NEW DELHI TIMES R.N.I. No 53449/91 DL-SW-1/4124/20-22 (Monday/Tuesday same week) (Published Every Monday) New Delhi Page 24 Rs. 7.00

16 - 22 November 2020 Vol - 30 No. 42 Email : [email protected] Founder : Dr. Govind Narain Srivastava ISSN -2349-1221 UAE embarks towards Hard work at an modern and secular early age is the On November 7, the United Arab Emirates announced a major overhaul of the country’s Islamic personal laws which guarantee of your was unthinkable a decade ago. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has approved Federal Law-Decrees to amend the Personal secured future Status, Civil Transactions, Penal Code and Not everyone is born with things served to them Criminal Procedural laws. The Federal Law- on a silver platter with a golden spoon in their Decrees mean to further enhance the UAE legislative hands ready to take a bite into a magnificent environment, entrench the principles... meal cooked by the finest chefs a wealthy... By Dr. Ankit Srivastava Page 3 By Dr. Pramila Srivastava Page 24

By NDT Special Bureau Page 2 Are ghosts real? European leaders call for stringent Yet another Palestinian sorrow measures to address terrorism

Any discussion about ghosts, spirits or anything spooky, On November 10, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz The sorrows that befell the Palestinian people continue always intrigues us. We have a tendency to learn about met French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee unabated as the world seems to have abandoned them something which we do not understand... Palace in Paris where they were joined... with the recent rapprochement between some Arab... By Sujay Dhawan Page 4 By Himanshu Sharma Page 5 By Tarek Fatah Page 2 For critical insights One Year* Five Year* Subscribe Rs. 350 Rs. 1500 To Subscribe E-Paper Whatsapp +91 9999 478 735 * Details on Page 21

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Opinion NEW DELHI TIMES US-Saudi relations on tenterhooks Saudis are concerned because Biden had pledged in his campaign to reassess the US ties with Riyadh the US ties with foreign countries one by ◆ By NDT Special Bureau one including Arab world but not much will @NewDelhiTimes change in the USA-Saudi relationship. The change in the US policies will be significant [email protected] and decisive that will be visible once Joe Biden takes charge but foremost priority will any countries across the world, especially be how to reduce the impact of COVID-19. M those having a good rapport with Trump, More pro-Iran and anti-Russia policies are were unsure about how to respond to Joe expected from the new government. Biden’s victory as the 46th President of the United States of America. Their predicament Arabs are on a path of rapid evolution and is compounded as Trump is still not conceding things are taking a positive shape there for defeat. There are plethora of cases running in common man. They handled COVID-19 the US courts challenging the validity of the very well. Benign Saudi leadership is needed result just declared. more accountability over the killing of full review of relations, re-evaluate defence in the Middle East as an island in the ocean took more than 24 hours to Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at Saudi ties and press for ending the Yemen conflict. of Islamic fundamentalism. finally congratulate Joe Biden on his election consulate in Istanbul and withdraw the US Trump applied “maximum pressure” Biden may find it difficult to translate victory over Trump. Saudi Crown Prince support for the Yemen war. While the entire through tough sanctions on Iran and Saudi anti-Saudi intent into actions as senate is Salman (MBS) cultivated a close personal tie international community criticised Riyadh Arabia enthusiastically backed such actions dominated by Republicans, and the USA with Trump, so could not accept latter’s defeat. over Khashoggi’s murder, role in Yemen’s war on its regional rival. The 2015 nuclear deal needs Saudi Arabia. With , Israel and When other Arab states jostled to applaud and the detention of women activists, Trump (JCPOA) was negotiated during Biden’s France backing Saudis, America can ill- Biden, MBS remained silent. “The only thing stood solidly behind Prince MBS. Saudi term as Vice President in Barack Obama’s afford to ignore Saudis. Even Trump was worse than COVID-19 would be Biden-20,” Arabia being a major oil exporter and buyer administration. Biden has pledged a return not in favour of Saudi Arabia but changed wrote a Saudi Twitter handle, while many of the US arms and these points of friction to the JCPOA. after taking oath. The US Presidents change Saudi users ignored Biden’s win. between Biden and MBS could be dug up again to render the relations more complex. Some Saudis still hope that Biden will learn but not the policy. Saudi Arabia cannot do But on November 8, Saudi King Salman and from Obama’s mistakes and categorise Iran without the USA-the back bone of its policy. Crown Prince MBS congratulated Biden and Riyadh has nurtured strong historic ties as a common enemy. Emboldened Iran Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on their with Washington so falling out is ruled out now threatens to attack Israel! “The US is America doesn’t buy oil any more, it sells win. King Salman praised the distinguished, at present but a sense of uncertainty has a country of institutions and there is a lot oil and its interests with Saudis are much historic and close relations between the two cropped up about how the future plays out of institutional work between Saudi Arabia beyond oil. And oil as a commodity has lost friendly countries and their people and looked for the Kingdom. The region is apprehensive and the United States.” So, Saudis will its bargaining power. Today’s oil market is to strengthen and develop ties at all levels. and preparing for the unfolding of the US- recalibrate their policies to deal effectively buyer’s market with demand where hard Saudi relations post-Biden’s victory. Biden’s with any US President. “Saudi-US relations cash makes difference. This is where China Saudis are concerned because Biden had discontent with Saudi domestic and foreign are deep, sustainable, and strategic and and India come into play. The US policies pledged in his campaign to reassess the policies could come out in the open when not prone to change because a President towards Saudi Arabia cannot be as harsh as US ties with Riyadh. He could demand his team and a hostile Congress carry out a changes.” Democrats are going to review predicted. Yet another Palestinian sorrow but who failed to see the larger picture and Israel — is further away than it has been at For the process to begin, let the Arab recognize, as Erakat did, that the future lies any time since the 1993 Oslo Accords.” and Islamic countries first acknowledge ◆ By Tarek Fatah in learning from our past mistakes and not that Israel is a legitimate Jewish State, Author & Columnist, Canada repeating them again and again hoping for a The question that remains unanswered is home to Jews many millennia before the @TarekFatah different outcome. this: Who will deliver a sovereign Palestine Arabs first invaded and occupied the [email protected] to the Palestinian people and when will this Jewish Temple Mount, where they built Erekat was born in Abu Dis, a village just happen? the Aqsa Mosque and later the Dome on he sorrows that befell the Palestinian east of Jerusalem and was only 12 years old the Rock. T people continue unabated as the world when he was detained by Israeli troops for The burden falls on the shoulders of Israel. seems to have abandoned them with the writing anti-occupation graffiti and posting Just as they tried to save Erekat, they owe Saeb Erekat, I hope, would agree. recent rapprochement between some Arab fliers and throwing stones. It was 1967 and a Palestinian state to the Palestinians of the countries and the Jewish State of Israel. Jordan had lost the West Bank to Israel after West Bank, no matter what its shape. the six-day war. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic For a start Israel will have to acknowledge it is in violation of international law by not only added to their isolation, but has Occupation did not deter the young Erekat continuing its occupation of the West Bank. taken away from them their most eloquent from seeking knowledge beyond the I am against this occupation not because I and articulate revolutionary, Saeb Erekat. ‘occupied’ territories. In 1972, Erekat moved am Muslim or a friend of the Palestinians, to San Francisco to attend college and later but because I am against the occupation of The man who was responsible for the Oslo San Francisco State University where he any land by a foreign country. Accord and its promise of two nations– received a BA in international relations and Palestine and Israel — living side-by-side in an MA in political science in 1979. He then Whether it is Morocco’s continued peace, died on Tuesday after falling victim headed to the U.K. where he completed to the coronavirus. occupation of Western Sahara, his PhD in peace and conflict studies at the Pakistan’s occupation of Balochistan, University of Bradford in England. It was poetic justice that the last hours of Sudan’s occupation of Darfur, Erekat were spent in an Israeli hospital, Indonesia’s now ended occupation cared by Jewish doctors who tried in vain By the time he returned to Jericho in the of East Timor or the refusal by four to save the man who was supposedly their Occupied West Bank, Saeb Erekat was Muslim countries — Turkey, Iraq, enemy. already the sharp and articulate voice of the Syria and Iran — to end the Palestinian cause, breaking the stereotype occupation of Kurdistan, for Perhaps in his last act, Saeb Erekat has sent a of the Yasser Arafats of the movement who me, they all merit equal message to both his followers and detractors could hardly convey their cause to any attention. that when all is said and done, we are one Western audience. humanity; be it Jew or Arab, Black or White, Hindu or Muslim. Shibley Telhami, of the Brookings Institute, mourned Erekat’s death by saying, “Today, I say ‘perhaps’ because I have witnessed the the goal that Erekat pursued for all of his slow and painful oblivion of the Palestinian political career — a sovereign Palestinian PC : Getty Images cause, primarily at the hands of their own state in the West Bank and Gaza with East leadership, many of whom I had admired Jerusalem as its capital, living at peace with www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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Editor’s Desk NEW DELHI TIMES UAE embarks towards modern & secular Islam consumption, sales and possession for brokered deal with Israel has normalised naturally to 21st Century with conscious those 21 and over. Attempted suicide, relations and secured Israeli visa strategy. Other Muslim countries must ◆ Dr. Ankit Srivastava forbidden in Islamic law, would also exemptions, a first for Arab world. Influx emulate the UAE model. Saudi Arabia could Chief Editor be decriminalised. of Israeli tourists and investments are follow soon. @AnkitNDT indicative. [email protected] The reforms reflect the changing Kemal Pasha set Turkey on the right profile of this westernised Islamic Dubai was set to host the World Expo in path to a modern, secular, tolerant and n November 7, the United Arab country that is a destination for October that got postponed to 2021 due westernized country with the Constitution O Emirates announced a major overhaul tourists, fortune-seekers and to the coronavirus pandemic. but all the good works are now undone of the country’s Islamic personal laws businesses. by Erdogan who has totally radicalised which was unthinkable a decade ago. Sheikh The high-stakes event will bring a Turkey in pursuance of his personal Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has approved Traditionally, Dubai’s Islamic flurry of commercial activity and ambition to be Khalifa. Federal Law-Decrees to amend the Personal legal code slapped court 25 million visitors to the UAE. The Status, Civil Transactions, Penal Code and cases against foreigners but spate of reforms is the requisite social Modern progressive nations separate Criminal Procedural laws. the reforms will “boost its preparation for such events. Remember, from but Islamic nations, economic and social standing” Iran’s insistence on burkha had rather than addressing the fear of non- The Federal Law-Decrees mean to further to consolidate UAE’s forced an Indian female participant by tolerance and non-violence, stir enhance the UAE legislative environment, principles of tolerance. to withdraw from world chess event up religious sentiments. entrench the principles of tolerance in the in Tehran! society and strengthen the country’s position Chief Justice of the Dubai civil They criminalise alcohol consumption, court, Ahmed Ibrahim Saif said not terrorism! The original Muslims are as a preferred hub that attracts people to Given these new progressive and to a leading Dubai based daily becoming tolerant while the forcefully reside and work. In the aftermath of Islamic proactive laws, the people would that the reforms will ensure converted ones are leaning towards violent terror attacks in France and Austria, the gift-wrap the year 2020 that has that the law is respected as the Wahhabis! Pakistan, under the influence reform measures appear highly welcoming. been transformative for the UAE. country welcomes a “mosaic of Mullahs, is still obsessed with killing The laws come into immediate The reforms broaden personal freedoms of of nationalities”. Muslims and non-Muslims! effect, reflecting how eager and citizens. Cohabitation of unmarried couples, sincere the Emirates rulers are to though practiced by foreigners in the “The UAE seeks to enact The UAE is moving forward while keep pace with a rapidly changing freewheeling financial hub of Dubai, was a laws that are Islamic Pakistan under mullahs continues to move society at home. crime in the UAE. Of course, the threat of -compliant, while backwards. The UAE separates religion punishment was still there. taking into consideration from governance, hence a success story the needs of the changing As a true beacon of tolerance and a role model for all Muslim countries. Now, law allows that. Honour killings-a pace of life,” the chief and interfaith harmony, the Pakistan goes out, begging bowl in hand. tribal custom, wherein a male relative justice stressed. “In the UAE can inspire other Islamic The UAE is the most futuristic and progressive could evade prosecution despite assaulting UAE, all individuals are nations to be moderate, modern country which sensed much earlier the ill a woman for dishonouring a family pride treated equally. Expats and progressive. Liberalisation effects of radicalisation through promiscuity or disobeying religious come from different facilitates economic growth, and chose the path and cultural strictures, was widely followed. cultural backgrounds. so hardliner Muslim countries of progress. People So, having reforms must shun frozen mentality. can now visit this The punishment for such a crime will now introduced will make life Civilised countries can’t keep 21st Century UAE be the same for any other kind of assault easier for them within the citizens suppressed in this age of without fear. to ensure women’s rights. Liquor is widely legal foundations.” globalization. Islamic personal law need be liberalised. available in bars and clubs in luxuriant It is setting a good coastal cities, but not to individuals. The UAE is fast template for other liberating itself The UAE is flag bearer in Islamist nations to A government-issued licence was needed from the shackles of modernising the Islamic follow. It is slowly to purchase, transport or have alcohol at centuries of Islamic laws. In stark contrast, emerging as the home. Such restrictions are now loosened fundamentalism. Turkey and Pakistan are leader of Muslim with no penalties The recent getting radicalized through . Saudi for alcohol US- religious fundamentalism Arabia could unveil and intolerance. It is not reform plans to Erdogan or Imran but Bin abolish sponsorship Zayed who is the Muslim system. leader of the twenty-first century. The UAE is the only Islamic country in the world that is evolving

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International NEW DELHI TIMES Are ghosts real? ◆ By Sujay Dhawan a result, we say there is a ghost around us. These horror movies and all have always Editor characterized ghosts with something that is @SujayDhawan haunting us. But Ghosts in reality, are much [email protected] more than that and are beyond our realm.

ny discussion about ghosts, spirits or Have you ever wondered that someone close A anything spooky, always intrigues us. to you expired and all of a sudden you start We have a tendency to learn about something feeling that he/she is near you or trying to which we do not understand or is beyond our talk to you or you observe things moving in comprehension. We love to discuss about your house? This is not due to the presence Ghosts whereas fear if we encounter one. of the spirit of that person. You are actually But a question springs forth us as soon as we conjuring these things. say the word ghost i.e. Are Ghosts Real? Do ghosts actually exist? You just need to let go of the person. He/she has left the physical shape and now entered Let’s understand the concept of ghost first. a new realm. We need to detach ourselves Ghost is believed to be a spirit of a dead from the person, just remember or cherish person. It can also be said that Ghosts are the memories and move forward in life. Life apparition or a spectre. But the true meaning don’t stop, death don’t stop. What stops is of Ghost is anything we feel is around us, but our understanding. And yes, the objects we can’t touch or see. We are yet to decipher moving here and there around you might the realistic meaning of ghost. be just a coincidence or the spirit energy is trying to break free from this realm to With this another question arises; What another. happens when someone dies? Do we convert into Ghost? The answer to this can All our lives we have confused the concept be anything practical or bizarre. Discussion of Ghost with Demon. Demon is an evil spirit on this topic is endless. which is diabolical and sinister. It haunts us, chases us, lures us because it loathes us. Coming back to our main theme, Ghosts. Ghosts are not bad, but demons are. There is no concrete evidence that ghosts are real but for sure there are instances, PC : Getty Images Famous paranormal investigator, Gaurav occurrences which might add to the fact Tiwari, who died mysteriously in year 2016 that Ghosts can be as real as us. It is human to us in such a manner that it looks real or That’s when we feel there is some spirit or also was trying to understand the difference tendency to not believe in something sounds scary but actually it is just a game energy tries to hassle us or not happy that between these both. His wife claimed that which shakes the very foundation of our which our brain plays with us. We, from we are there. before his death, some dark power was consciousness. We generally don’t believe childhood are always taught to take care of disturbing him. We will never know the truth, in anything in the first place until we see our personal hygiene, keep our surrounding Originally, it’s our thoughts or shall I say but one thing is for sure we have little or no or touch it from our own eyes. Paranormal neat and clean but when we enter such a cobweb of our thoughts in which we get knowledge about all this and we should stay activists always find ghosts or a similar place which is dirty and damp then our brain so confused and jumbled up that we are as far as possible from these unnatural and phenomenon in some dark, dingy, damp and sends us message that something is unusual not able to get any other practical solution unexplainable things. And yes, let the dead dilapidated area. Mostly all this is presented and not right. to what our consciousness is observing, as be dead and never try to bring back the dead. International Political Scenario of the Week Ethiopia ◆ By NDT Bureau @NewDelhiTimes After Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered army operations in the Tigray regions, the [email protected] security situation has become fragile. The Ethiopian PM has asserted that the western Armenia part of the Tigray region had been liberated and accused the Tigray People’s Liberation After Russia announced it had brokered a Front (TPLF) rulers of seeking to destroy lasting cease-fire deal between Armenia Ethiopia. and Azerbaijan over the disputed Nagorno- Karabakh territory, protests have erupted in He accused the TPLF forces of abuses. Armenia over the terms of the deal. Defence Minister Kenea Yadeta said a transitional administration will be set up in The deal’s key provisions call for the “rescued” areas. Acting President Debretsion complete withdrawal of Armenian forces Gebremichael of the Tigray Region has and the immediate deployment of Russian called on the population to mobilize and peacekeepers to the territory. “I personally defend themselves. made a very hard decision for me and all of us,” wrote Armenian Prime Minister Nikol About 11,000 refugees have fled into Sudan, Pashinyan in a Facebook post announcing where authorities are preparing for up to he had signed the deal. 100,000, as per the estimates of the UNHCR- The UN Refugee Agency. The conflict also “The text of the statement that has already from November 14 until the end of the year, holiday commemorating the 1989 revolution been published is unbelievably painful for risks drawing in Ethiopia’s neighbours, notably Sudan and Eritrea, which are at due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in the on November 17. me and our people.” “It’s not a victory, country. This was announced by Justice but there’s no defeat,” added Pashinyan, bitter odds with the TPLF. Experts fear that the Horn of Africa, one of the world’s most Minister Maria Kolikova after a meeting on “Slovakian Prime Minister Igor Matovic calling the deal “the best solution in the November 11. situation.” Armenian opposition parties and strategic regions, could be destabilized, and his Ministers are tripping over their their supporters are demanding that Prime despite Abiy’s past peace-making efforts. According to the former Prime Minister and own tongues by claiming how successful Minister Nikol Pashinian resign, calling leader of opposition party Smer-SD Robert it was to test the entire country twice, but the agreement he signed “treacherous” and Slovakia Fico, the Cabinet has presented no good on the other hand saying that the situation “humiliating.”. Protesters have stormed reason to extend the state of emergency is getting worse and that additional government buildings and are demanding The Slovakian government has decided to by another 45 days. Smer-SD is preparing measures are necessary,” said Fico at a that the pact be invalidated. extend the state of emergency by 45 days a protest against the government on a state press conference. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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International NEW DELHI TIMES European leaders call for stringent measures to address terrorism “common, coordinated and rapid” with Schengen Zone. “Public opinion in states hate the values that we regard as our most By Himanshu Sharma ◆ “methodic” work in the weeks ahead, before confronted with a terrorist threat will not important assets: democracy, rule of law and @_Himansh_ a meeting of the European Heads of State in be able to accept keeping our borders open freedom of expression”. December, Macron said. Macron detailed the for long if we do not deeply reform the [email protected] need to develop common databases between Schengen area. We saw it in spring in the German Chancellor Angela Merkel called for the EU states, improve cooperation between context of the pandemic and we see it now the need to protect the European borders but n November 10, Austrian Chancellor law enforcement agencies, share intel and with terrorism”, he remarked. Macron’s ruled out that there was a conflict of interest O Sebastian Kurz met French President enact tougher legislation on the continent. remarks at the summit comes after a week between Christianity and Islam. “This is Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace Any threat at the EU external borders or when he proposed tighter controls on the not about a confrontation between Islam in Paris where they were joined by inside even one-Member State is a threat to EU’s external borders, more coordinated and Christianity, for example; this is about videoconference with German Chancellor the entire EU, French President said. policing inside the bloc’s visa-free zone the democratic model of society having Angela Merkel, Dutch Prime Minister and changes to the EU migration policy. to confront terrorist and anti-democratic Mark Rutte, European Council President “Attacks in France, in Austria a few days behavior, and with great frankness and Charles Michel and European Commission ago in Vienna, show us that the terrorist risk determined strength,” Merkel said. President Ursula von der Leyen. The leaders is everywhere, that (terrorist) networks are held a summit to push for a “common To address the threat of radicalisation, the global ... which forces Europe to intensify its coordinated and rapid” European response European Council President Charles Michel,

