changes. forts to strengthen inspection capa- states, international organisations, that the forum is a call to action States and the Gulf and Yemen, d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Qatar is a case in point. Each year bilities and enforcement efforts and the civil society and the private sector aimed at bringing together all key added that the forum is a landmark Doha, said: “When women are eco- on IWD, we celebrate all these suc- systematically penalised those who in a cross-regional setting and multi- players and stakeholders including effort to define and announce ambi- nomically empowered, they reinvest cesses but at the same time we also fail to comply with these important stakeholder approach. the youth. She stressed that bringing tious investments and policies. She in their families and communities, remind ourselves that so many are reforms,” the envoy added. “This forum is taking place 26 in different voices ensures that it is said, “The result will be a permanent creating a multiplier effect that spurs still in informal sector and much Other panellists were Shaikha years after the adoption of the Beijing not just another conversation among acceleration in equality, leadership economic growth and contributes to work has to be done,” Tang said. Mohammed Al Khater, director of Plan of Action, which is still consid- global leaders but a platform driven and opportunity for women and girls global peace and stability. Women Alix Nasri of the International International Relations Department ered the most ambitious programme by people who are more directly af- worldwide. The Generation Equality offer unique contributions to mak- Labour Organization (ILO) Project at the Ministry of Administrative regarding equality between men and fected by the issues. Forum will also fuel a powerful and ing and keeping peace in countries Office in Doha detailed how wom- Development, Labour and Social Af- women and for women’s rights. So “Sadly, not one single country lasting coalition for gender equality. around the world. And those contri- en are affected by the COVID-19 fairs, and Hala Al Ali, legal advisor far, many progress have been made, has achieved full gender equality. It presents a vital moment for activ- butions reach better outcomes not pandemic more than men such as at the National Human Rights Com- but much more needs to be achieved. This is why France and Mexico, to- ists, feminists, youth and alike to just for women but for entire society. in terms of job loss as well as how mittee (NHRC), who mentioned the We are in a crucial moment, when the gether with the UN, are working achieve a transformative change for “I think it is fitting today to hon- the crisis has put even more pres- ongoing survey being conducted by sanitary crisis has even increased ine- together in this initiative aiming generation to come.” our domestic workers whose work sure on the situation of many do- the institution in different languages qualities. Women have suffered more to contribute and to support ini- The UN official said Qatar is one makes the world go round in raising mestic workers. among domestic workers to provide significantly from this crisis, but they tiatives across the world. We also of the very few countries embarking children, feeding families and man- She said, “The ILO estimates data on their working conditions were at the same time front-liners praise the international cooperation on a third round of voluntary report aging the daily needs of others, and that in 2020 women’s employment during COVID-19 including health in dealing with it. The Generation sponsored by Qatar in the develop- on its progress against achieving doing all of these while also provid- loss globally stood at five percent issues, salary and their safety that Equality Forum is taking place in this ing world to make sure that nobody, the Sustainable Development Goals ing resources to sustain their own compared to 3.9 percent for men so would be referred to the authorities particular context,” said French Am- boy or girl, is left behind. In Genera- (SDGs) which will be presented in families, children and keeping the you can already see a big difference for necessary action. bassador to Qatar HE Franck Gellet. tion Equality Forum, we believe in July as a side event of the high-level global economy churning.” here. This is obviously very worry- Also on the panel was Vani Sar- The French envoy said strong the power of team work; we believe political forum. During the discussion, Elizabeth ing and that’s why we are having this aswathi, associate editor and direc- measures and ambitious actions are in collaboration. We want to learn Paolini said, “The seven UN agen- Tang, general secretary at Interna- dialogue today at the global level to tor of Projects at Migrant-Rights.org, to be expected during the forum on from what is happening in Qatar cies in the country stand ready to sup- tional Domestic Workers Federa- try to accelerate actions to make sure who said while there is a lot of dis- six main areas: gender-based vio- and we want to listen to its movers port the government in reporting not tion (IDWF), pointed out significant that the data do not continue to go in course, legislative reforms and social lence; economic justice and rights; and shakers. We want to bring their only what it has achieved but also the reforms in the past years that have that trend.” media conversations around rights technologies and innovation in fa- voices and their good practices to the challenges it recognises. As UN, it is allowed many domestic workers to For her part, Canadian Ambas- of women migrants, particularly do- vour of the rights of women; feminist world. We want to join them in tell- our duty to pick up the challenges and have their voices heard by govern- sador to Qatar HE Ambassador mestic workers, there is much work action for climate justice; sexual and ing their stories so that everybody to do whatever is possible for them to ments and to form organisations to Stefanie McCollum said it is the col- to be done in terms of implementa- reproductive rights; and women lead- can be more aware of the important overcome these goals for all the SDGs support other women in the sector. lective responsibility of employers, tion of reforms. ership. He added that the forum will changes taking place in Qatar,” said including gender equality.”