PC : Getty Images response,” he had then stated. to counterterror attacks. has called for the establishment of a new EU Austrian leader Sebastian Kurz cited the need body to oversee the training of Imams and The summit was organised in the wake of the to better cope with imprisoned ex-jihadis, make sure their follows do not contribute to recent terror attacks in Austria and France. A many of whom will be freed after serving spreading an “ideology of hate.” man, who allegedly tried to join the Islamic time. He called them “ticking time bombs.” State group, shot and killed four people in “We have a permanent danger among us,” On November 9, speaking in Vienna while the Austrian capital of Vienna on November he said of foreign fighters who returned from paying tributes to the victim of the terror 3. In France last month, an Islamic extremist Syria or Iraq. He said their freedom should attacks, Michel remarked, “It is important to killed three people in a church in Nice, while The leaders discussed the need for be limited to protect society. The Austrian be firm about this. I think, for example, that another extremist beheaded a teacher near a “determined fight against terrorist leader also denounced “political Islam, we should have debates at the European level Paris for showing students some cartoons of propaganda and hate speech on the internet,” radicalization” as the background noise in in connection with the idea that was raised the Prophet Muhammad. The summit took Macron told an online briefing after the the European society, and “the poison, the some time ago of setting up a European place among mounting pressure for greater meeting. “The internet is a space of freedom, breeding ground for terrorism.” institute for the training of Imams, to ensure cooperation between the European Union our social networks too, but this freedom that this message of tolerance and openness and the Member States to take the lead on Dutch Prime Minister Rutte stressed that exists only if there is security and if it is not can be conveyed at the European level.” counterterrorism and address the threat the fight against extremism was a common the refuge of those who flout our values or of Islamic terrorism. Macron minced no one. “There are major, major societal seek to indoctrinate with deadly ideologies,” The European Council President has also words in his remarks that extremist attacks issues across the European Union,” he said. he said. called for tightening the grip on foreign are a “European reality”. The response “Unfortunately, we all have to fight against funding for religious organizations “that to terrorism and radicalization must be Macron had also called for a reform of the organizations and individuals who deeply mobilize to stir up hatred”. Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia sign agreement to end Nagorno-Karabakh war The agreement calls for Armenian forces to turn over control of some areas it held outside the borders of Nagorno-Karabakh, including the eastern district of Agdam people streamed to the main square in the haunt us, and the city of Shushi is completely actual casualty could be many times that ◆ By NDT Bureau Armenian capital Yerevan to protest the out of our control,” the Spokesman for figure. Azerbaijan hasn’t stated its losses. @NewDelhiTimes agreement, many shouting: “We won’t give Nagorno-Karabakh, said in a statement on Ultimately, it was Russia which could bring up our land!” Some of them broke into the Facebook. “The enemy is on the outskirts of parties to the table and seal the deal. It [email protected] main government building, saying they were Stepanakert.” remains to be seen how Western Europe will searching for Pashinian, who apparently had interpret it. What lessons have they learned n November 10, Armenia and already departed. about Turkey and Israel? O Azerbaijan signed an agreement to halt fighting over the Nagorno-Karabakh The agreement calls for Armenian forces This might not be the best agreement that with Russia as the mediating party. The to turn over control of some areas it held Azerbaijan would have hoped for given the pact provides for deployment of nearly outside the borders of Nagorno-Karabakh, fact that it continued taking territories from

2,000 Russian peacekeepers and territorial including the eastern district of Agdam. PC : Getty Images Armenia backed by Turkey, Pakistan and concessions. That area carries strong symbolic weight for Israel. This is clearly an Azerbaijan victory, Azerbaijan because its main city, also called and Armenia’s defeat. Nagorno-Karabakh has been under the Agdam, was thoroughly pillaged, except the control of ethnic Armenian forces for 26 Second main city of Nagorno-Karabakh city’s mosque. Armenians will also turn over Since the 1994 end of the previous war, years. In 1994, Azerbaijan and Armenia will now be under Azeri forces whereas the Lachin region, which holds the main international mediation started but the fought a bloody war that killed an estimated Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) should have road leading from Nagorno-Karabakh to efforts by the Organisation for Security and 30,000 people. A truce ended that separatist been made an independent country. Russia Armenia. The agreement calls for the road, Cooperation in Europe (OSCE)’s “Minsk war. There have been sporadic clashes is calling the shots and Turkey is not happy the so-called Lachin Corridor, to remain open Group” to determine the region’s final status since then, and full-scale fighting began on about that. and be protected by Russian peacekeepers. could not succeed. The initiatives failed and September 27 this year. In all, 1,960 Russian peacekeepers are the region was separated from the rest of Peace is only a temporary state between As many as three ceasefires - two by Russia to be deployed in the region under a five- Azerbaijan by a demilitarised zone. two wars. Sadly, it’s a win for aggressor and one by the US - had been called but were year mandate. The agreement also calls for Azerbaijan. Bland aggression worked well almost immediately violated by Azerbaijan. transport links to be established through The parties urged United States President- for Azerbaijan. Amidst all these turmoils, However, the agreement announcement Armenia linking Azerbaijan and its western elect Joe Biden to intensify mediation the good news from the signing of the pact now looks to take hold because Azerbaijan exclave of Nakhcivan, which is surrounded efforts. In a congratulatory letter to Biden is that no more lives will be lost. has made significant advances, including by Armenia, Iran and Turkey. on his election victory, Azerbaijan President Both Armenian and Azeri people are very taking control of the strategically key city Aliev said, “Azerbaijan expects the United Azerbaijan has seized the city of Shushi nice and very friendly. The main culprit in of Shushi. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol States and other OSCE Minsk Group co- which gives Azerbaijan a significant the conflict is Erdogan and Turkey which Pashinian conceded that calling an end to chairs to step up their efforts to find a just strategic advantage. The city is positioned agitated Azerbaijan to undertake this the fight was “extremely painful for me solution to the conflict.” on heights overlooking the regional capital adventurism. The deal could be signed only personally and for our people”. of Stepanakert. “Unfortunately, we are Armenia says more than 1,200 Armenian because Turkey- the Islamist warmonger Soon after the announcement, thousands of forced to admit that a series of failures still troops have been killed in the war whereas and master instigator- could be kept out.

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 6 16 - 22 November 2020

International NEW DELHI TIMES US administration links new Iranian Ambassador to Yemen for surge in Houthi attacks

◆ By NDT Bureau @NewDelhiTimes [email protected]

emen has been devastated by five years Y of civil war. The fighting is between the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels who control the capital, Sanaa, and much of the country’s north, and a United States backed, Saudi-led coalition fighting on behalf of the internationally recognized government. The Iran-backed Houthis have controlled the capital, Sanaa, and much of the north since 2014.

On October 29, 2020, the US condemned the October 27 attacks conducted by the Houthis at a military target at Abha International Airport (ABH) using an explosive-laden unmanned

aerial vehicle (UAV) in the Kingdom’s Asir PC : Getty Images province. According to a US statement, “These attacks were launched indiscriminately from the Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps stop enabling the Houthis’ aggressive acts Spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said on towards Riyadh, and risked the lives of in the Yemen’s capital of Sanaa. “Just this against Yemen and towards its neighbours, Twitter, “The Iranian regime smuggled innocent civilians, including Americans. month, the Iranian regime smuggled Hassan including Saudi Arabia”, the US Statement Hassan Irloo, an IRGC member tied to Irloo, a member of the terrorist Islamic read further. Lebanese Hizballah, into Yemen under the For years, Saudi Arabia has endured Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), into guise of “Ambassador” to the Houthi militia. these types of reckless attacks and for the Sana’a, Yemen’s Houthi-occupied capital. On October 27, 2020, Hassan Irloo, who Iran’s intent to use the Houthis to expand its past week, these attacks have occurred Irloo now calls himself “ambassador.” was recently appointed by Tehran as its malign influence is clear. almost daily. This irresponsible escalation These acts demonstrate that the Houthis are ambassador to Sanaa, the Yemeni capital coincides with the Houthis’ declared desire not serious about seeking a political solution that is under the control of the Houthi Ansar The Yemeni people should say no to Irloo to strengthen their ties with Iran.” in order to bring peace to Yemen. The Allah (Supporters of God) group, handed and Iran.” There are speculations that Irloo United States calls on Iran to stop smuggling over his credentials to the Foreign Minister is connected with the Quds Force of the The United States has linked these attacks weapons to the Houthis in violation of of the so-called Salvation Government Revolutionary Guards – which is responsible to the arrival of an ambassador, Hasan Irloo, UN Security Council resolutions and to of the Houthis. The US State Department for expeditionary activities in the region. Is there a problem with Islam? credible citizens and have been obligated ◆ By Mohmad Saleem Sheikh to position their loyalty and patriotism. @NewDelhiTimes However, this a much broader debate and is beyond the scope of this article and numerous [email protected] writers have done detailed research about it.

eorge Bernard Shaw once said: “Islam Nevertheless, one cannot ignore the G is the best religion but Muslims are intricacies and interconnectedness between the worst followers”. Many practicing the constructed and enforced “othering” of Muslims may find it offensive and may Muslims throughout the world. There are even try to produce counter-arguments. numerous examples which show that they were However, taking the last couple of decades marked as the odd one out. One of the most into consideration, the famous quote by striking reasons that need to be highlighted Shaw must again be examined in the light of is the lack of knowledge about religion and incidents like 9/11, 26/11, numerous Kabul subsequent falling into narratives and vested attacks and the recent beheading in Paris. political campaigns spearheaded by different political entrepreneurs and their media houses. Every time there is a violent activity across Secondly, the defensive mentality that Muslims any part of the globe involving murder of have inculcated following incidents like 9/11 and innocents, the name of religion Islam finds the rise of extremist groups who predominantly its way into the narrative. In fact, any act associate themselves with religion. The incidents of terrorism is taken synonymously with like the Paris Beheading adds to it, leaving Muslims and in the process, the name of Muslims at the receiving end. Islam is maligned. This has necessitated the debate- Is there anything wrong with Islam? Therefore, Muslims need to practice PC : Getty Images tolerance, which they do, along with being Nothing is perfect in this world. Everything religion Islam; neither is it exceptional and diversity, at the same time behave conscious and articulate about the narratives has some engrained flaws with it. Examining nor antithetical to the modernity. If there uneasily when it comes to Islam. and the structures of oppression as was Islam through the lens of a modernist, flaws is any flaw, it is those liberal principles done by prophet while bringing the world out from the darkness and introduced it may be pointed out in it. But the same can that fail to accommodate the difference The prime example being the disquiet of to the dawn of civility. Quran commands be pointed in all the existing of the and distinctiveness this religion carries. French with Islam spearheading you (Muslims) to strive towards seeking world. As clerics point out that scriptures Liberal polities tend to define every islamophobia. In the United States, Muslims knowledge and spread peace and justice. associated with Islam are so diverse that phenomenon from a particular prism fitting were cornered after 9/11 incident and were Prophetic teachings further command that people with vested interests misinterpret it to their exigencies. Moreover, subsequently, deemed unfit for society and were obligated ‘violence’ is not the answer, and neither is to suit their own needs which may be violent compromise the social existence of those to prove themselves fit and committed to the hatred. in nature. entities who slightly differ with their American values. In the Indian system, approach. Liberal approach, despite the fact, though not purely liberal, Muslims have *Mohmad Saleem Sheikh However, there is no problem with embark upon accommodation of difference always suffered a lack of acceptance as Doctoral fellow, JMI. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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International NEW DELHI TIMES Pakistan’s Islamic Identity and Realpolitik Islam, and resorted that to put Pakistan on ◆ By NDT Bureau the track of development true Islam has to @NewDelhiTimes be implemented in Politics. He fostered his dictatorial rule under the garb of [email protected] Islamisation. General Zia’s Islamisation policies strengthened his regime’s ties with ince the last two decades, the relationship the orthodox Ulema and other Islamic power S between Islam and political power has brokers such as JI, which in turn provided come up as a new field of political attention the regime with much needed legitimacy and analysis. Especially, after the 9/11 attack, and disenfranchising his political rivals. ‘Arab spring’ and the rise of ISIS, questions Zia’s reign demonstrated how Islam can be related to Islam’s role in politics have been called upon to guide the use of political power frequented in media and academia. The and justify pragmatic politics. However, it has pressing concern in contemporary world not only the conservative ones who think of is with understanding whether Islamic using Islam as a political tool but the liberal fundamentals are used as dictates by Islamic ones too have utilized it to further their own nations or is it merely used as a tool to political agenda. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s notion execute ‘realpolitik’. Pakistan presents an of ‘Islamic socialism’ as the basis of the ideal case for this analysis. Pakistan People’s Party in the late 1960s and early 1970s is a prime example of this. By Pakistan achieved independence in 1947 claiming to bring alive the real socialist spirit

and declared Islam as its ‘raison d’etre’, of Islam, he not only questioned the policies of PC : Getty Images its territorial space as a safe haven for the Ayub Khan’s regime, but also laid claim to his Muslims of South-Asia. Although, the leadership in the post-Ayub era. hand for every political party. Keeping the the ‘all-weather’ friend China is crucial for founder of Pakistan M.A. Jinnah wanted military-mullah nexus of Pakistan in good Pakistan to counter its security dilemma of to create a secular space within Pakistan Just like the domestic arena, Islamic Identity books is imperative for every political India, realpolitik is preferred over Islamic for all the communities, but still with of Pakistan has also been portrayed in its party who wishes to stay in power and Identity. Considering these facts over the time and working of parties like ‘Jamaat- foreign policy decision making since its for that an anti-India narrative has to be historical evolution of Pakistan and its e-Islami’ (JI) Islam became a source of inception. This can be seen clearly in the pushed forward, of which Kashmir issue contemporary political stances, it can be gaining political legitimacy in Pakistani case of Kashmir conflict, linking the issue is the elemental root. The fallacy of acting factually concluded that Pakistan uses politics. This became more apparent during with the interests of Kashmiri Muslims as an Islamic country which is striving for its religious identity as a tool to achieve the military regime of General Zia-ul-Haq. and their proclaimed oppression under the the rights of Muslims stands exposed in its political objectives and has only been Zia seized power through a military coup Indian government. Although, it can be seen the case of exploitation if ‘Sunni’ Uighur paying a lip service to cause of Islamic in 1977, to gain legitimacy he turned to as a political stunt to help keep the power in Muslims of China. Since, the alliance with brotherhood. Terrorism and in the light of Islam “Permission” to fight is granted to those fight in the way of Allah. Mere fighting is While in another event, it is said that once ◆ By NDT Bureau who are attacked, because they have been not, therefore, Jihad in Islam; it is the noble at the time of conquest, a girl was brought @NewDelhiTimes wronged- god indeed has the power to help objective alone which makes it a sacred to al-Muhajir Abu Umayya who had been them- they are those who have been driven pursuit like devotion and prayer. publicly singing satirical poems about first [email protected] from their homes unjustly only because Since 9/11 when the world trade center Caliph of Islam Abu Bakr Siddiq. Muhajir they said: ‘Our Lord is Allah,’ if Allah did got her hand amputated. When the Caliph ihad is one of the most important basic was badly attacked and destroyed by the not repel the aggression of some people heard this news, he shockingly wrote a letter J teachings of Islam and is considered terrorists in the name of Islam, the wave by means of others cloisters and churches to Muhajir in the following words: as a medium to achieve greatness, glory, of Islamophobia spread all over the world. and mosques, wherein the name of Allah is Now after two decades, the Islamophobic and sovereignty. On that basis, Jihad is “I have learnt that you amputed hands of a much invoked, would surely be destroyed. attitude got strongly embedded in society compulsory on every Muslim and enforced girl who had hurled abuses on me. God has Verily Allah helps one who helps Him. God and Jihad which actually meant “to struggle” until the day of Judgment. The term not sought vengeance even in the case of is indeed powerful and mighty.” (Quran; is being synonymously used for terrorism. Jihad etymologically derived from the polytheism, which is a great crime. He has 22:39) The politically motivated terrorist who uses Arabic word Jahada which means “Work not permitted mutilation even with regard Jihad as an apparatus to kill and to oppress wholeheartedly”. Jihad is considered as a to manifest infidelity. Try to be considerate the people has nothing to do with the Islam rule that must be followed by Muslims as and sympathetic in your attitude towards and its basic teachings. Islam has purified it is confirmed that in holy Quran the term others in future. has been specifically mentioned as much even war of all its cruelty and horrors and as forty-one (41) times in various Surahs; has made it a “reformative process” to deal The term Jihad which means a struggle 8 times in the Meccan Surah (the Surah with all evil that exists in a society. that Muslim should launch against all revealed in Mecca on Prophet Mohammad) So great is the respect for humanly feelings evils in the society and within us has been and 33 times in the Madaniyah Surahs (The in Islam that even the destruction of enemy’s synonymously used as terrorism is totally Surahs revealed in Madina after hijrat) with crops or property is strictly forbidden. The bogus and misinterpreted. the intention that Jihad is a basic concept for Calipha e Rashidun closely followed the Muslims in their lives. teachings of Allah as well disseminated the In many cases, the misinterpretation is a Islamic teachings. The first Caliph Abu Bakr product of western world which tactically As opposed to the popular notion, Jihad defamed Islam to continue its occupation in in Islam is not merely an act of violence (Allah be pleased with him) sent letter to his army while sending her on the expedition the Muslim countries, after some misguided directed indiscriminately against the Muslims launched a war against the world non-Muslims; it is the name given to all to the Syrian borders is permeated with the noble spirit with which the war in Islam is and used the concept of Jihad as an apparatus struggles which a Muslim should launch to kill those whom they consider a threat PC : Getty Images permitted. He said: against all evils in whatever form or shape towards the community. it appears. One of the controversial aspect “Stop, O people, that I may give you ten of Jihad is Qital fi sabilillah (fighting in the While in another Surah it is written that “The rules for your guidance in the battlefield. While, the concept of Jihad is wrongly way of Allah) which is often misquoted believers fight for the cause of God, while Do not commit treachery or deviate from presented & interpreted by those nocturnal by extremists. However, the Qital in Islam those who reject faith fight for Satan. Then the right path. You must not mutilate dead preachers who have some hidden interest. is not an act of mad brutality against non- fight the allies of Satan; verily weak indeed bodies. Neither kill a child, nor a woman, Such preachers usually misguided the Muslims or any creature. It has its material is the strategy of the devil”. (Quran; 4:76) nor an aged man. Bring no harm to the youngsters and compelled them to move on and moral functions, i.e. self-preservation In this Surah It has been made clear that trees, nor burn them with fire, especially the wrong path for their own latent interests, and the preservation of the moral order in those people who fight for self-glorification those which are fruitful. Slay not any of the as no real Islamic preacher who even own a the world. The very first revelation of Quran or for the exploitation of the weak are in enemy’s flock, save for your food. You are little knowledge of Islam never misinterpret giving permission to wage war against the fact friends of the devil; whereas those who likely to pass by people who have devoted the concept of Jihad and never ask any evil forces sums up the aims and objects of raise arms to curb tyranny and aggression, their lives to monastic services; leave them Muslim to move on the path of terrorism as Qital in Islam: to eradicate evil from the human society, alone” both concepts are contradictory in nature.

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 8 16 - 22 November 2020

International NEW DELHI TIMES Why Muslims Need to Show Patience & Practice Restraint rising situation and established him as an ◆ By Mohmad Saleem Sheikh embodiment of the “message”- practising @NewDelhiTimes what was revealed to him. The holy Quran mentions that- [email protected]

he recent Paris beheading incident has “Good and evil are not alike. Respond to T triggered a debate about Islam’s or evil with what is best, then the one who is in Prophet’s compatibility with the modern- a feud will turn into a close friend” [Surat day lifestyle heavily monitored under Fussilat (41):34]. the parameters of individualism, liberal progressive approach and democratic values This is a consistent message that Muslims like freedom of expression, speech and follow and should educate people other faiths choice. Though everyone agrees upon the about it. There are plenty of other verses distinctive nature of religion, Islam and its upholding the same theme to which every public manifestation, but when it comes to Muslim is obliged to practice in his daily the acceptance of the difference reservations dealings. Having said that, the decapitation begin to sprout out. And we hear an empty of Paris teacher or any other violent reaction number of arguments squeezing down of this sort are not justified in the light of the Islam to nothing more than an equivalent to Quran and the prophet’s teachings. barbarism and traditionalism.

However, there are a few who agree upon It must be categorical and straightforward Islam’s fundamental message of peace, recognised that if anybody responds with brotherhood and harmony. Nevertheless, this violence to incidents like showcasing message of peace and tranquillity succumbs caricatures, he does it in his personal to the rampant anti-Islam discourse. Thanks capacity. Moreover, that individual does not necessarily represent Islam or for that to the rise of Islamophobia, misappropriation PC : Getty Images of Jihad, chaos in the Muslim world and the matter, the Muslim community. Having said constant media campaigning in portraying derogations and provocations will continue to narrative of proving Muslims unfitting with that, it is not in any sense justified that the Islam as antithetical to peace and democratic happen, and Muslims need to deal with them modernity and secularism. normalisation of the anti-Muslim discourse, order. more tolerably and must not behave the way in the name of freedoms, be celebrated and adversaries want them to behave. Muslims However, derogations of this sort were pushed through, instead requires a check so The drawing of the caricatures of Prophet must understand that such derogations do a daily happening in the life of prophet that Islamophobia, deprivation, subjugation Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the not in any sense downgrade the exalted and Muhammad- once he declared prophet- and constant surveillance does not casting of defamatory and derogatory venerable position of Prophet Muhammad. hood and began to spread the word of God. compromise social existence and religious speeches about his character and personality Neither they necessitate any uncivil counter- His character reflects an embodiment of freedom of Muslims. are intimidating and provocative of counter- reaction because such derogations are part grace, compassion, forbearance and ethics. *Mohmad Saleem Sheikh reactions. It must be made clear that such of the propaganda and the narrative- the Therefore, he responded most nobly to every Doctoral fellow, JMI. The Curious Case of Indonesian Muslims “For me, democracy must deliver a better life for the people.” ~~Joko Widodo “The worst cruelty that can be inflicted on people understand Quran and Hadis by is what I learned from my experience in ◆ By NDT Bureau a human being is isolation.” ~~Sukrano heart and soul and apply it in their life. Solo and then in Jakarta” ~~ Joko Widodo @NewDelhiTimes They not only study true Islamic doctrines but also fulfil their duty and responsibility [email protected] Indonesia is a Republic that focuses on an all-inclusive theme: Religion, Plurality towards their country Indonesia. The Quran says that the most perfect person is the one ne of the most significant issues in and Democracy that constitutes sense of who deals with other people with love and O the world today is that of peace and tolerance and understanding. With great compassion. This has been truly embedded harmony as most of the countries have responsibility, all the Indonesians have by Indonesians in their life. achieved a peak of economical growth been trying to follow and create democratic over the recent past that facilitates modern perception whether they belong to different “The true servants of the Most and sophisticated lifestyle, standard living, religions and ethnicity; they prefer Compassionate are those who walk on the prosperity and property. Some countries prosperity, development, liberty, justice, earth humbly, and when the foolish address are very strong in economical growth and fraternity and equality. The government them improperly, they only respond with PC : Getty Images development but fail to enrich grace of peace has kept up the utmost priority to maintain peace” (Quran 25:63) and harmony among the citizens. Indonesia is rights of citizen and fulfil their needs. Islam has come to Indonesia during 15th One of the basic ideology for peaceful life one of the countries that is an admired abode Indonesia was dominated by Hinduism and Century with different travellers and grew of Indonesian Muslims is their adaptation of peace, tranquillity, love, compassion, Buddhism before Islam. At present, a good gradually. People started accepting Islam by of moderate notion and path disregarding prosperity, natural beauty, communal harmony number of Hindus and Buddhist people live leaving their forefather’s religions but not radical and extremist inspiration and and decency though people of different caste, there with prosperity and happiness because forsaking their moralistic perspective and undertaking. creed, religion have been living there for Indonesian Muslims have blended legacy comprehension. Muslims leaders have been several centuries. It is the largest Island and of Hinduism and Buddhism with their Moderate understanding and comprehension trying to provide opportunity and prosperous also the most populous Muslim country. own culture which propagates peace and are propagated by Indonesian Muslims with facilities to carry out their responsibilities. harmony; this is the true essence of Islam. the support of their leaders who have been Diversity in unity has been adopted by playing a great role in creating justice, citizens and bear resemblance to Indian With the growth of Islam in Indonesia, Indonesian Muslims are moderate in liberty, fraternity and distribution of job and civilization and culture. More than 700 positive aspects of Islam always occupied the nature and try to adopt moderate path with opportunities to every citizen irrespective of languages are spoken but their different centre stage which preached to its follower rational interpretation of Islam disregarding their caste and religion. to practice peace and love. True depiction of languages postulate an amalgamated radicalism and extremism. They believe that extremism and radical Islam has played a great role for escalating and synchronized tone for the country. ideology can be eradicated by equal love, compassion and peace in the country. Geographically, Indonesia is a home of This is proved by many studies which show distribution of jobs and opportunities Leaders and Ulema have been preaching 17000 Islands where about 267 million that ISIS had the least spread in Indonesia; without differentiating between caste, creed true spirit of Islam that is an idealistic people stay that comprise about 230 million though Indonesia has been under extremist & religion. Muslims, 30 million Christians, significant example of peace, tranquillity, tolerance and radical attacks such as Bali bombing of number of Hindus and Buddhist minority; and civil rights of democratic nation. Islam 2002 that left thousand dead. This presents Indonesia as a unique country they all have made their country like preaches tolerance, acceptance, liberty, with a diverse culture but largely peaceful- a Indonesia peaceful by building sense of justice, equality and fraternity that are an “To deal with radicalism and extremism, we case suitable for imitation by other countries living together. essence of Republic constitution. Indonesian need to deal with economic inequality. This with diverse population. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

16 - 22 November 2020 9

International NEW DELHI TIMES Pacific isles, secretive states among last virus-free places rom Argentina to Zimbabwe, from the businesses have escaped.” F the Vatican to the White House, the Indeed, many of the South Pacific islands coronavirus has spread relentlessly. It’s been rely on tourism as a major source of revenue confirmed on every continent but one and in and have seen unemployment spike and nearly every country. Yet a few places have their economies struggle since the pandemic yet to report even a single case of infection. began. Much of the South Pacific is relatively Some have been genuinely spared so far,

poor and has basic health systems that would Photo AP PC : while others may be hiding the truth. Here’s be ill-equipped to deal with major outbreaks. a closer look: Hemisphere summer, hundreds of people North Korea says its anti-virus campaign PACIFIC ISLANDS: The largest cluster Not everywhere in the South Pacific has still have been arriving to ensure bases is a matter of “national existence.” It has of countries without the coronavirus is in been spared, either. Over the past two weeks, are maintained and long-term scientific severely restricted cross-border traffic, the South Pacific. Tonga, Kiribati, Samoa, Vanuatu and the Marshall Islands reported programs continue to tick over. banned tourists, flown out diplomats and Micronesia and Tuvalu are among the their first cases, from quarantined travelers. mobilized tens of thousands of health Michelle Rogan-Finnemore, the Executive small island nations yet to report a single Fiji and the Solomon Islands each count workers to screen entry points, monitor Secretary of the Council of Managers of case. They haven’t been spared from the a handful, while Papua New Guinea has residents and isolate those with symptoms. reported about 600 cases and seven deaths. National Antarctic Programs, says people pandemic’s effects, however. In September, North Korean troops shot French Polynesia has been particularly hard planning to travel to Antarctica are typically and killed a South Korean government Tonga managed to keep the virus out by hit, with more than 11,000 cases and 50 tested in their home countries before leaving official who was found drifting near the sea stopping cruise ships from docking and deaths. and then quarantined for at least two weeks closing the airport in March, says Paula in their final gateway country before flying boundary. The North said its troops then Taumoepeau, the president of the Chamber ANTARCTICA: There has been perhaps to Antarctica. Once there, she says, people burned the man’s makeshift flotation device of Commerce and Industry. He says the no place on Earth where people have been are typically tested again and are required at in an anti-virus step. government even imposed a lockdown, even more vigilant in keeping out the virus than first to remain socially distanced and wear The North’s lockdown and its extreme anti- though there were no known cases. These Antarctica, the only continent which remains masks. virus measures are believed to be stressing days, only people who have first tested virus-free. That’s because any outbreak its already crippled economy. But an Rogan-Finnemore says they’re making negative are allowed to return on occasional would be difficult to control in a place where outbreak could be devastating in a country every effort to keep the virus out. “We’re repatriation flights. He says he finds it hard people live in close quarters and where that lacks medical supplies and modern doing our best in a global pandemic,” she to believe the confirmed death toll in the medical capabilities are limited. People who healthcare infrastructure. Most analysts says. U.S. alone exceeds twice his entire nation’s do get gravely ill on Antarctica typically believe North Korea has had at least some population of just over 100,000. must be evacuated, a process that can take NORTH KOREA: With a population of cases of COVID-19 because it shares a days, or even weeks, due to the extreme porous border with China, where smuggling “I think the government has done a good weather conditions, which can delay flights. more than 25 million, North Korea is by far job keeping COVID away from Tonga, the largest nation yet to report a single case, activities are common. Some believe the but it has had a big impact on businesses, While most countries have been reducing although there’s widespread skepticism over North may be in the grip of a significant especially tourism and accommodation. It’s the number of scientists and staff they leader Kim Jong Un’s claim of a perfect outbreak. very, very bad,” Taumoepeau says. “None of are sending to Antarctica this Southern record in keeping out the “evil” virus. Credit : Associated Press (AP) North Korea waging propaganda- Trump bans US investment in Chinese heavy, 80-day labor campaign military-linked firms

efore fleeing authoritarian North Korea of major political events. The current Photo AP PC : resident has stepped B in 2009, Kang Mi-Jin was regularly campaign is aimed at greeting a ruling party P up a conflict with China over security mobilized by the state for military-like congress set for January, the first of its kind and technology by issuing an order barring productivity campaigns that were a source in four years, with “fiery enthusiasm and Americans from investing in companies that of both pride and pain. She was happy to brilliant achievements,” according to North U.S. officials say are owned or controlled by be chosen to give a speech pledging loyalty Korea’s main Rodong Sinmun newspaper. the Chinese military. securities in American and foreign financial to the ruling Kim family; less so when a There’s widespread outside doubt that short- markets. tunneling construction project left her with term campaigns of this sort can address the The impact of the order wasn’t immediately a head injury. fundamental economic problems facing the clear but it could add to pressure on The order bars American investors from impoverished country. But North Korean companies including telecom equipment conducting any transactions in publicly leaders are seen as needing these campaigns giant Huawei and video surveillance traded securities issued by any Chinese to cement their grip on power in times provider Hikvision that already face U.S. companies designated by the Secretary of of economic trouble or tensions with the export bans and other sanctions. Defense as being linked to the Communist outside world. Party’s military wing, the People’s

PC : AP Photo AP PC : It is Trump’s first major action toward China Liberation Army. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un faces his since he lost his reelection bid to challenger The Pentagon earlier designated 31 share of trouble: crippling U.S.-led economic Joe Biden. Economists and political analysts companies as being owned or controlled sanctions, the coronavirus pandemic and damage have said even if Trump was defeated he by the Chinese military. Many are military Now living in rival South Korea, she has from devastating typhoons and summer floods. In was likely to launch more actions Beijing contractors or state-owned companies such watched with deep interest the news of North August, in a highly unusual admission of policy before he leaving office on Jan. 20. as phone carrier China Telecom Ltd. But Korea’s 80-day productivity campaign that failure, North Korea’s ruling Workers Party said Political analysts expect little change in the list also includes Huawei Technologies began last month. the economy had “not improved in the face of the policy under Biden due to widespread Ltd. and Hikvision Digital Technology Co., sustaining severe internal and external situations” frustration with China’s trade and human which say they are private and deny they are “When they pushed us to work so hard, I and that development goals have been “seriously rights records and accusations of spying and controlled by the military. wonder if they should have also paid us delayed.” Kim said January’s congress would technology theft. something,” Kang, 52, said in an interview determine new objectives for the next five years. Hikvision criticized its inclusion in the with The Associated Press. “North Korean U.S. officials complain China’s ruling order as unjustified. The company said it people have gotten used to providing such “North Korean authorities want their people Communist Party takes advantage of access is independent of the PLA and never has (free labor) for so long. They know they have to strain their nerves by maintaining a state to American technology and investment participated in research and development for nothing to gain by raising an issue with that.” of tension,” said analyst Yang Un-chul at to expand its military, already one of the “military applications.” the private Sejong Institute near Seoul. world’s biggest and most heavily armed. “As we have shown time and again, Hikvision North Korea occasionally stages such all- “North Korea is staging (this campaign) as it is not a ‘Chinese military company,’” said out national campaigns, which the state doesn’t have any other available option. But The order complains the companies targeted a Hikvision statement. “These punitive media call “battles.” They are meant to I wonder what changes this campaign could “directly support” the Chinese military, actions against the company do not make more firmly unite citizens around the Kim bring about.” intelligence and security apparatus. It said dynasty, press them to work harder and Beijing “exploits United States investors” America, or the world, any safer.” report bigger production numbers ahead Credit : Associated Press (AP) to finance military development by selling Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 10 16 - 22 November 2020

International NEW DELHI TIMES Russia says Pope Francis vows to end sexual China congratulates COVID-19 vaccine abuse after McCarrick report Biden on being is 92% effective on elected US President ope Francis pledged to rid the Catholic national and personal freedom, what St. hina became one of the last major P Church of sexual abuse and offered John Paul II taught young people comes C early data countries to congratulate Joe Biden on prayers to victims of former Cardinal to mind,” Francis said. He then cited the being elected U.S. President. evelopers of Sputnik V, Russia’s Theodore McCarrick, a day after the former pope as saying that being free means China, along with Russia, avoided joining D experimental COVID-19 vaccine, Vatican released a detailed report into the being “a man of upright conscience, to be the throng of governments that congratulated announced that early, interim data from a decadeslong church cover-up of his sexual responsible, to be a man ‘for others.’” Biden last weekend after he was projected large trial suggests the shot appears to be misconduct. The Vatican report noted that John Paul to have secured enough Electoral College 92% effective. The Vatican report blamed a host of bishops, — and presumably Dziwisz, too — often votes in the Nov. 3 election to win the White cardinals and popes for downplaying dismissed allegations of sexual impropriety House. and dismissing mountains of evidence of involving priests because of their experience McCarrick’s misconduct starting in the in Communist Poland, when many priests 1990s — but largely spared Francis. Instead, were discredited with false allegations. it laid the lion’s share of the blame on St. John Paul II, a former pope, for having appointed The Vatican report found that John Paul McCarrick archbishop of Washington in initially agreed to take McCarrick off 2000, and making him a cardinal, despite the list of candidates to be archbishop of Washington after his own ambassador Photo AP PC : PC : AP Photo AP PC : having commissioned an inquiry that found he had slept with seminarians. to the U.S. determined that there was a reasonable doubt about McCarricks’ “moral “We respect the choice of the American The statement, which did not include Francis concluded his weekly general maturity” given the allegations of sexual people,” said a foreign ministry spokesman, detailed information about the trial, comes audience by recalling that the report into the misconduct. The ambassador, Archbishop Wang Wenbin. “We congratulate Mr. Biden just two days after a similar one from Pfizer “painful case” of the former high-ranking Gabriel Montalvo, concluded that it would and (vice Presidential running mate) Ms. Inc., but is based on far fewer virus cases. American cardinal had been released the be “imprudent” to promote him given the (Kamala) Harris.” Some experts suggest the data may have previous day. chance the rumors could become public. been rushed out in an effort to keep up Wang gave no reason for the delay but said, with the worldwide race for a successful John Paul initially agreed. But he “the result will be confirmed according to coronavirus vaccine. changed his mind after McCarrick U.S. laws and procedures.” Russia touted Sputnik V, a two-shot vaccine, made a last-ditch, handwritten appeal China’s government is mired in a tariff as the world’s first to receive a government in an Aug. 6, 2000, letter addressed to war with the Trump administration over go-ahead after it was approved in early Dziwisz, denying he ever had “sexual Beijing’s technology ambitions and trade August without completing advanced relations” with anyone. surplus. testing. The move drew considerable The Vatican report went into great Trump also has labeled China a security criticism from experts who said data from detail, including with substantial threat and imposed export curbs and other tens of thousands of people were needed to footnotes, about what Dzwisz did sanctions on Chinese companies. ensure the safety and effectiveness of the with the letter next, suggesting that vaccine before it is given widely. Photo AP PC : the Polish secretary had something to Political analysts expect few changes under a Biden administration due to widespread Russian officials announced advanced hide about his involvement. frustration with Beijing’s trade and human studies among 40,000 volunteers two weeks “I renew my closeness to victims of any For starters, McCarrick’s letter begins by rights record and accusations of spying and after it received government approval. abuse and commitment of the church referencing a previous letter he wrote to technology theft. to eradicate this evil,” Francis said. He Dziwisz about his possible promotion, but Russia’s Direct Investment Fund that Credit : Associated Press (AP) bankrolled the effort announced that an then paused silently for nearly a minute, which has disappeared from the Vatican analysis of the early data of the study apparently in prayer. archives. showed that the vaccine “had an efficacy Francis defrocked the 90-year-old Subsequently, the report says Dzwisz rate of 92%.” EU extends McCarrick last year after a separate Vatican ordered that his name be removed from investigation found he sexually abused The interim analysis looked at 20 confirmed McCarrick’s Aug. 6 letter when it went children as well as adults. Francis authorized coronavirus infections registered so far into the archives. Both points suggest sanctions on the more in-depth study into McCarrick’s rise among over 16,000 volunteers who received Dziwisz wanted to remove any trace of his through the hierarchy after revelations that it both of the two shots of either the vaccine involvement in the appointment or in having was an open secret in the U.S. and Vatican or the placebo, the Fund’s statement said. possibly tipped McCarrick off to the fact that hierarchies that he behaved inappropriately Venezuela More than 20,000 trial participants have so his promotion had been imperiled. with seminarians, sleeping with them in his far received just one shot. ◆ By NDT Bureau bed on weekend getaways. The authoritative archbishop of New York, Cardinal John O’Connor, had warned John @NewDelhiTimes Some outside experts deemed the results The report raised uncomfortable questions Paul not to promote McCarrick in an Oct. [email protected] of the interim analysis promising and about John Paul and his trusted secretary, 28, 1999, letter he wrote shortly before consistent with what the studies of the Pfizer Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, who has been he died. He cited multiple claims that he European Council has extended the vaccine showed, but questioned the timing subject to increasing scrutiny and criticism McCarrick would invite seminarians to his T sanctions regime against Venezuela for of its release. in his native Poland over allegations he beach house and into his bed and enclosed one year, until 14 November 2021. covered up other cases of clergy sexual four anonymous letters that had been sent “Whilst encouraging, I worry that these data abuse. According to the European Council, “ the to him and other U.S. churchmen in 1992- have been rushed out on the back of the decision was taken in light of the ongoing 1993, alleging McCarrick sexually abused Pfizer/BioNtech announcement earlier in the Just this week, the head of Poland’s bishops political, economic, social and humanitarian children and seminarians. week. The Sputnik data are based on only 20 conference, Archbishop Stanislaw Gadecki, crisis in Venezuela, with persistent actions cases of COVID-19 in the trial participants, said he hoped an “appropriate commission “I found out that he had written to the Holy undermining democracy, the rule of law compared to more than 90 cases in the of the Holy See will clarify all the doubts” Father,” McCarrick said of O’Connor in and respect for human rights. The measures earlier trial,” Eleanor Riley, professor of about Dziwisz’s record — scrutiny Dziwisz an interview with Vatican officials who include an embargo on arms and on immunology and infectious disease at the himself said he welcomed. prepared the report. “I had friends in the equipment for internal repression, as well as University of Edinburgh, said in a statement. In his remarks, Francis held up for praise Curia and one of them tipped me off about it a travel ban and an asset freeze on 36 listed Ravindra Gupta, professor of clinical John Paul, who was beloved in his native but I don’t remember who.” individuals in official positions who are microbiology at the University of Poland and by many Catholics elsewhere responsible for human rights violations and/ Cambridge, also pointed at a small number but has come under criticism for his failure In Poland, the McCarrick scandal and the or for undermining democracy and the rule of virus cases. “They’ve calculated a 92% to take action against pedophile priests. roles played by John Paul and Dziwisz in of law. These measures are intended to help protection rate, but among 20 infections. Noting that November 11 marked Poland’s the cover-up have only fueled criticism of encourage democratic shared solutions in That’s fairly small numbers. So we want to independence day, Francis quoted John the Catholic hierarchy amid its own clergy order to bring political stability to the country see the whole results eventually,” Gupta told Paul as telling young people what it means abuse scandal that has seen several top and allow it to address the pressing needs of The Associated Press. to be truly free. bishops and even cardinals fall. the population. The targeted measures are flexible and reversible and designed not to Credit : Associated Press (AP) “While we thank the Lord for the gift of Credit : Associated Press (AP) harm the Venezuelan population”. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

16 - 22 November 2020 11

International NEW DELHI TIMES UN agency: Iran uranium stockpile still violates atomic deal ran continues to increase its stockpile The IAEA reported that Iran has also been Before agreeing to the nuclear deal, Iran the U.N. General Assembly that “evaluations I of low-enriched uranium far beyond continuing to enrich uranium to a purity of enriched its uranium up to 20% purity, regarding the absence of undeclared nuclear the limits set in a landmark nuclear deal with up to 4.5%, higher than the 3.67% allowed which is a short technical step away from the material and activities for Iran continue.” world powers and to enrich it to a greater under the deal. weapons-grade level of 90%. In 2013, Iran’s purity than permitted, the U.N.’s atomic stockpile of enriched uranium was already He said in his first speech to the 193-member watchdog agency said. Iran has openly announced all violations more than 7,000 kilograms (7.72 tons) with world body, which was virtual because of the nuclear deal in advance, which have higher enrichment, but it didn’t pursue a of the pandemic, that he welcomed the followed the decision by the U.S. to pull out bomb. agreement he reached with Iranian officials unilaterally in 2018. in Tehran in August “on implementation of In the quarterly report distributed to some safeguards implementation issues,” The deal promises Iran economic incentives members, the IAEA said it still has questions including access to two sites. in exchange for the curbs on its nuclear from the discovery last year of particles of program. Since the U.S. withdrawal and uranium of man-made origin at a site outside Inspections have taken place and samples imposition of new sanctions, Tehran has Tehran not declared by Iran. from the sites are being analyzed, he said. been putting pressure on the remaining

PC : AP Photo AP PC : parties with the violations to come up with The United States and Israel had been Iran’s U.N. ambassador, Majid Takht new ways to offset the economy-crippling pressing the IAEA for some time to look into Ravanchi, told the assembly that “Iran and actions by Washington. the Turquzabad facility, which Israeli Prime the agency have agreed to work in good Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described faith to resolve these safeguards-related At the same time, the Iranian government to the U.N. in 2018 as a “secret atomic questions.” has continued to allow International Atomic warehouse.” Energy Agency inspectors full access to its Ravanchi also said it is “of utmost nuclear facilities, a key reason the countries In the current report, the IAEA said the importance” for the IAEA to consider The International Atomic Energy Agency that remain parties to the JCPOA say it’s “compositions of these isotopically altered available information on the nuclear reported in a confidential document worth preserving. particles” found there were “similar to activities of Saudi Arabia, its regional rival. distributed to member countries and seen particles found in Iran in the past, originating by The Associated Press that Iran as of The goal of the agreement is to prevent Iran from imported centrifuge components.” It “If Saudi Arabia is seeking a peaceful Nov. 2 had a stockpile of 2,442.9 kilograms from building a nuclear weapon, something said it found Iran’s response to questions last nuclear program, it should act in a very (5,385.7 pounds) of low-enriched uranium, the country insists it does not intend to do. month “unsatisfactory.” transparent manner and allow the agency’s up from 2,105.4 kilograms (4,641.6 pounds) inspectors to verify its activities,” he said. reported on Aug. 25. A widely cited analysis by the Washington- “Following an assessment of this new based Arms Control Association suggests information, the agency informed Iran that He said the IAEA also needs to take “an The nuclear deal signed in 2015 with the that Iran now has more than double the it continues to consider Iran’s response to be unbiased and professional approach” toward United States, Germany, France, Britain, material it would need to make a nuclear not technically credible,” the IAEA wrote Israel, which is not a party to the Nuclear China and Russia, known as the Joint weapon. However, IAEA Director General this week. “A full and prompt explanation Nonproliferation Treaty and is widely Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, Rafael Grossi told The Associated Press in from Iran...is needed.” believed to possess nuclear weapons. allows Iran only to keep a stockpile of 202.8 an interview last month that his agency does kilograms (447 pounds). not share that assessment. IAEA Executive Director Rafael Grossi told Credit : Associated Press (AP) Cambodia bans state-organized US: WHO not events in capital over virus sharing enough ambodia banned all state-organized Cambodia, are among those who have tested info about China C events in the capital and a neighboring positive since Szijjarto’s visit. province for two weeks to prevent the spread Photo AP PC : Cambodia has tested more than 1,000 people virus probe of the coronavirus after a number of people response said it’s considering whether the who had connections to the visit, and four connected to a Hungarian official’s visit senior U.S. government official U.N. health agency has enough power and were confirmed to have contracted the virus: tested positive. A complained that the World Health financing to stop future pandemics. the Hungarian ambassador, a Cambodian Organization has not shared enough The Interior Ministry did not elaborate on bodyguard for the visiting minister, a ruling information about its planned mission to Former New Zealand Prime Minister the ban on government events and meetings. party lawmaker and a senior Agriculture China to investigate the animal origins of Helen Clark, who co-chairs the panel, It had already closed schools, nightclubs, Ministry official. The Health Ministry said the coronavirus. said the group was especially interested beer halls and cinemas in Phnom Penh and in a statement that it would distribute at Hu in establishing an accurate chronology of neighboring Kandal province. Sen’s recommendation about 2 million cloth Garrett Grisby of the U.S. Department of the very first coronavirus alerts and what masks to the Phnom Penh Municipality Health and Human Services griped that the responses were taken. to be handed out to residents who cannot criteria for WHO’s China mission had not “The Independent Panel will do its best to not afford to buy them. The capital has a been shared with other nations. He spoke shed light on what has happened, is still population of about that size. during a weeklong meeting of the U.H. happening and why,” Clark said. “We are health agency’s member countries. Thai authorities said that a Hungarian asking whether WHO has the right mandate, diplomat in Bangkok tested positive for the “The (terms of reference) were not negotiated the right powers, the right capacities and

PC : AP Photo AP PC : virus, the only local case in Thailand so far in a transparent way with all WHO member the right financing to deliver on pandemic linked to Szijjarto. states,” he said via video conference, referring preparedness and response.” to the mission’s criteria. “Understanding the The 53-year-old Hungarian diplomat in Critics, including President Donald origins of COVID-19 through a transparent Trump, have slammed WHO for allegedly Bangkok was sent to an infectious disease and inclusive investigation is what must be facility for treatment and isolation. “colluding” with China to hide the extent The decision came after the government done.” of the initial coronavirus outbreak. Earlier struggled to trace people that came into The diplomat sat in the same car and In recent months, a long-planned WHO-led this year, The Associated Press reported contact with Hungarian Foreign Minister had a quick dinner with Szijjarto on the team seeking to investigate the coronavirus’ that senior Chinese officials didn’t warn Peter Szijjarto, who made a short visit to day he arrived in Bangkok, said Sopon animal origins in China has stalled. Although the public about the pandemic threat of Cambodia on Nov. 3 before testing positive Iamsirithaworn, director of Thailand’s pandemic travel restrictions and the focus on coronavirus for six days and that they stalled on arrival later that day in neighboring Division of Communicable Diseases of the stemming the overwhelming number of new on sharing the virus’ genetic sequence and Thailand. All his meetings in Thailand were Department of Disease Control. coronavirus cases have complicated matters, other key data with WHO experts. canceled and he flew home on Nov. 4. The diplomat was not identified by name. some scientists worry that China has still not Clark said the panel would also review However, in response to reporters’ questions, provided key details about what research is “how well the World Health Organization Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has so Sopon referred to him as “ambassador.” already ongoing. and the international system at large have far ruled out declaring a state of emergency, Hungary’s embassy in Thailand did not been able to deliver on country needs and even as he and a number of his Cabinet The U.S. objections came as an independent reply to questions for further details. expectations.” ministers were forced into quarantine. Two panel commissioned by WHO to evaluate Hungarian ambassadors, to Thailand and to Credit : Associated Press (AP) its management of the global COVID-19 Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 12 16 - 22 November 2020

Interational NEW DELHI TIMES Australia to EU says looking prosecute troops forward to for war crimes in better ties with Afghanistan US under Biden A ustralia announced a new investigative he European Union said it looked agency to build criminal cases against T forward to better relations with the Australian special forces suspected of United States under the leadership of committing war crimes in Afghanistan. PC : AP Photo AP PC : President-elect Joe Biden, and expressed hope the presidential transition will not be of our partners must be assured and those take as long as it needs to take to ensure we The Office of the Special Investigator is to “bumpy.” be formed after a four-year investigation into around the world who rightly hold the deal with our dual objectives of addressing Australian Defense Forces in high regard,” the justice that is necessary in accordance allegations and rumors surrounding behavior EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell Morrison told reporters. with our laws and systems but also ensuring of some soldiers in Special Air Service and warmly congratulated “Biden and Vice the integrity of our defense forces on which Commando Regiments in Afghanistan from President-elect Kamala Harris for their “In Australia, we deal with this stuff and we all rely,” he added. 2005 and 2016. historic victory” and said the 27-nation bloc we deal with it honestly, but in accordance looked forward to better relations than under through the rule of law and by following the Neil James, chief executive of the Australian Benjamin Roberts-Smith, Australia’s most President Donald Trump. highly-decorated member of the armed justice practices and principles that makes Defense Association think tank, said the Australia what it is,” he added. Australian military wanted solders to have services when he left the SAS in 2013, has “It is not a secret, (either), that in the past their day in court to end a “continuous rumor been accused of by former colleagues of 4 years things have become complicated,” Two Australian Broadcasting Corp. journalists mill.” unlawful treatment of prisoners including Borrell told legislators at the European until recently faced potential prison illegally killing prisoners. Parliament. Both sides, despite being sentences for using leaked classified defense “It’s certainly the case that they’re going to longstanding allies, disagreed over key documents as a basis for a 2017 report that take a long time because we’re talking about The former corporal, who was awarded the topics from trade and security to the fight detailed allegations of Australian soldiers a complex investigation, witnesses will have Victoria Cross and the Medal for Gallantry against climate change. killing unarmed men and children. to be interviewed under caution, in many for his service in Afghanistan, has denied cases those witnesses will be overseas, and any misconduct. Police raided ABC Sydney headquarters with in some cases it’ll be hard to interview them search warrants last year but prosecutors because they are in enemy-held territory in a Defense Force Chief Gen. Angus Campbell decided that charging the journalists would war zone,” James said. will make public a redacted report on the not be in the public interest. four-year investigation next week. “So the complexity of this is going to be Prosecuting alleged Australian war criminals difficult, but it’s got to be faced because ... Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the new is expected to take years. Australia has to face up to this, that things did agency, headed by a retired judge or senior go wrong and we need to fix it,” he added. criminal lawyer, was needed because the “These are incredibly complex events workload would “seriously overwhelm” involving actions and conduct in another Around 39,000 Australians served in existing police resources. country, in a war,” Morrison said. Afghanistan and 41 were killed.

“This report will be difficult news and all “This is not a simple matter ... and so it will Credit : Associated Press (AP) Turkey offended by Pompeo’s plan to discuss religious issues urkey took offense at a U.S. statement PC : AP Photo AP PC : T that said Secretary of State Mike Pompeo would promote religious freedom during an upcoming visit to Istanbul and The EU is expected to invite Biden soon to called on Washington to focus on racism and videoconference talks in an attempt to give hate crimes in the United States instead. new impetus to the trans-Atlantic alliance.

The State Department said in a statement “You can rest assured that we are ready to PC : AP Photo AP PC : that Pompeo would travel to Istanbul to meet engage fast with the new administration,” with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on this matter was conveyed to the U.S. turned into a mosque with the Ottoman Borrell said. But he also alluded to the I, the spiritual leader of the world’s Greek side, and it was suggested that (Washington) conquest of Constantinople and then into a political problems remaining in the U.S. Orthodox Christians. The top U.S. diplomat focus on increasing cooperation between our museum 86 years ago. where Trump has yet to concede defeat. plans to discuss religious issues in Turkey countries on regional and global issues,” the Biden is steadfastly pushing forward with and to promote “our strong stance on Foreign Ministry said. Erdogan later also announced a decision to preparations for his presidency. religious freedom around the world,” the transform the Church of the Holy Saviour statement read. In July, Turkish President Recep Tayyip in Chora, another Byzantine-era church in “We still have to wait until (the) 20th of Erdogan converted Istanbul’s landmark Istanbul, into a mosque as well. January because as you know very well it is Turkey’s Foreign Ministry rebuked the Haghia Sophia into a mosque, ignoring a quite long transition ahead. Let’s hope it is statement “as extremely inappropriate,” calls for the former cathedral to be kept Turkey is also under pressure to reopen a not going to be a bumpy transition,” Borrell insisting that the country protects the rights as a museum in recognition of the city’s Greek Orthodox theological school that was said. of citizens of various faiths to freely practice multicultural past. shut down in 1971. their religions. Trump has variously stunned and The move led to accusations that the Pompeo was not scheduled to meet with disappointed the Europeans — most of them “It would be more advisable for the United Turkish leader was trying to erase Orthodox Turkish officials during a tour that will members of the NATO military alliance that States to look in the mirror first and to show Christians’ cultural heritage. also take him to France, Georgia, Israel, America leads — by slapping tariffs on EU the necessary sensitivity to human rights the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi exports and pulling out of the Paris climate violations such as racism, Islamophobia and The structure, a United Nations world Arabia during Nov. 13 – 23. agreement and the Iran nuclear deal. hate crimes in its own country,” the Turkish heritage site, served as one of Christendom’s ministry said in a statement. “Our reaction most important cathedrals before being Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

16 - 22 November 2020 13

THIS DAY | THAT YEAR | NEW DELHI TIMES

November 16, 1989 South Africa’s whites only beaches and parks were opened up to all races on this day that year. PC : Getty Images

November 17, 1988 Benazir Bhutto became the Prime Minister of Pakistan and

PC : Getty Images also the first female leader of an Islamic country on this day that year.

November 18, 1916

After more than 1 million soldiers had been killed or wounded, British General Douglas Haig finally called off the 1st Battle of the Somme in World War I on this day that year. PC : Getty Images

November 19, 1994 Aishwarya Rai, of India was crowned the 44th Miss PC : Getty Images World on this day that year.

November 20, 1977

Egyptian President Anwar Sadat became the first Arab leader to address the Israeli Knesset on this day that year. PC : Getty Images

November 21, 1981

250,000 people attended Europe’s biggest anti-nuclear demonstration to date in Amsterdam on this day that year.

November 22, 1963 US President John F. Kennedy was assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald while riding in an open-topped motorcade in Dallas, Texas, on this day that year.

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 14 16 - 22 November 2020

Delhi/NCR NEW DELHI TIMES Uber launches PIN dispatch NGT imposes complete ban on feature at Delhi airport sale and use of firecrackers in Delhi till November 30 PC : Getty Images

driver at the pickup zone, reducing waiting PC : Getty Images ◆ By NDT Bureau times to almost zero,” the statement released @NewDelhiTimes on November 9 added. places, ban/restrictions are optional for the ◆ By NDT Bureau authorities but if there are more stringent [email protected] The rider will be required to provide the PIN @NewDelhiTimes measures under orders of the authorities, the to the driver, who will input the one-time same will prevail”. ide hailing major Uber announced numeric code into the app, commencing the [email protected] R that it has launched its PIN dispatch ride, it said, adding that riders will receive The NGT also directed all States and Union feature at Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi the driver and vehicle details for additional he National Green Tribunal (NGT) has Territories to initiate special drives to contain International Airport. verification checks. T imposed a complete ban on the sale and purchase of firecrackers in Delhi and air pollution from all sources in view of the The feature, which is already available at “After receiving positive feedback from adjoining areas till November 30. potential of aggravation of COVID-19. Bengaluru and Hyderabad airports, will riders across Bengaluru and Hyderabad, be available at Terminal 3 (T3) of Indira we’re confident that the new feature will The NGT order further said that the ban will “Celebration by crackers is for happiness. Gandhi International Airport, a statement help shorten rider wait times, reduce traffic be applicable in cities and towns where the It is not to celebrate deaths and diseases. said. “Starting today, when riders request an congestion and also facilitate physical air quality is in “poor” category. Happiness of a few at the cost of lives of UberGo at IGI International airport, they’ll distancing in the new normal,” Uber India others is not the value in Indian society receive a unique six-digit PIN which will and South Asia Head of Rider Operations A bench headed by NGT Chairperson which stands for happiness and well-being be used to match them to the first available Ratul Ghosh said. Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel said, “At other of all,” the Tribunal bench added. ‘Red Light On, Gaadi Off’ Campaign to curb vehicular pollution in Delhi extended till December 31 PC : Getty Images

in the National Capital to spread awareness ◆ By NDT Bureau and ask the commuters to switch off the @NewDelhiTimes engines of vehicles at these signals in case of red light. [email protected] When the campaign was launched on he Government of Delhi has extended October 21, Gopal Rai had remarked, “The T the ‘Red Light On, Gaadi Off’ campaign campaign is an attempt to reduce vehicular to curb vehicular pollution till December 31. pollution. Delhi has around one crore This was announced by Gopal Rai, Delhi’s registered vehicles. Altogether, vehicles Minister for Environment. burn fuel at traffic signals for around 15-20 minutes every day. The ‘Red Light On, Gaadi Off’ campaign by the Delhi Government began on October 21. This campaign aims to stop fuel-burning at The campaign was originally scheduled to signals. If the city’s two crore population last till November 15. joins this campaign and does its bit, then we can reduce around 15-20 per cent pollution As part of the campaign, more than 2500 from vehicles. This campaign is voluntary. civil defence volunteers will stand with I appeal to the people of Delhi to make it a placards at approximately 100 traffic signals success.” www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

16 - 22 November 2020 15

National NEW DELHI TIMES WHO Chief Tedros thanks India takes measures to boost PM Modi for making COVID-19 vaccine a global cybersecurity architecture public good Cybercrimes in India surged during the COVID-19 pandemic In March 2020, a report released by Subex, ◆ By NDT Bureau ◆ By NDT Bureau a Bengaluru-based firm providing analytics @NewDelhiTimes @NewDelhiTimes to telecom and communication service provider, stated that for three months in [email protected] [email protected] 2019, India faced the most cyber-attacks in the world. “The US was the most targeted he World Health Organization (WHO) n his address to the nation on the T PC : Getty Images nation in the world in 2019. However, in the Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus I Independence Day on August 15, second quarter, India surpassed the US,” the thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for He also appreciated the importance of the 2020, Indian Prime Minister Narendra report states. “Throughout the year, India his strong commitment to Covax - a global WHO’s support to the health systems of Modi stressed on the need for an effective was in the top 5 (countries) especially after vaccine pool led by WHO and Gavi - and developing countries. cyber security policy. India will soon have March 2019.” for making COVID-19 vaccines a global a cybersecurity policy soon, the Indian PM public good. Tedros discussed with Prime Tedros, on the other hand, stressed the close stated. To quote the Indian PM verbatim, “In Strengthening cyber security is one of the Minister Modi about the vast potential of and regular collaboration between the WHO this era of technology, our dependence on foremost priorities of the Modi regime. traditional medicine for promoting health and the Indian health authorities. The WHO cyberspace is going to increase multifold. The Indian Government is stepping up and wellness in the world. PM Modi also Chief also appreciated India’s domestic However, cyberspace offers its own risks international cooperation to enhance the assured India’s support to the WHO and initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat scheme and threats. cybersecurity architecture. The second the world community in the fight against and India’s campaign against Tuberculosis. ASEAN-India Track 1.5 Dialogue on Cyber COVID-19 in a tweet. The world is very well aware of these. It can Issues was held on October 12, 2020. Vijay Discussions on traditional medicine be a threat to the social fabric of our country, Thakur Singh, Secretary (East) in External During the conversation, PM Modi solutions, including Ayurveda, and on our economy and can even threaten the Affairs Ministry stressed on the Indian expressed his appreciation for the WHO’s the need to integrate traditional medicine development of our nation; we are very well- initiative to tackle the situation with flagship important role in facilitating a coordinated solutions into modern medical practice also aware of that. India is very cautious and is Digital India programme - Pradhan Mantri global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. took place. planning to take steps to combat these risks. Grameen Digital Shaksharta Abhiyan (Prime Not only this, new systems are continuously (AIIMS), said that the reason behind the Minister’s Rural Digital Literacy Campaign) being developed. In a short span of time, a recent surge in COVID-19 cases in Delhi is and National Cyber Security Strategy 2020 AIIMS director draft of new cyber security policy would due to super-spreader events. for the next five years. be presented to the nation. In the coming times, we will have to integrate everything blames super- Dr. Guleria said that in a crowd if one India launched India’s Centres of does not wear a mask, a person who may and then work within the framework of this Excellence in Software Development and cyber security.” spreader events be asymptomatic and is highly infectious Training (CESDTs) in Cambodia, Lao can spread the disease to a large number of PDR, Myanmar and Vietnam to enhance people in the crowd. If they get the disease, digital cooperation. India is also funding ◆ By NDT Bureau they will take it to the area they go and their ‘Child Online Risks Awareness Campaign’ @NewDelhiTimes own family members, their relatives and and ‘Building Capacity on Digital Public they will again spread the disease. This is all [email protected] Services Implementation and Cyber Security about super-spreading events, and this has for Government Agencies’ as Quick Impact happened in Delhi. Projects in Cambodia in 2020. The AIIMS director warned that with the drop On October 7, 2020, India signed a in temperature and rising air pollution levels Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with there is a dire need to exercise precautions Japan in the field of cybersecurity. The MoC while going out. He also advised senior will enhance cooperation in areas of mutual citizens and people with comorbidities to interest, which include­ inter-alia, capacity be extra vigilant during this phase and said PC : Getty Images building in the area of cyberspace; protection there is an acute need for everyone to wear of critical infrastructure; cooperation in r. Randeep Guleria, Director, All India masks whenever they are in places with a emerging technologies; sharing information D Institute of Medical Sciences Delhi considerable number of people. on cyber security threats/incidents and malicious cyber activities, as well as best prac­tices to counter them; developing joint India’s Serum Institute says it mechanisms for practical cooperation to mitigate cyber threats to the security of Information Communication Technology has made 40 million doses of (ICT) infrastructure etc. PC : Getty Images AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine Cybercrimes in India surged during the India and Japan have committed to an open, COVID-19 pandemic. Scammers created interoperable, free, fair, secure and reliable­ fake versions of the flagship ‘PM CARES cyberspace environment and to promote the Fund’ payments and many Indians and Internet as an engine of innovation, economic Non-Residents Indians (NRIs) have fallen growth, and trade and commerce that would prey since then. The CERT-In, the Indian be consistent with their respective domestic Computer Emergency Response Team and laws and international obligations, and with ReBIT, the technology arm of the Reserve their wide-ranging strategic partnership. Bank of India (RBI) also issued warnings about online threats and scams and asked Both sides, through the MoC, affirmed financial institutions to be aware. cooperation in the international arena

including in the United Nations; discussing PC : Getty Images and sharing strategies and best practices­ to On August 25, 2020, the Reserve Bank of soon begin making Novavax’s rival shot, as promote the integrity of the supply chain India (RBI) in its annual report for 2019- ◆ By NDT Bureau they both seek regulatory approval. Serum 2020 stated that Bank frauds, in value terms of ICT products; strengthening the security @NewDelhiTimes has enrolled 1,600 participants in India for of ICT infrastructure through Government- involving an amount of Rs. 1 lakh and late-stage trials of AstraZeneca’s candidate, to-Government and Business-to-Business [email protected] above, have more than doubled in 2019-20 and also plans to seek regulatory approval to cooperation; continuing dialogue and period to Rs. 1.85 trillion from Rs. 71,543 run late-stage trials for the Novavax vaccine. crores in 2018-19 period, up 159 per cent. In engagement in Internet governance fora, erum Institute of India, the world’s volume terms, however, the total fraud cases and to support active participation by all the S largest vaccine producer, said that it The AstraZeneca vaccine, co-developed by have jumped 28 per cent to 8,707 in 2019-20 stakeholders of the two countries in these has made 40 million doses of AstraZeneca’s Oxford University, is the most advanced in from 6,799 in 2018-19. fora. potential COVID-19 vaccine, and would human testing in India. India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 16 16 - 22 November 2020

Neighbourhood NEW DELHI TIMES Pakistan says Pfizer vaccine not suited for developing nations top Pakistani government scientist infrastructure and chains to take this from A says Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine is the airport across the cities and across the not suited for Pakistan, or other developing countries are missing in the developing countries because of the -80°C temperatures world,” the professor explained. it needs to be kept at, and the need for a second shot. He went on to note that COVID-19 patients would require two doses of the Pfizer vaccine The American pharmaceutical company three weeks apart and “a low-temperature announced that late-stage testing on its carriage” requirement makes it all the more potential two-dose vaccine indicates it is difficult in Pakistan, where average summer more than 90% effective in preventing the temperatures in southern and southwestern virus in participants without evidence of regions soar to between 40°C and 50°C. prior infection. COVID-19 is the disease caused by the

The revelation is being hailed as a rare piece coronavirus. PC : Getty Images of positive news in the fight against the pandemic that has globally infected more Own clinical trials on Chinese vaccines One of the vaccines under trial in Pakistan pandemic hit the country of about 220 than 50 million people, with 1.2 million has been developed by Chinese biotech million in February. The number of cases in deaths and 33 million people recovered. Rahman said Pakistan is also conducting firm CanSinoBio and is already undergoing Pakistan has steadily declined to a few hundred its own final-phase clinical trials on two Phase 3, or large-scale, testing on humans in a day since mid-June, when the daily rate of But Professor Atta Ur Rahman, who Chinese-made single-dose vaccines in several countries, including China, Russia, infection spiked at more than 6,000. heads Pakistan’s Task Force on Science partnership with China. He says that the Chile and Argentina. and Technology, said that it is “premature vaccines can be transported in normal But officials in recent days have warned at least” for his country or others in the temperatures, unlike the Pfizer vaccine. Rahman said the clinical trials in Pakistan, the South Asian nation is experiencing a developing world to celebrate the Pfizer which began in September, will take at least second wave of infections, reporting 1,637 vaccine. “Our trials are going on very well. The three months and that the results will then be new cases and 23 deaths. The resurgence has results are very positive as far as I am sent back to China to be evaluated. prompted the government to revive some “This is a messenger RNA vaccine and it has aware… Both these vaccines do not have restrictions on public movement to stem the to be transported at -80°C, so this vaccine this -80°C transportation problem. I expect Pakistan has documented nearly 347,000 spread of the ailment. is not suited for developing countries,” the vaccines to be better suited for Pakistan infections, with 7,000 deaths and almost Rahman told VOA. “The cold storage than the Pfizer vaccine.” 320,000 people recovered since the Credit : Voice of America (VOA) India strengthens bilateral Official Myanmar vote count Blast kills Afghan ties with Bangladesh, gifts journalist working 20 Trained Military Horses, 10 Mine-Detection Dogs affirms Suu Kyi’s party control for US media outlet A ung San Suu Kyi’s National League The Union Election Commission cited A bomb explosion in Afghanistan’s ◆ By NDT Bureau for Democracy won enough seats in the dangers of ongoing combat between volatile southern Helmand province Parliament to return to power for a second government forces and ethnic minority killed a reporter working for Radio Free @NewDelhiTimes five-year term, official results released by guerrillas, but critics suggested certain areas Europe/Radio Liberty’s Afghan Service, [email protected] the election commission showed. were singled out for cancellation because Radio Azadi. they were certain to elect lawmakers from The NLD won 346 seats in the combined Afghan officials said the slain journalist, s part of country’s efforts to strengthen parties hostile to the current government. lower and upper houses of the legislature, far Elyas Dayee, and his brother were traveling A bilateral ties with Bangladesh, the above the 322 needed to secure a majority, to the press club in Lashkargah, the provincial Indian Army on November 10, gifted the the Union Election Commission announced capital, when a “magnetic” explosive device latter 20 fully-trained military horses and 10 on television and in social media, even ripped through their car. The blast injured mine-detection dogs, for which it had also many seats from the election have yet to be his brother, also a journalist, and two others. imparted training to the Bangladesh Army declared. personnel for handling these specialist dogs Dayee had been reporting from Helmand for more than a decade for the Afghan branch of and horses. The military-backed Union Solidarity the U.S. government’s Radio Free Europe/ and Development Party, the main Radio Liberty’s external broadcast services. opposition party, won 25 seats, and the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy, No one immediately took responsibility for representing the ethnic Shan minority, won the early morning bombing in Lashkargah, 15 seats. The Shan, whose homeland is in which has been under attack from Taliban eastern Myanmar, are the country’s largest insurgents for almost a month. ethnic minority. “My colleague and dear friend, Elyas Dayee, An unofficial count by Yway Mal, an lost his life in a terrorist attack this morning independent vote counting service, gave the in Lashkargah. He was gentleman. Always PC : Getty Images NLD 397 seats and the USDP 28, with 44 had signature smile. This is a terrible news. going to other parties. Elyas, you will be remembered dearly,” “The performance of military dogs in the Indian tweeted Sami Mahdi, the Radio Azadi Army has been commendable. We are always Majority control of Parliament does not give bureau chief in Kabul. ready to extend our assistance to a friendly the NLD full control of government. The country like Bangladesh in issues concerning The U.S. Agency for Global Media, the army-drafted constitution of 2008 grants Photo AP PC : parent agency of VOA, RFE/RL and security. When it comes to security, the dogs the military 25% of the total seats, enough other U.S.-funded media networks, also have proven their mettle. The dogs which have to block constitutional changes. Several key One of the guerrilla groups, the Arakan condemned the attack. been handed over, are extremely effective in ministerial positions are also reserved for mine detection and contraband items,” said a Army, said that it would extend a unilateral military appointees. “This was a cowardly act and an assault senior Army Officer. ceasefire to Dec. 31 to allow by-elections to be held in areas of Rakhine province where on the universal principle of freedom of As per a statement, the equines and canines The USDP has called the election unfair and voting had been canceled. expression,” USAGM CEO Michael Pack were trained by the Remount and Veterinary refused to accept the election results, but the said. “We offer our deepest condolences to Corps of the Indian Army. Major General election commission rejected its claim and It urged Myanmar’s army and government to Dayee’s family, and call for the perpetrators Narinder Singh Khroud, Chief of Staff of its demand for a fresh vote. halt military actions and declare a ceasefire to be held accountable.” Brahmastra Corps led the Indian Army encompassing the whole country so voting delegation while the Bangladesh Army Independent rights groups have criticized the Radio Azadi is said to reach more than 60% could take place. The government has not of Afghanistan’s population with its radio delegation was led by Major General disenfranchisement of the Muslim Rohingya done so. Mohammad Humayun Kabir, who is ethnic minority and cancellation of the vote and internet programs. Commanding the Jessore based Division. in certain areas. Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Voice of America (VOA) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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North America NEW DELHI TIMES Guatemala calls Press groups concerned over Haiti’s President, off search at killings of Mexican journalists Opposition Leaders Congratulate Biden site of massive nternational press groups expressed Rangel, a reporter for the online newspaper I concern about a spike in the number El Salmantino while he was covering a on US Election Win of journalists killed in Mexico, after three story in Guanajuato, the state with the most landslide were murdered within the space of 10 days. homicides in Mexico. aitian President Jovenel Moise H congratulated U.S. President-elect Joe he Guatemalan government called off The Committee to Protect Journalists, Vázquez Rangel showed up at a scene in Biden on his election victory. T the search for victims of a massive Reporters Without Borders and the Inter the city of Salamanca where body parts landslide set off by the rains of Hurricane “I extend my congratulations to President- American Press Association urged Mexico had reportedly been left on a street. He Eta that was believed to have entombed elect @JoeBiden, and Vice-President-elect to do more to investigate the killings and reportedly arrived in a car with news site’s more than 100 people. @KamalaHarris. The USA is an important protect journalists. logo. Apparently, the killers were still there ally for Haiti, and I look forward to continued Guatemala’s National Disaster Reduction when he arrived, and two men opened fire cooperation with this friend,” he tweeted. on him. Coordinator said it was suspending the Bilateral relations between the two countries search for bodies due to continued risks at Jan-Albert Hootsen, the CPJ Mexico have remained cordial during President the site in accordance with international representative, wrote that “the brazen killing Donald Trump’s administration. protocols. Search teams had located eight of Israel Vázquez Rangel underscores how victims before the effort was halted. President Moise joined Caribbean leaders Mexico is more dangerous for reporters than at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm David de León, spokesman for the agency, even war zones.” Beach, Florida, in March of 2019 to discuss said the area was very unstable and the soils trade and investment. The meeting was Guanajuato, a farming and industrial hub in saturated. hailed by the Caribbean participants as north-central Mexico, saw 3,453 slayings

PC : AP Photo AP PC : extremely positive with Trump promising in the first nine months of the year, more A mountainside above the community of them renewed U.S. engagement in the than any other of Mexico’s 32 states. The Queja in Alta Verapaz thundered onto some region. 150 modest homes below as the area was The CPJ lists Mexico as the deadliest state is the epicenter of turf wars between being drenched by what was then Tropical country in the world for journalists in 2020; the Jalisco drug cartel, local gangs and the In Port-au-Prince, opposition leader Louis Depression Eta. the IAPA says ten media workers have been Sinaloa cartel. Gerald Gilles of the Nou La party told killed in Mexico so far this year. VOA he thinks a Biden administration It took a day just for rescuers to reach the On November 2, a man shot to death online will bring positive changes to the bilateral slide. Roads approaching the site were On November 9, gunmen killed a reporter reporter and photographer Jesús Alfonso relationship. blocked by numerous other landslides. for a local news site while he was covering a Piñuelas as he was riding his motorcycle in story in Guanajuato. On Nov. 2, a man shot the northern state of Sonora. A suspect with to death online reporter and photographer past drug convictions was arrested and plead Jesús Alfonso Piñuelas in the northern state guilty to the crime, but the motive in the of Sonora. On Oct. 29, television journalist crime remains unclear. Arturo Alba Medina was shot to death in the border city of Ciudad Juárez, across from El In late October, television journalist Arturo Paso, Texas. Alba Medina was shot to death in the border city of Ciudad Juárez, across from El Paso, Emmanuel Colombié, the Latin America Texas. Alba Medina worked as a TV anchor director for Reporters Without Borders, said and served as spokesman for a local college. in the states most plagued by corruption and Local media said he reported on crime and organized crime, journalists are ever more violence. PC : Getty Images vulnerable and more exposed to reprisals. In early September, newspaper reporter Julio Inter American Press Association President Valdivia was killed in Mexico’s Gulf coast “I think Joe Biden’s victory is a breath of Jorge Canahuati, said “it is outrageous that state of Veracruz and decapitated. Valdivia fresh air in terms of our relationship with journalists continue to be killed in Mexico, covered a rural zone near the border with the United States. We have to recognize and that the crime against them and their Oaxaca state that has long been plagued by that Trumpism - Donald Trump’s policy - relatives is compounded by a lack of justice.” gang violence. was centered around his personality - it was ‘I am the lone ruler.’ But the Democrats On November 9, gunmen killed Israel Vázquez Credit : Associated Press (AP) adhere more to institutions and traditions, human rights, the constitution, respect for that “this goes against U.S. justice.” claiming democratic principles - it’s a huge departure U.S. puts sanctions a U.S, court found her husband innocent in from a person who acts like a sheriff. 2008. She noted Alemán had his U.S. travel on ex-Nicaragua visa taken away 16 years ago. The fact that he (Trump) lost the election shows that the world is against this type of President Arnoldo Alemán, 64, was sentenced to 20 years in autocratic government,” Gilles said. jail for corruption in 2003, but in 2009 the But Wilson Joseph, leader of the youth Alemán country’s supreme court found him innocent. opposition party Mouvman Jenes pou He has denied any wrongdoing. PC : AP Photo AP PC : he U.S. State Department put former Refonde Ayiti (MJRA), says he doesn’t Nicaraguan President Arnoldo think Biden’s election victory will change T U.S. officials who initially welcomed Alemán on a list of corrupt foreign officials, much. Rescuers had to hike for hours, sometimes Aleman’s election in 1997 were openly barring him and his family from entering the through waist-deep mud, to arrive at Queja. critical of him by the time he left office, “Haiti’s problems have not changed. United States. Supplies were brought in by helicopter. alleging widespread corruption. Remember, Obama was U.S. President not that long ago and after January 12 (2010, Guatemala has a grim history of victims of Alemán has been dogged by accusations of The U.S. Secretary of State Mike the year of the devastating earthquake) large landslides being left buried where they embezzlement during his term from 1997 Pompeo said in a statement that “Aleman what changed? Not much, really. Joe Biden perished. to 2002. After spending some time in jail was involved in corrupt acts such as was his vice president. So what is there in Nicaragua, he was eventually cleared of misappropriating millions of dollars of to celebrate? We (Haitians) have to stop The government has reported 44 deaths charges. public funds for the benefit of himself and relying on the United States, we have to related to Eta’s passage. The country, like members of his family. learn to govern ourselves and look after our much of Central America, has suffered The designation announced also applies to own interests,” he said. his wife, María Fernanda Flores Lanzas, and widespread flooding from the storm that While this designation is based on acts Anti-corruption activist Ricardo Fleuridor his two daughters and a son. entered Nicaragua as a Category 4 hurricane during his time in office, Aleman’s of the PetroChallenger movement thinks on November 3 and continued hovering over corruption continues to reverberate in a Biden administration will bring positive the Caribbean as a tropical storm. Flores Lanzas, who currently serves as a Nicaragua today.” changes not only for Haiti but the world. legislator in Nicaragua’s National Assembly, Credit : Associated Press (AP) told the Nicaragua Actual online news outlet Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Voice of America (VOA)

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Africa NEW DELHI TIMES Conflict in Tigray region of Ethiopia threatens to escalate into a major humanitarian crisis The Tigray Region is the northernmost of the nine regions (Kililat) of Ethiopia General Birhanu Jula is the Army Chief. internal affairs, will wrap up soon by ending 7, 2020, the United Nations Office for the ◆ By NDT Bureau Foreign Minister Gedu Andargachew was the prevailing impunity.” Ahmed has rejected Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs @NewDelhiTimes reassigned as Security Advisor to Abiy, with the calls of the international community for (OHCA) in its report titled, “Ethiopia: Tigray Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen dialogue with the Tigray regional leaders Region Humanitarian Update Situation [email protected] replacing him. Demelash Gebremichael was as the United States issued a statement Report No. 1” mentioned that there are more removed as Head of Intelligence and will urging “an immediate de-escalation” and than 2 million people in need of some type n November 5, Ethiopian Prime lead the Federal Police Commission, while the United Nations making a similar plea. of assistance in Tigray. The region is home O Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered the former Amhara regional leader Temesgen The African Union Commission Chair, to one million safety net clients. There are at military to confront the country’s well- Tiruneh steps into the role. Moussa Faki Mahamat, has also called for least 500,000 relief food beneficiaries on the armed Tigray regional government, accusing an immediate cease-fire and stood ready humanitarian appeal, of which 100,000 are it of a deadly attack on a military base and to support an “inter-Ethiopian effort in the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Tigray declaring “the last red line has been crossed” pursuit of peace.” region is also hosting 96,000 refugees (12 after months of alleged provocations. “Our per cent of the country’s refugee caseload), defence forces … have been ordered to carry The Tigray Region is the northernmost of and close to 16,000 returned migrants. out their mission to save the country. The the nine regions (Kililat) of Ethiopia. On final point of the red line has been crossed. September 9, 2020, Parliamentary Elections The report also warns that there are close Force is being used as the last measure to were held in Tigray. The elections were in to 9 million people at high risk due to this save the people and the country,” Abiy said. defiance to the orders of Ethiopian Prime conflict who are living in the vicinity of Abiy’s government has also declared a six- Minister Abiy Ahmed that all elections would regional and national boundaries with month-long state of emergency in Tigray PC : Getty Images be postponed because of the COVID-19 Tigray. Should the conflict escalate, it is stating that illegal and violent activities pandemic. The holding of elections in possible that these people may be affected were threatening the country’s sovereignty. Abiy Ahmed has said in a statement that Tigray further widened the schism between which would lead to massive displacements Airstrikes have since been carried in the the operations by the Ethiopian Army in the the Abiy Ahmed and the TPLF. On October within and outside of Ethiopia. Protection Tigray region. The Ethiopian PM has Tigray province will end soon. On Twitter, 6, the House of Federation and the Upper of civilians and ensuring their access to asserted that strikes in multiple locations he wrote, “#Ethiopia is grateful for friends House of the Ethiopian Parliament voted to basic services is amongst the top priority “completely destroyed rockets and other expressing their concern. Our rule of law sever contact with leaders of the northern of humanitarian partners. Conflict always heavy weapons” and made a retaliatory operation is aimed at guaranteeing peace Tigray region. Tigray officials have also exposes populations, particularly women, attack impossible. and stability once and for all by bringing objected to the postponement of Ethiopia’s children, the elderly and the disabled to perpetrators of instability to justice. national election because of the COVID-19 exploitation and various forms of abuse. As the conflict in Tigray has intensified, Concerns that Ethiopia will descend into pandemic, which extends Abiy’s stay in The situation of displaced persons is Ethiopia’s Army Chief, Head of Intelligence chaos are unfounded & a result of not office. particularly of concern as without assistance and Foreign Minister have been replaced understanding our context deeply. Our rule and their inability to meet their basic needs, by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The of law enforcement operation, as a sovereign The conflict in Tigray threatens to turn the likelihood of them resorting to negative former Deputy of the Armed Forces, state with the capacity to manage its own into a humanitarian crisis. On November coping strategies is high. Escorted by diplomats, Tanzanian Rising political opposition leader leaves tensions in Ivory scorted by Western diplomats, Tanzania’s leaders had urged citizens into the streets for Coast send E main opposition candidate Tundu an “endless peaceful demonstration” over Lissu left the country for Belgium after the Oct. 28 election, in which widespread thousands fleeing rejecting a presidential election he asserted fraud was alleged and many observers were he U.N. refugee agency reports a had “widespread irregularities” and was a barred. But police blocked the protest. T significant increase in the number of “butchery of democracy.” people fleeing Ivory Coast to neighboring PC : Getty Images The United States and others noted credible countries in the wake of the country’s allegations that called the vote’s results — to him under a new constitution adopted controversial October 31 presidential and the East African country’s democratic in 2016. Dozens of people reportedly have election. ideals — into question. Allegations included been killed in election-related violence. the rejection of thousands of election More than 8,000 Ivorians have fled rising observers, a massive slowdown in internet Baloch told VOA fear of violence is driving political tensions in Ivory Coast. That is the current exodus. and text-messaging services and ballot box up from 3,200 in just one week. The U.N. stuffing. refugee agency says it fears the number will “This brings back bad memories from 2011 PC : AP Photo AP PC : continue to grow as ongoing violence shows of the presidential election then, which Magufuli later noted “a few challenges” no signs of abating. “I am not fleeing the country,” said Lissu, the around the election but called it generally claimed the lives of 3,000 people and forced survivor of an assassination attempt in 2017 peaceful. The government has denied any over 300,000 to flee. So, these people UNHCR spokesman Babar Baloch says who are coming, they are not mentioning who returned to Tanzania this year from cases of intimidation. 7,500 refugees have fled to Liberia. The Belgium to challenge populist President currently being targeted…or them being others, he says, have sought refuge in attacked. But it is the fear of violence,” he John Magufuli, who won a second term. “I Several opposition leaders were arrested or Burkina Faso, Ghana, Guinea and Togo. said. am only going to explore different platforms beaten or both around the vote. The chair of to reclaim justice, democracy and dignity of the CHADEMA opposition party, Freeman “Over 60% of arrivals are children, some Baloch said most refugees in Liberia wish to Tanzanians.” Mbowe, and two other CHADEMA leaders of whom arrived unaccompanied or remain close to the border and return home were charged with “terrorism-related separated from their parents. Older people as soon as the situation stabilizes. Lissu was escorted at the airport by the offenses.” and pregnant women have also fled, most U.S., German and Belgian ambassadors, carrying just a few belongings and little to In the meantime, the UNHCR is increasing and he posted video of his departure. Lissu’s The United Nations human rights chief, no food or money at all.” Baloch said. aid for the refugees. Baloch said the agency opposition CHADEMA party said he will be Michelle Bachelet, said in a statement she is planning to airlift essential relief items for in Belgium for medical treatment. was “disturbed by reports of continued Alassane Ouattara won a third presidential up to 10,000 refugees in Liberia. He said aid intimidation and harassment against term by an overwhelming margin of 94%. workers are racing to distribute humanitarian The opposition leader had been housed at opposition leaders and members in Opposition parties boycotted the election, aid, including food and cash and to provide the German embassy since Nov. 2, when Tanzania” after the vote. calling his bid for a third term illegal under water, sanitation and shelter. he was released by police after hours of the constitution’s two-term limit. Ouattara interrogation. He and other opposition Credit : Associated Press (AP) has argued the two-term limit does not apply Credit : Voice of America (VOA) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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South America NEW DELHI TIMES

Merino’s swearing in was met with protests Riot police blocked hundreds of protesters Peru’s swears on the streets of Peru’s capital a day after against Merino who banged pots and pans as Falklands to Congress voted to oust popular President he was sworn into office. Martín Vizcarra, who had campaigned in new leader as against corruption. Peruvians widely distrust A September Ipsos poll found that 72% of be landmine legislators and decried Vizcarra’s removal as Peruvians in urban areas disapproved of the political turmoil an overt power grab. then-chief of Congress. By contrast, 79% said they thought Vizcarra should continue free nearly 40 Analysts warn the country could be thrown in office. hits nation into a new period of instability at the same eru swore in a new President who is time as it grapples with one of the world’s Legislators first initiated impeachment years after war P unknown to most and was recently worst coronavirus outbreaks. proceedings against Vizcarra in September, ritain’s Foreign Office says the accused of trying to secure the military’s accusing him of obstructing an investigation B Falklands will soon be landmine free support for a congressional effort to boot “It’s a coup d’état,” taxi driver Paul Mendoza into possible favoritism in government - almost 40 years after the 1982 conflict the nation’s last leader out over unproven said. “Now we’re going to have inflation, a contracts. Shortly before that vote, local between the United Kingdom and Argentina corruption allegations. recession, and we won’t be able to get ahead media reported that Merino had reached out in the South Atlantic islands. because of the pandemic.” to high-level military leaders seeking their backing if Vizcarra was voted out. A U.K.-funded mine clearing program that The new President is Peru’s third chief started in 2009 is set to end three years of state since 2016; both Vizcarra and his The move backfired as many denounced ahead of schedule. With the completion of predecessor, Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, were Congress for acting out of line and the the program, no anti-personnel mines will pushed out by the powerful Congress, where removal effort failed. Lawmakers said remain on British soil. neither managed to secure a majority bloc. they didn’t want to destabilize the country during the pandemic upheaval. Merino later Merino hails from the center-right Popular apologized to the military but said he had no Action party and is from the province of ill motives. Tumbes along the country’s border with “There was never any intention to go beyond Ecuador. He served two terms in Congress, rule of law,” he said. the first in 2001, before being elected again

PC : AP Photo AP PC : this year as part of a new slate of lawmakers Merino took a back seat in the latest effort voted into office after Vizcarra dismissed to oust Vizcarra, this time on allegations that Businessman and former head of Congress Congress in 2019. he’d taken more than $630,000 in bribes Manuel Merino placed his hand on a Bible for construction contracts while serving as and swore to carry out the remainder of the In his first remarks, Merino vowed to move governor of a small southern province years current presidential term, which is set to forward with the presidential election ago. This time, Congress overwhelming expire in July of next year. planned for April 2021, improve health care approved Vizcarra’s ouster. to ensure the country is better prepared for a He then donned the red and white presidential second virus wave, boost the economy and Though Vizcarra denied any wrongdoing, he sash while wearing a face mask and stood as crack down on crime. quickly agreed to step down. the nation’s anthem was played. “We can’t divide the country,” he said. “History and the Peruvian people will judge “This is a difficult moment for the country,” the decisions made,” he said. he said. “Today, the country does not look at But outside Congress, Peru’s divide was the future with hope, but with worry.” readily apparent. Credit : Associated Press (AP) Backers blast halt to Brazil

trials of Chinese-made vaccine Photo AP PC : razil’s health regulator has halted the tests. Anvisa did not describe the Oct. B clinical trials of the potential 29 event that prompted the halt. But its “Our commitment to ridding the world coronavirus vaccine CoronaVac, citing an President, Antonio Barra Torres, a close of fatal land mines does not end with our “adverse, serious event.” ally of Bolsonaro, denied that politics was territories being mine free.” said Wendy involved, calling it a “purely technical Morton, the U.K. Minister responsible for

Adversaries of President Jair Bolsonaro decision.” Photo AP PC : the Falklands. said they feared the decision — posted on Anvisa’s website — was motivated not “This no joke,” Torres said. “Clear, precise researchers to investigate whether an illness “A further 36 million pounds ($47.6 million) by science but by the leader’s political and complete documents need to be sent to is a side effect or a coincidence. Last month, of U.K. funding will allow demining projects hostility to the country and state involved in us, which did not happen.” two drugmakers resumed testing of their across the world to continue, protecting producing the vaccine candidate. prospective coronavirus vaccines in the U.S. innocent civilian lives.” He said trials will resume only after an after they were halted earlier. The potential vaccine is being developed independent international review of the case. The funding will help Afghanistan, Angola, by Chinese biopharmaceutical firm Sinovac Sao Paulo health authorities said they Cambodia, Iraq, Laos, Lebanon, Myanmar, and in Brazil would be mostly produced by Covas said on TV Cultura that a volunteer met with Anvisa leaders, but received no Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sao Paulo’s state-run Butantan Institute. had died, but he said he had just been feedback on when the tests will be allowed Vietnam, Yemen, and Zimbabwe. About 10,000 volunteers are taking part in giving a hypothetical example and could to continue. the phase three tests in one of the nations not confirm details about the case for ethical People on the Falklands will detonate the hardest hit by COVID-19. reasons. “This is unpleasant news; it worries all final mine in a ceremony on Nov. 14 that volunteers that enrolled to take the shot,” will also include cutting down fences to Sinovac issued a short statement in China Sao Paulo state health authorities said in a Covas said. “This might raise doubts among reopen access to beaches. press conference that Anvisa sent a single saying it was in touch with Brazilian those that still planned to volunteer.” authorities and insisted, “The clinical study email at 8:40 p.m. saying the tests should be Argentina lost the war for the South Atlantic in Brazil is strictly carried out in accordance halted. They also said the incident with one The CoronaVac shot has already stirred archipelago after its troops embarked on with GCP requirements and we are confident of the trial volunteers was unrelated to the controversy in Brazil, where President an ill-fated invasion. The conflict claimed in the safety of the vaccine,” referring to trials. Bolsonaro has cast doubt on its prospective the lives of 649 Argentines and 255 British Good Clinical Practice, a set of international effectiveness. He publicly rejected it last soldiers. “Such news coming the way it did causes standards for ethics and data quality in month, saying Brazilians would not be used our surprise, insecurity and, in our case, clinical research. as guinea pigs. The declaration followed Argentina still claims the islands, which indignation,” said Dimas Covas, the head of news that his health minister, Eduardo it calls the Malvinas. Britain says the Temporary halts of drug and vaccine the Butantan Institute. Pazuello, had agreed to purchase CoronaVac Falklands are a self-governing entity under testing are relatively common. In research doses produced locally by Butantan. its protection. He said it was “impossible” that the involving thousands of participants, some volunteer’s incident had any relation to are likely to fall ill. Pausing a study allows Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP)

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Opinion NEW DELHI TIMES American Election Trump administration changed the conversation about Beijing and got some things there right even if it mishandled virtually everything else abroad the election was still relatively close for quarter of our industrial workforce - since criticism of Biden-Harris as “socialists/ both the Presidency and the Congress, with 2000. He also notes that barely 2 in 10 Marxists”. Canadian workers are still employed in ◆ By David Kilgour the latter probably leaving the Senate with a Biden and Harris are probably well- making things. Roughly half of millennials, Author & Lawyer narrow continuing Republican majority. positioned to win many of these voters over the largest segment of our labour force, need if they act firmly but prudently to restore One reason was the loss of many a second job to pay their bills. manufacturing jobs and factories in states the soul of America internationally. Biden like Michigan and Ohio following China’s In short, the Trump administration changed noted in Foreign Affairs magazine earlier he Nov 3rd election of our neighbour admittance to the World Trade Organization the conversation about Beijing and got some this year that Trump has “emboldened our T includes approximately 147 million in 2001. things there right even if it mishandled adversaries and squandered our leverage to Presidential votes already counted by virtually everything else abroad. contend with national security challenges eligible voters for Biden (51%) or Trump When Seattle hosted the WTO globalization from North Korea to Iran, from Syria to (48%). Such voter mobilisation is rare; talks under the Clinton administration Afghanistan to Venezuela with practically the momentum is now with Americans for in 1999, more than 40,000 protesters nothing to show for it ... (He’s) turned whom decency in politics matters. Many from a coalition of labour unions and away from the demonstrated values that Canadians support their decision. environmentalists decried the anticipated give strength to our nation and unify us loss of jobs to overseas sweatshops and Trump is probably the most unqualified as a people.” Adam Schiff, chair of the jurisdictions with lax or no pollution and unpresidential of his 44 predecessors, House Intelligence Committee, correctly standards in a race to a globalized bottom. ignoring from the outset that his primary summarizes: “Joe Biden’s story is one of loss, perseverance and human decency. His duty was to unite Americans behind Peter Navarro, who ran for elective office victory, and Kamala’s, show that in America democracy, equality of opportunity, the rule five times in California as a Democrat but those qualities still matter. That right still of law and other modern features of the became Trump’s Director of Trade and PC : Getty Images matters. Truth still matters. And decency American Constitution. He provided instead Marketing policy, estimated in a 2012 a continuous stream of deceit, arrogance, still matters. Rebuilding won’t be quick or documentary that China had caused the loss Some ex-pat communities who voted for racism, disruption and misogyny. easy. Let’s get to work.” of 25 million American jobs and 57,000 U.S. Trump were those persecuted mercilessly Americans and democrats globally need Another major factor against his re-election factories. by China’s President-for-life Xi Jinping: Falun Gong, Uyghur Muslims, Christians, more assurances that their hopes and was the deaths of nearly 238,000 Americans Navarro concluded that most of China’s democrats in general, Tibetans and human needs are being met effectively by their from COVID-19, with 126,000 new cases competitive advantage came from unfair rights advocates. governments. daily currently. Trump’s response included trade practices, including pollution, poor inaction, mockery, lies and rejection of labour standards, government subsidies ... David Kilgour, a lawyer by profession, mask-wearing and science. As COVID-19 “contaminated, defective and cancerous” They support Trump’s politics as victims. served in Canada’s House of Commons for devastated the world economy, many exports, theft of US intellectual property, It’s now well-documented that Beijing almost 27 years. In Jean Chretien’s Cabinet, Americans lost their employment-dependent and currency manipulation. now and in the past murders prisoners of he was secretary of state (Africa and Latin mostly for-profit health care, while at conscience and sells their vital organs to America) and secretary of state (Asia- the same time Trump sought to remove Canadians were also victims. In The wealthy Chinese and international organ Pacific). He is the author of several books Obama’s Affordable Care Act from millions Expendables, published this year, economist tourists. American voters of origin in Cuba, and co-author with David Matas of “Bloody of families. Friends of the American people Jeff Rubin chronicles losing some 600,000 Vietnam, Venezuela and other such nations Harvest: The Killing of Falun Gong for might, however, reflect on the reasons why manufacturing jobs in Canada - over a were also attracted to Trump by his constant Their Organs.” Trump: A pioneer among global leaders In September, 2020, the Census Bureau never boast. Rather, Trump has taken active North Korea and also to establish a lasting ◆ By NDT Bureau released data showing that the median steps to clear the mess of ‘endless wars’ by peace in the Korean Peninsula. @NewDelhiTimes American household earned $68,703 in the previous administration in Afghanistan 2019 — up $5,800 or 9% from 2016, after and Iraq. Trump has also emphasized [email protected] Perhaps the biggest achievement of adjusting for inflation. Tax reform has been religious freedom as a central tenet in President Trump in the domain of foreign another major economic accomplishment of the US foreign policy. Another notable onald Trump has left a lasting legacy policy has been the signing of peace deals Trump with the implementation of the Tax achievement of the Trump administration D as the President of the United States. In with Israel by some Arab states. The United Cuts and Jobs Act. has been to encourage the US allies and his Presidential tenure, Trump ensured that Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Sudan are the security partners in Eurasia to do more to the US would move on the path of economic first Arab nations to normalize relations defend themselves, thereby reducing the prosperity and resuscitated the US economy, with Israel in over 25 years. The accolades US. costs and developing Eurasia’s potential did not engage in any war-mongering, made to the Peace Deal are deserved. It has also to become more self-regulating in terms serious attempts to usher in global peace followed a deliberate drive by the Trump of preventing the emergence of regional and when the situation demanded, did not administration to cast aside decades-old hegemons. hesitate in calling spade a spade. diplomatic assumptions about peace-making in the Middle East. “Our vision,” said Trump has also not hesitated to call the On the economic front, Trump has kept President Trump, “is one of peace, security, and

PC : Getty Images spade a spade. Trump remains among a prosperity in this region and in the world. Our on his pre-election motto of America First handful of global leaders, perhaps the only goal is a coalition of nations who share the aim and Make America Great Again. Before Another achievement of Trump was in one, who called out China’s dubious role of stamping out extremism and providing our the COVID-19 outbreak disrupted the the field of health policy. The Trump on the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic. children a hopeful future that does honour to global economy, President Trump’s term administration expanded access to In his speech at the 75th Session of the God.” Trump remarks further: “These ground- was characterized by solid job growth. Post Association Health Plans (AHPs) allowing United Nations General Assembly, Trump breaking peace deals are the dawn of the new COVID, the US economy is showing one small business to pool risk across states. remarked: “We must hold accountable the Middle East. By taking a different approach, of the fastest recovery rates globally. Many As part of the landmark Tax Cuts and nation which unleashed this plague onto the we have achieved different outcomes — far parts of the US economy have returned Jobs Act President Trump repealed the world: China. The United Nations must hold superior outcome”. to pre-crisis levels of activity. In the last individual mandate. The US Food and Drug China accountable for their actions”. week of October, the US Department of Administration (FDA ) approved the largest Commerce reported that third-quarter gross number of generic drugs in history under the Not only has the Trump administration As a result of the pioneering efforts of domestic product, a measure of the total Presidency of Trump taken proactive steps to achieve a lasting President Trump, the Middle East and Africa goods and services produced in the July- solution and end the quagmire in Iraq and are experiencing the most rapid geopolitical to-September period in 2020, expanded at a Under President Trump, the United States Afghanistan, the US under Trump has transformation in over a generation. As more 33.1% annualized pace. This was economy’s has also enhanced its standing as the leading made conspicuous efforts to establish peace countries normalize relations with Israel, fastest pace ever in the third quarter. One global superpower. It must be mentioned here without indulging in empty rhetoric. A case the region will become more stable, secure, of the major economic achievement of that during the tenure of Trump, the United in point here is the US policy towards North and prosperous. The hope is that more Arab Trump administration has been increase States has not been engaged in a single war, Korea. Trump has explored possibilities for and Muslim countries will follow suit and in the income of the US middle class. an achievement that his predecessor can improving relations where possible with normalize relations with Israel. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

16 - 22 November 2020 21

Sports NEW DELHI TIMES IUCN and IOC guide highlights the role of sports It’s done: The in conserving and enhancing urban diversity NBA comes back The guide outlines a planning framework containing seven ecological criteria that on December 22, determine the biodiversity impact of sports infrastructure General, International Olympic Committee, the development of sports venues. The report a 72-game season ◆ By Dr. Pawan Mathur remarks that the guide shows how sports states that when designing or renovating t’s official: The NBA is coming back events and the sites and infrastructure used sports facilities, architectural considerations @PawanMathur I December 22. to host them can help enhance nature in or biodiversity can include installation of [email protected] urban settings. bird-safe windows, incorporation of green The NBA’s board of governors unanimously roofs and use of water collection features. approved the financial terms and other he International Olympic Committee The guide outlines a planning framework parameters that were negotiated between the T (IOC) in collaboration with the containing seven ecological criteria The report further states that by showcasing league and its players. International Union for Conservation of that determine the biodiversity impact biodiversity to event participants and fans Nature (IUCN) has recognised that sport, of sports infrastructure. First, the guide alike, sports practiced in natural areas can through its global reach can be an important states that locating a new sports venue draw attention to the value and wonder of catalyst for raising awareness about with biodiversity-supporting features near nature, as well as the threats facing it. By the need for biodiversity conservation, existing green spaces can enhance the paying entrance fees, purchasing activity and promoting and supporting efforts to effective patch size of both the existing and permits, making donations, organising enhance biodiversity. In 2017, the IOC and new spaces, especially if the development fundraising events and sponsoring the IUCN. signed a four-year partnership site started with limited biodiversity value. conservation work, sports can bolster the from 2017-2020. Under the collaborative Patch size, or the size of a green space in budgets of urban protected areas. agreement, the IUCN’s work focuses on a city, is a fundamental determinant of how two priority areas, namely supporting the much biodiversity a space can support. The report states that cooperation and Olympic Games candidature process as well Second the guide recommends that high- partnerships between sport ground as additional actions related to the IOC’s quality greenways that enhance connectivity managers and conservation bodies should sustainability strategy and develop best across the landscape can be ideal spaces be also proactively pursued for their great practices for the sport industry. for sport, as they can have improved air value added from a technical and social quality, reduced temperatures, and perspectives. Furthermore, partnerships greater aesthetic appeal compared aimed at creating shared management to urban roads. Connections are approaches between different sport venues as defined as features that facilitate the well as between sport venues and non-sport movement of plants or animals across greenspaces would also expand the potential the landscape and through the urban biodiversity conservation outcomes of the environment initiatives taken by sport stakeholders.

Third, the report defines matrix The report highlights a few prominent quality as the ‘diverse, smaller habitat examples as to how sports venues and events elements in the urban environment that have already adopted these measures Photo AP PC : that can work together to support have contributed to nature conservation in Those talks were completed on November 9, ecological processes, increase overall the urban environment. when the league and National Basketball connectivity between green spaces Players Association announced they are in and enhance the ability of larger The remediation and construction of the agreement on a revised collective bargaining patches to support biodiversity” and site of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, agreement for this coming season-setting the states that improving the biodiversity built on the occasion of the London 2012 stage for a frenzied few weeks before games PC : Getty Images value of the many pitch-based sports Olympic and Paralympic Games, created a resume. fields in cities is a clear opportunity to 45-hectare urban habitat patch in addition make advances in urban matrix quality. to recreational space for visitors. Le Golf With regards to the developing best practices National in France, host of the annual Teams will play a 72-game schedule, which will be revealed in the coming weeks. The for the sport industry, the IUCN develops Fourth, the report recommends that sporting French Open and the 2018 Ryder Cup, league said a new system will be used to guides focusing on how the sports industry venues can provide diverse habitats by promotes habitat diversity with 10 different ensure that the split of basketball-related can mitigate its impacts on biodiversity varying the types of landscaping used in habitats present on the site, supporting 350, income continues, one of the biggest deals and capture opportunities for conservation. different spaces. Further, training facilities including 13 rare, species. that had to be worked out with the union The first guide, introducing the linkages can have additional space available to In New South Wales, Australia, members because the current agreement between between sport and biodiversity, was support a variety of natural habitats or of the Kinross Wolaroi School Rowing the sides had a great deal of language that published in 2018. A second guide, focusing combinations of native and other functional Programme launched a project to restore needed reworking because of the coronavirus on mitigating the biodiversity impacts of habitats, such as food gardens and playing degraded land around the Spring Creek pandemic. new sport venues, was published in 2019. fields. In April 2020, a third guide was published reservoir. The team hosted community which highlighted how the sports events can workdays to clear invasive species from a Negotiations with free agents will be Fifth, sporting venues have number of also benefit biodiversity. section of the shore and plant native plants. allowed to begin at 6 p.m. on November opportunities to add conservation value The Kenilworth Racecourse is a horse 20, with signings permitted starting at 12:01 through native plants, from establishing On November 6, 2020, the IUCN and racing venue in Cape Town, South Africa, p.m. on November 22. The salary cap and patches of native habitat around sports the IOC published the fourth guide titled which has existed for over 130 years. The tax level will remain unchanged. “Sports and Urban Diversity: A framework venues to the use of native trees to provide 52-ha interior area of the track is a protected shade for event participants and as such, for achieving mutual benefits for nature patch of rare fynbos habitat. Credit : Associated Press (AP) and sports in cities”. The fourth guide has sports have a unique opportunity to engage been published in cooperation with the with native species as a tool to promote in cooperation with the San Francisco education and conservation action. Sixth, Estuary Institute. According to Dr Bruno the report states that special resources, such Oberle, IUCN Director General, “The guide as large trees, nesting locations, ponds and provides a set of principles to help sports wetlands, are important for a variety of federations, local organising committees, species in the urban landscape. developers, investors and local authorities to incorporate the needs of urban nature and Rowing, swimming, canoeing and sailing biodiversity into their planning process. events held in urban waterways can serve as focal points for improving water and From setting up ecological monitoring habitat quality through the removal of systems to improving the management of invasive species and the restoration of river, habitats, there is a range of ways in which lake, estuary or harbour habitats. Seventh, the sports industry can help urban nature the report recommends the use of flourish”. Christophe de Kepper, Director friendly management in conjunction with

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 22 16 - 22 November 2020

Technology & Health NEW DELHI TIMES Need of the hour: Regulating Indian Dairy and Poultry under Environmental Law A poultry or a dairy doesn’t need any consent to set up wherever they want. The dairy simply came under the Municipal Corporation Act, which has no power to regulate pollution by fining it under Environmental Compensation to Establish, and Consent to Operate, from ◆ By Smt. Maneka the State Pollution Control Boards under the Sanjay Gandhi Environment Protection Act, 1986, Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, @ManekaGandhiBJP 1974 and the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. Any place where more he Government of India Pollution than 5,000 poultry birds or any number of T Control Board has categorized all cattle are kept for the industrial production industries based on a Pollution Index, which of eggs, meat or milk, will have to follow calculates the effect they have on water, air PC : Getty Images minimum standards prescribed by the and land and the health of people as Red, Central Pollution Control Board, which now Orange, Green and White. of the other and faeces from the top layer Industry and Dairy Industry as Orange/ has to make the rules – for the first time! dips into all the layers below. These are Green depending on the size of the industry. Red category industries include , A report from the FAO says called battery cages. The germ filled faeces Both Green and White categories get away hazardous chemical industries and production contributes to the world’s most in the battery cages become poisonous for with little or no regulation or monitoring. firecracker factories. They are the most pressing environmental problems - global both, bird and man, an environmental and Earlier, the Central Pollution Control Board polluting. The Red and Orange Category warming, land degradation, air and water a health hazard for both people and the exempted poultry farms up to 1 lakh birds Industries need to meet stringent minimum pollution, and loss of biodiversity. Such birds. In order to keep these birds alive from any regulation and even the ones where standards for operation and waste disposal. unsustainable practices in such intensive and filthy environs, the more than a lakh birds that were crammed, They get a Consent to Establish, as well violate the Environment Protection Act, poultry farm owners regularly administer were classified as a Green Industry. as Consent to Operate, only after detailed 1986, Water (Prevention & Control of antibiotics. Dairies use antibiotics and inspections by the Pollution Control Board, Finally, someone had to challenge this. Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention hormones (the poultries alone use 70% of and these are renewed constantly. Any Gauri Maulekhi of and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. all the antibiotics in the country) illegally, as violation of the Guidelines attracts heavy and advocate NG Jayasimha challenged well as the water, and faeces run-off makes The Tribunal took into account the research penalties as Environmental Compensation. this categorization in the National Green sure that all the lands and water around get conducted by the National Environmental Tribunal. Gauri has worked for years on Each category below Red has less and less huge doses of it. Engineering Research Institute, the poultry issues and has found it one of norms to follow, and their monitoring is most respected environmental research the cruelest industries on the Earth. She easy – and in some cases almost absent. Consequently, every human, vegetarian or organization in India, which said, “Poultry is leading the fight to bring reforms into The Animal Husbandry Department has non-vegetarian, becomes immune to all production is associated with a variety this breeding and slaughter industry. The no process of inspection and hardly any medicine. Hormonal imbalances lead to cancer. of environmental pollutants, including petitioners contended that poultry farms inspectors. In any case the inspectors don’t Both industries create methane which creates a oxygen-demanding substances, ammonia, and dairy farms, where animals and birds know what to look for, as they are mostly heat wave locally. Due to the filthy conditions solids and, besides, the poultry attracts flies, are crammed into tiny spaces for profit illiterate flatfeet who have never been asked of both, dairies and poultries, millions of flies rodents, dogs and other pests that create maximisation, actually have huge hidden to read any law, or given any forms to fill are bred and these, and the smell of these local nuisances and carry diseases. Poor costs in terms of environmental damage and out. So, even if they go to a poultry or a establishments, make it difficult for anyone management of manure, litter and waste public health impact. Unfortunately, there dairy, they have no idea of what to do. They to live for miles around. There is no method water etc. adversely affects the living in the was no law in India till now to regulate these simply take their hafta and go away. The of disposal of the dead bodies and these are vicinity. Odour is generated from fresh and Industrial establishments, which get away Animal Husbandry Department’s mandate simply thrown into nearby water bodies, or decomposed waste products such as manures, by misleadingly calling themselves “farms”. is simply to increase the number of animals, left in piles on common land. Basically, the carcasses, feathers and bedding litter. Industrial Animal Rearing Sector got away without any method to regulate the damage In September 2020, the NGT ruled that Furthermore, intensive poultry production with running unregulated filthy concentration they do. A poultry or a dairy doesn’t need all dairies have to be made into Orange may be responsible for greenhouse gasses, camps, gravely compromising the health any consent to set up wherever they want. immediately, and poultries can no longer be acidification and eutrophication.” The dairy simply came under the Municipal and safety of the animals, the workers under the Green Category. In January 2021, To Read Full Article : https://www. employed there, and the people living in the Corporation Act, which has no power the NGT will decide whether the poultry newdelhitimes.com/need-of-the-hour- neighbourhoods. to regulate pollution by fining it under industry has to be Orange or Red. regulating-indian-dairy-and-poultry-under- Environmental Compensation. environmental-law Despite every indicator that these industries What does this mean? The result has been a large-scale pollution of are extremely harmful and should be in To join the movement our land and water by these two industries. the category of Red or Orange, the Poultry It is now mandatory for all dairy and contact [email protected], The hens are kept in small cages one on top Industry was classified as a Green Category poultry establishments to obtain a Consent www.peopleforanimalsindia.org

any other interoperability features based on Apple unveils first the new chips, although analysts expect Do masks with antiviral Macs built to run more cross-pollination. The new Mac lineup unveiled will be in coating offer more protection? more like iPhones stores five months after Apple announced it would abandon its longtime partner Intel in o masks with antiviral coating offer pple is rolling out new Mac computers favor of using its own processors for Mac D more protection? A powered by the same kind of chips computers. Apple said its new Mac chips that run iPhones and iPads, a move aimed make possible faster processing speeds, It’s an intriguing idea, but there haven’t at making it easier for its most popular sleeker designs and longer running times on been enough rigorous independent studies to products to work together. a single battery charge. establish whether antiviral masks are better at protecting wearers or preventing the For instance, some Macs have eliminated spread of the virus. a cooling fan inside the machines, helping

slim down their design. Their specifics vary, but many antiviral Photo AP PC : masks are supposed to be made or coated The transition to the new in-house chips different type of antiviral mask since before with materials that have extra virus-fighting could also create stumbling blocks for Apple the pandemic. Masks marketed as being properties, such as copper. and other software makers aiming to adapt “antiviral” often cost more than N-95 and existing Mac software so it will also run surgical masks. A single coated mask can Websites for several antiviral masks do smoothly on the new models. cost up to $10; disposable surgical masks not provide detailed information about Initially, Apple will only be putting its and N-95 masks sell at large retailers for

PC : AP Photo AP PC : how researchers tested their safety or between 35 cents and $3 per mask. chips in smaller computers — the 13-inch effectiveness, said Hyo-Jick Choi, a For instance, Macs using the new chips MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro, as materials science expert at the University of well as the Mac Mini desktop. The company Choi said a simpler way to boost the will be able to run the same apps designed Alberta. effectiveness of the masks you’re already for the iPhone’s mobile operating system, expects it will take another two years before all its Macs are running on the in-house using is to ensure you’re putting them on, although it appears some developers aren’t But it usually takes years to design and test wearing them and taking them off correctly. immediately keen on making those apps chips. new mask technology, said Choi, who is available for Macs. Apple didn’t demonstrate Credit : Associated Press (AP) part of a group that has been developing a Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

16 - 22 November 2020 23

Entertainment & Lifestyle NEW DELHI TIMES Asif Basra found Lawyer: Britney Spears dead, another fears father, wants him fine actor lost ◆ By NDT Bureau @NewDelhiTimes out of career [email protected] ritney Spears fears her father and will not resume her career so long as he has power B over it, her attorney said in court. nother shocking death in Bollywood A took place as actor Asif Basra was Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Brenda Penny declined to suspend James Spears recently found dead at his residence in from his central role in the court conservatorship that has controlled his daughter’s Dharamshala. The actor who was seen in the life and career for 12 years as Britney Spears’ attorney Samuel D. Ingham III web series ‘Paatal Lok’ was found hanging requested at the contentious hearing. But the judge said she would consider in a private complex in Dharamshala. future petitions for his suspension or outright removal, which Ingham plans to file.

“My client has informed me that she is afraid of her father,” Ingham told the judge. “She will not perform again if her father is in charge of her career.” PC : Getty Images The pop star has been on an indefinite work hiatus since early 2019. Kai Pe Che, Parzania, and Black Friday James Spears’ attorney, Vivian Lee Thoreen, defended what she said are some of the projects he had worked on. was his perfect record in his run as her conservator, which has seen her Confirming the news, SSP Kangra Vimukt net worth go from in debt to well over $60 million. Ranjan said, “Film actor Asif Basra was found hanging in a private complex in Thoreen argued that the disruption caused by his removal would do her the Dharamshala. Forensic team is at the spot and very harm the suspension is meant to prevent. police is investigating the matter.” The reason “I don’t believe there is a shred of evidence to support my client’s suspension,” she for such a drastic step is being investigated. said. The actor has worked with New Delhi Times PC :AP Photo PC :AP as well for a short film named “Mirza’s Friend Thoreen also objected to Ingham’s statements about the father-daughter relationship as Ghalib”. We are also in a state of shock about the inadmissible hearsay. actor’s sudden death. Condolences not only from celebrities but also from people across the nation Credit : Associated Press (AP) have started pouring on the social media. Netflix production has put a hold on The Rana Daggubati Witcher Season 2 due to multiple Covid-19 launches his own Cases! ◆ By NDT Bureau @NewDelhiTimes YouTube channel [email protected] etflix production has put a hold The ‘South Bay’! N Witcher season 2 temporarily after a few individuals from the production unit ana Daggubati- Actor cum producer announced the launch of his YouTube were tried positive for the Covid-19. R channel South Bay.

Rana’s South Bay will feature a varied blend of substance, directly from live chat, snackable short forms, news, music, animation, fiction, and non-fiction. South Bay’s content further incorporates two exceptional shows, i.e., “Coming Back to Life” with Lakshmi Manchu and “Secret Box” with Shruti Haasan. PC : Getty Images Rana Daggubati, while talking about his show, stated in a statement that, “This is a very exciting time to be a content producer, to innovate, experiment and just create. Audiences are now more receptive, allowing creators to go beyond the threshold and bring Four cases were affirmed, and the streamer exciting, fresh, never seen before content. will carry a secluded round of testing of everybody associated with the show. South Bay is just a step towards that vision. We have Those affected have been quarantined and collaborated with talented, vibrant creators and have are not among the lead cast. The Witcher given them a mainstream platform. is based on the series of novels authored by Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski. It With South Bay, we want to build a cohesive follows the tale of the entwined fates of community and interactive experiences three people in the massive universe of for our audiences.” The Continent, where human, mythical beings, witchers, elves, and beasts fight to On the work front, Rana is presently busy endure and flourish, and where good and with the production of Viraataparvam. evil aren’t easily distinguished. His movie Aranya is slated for a Henry Cavill is in the lead role as Geralt of Sankranthi release next year. Rivia, along with Anya Chalotra as Yennefer and Freya Allan as Ciri. By NDT Bureau PC : Getty Images

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 24 16 - 22 November 2020

Think - Tanks NEW DELHI TIMES Hard work at an early age is the guarantee of your secured future ◆ By Dr. Pramila in the past. Working hard always pays off. Srivastava It is your efforts that at some point in time @PramilaBK are always rewarded. So, never step back thinking of the odds and the hardships of [email protected] life that come your way. Just stay strong and hop on the roller coaster ride because ot everyone is born with things served the destination is way more beautiful than to them on a silver platter with a N the ride. golden spoon in their hands ready to take a bite into a magnificent meal cooked by No matter what, no matter how, the efforts the finest chefs a wealthy home can afford. you made at your young age are the only Some are born who won’t have these glories steps of the staircase that you today see served to them in such enormity, making it yourself on the top of the world. It is not quite obvious that they will have to work PC : Getty Images about the time but is about the choices you hard out with their own destinies from the yield of your efforts made by you at the time With lives running some race at all points made and the decisions you took to brighten throughput. Thus, hard work becomes the when you were meant to do things in every of time, the passion for doing the right thing your future and settling it at this point where major ingredient in your recipe of success. possible way and when you held the odds somehow gets blurred with the number of you need not to depend on the others for But it becomes important to realise the and made every possible effort to turn things things one does. Meaning, the quality gets your own happiness and security. importance of hard work in your early age. to your favour. overshadowed by the quantity. With so Because if you want your future and your many things going on, one is constantly on The place you are holding today is a further times to be secured and kept safe, “Work hard today and enjoy later” is a the move. But it is actually the quality of reflection of what good you did in the it is important to work hard when you can perfect saying that fits even in the modern life you choose based on the moves made previous times. Always remember, it is your actually deal with the hardships. times and makes you realise that the seeds by you and not the number of years you add choices that make you stand strong when sown at young age reap the best results to your life, a thing which does not rest with problems come your way. When it comes to old age, a number of for your future. This should be one of the us. The choice of quality over quantity has vulnerabilities come along and to make sure Life is a blend of ups and downs, there will reasons to keep working hard and achieve massive implications for a high-quality life. that these do not hamper your way of living, be hardships even in the old age but what success in life. Because there is no shortcut It is not the materialistic stuff that we cherish you need to work hard at young age and gives you the strength to fight back those are to successes, efficient and effective efforts at the end, it is actually the comfort and the make life worth living. Decision making and the efforts and confidence that you built up are a must. Knowing that old age comes memories we hold in our hands. choosing the right path is what a man needs with uncertainties, though life is a perfect in you at the right time of your life. So, even because these are the attributes that dictate blend of uncertainties, and certain problems There are numerous benefits of efforts that if it is harder at this time, do not waste it and your future course of action. The quality of and issues, making right efforts at the right last in the long run, so do the consequences make the best you can to make your future life you enjoy and cherish is nothing but the age is the best one can do for themselves. that come along from the sacrifices made all the way shinier and brighter forever. African Leaders for Nutrition Initiative stresses the role of nutritional care in COVID-19 response COVID-19 health pandemic, the African adequate, appropriate and nutritious foods, services, immunization and other child- ◆ By International Institute for Non - Aligned Studies Leaders for Nutrition (ALN) has called on insufficient exclusive breastfeeding, limited health services. The need to prioritize support them to maintain and increase the level of access to antenatal care among women of to food systems that deliver safe, affordable, @iinsNAM funding allocated to nutrition to safeguard reproductive age and inadequate access to nutritious food and diets that are accessible to [email protected] previous efforts to address malnutrition and water and sanitation facilities. If not effectively all by supporting the capacity of smallholder ensure there are no gaps within their multi- addressed, the consequences of COVID-19 farmers (crop production, horticulture, n June 2020, the United Nations year nutrition programmes in immediate, will only serve to derail Africa’s development livestock, and fisheries), farm input providers, Sustainable Development Group I medium-term and post-pandemic recovery agenda and the potential demographic dividend food processors and food distributors continue (UNSDG) mentioned that the COVID-19 COVID-19 response plan. to be gained from its young population. The producing and delivering sufficient, affordable, pandemic is a health and humanitarian crisis ALN position paper urges that high-level and nutritious food has also been emphasised threatening the food security and nutrition These recommendations are outlined in the political leadership is required to ensure that in the ALN position paper. Finally, the ALS of millions of people around the world. The position paper titled, “Embedding Nutrition actions and economic stimulus packages position paper calls to engage and resource UNSDG stated that in the long- term, the within the COVID-19 Response and developed to combat the COVID-19 pandemic social safety nets interventions that center on combined effects of COVID-19 itself, as Recovery” issued by the ALN. The African include plans to ensure that nutritious foods nutrition (nutrition value of food kits, cash well as corresponding mitigation measures Leaders for Nutrition (ALN) an initiative by are made available and affordable to all. transfer, etc.) to enable poor household to buy and the emerging global recession could, the African Development Bank and the African nutritious food, to generate local demand and without large-scale coordinated action, Union Commission which was endorsed It calls for prioritising nutrition in COVID-19 support local markets and scaling up social disrupt the functioning of food systems. by the Assembly of Heads of State and response and recovery plans by ensuring that safety nets, such as school feeding or food for Governments of the African Union in 2018. sectors are integrating nutrition-sensitive education programs. Such disruption can result in consequences With a special focus on the first 1,000 days of actions within COVID-19 response, for health and nutrition of a severity and a child’s life and the grey matter infrastructure, including water and sanitation, social (in arrangement with scale unseen for more than half a century. the initiative aims to influence and generate protection and universal health coverage, News from Non-Aligned World) As such, the UNSDG stressed that food innovative investments towards nutrition and agriculture, education and health systems. www.iins.org and nutrition assistance need to be at the food security that will build a foundation for heart of COVID-19 recovery programmes. productive human capital in Africa. The ALN position paper The World Food Programme (WFP) has also calls for prioritising Contact New Delhi Times also stated that COVID-19 may prove The ALN position recognises that in the nutrition in health For Complaints & Suggestions particularly fatal for people suffering from context of COVID-19, under nutrition sector response through chronic or acute hunger or malnourishment. compromises immune systems, making investing in programs +91-9999331600 bodies vulnerable to infection, reducing that support infant and The African Union has recognised the need the effectiveness of vaccines, and impeding young child nutrition A-2/59, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi-110029 for strengthening nutritional care response recovery. The ALN position paper states and also supporting and in the COVID-19 recovery program. As that the structural weaknesses that produce improving access to Visit us at : twitter@NewDelhiTimes nations in Africa are devising response the triple burden of malnutrition are well essential health services facebook.com/newdelhitimes plans to offset the adverse impact of the known. They include limited access to including antenatal care Printer and Publisher: Dr. (Mrs.) Pramila Srivastava, on behalf of Dr. Ankur Srivastava, Printed at Sudhir Printers, 151, Desh Bandhu Gupta Market, Karol Bagh, Delhi - 110005, Published at A-2/59 Safdarjung Enclave New Delhi-110029. Ph.: 26102520, 26105846 Fax: 26196294 Email: [email protected], Vol. 30, No. 42 Editor : Dr. Ankit Srivastava www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper