www.thepeninsula.qa Thursday 16 January 2020 Volume 24 | Number 8138 21 Jumada I - 1441 2 Riyals

BUSINESS | 01 SPORT | 12

QIB net World No.1 profit surges Barty confirmed 10.9% to for QR3.05bn Total Open

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Sheikha Moza Qatar calls on all offers condolences to wife of parties to work of for de-escalation QNA — H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser offered condolences to H M Ahad bint Abdullah bin Hamad in , region Al Busaidi, the wife of H M Sultan Haitham bin Tariq bin QNA — BAGHDAD Taimur Al Said of the sisterly Qatar is working Sultanate of Oman on the death The President of the Republic with a group of of Sultan bin of Iraq, H E Dr. , friendly nations Taimur at Al Alam Palace in met yesterday with Deputy Muscat yesterday morning. Prime Minister and Minister of avoid escalation in H H Sheikha Moza bint Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh the region and Qatar Nasser also offered condo- Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al lences to the royal family, Thani. supports the unity praying to the Almighty Allah At the beginning of the and sovereignty of to have mercy on the soul of meeting, H E the Deputy Prime Iraq, H E the Deputy Sultan Qaboos and to rest it in Minister and Minister of PM attends Police College graduation ceremony paradise. Foreign Affairs conveyed the Prime Minister and greetings of Amir H H Sheikh , to Foreign Minister said. Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, who is also Wife of Amir offers H E the Iraqi President and the Chairman of the Supreme Council of the Police College, attended the distribution of graduation certificates wishes to the Iraqi people of they discussed bilateral rela- ceremony for the graduates of the second batch of the college, yesterday at the headquarters of the condolences to further progress and tions, latest developments in Police Training Institute. His Excellency handed certificates to the 110 graduates, including scholars `P2 wife of Sultan prosperity. the region, and ways to from the Hashemite Kingdom of , the , and the Republic of . For his part, H E the Iraqi maintain security and stability of Oman President entrusted H E the in the area. Deputy Prime Minister and Separately in a joint press QNA — MUSCAT Minister of Foreign Affairs with conference with Iraq’s Foreign ‘Park and Ride’ space at 2 Metro stations his greetings to H H the Amir, Minister, H E the Deputy Prime H H Sheikha Jawaher bint wishing him good health and Minister and Minister of THE PENINSULA — DOHA which provides parking spaces is a part of MOTC’s Public Bus Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani, happiness, and the Qatari Foreign Affairs has called on all free of charge adjacent to Doha Infrastructure Program. It sup- wife of H H the Amir, offered people continued progress, countries to work towards de- The Ministry of Transport and Metro stations. The project aims ports the country’s public trans- condolences to H M Ahad bint development and prosperity. escalation in the region. Communications (MOTC) to encourage vehicle owners to portation network and Doha Abdullah bin Hamad Al Busaidi, During the meeting, they H E the Deputy Prime Min- announced yesterday that free use the modern public transpor- Metro services for citizens, res- wife of H M Sultan Haitham bin reviewed bilateral relations, ister and Minister of Foreign parking spaces near Al Qassar tation systems to and from their idents, visitors and FIFA World Al Said of the developments on the regional Affairs met in Baghdad with Metro Station will open for the destinations in less time and at Cup Qatar 2022 fans. sisterly Sultanate of Oman on scene, and ways to de-escalate Foreign Minister of the public starting from tomorrow a lower cost. Additionally, contracts have the death of Sultan Qaboos bin and maintain the security and Republic of Iraq, H E and near Al Wakra Metro Meanwhile, work continues been awarded for establishing Said bin Taimur at Al Alam stability of the region. Mohammed Ali Karim. The Station starting from January between MOTC and several five new bus stations in the Palace in Muscat yesterday. The Republic of Iraq’s meeting dealt with bilateral 26. The two locations can bodies concerned to complete context of the same Program in Her Highness also offered Prime Minister, H E Adel Abdul relations, the latest regional accommodate 700 vehicles, and deliver free parking spaces areas of Al Wakra, Lusail, Al condolences to the royal Mahdi, also met with H E the developments, and ways to said the Ministry in a press in other two locations; Lusail , the Education City and family, praying to the Almighty Deputy Prime Minister and pursue de-escalation and release yesterday. and Education City, which are Industrial City and works are Allah to have mercy on the Minister of Foreign Affairs yes- maintain the region’s security This comes in the context of planned to open in late March. expected to complete in the soul of Sultan Qaboos and to terday. During the meeting, and stability. `P3 MOTC’s “Park and Ride” Project, The “Park and Ride” Project third quarter of 2021. `P2 rest it in paradise. Cabinet nod for draft decision on Central Lease Committee

QNA — DOHA issues and maintain security, and controls in which a decision 2020, unless the contract peace and stability in the region is issued by the Minister of includes a longer period, or the The Cabinet, in its meeting, and the world. The Cabinet Administrative Development, tenant does not want to renew approved a draft decision to prayed to the Almighty Allah to Labour and Social Affairs based the contract, provided that the reorganise the Central Lease have mercy on his soul and to on the proposal of the tenant is occupying the leased Committee. Prime Minister H E inspire the royal family and the committee. property. Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Omani people with patience and The Cabinet also approved Contracts for renting Khalifa Al Thani, chaired the solace, and that the Sultanate of a draft decision of the Cabinet administrative headquarters of Cabinet’s regular meeting, held Oman to achieve more devel- extending lease contracts for commercial companies, private at the Amiri Diwan, yesterday. opment and growth under the some places and parts of the legal entities engaged in trade, Following the meeting, Min- leadership of H M Sultan places leased for other than res- lawyers, accountants and engi- ister of Justice and Acting Min- Haitham bin Tariq bin Taimur idential purposes. neers offices, veterinary clinics, ister of State for Cabinet Affairs Al Said of Oman. Under the provisions of the offices of experts in agriculture, H E Dr. Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al The draft decision to reor- draft decision, lease contracts livestock and fisheries are Nuaimi stated that at the outset ganise the Central Lease Com- shall be extended for some excluded from the legal of the meeting, the Cabinet mittee includes the competence places and parts of the places extension law. mourned the death of Sultan of this committee to inspect and leased for other than residential Moreover, the Cabinet Qaboos bin Said bin Taimur who estimate the rental value of purposes. These places are sub- approved a draft decision had achieved remarkable lands, buildings and housing jected to the provisions of Law amending some provisions of achievements for his country rented by ministries, public No. 4 of 2008 regarding real decision No. 36 of 2014 estab- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh and made sincere and capable entities and institutions and estate leasing existing on Feb- lishing the national committee Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, with President of the Republic efforts to enhance joint Gulf other government bodies, in ruary 14, 2020, for a year for the Customs clearance of Iraq, H E Dr. Barham Salih, in Baghdad yesterday. action, serve Arab and Islamic accordance with the principles beginning from February 2, system (single window). `P3 Qatar Airways announces eight new destinations

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Directorate of Civil Aviation, business and leisure travel.” new destinations to its growing . There will be two weekly network last year, including Qatar Airways wowed the H E Akbar Al Baker, said: flights to Nur-Sultan, Kaza- Rabat, ; Izmir, Turkey; crowds on the opening day of “The Kuwait Aviation Show is khstan, starting March 30, Malta; Davao, Philippines; the Kuwait Aviation Show, the perfect platform for us to while two weekly flights to Lisbon, Portugal; Mogadishu, showcasing two of the newest kick start the New Year and Almaty, Kazakhstan, will start ; Langkawi, Malaysia; aircraft in its fleet alongside unveil some of our exciting from April 1, that will be and Gaborone, Botswana. announcing new destination plans for 2020. Eight new des- increasing to four weekly flights Qatar Airways was named plans for 2020. tinations will be joining our from May 25. There will be ‘World’s Best Airline’ by the Qatar Airways Group Chief network this year in addition to three weekly flights to Cebu, 2019 World Airline Awards, Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, the recently announced Philippines, from April 8, daily managed by Skytrax. It was also and Engineer Badr Al Meer, gateways of Santorini, Greece; flights to Accra, Ghana, from named ‘Best Airline in the Chief Operating Officer, Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Osaka, April 15 and three weekly flights Middle East’, ‘World’s Best Hamad International Airport, Japan. to Trabzon, Turkey, from May Business Class’, and ‘Best hosted a number of dignitaries "With these new routes, our 20. There will be five weekly Business Class Seat’, in recog- at the carrier’s chalet, operations will expand to 177 flights to Lyon, France, from nition of its ground-breaking Light magic at Lusail Promenade including H E Sheikh destinations around the world, June 23, four weekly flights to Business Class experience, LightMe Lusail, an International Light and Digital Media Festival with Mohammad Al Abdullah Al reinforcing our position as one Luanda, Angola, from October Qsuite. It is the only airline to extraordinary light art installations, illuminated the magnificent Lusail Mubarak Al Sabah, Deputy of the world’s most connected 14 and five weekly flights to have been awarded the coveted Marina Eastern and South Promenade. The 2km festival will feature Amiri Diwan Minister in the airlines. This ensures we can Siem Reap, Cambodia from ‘Skytrax Airline of the Year’ title, State of Kuwait and Sheikh continue to provide our pas- November 16. which is recognised as the pin- 12 art light installations, boat rides and LML Cars, among others. The light festival promises to offer an amazing family photo opportunity. Salman Al Humoud Al Sabah, sengers more options and flex- The world’s fastest-growing nacle of excellence in the airline PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA Director-General, General ibility when planning their airline added several exciting industry, five times. 02 HOME THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 PM attends graduation ceremony at Police College

The Prime Minister and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, attending the ceremony to distribute graduation certificates for the second batch students of the Police College at the headquarters of the Police Training Institute, yesterday. ‘Park and Ride’ space at 2 Metro stations FROM PAGE 1 facilities and parking spaces help further improve the The “Park and Ride” strategically distributed across services on public roads and Project is another example of the country to encourage the at major intersections by the considerable attention public to use country’s modern, achieving smoother traffic MOTC pays to providing sustainable and eco-friendly flow, less congestion and less modern and highly efficient public transportation. This will carbon emissions. Sidra Medicine cared for 263,500 pediatric patients in two years

FAZEENA SALEEM was born at Sidra Medicine pediatric surgeries including Department (CED) and Urgent Sidra Medicine provides has been awarded to Sidra THE PENINSULA coincided with the opening of organ transplant, specialist Care Clinic in July 2018 and it assistance to patients from Medicine for its commitment the hospital. pediatric services in neurology has seen 98,894 cases. outside of Qatar in need of to high quality care and culture Sidra Medicine, a speciality Within two years, 2,300 and cardiology, among others, Women’s Services at Sidra medical care while visiting of safety. Also the hospital children’s, young people's and babies were born in the hos- as well as deliveries, focusing Medicine include gynaecology, Qatar and the hospital has been awarded institutional women’s healthcare organi- pital, Sidra Medicine said on it on high-risk pregnancies. The obstetrics, maternal fetal med- cared 536 such pediatric accreditation by the Accredi- sation and a member of Qatar official social media pages. hospital has 400 beds and pro- icine, internal/acute care med- patients in two years. Sidra tation Council of Graduate Foundation, celebrates two Initially, treating children vides more than 50 clinics and icine, women’s urgent care and Medicine has 4000 staff com- Medical Education Interna- rewarding years of delivering requiring low-risk surgeries services. In the past two years, obstetric triage services, peri- mitted to deliver safe patient tional (ACGME-I). safe patient care. and women undergoing Sidra Medicine has cared natal mental health services, care including doctors, nurses, The Pathology Laboratories The hospital building elective C-sections were seen 263,500 pediatric patients and women’s health physiotherapy researchers, allied healthcare at Sidra Medicine have been opened and welcomed the first at the Sidra Medicine. These performed 7,600 pediatric and women’s ultrasound. It has providers and administrative awarded accreditation by the inpatients to be treated in the services were improved surgeries. served 58,600 women patients staff. Accreditation Committee of the state-of-the-art facility on through mid-2018 and started Sidra Medicine opened its since opening of the hospital. The US–based Joint Com- College of American Patholo- January 14 2018. The first baby services for more complex Children’s Emergency The International Office at mission International (JCIA) gists (CAP). THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 HOME 03

Cabinet nod for draft Shura Council Speaker meets Armenian envoy OFFICIAL NEWS Qatar strongly decision on Central condemns explosion in Iraq DOHA: The State of Qatar voiced its Lease Committee strong condemnation and denunci- ation of the attack which targeted FROM PAGE 1 No. 22 of 2017 regarding the a security point north of the Iraq The Cabinet also approved regulation of real estate bro- capital Baghdad, killing two secu- a draft decision of the Prime kerage works. rity personnel and injuring others. Minister amending some pro- The Cabinet also approved In a statement issued yesterday, the visions of decision No. 23 of a draft memorandum of under- Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated 2016 to form the Coordinating standing for cooperation in the the firm position of the State of Qatar Committee for Single Window agricultural field between the on rejecting violence and terrorism, System Management. Ministry of Municipal and Envi- whatever motives and reasons. The The Cabinet reviewed the ronment in the State of Qatar statement expressed the State of views of the Ministry of Munic- and the Ministry of Agriculture Qatar’s condolences to the families ipality and Environment, Min- in Hungary, a draft memo- of the victims, and to the govern- istry of Public Health and the randum of understanding in the ment and people of Iraq, wishing Ministry of Commerce and field of environmental pro- the injured a speedy recovery. QNA Industry on the Shura Council’s tection and nature conser- recommendation regarding the vation between the Ministry of achievement of the National Municipal and Environment in Food Security Program the State of Qatar and the Min- Qatar Amiri Air (QNFSP), and took the appro- istry of Agriculture in Hungary, priate decision thereon. and a draft memorandum of Force takes part It also approved a draft understanding for cooperation The Speaker of Shura Council, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, met yesterday with decision of the Minister of in the agricultural field between the Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to Qatar, Gegham Gharibjanian. Parliamentary relations in Kuwait Justice to extend the period for the governments of the State of between Qatar and the Republic of Armenia were reviewed, in addition to ways of supporting and adjusting the conditions for Qatar and the Republic of Aviation Show applying the provisions of Law Portugal. developing them. QNA — KUWAIT

The Qatar Amiri Air Force has Qatar calls on all parties to work for de-escalation participated with the Air Transport Group’s aircraft, in the Kuwait Aviation Show 2020, which started yesterday and continues for four days, with the participation of 37 countries. The event was attended by Commander of the Amiri Air Force H E Staff Major General (Pilot) Salem Hamad Al Nabit, Military Attache of the State of Qatar in Kuwait Major General Ibrahim bin Saad Al Kubaisi , and a number of senior officers of the Qatar Amiri Air Force.

The Republic of Iraq’s Prime Minister, H E Adel Abdul Mahdi, met yesterday with the Deputy Prime The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh Qatar takes part Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who is Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, met yesterday in Baghdad currently visiting Baghdad. During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations, latest developments with the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Iraq, H E Mohammed in plenary in the region, and ways to maintain security and stability in the area. Ali Karim. session of FROM PAGE 1 can proceed towards growth, FM meets President of Kurdistan Region of Iraq Arab Parliament In a joint press conference confirming that the State of that followed the meeting, H E Qatar will continue to con- QNA — CAIRO Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul- tribute to the growth and pros- rahman Al Thani further said perity of Iraq. The fourth session of the that the visit to Baghdad came For his part, the Iraqi second legislative term of to discuss with the Iraqi lead- Foreign Minister described the Arab Parliament began ership the latest developments visit of H E the Deputy Prime yesterday in Cairo. The State and stress the importance of Minister and Minister of of Qatar is participating in the de-escalation and distancing Foreign Affairs as strategic and meetings with a delegation Iraq from any political struggles important, noting that both from the Shura Council. and escalations in the region. sides stressed in the talks on This session will discuss His Excellency said that the the importance of de-escalation developments in the situa- State of Qatar is working with of tensions in the region. tions in Iraq and as well a group of friendly nations that H E Deputy Prime Minister as political and security hope to avoid escalation in the and Minister of Foreign Affairs developments in Arab region, stressing the support of also met yesterday in Baghdad countries. the State of Qatar to the unity with Speaker of the Council of Arab Parliament will and sovereignty of Iraq and its Representatives of the Republic issue a number of unified people. of Iraq H E Mohamed Al Hal- Arab laws, documents and His Excellency praised bousi. During the meeting, they important parliamentary Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Iraq’s efforts in strengthening reviewed bilateral relations, visions that were discussed Thani, met with the President of Kurdistan Region of Iraq, H E Nechirvan Barzani, in Erbil, yesterday. ties with Arab and neigh- regional developments, and in the committees of the Arab They reviewed cooperation relations and ways to boost them, as well as a number of issues of bouring countries, adding that ways of calm to preserve the Parliament on Tuesday, par- the State of Qatar seeks sta- security and stability of the common interest. H E the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs also met in Erbil ticularly the Arab Water bility in Iraq so that the country region. with the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, H E Masrour Barzani. Security, the document of developing education in the Arab world, the unified Arab law for preserving and pro- Qatar submits document of its accession to 1988 Protocol to SOLAS Convention tecting Arab archaeology and the transportation law in the QNA — LONDON to the 1988 Protocol to the This came during a Mohammed bin Abdullah Al part, Al Jaber affirmed the Arab world. International Convention for meeting of Secretary-General Jaber. State of Qatar’s commitment Also, the Arab Parlia- The State of Qatar has the Safety of Life at Sea 1974 of the International Maritime The meeting discussed to international agreements ment’s vision for activating submitted to the Interna- (SOLAS), in preparation for Organization Kitack Lim with relations between the State and treaties and its com- the Arab Common Market tional Maritime Organization, the entry into force of the Acting Charge d’Affaires at the of Qatar and the International mitment to the safety and and the Parliament’s vision the original document for the agreement for the State of Embassy of the State of Qatar Maritime Organization and security of maritime for Arab electrical connection accession of the State of Qatar Qatar. to the ways to boost them. For his navigation. will be issued. Public Prosecution probes traffic violations in Sealine area

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH The law enforcement of vanity and recklessness, so THE PENINSULA we cannot close our eyes to it,” agencies have said Head of the Traffic The Public Prosecution is in arrested a number Prosecution. investigation on a number of “As an investigative cases of traffic violations in of violators in the authority, we receive reports in Sealine area to refer the Sealine area during this regard and the perpetrators violators to the court soon. the past few days and of these incidents are referred The Head of the Traffic to us and we take the necessary Prosecution, Ahmed Youssef Al they were transferred and strict measures against Kuwari, said that the Public to the Public them.” Prosecution will deal reckless Speaking on punishment, Al driving with iron hand and it Prosecution. Kuwari said that in the case of will not allow the violators of reckless driving and driving the traffic rules to endanger their vehicle without license plates lives and the lives of others. would be confiscated by a court or concealing them, the penalty “The punishment could order. The Traffic Prosecution may reach up to 3 years of reach up to six years in jail, in is authorised to investigate and Ahmad Youssef Al Kuwari, Head of the Traffic Prosecution, during a Press conference at its headquarters imprisonment. 0“In case of case the passengers are injured dispose of the crimes men- in Al Dafna, yesterday. PIC: ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA reckless driving or flouting the due to negligence or by flouting tioned in Law No. 19 of 2007 Traffic Law and regulations the laws and regulations,” said regarding the Traffic Law and which led to an accident causing Youssef Al Kuwari, while its amendments. the competent traffic court in Prosecution. measures which includes the injuries the punishment could addressing a press conference He said that Traffic Prose- this regard. Al Kuwari said that “The Traffic Prosecution arrest of the accused, sending reach to 6 years in jail and con- held yesterday at the head- cution also investigates related the law enforcement agencies took the most effective investi- them on remand and the seizure sidered a crime,” he added. He quarters of the Public Prose- crimes, such as injury to pas- have arrested a number of vio- gation procedures against the of the vehicle. said that in the case of driving cution in Al Dafna. sengers accompanied with the lators in the Sealine area during accused,” said Al Kuwari. He “The Sealine area is con- under the influence of intoxi- He said that the vehicles driver of the vehicle due to acci- the past few days, and they said that the discretionary sidered a tourist destination, but cation, the punishment may used in committing such crimes dents, then transfer the cases to were transferred to the Public authority is taking these it has been turned into an arena reach up to 3 years. 04 HOME THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 A-G meets Kuwaiti judicial delegation ‘Doha - OIC Youth Capital 2019’ closing ceremony to be held today DOHA — THE PENINSULA Doha Youth Innovation Award, organizing the latest activities and the Doha Oasis for Inno- of ‘Doha — OIC Youth Capital The Ministry of Culture and vation. The key of the main 2019’ like the ‘planting trees’ Sports will hold today the activity ‘Doha — OIC Youth activity. closing ceremony of the activ- Capital 2019’ will be handed The winners and the par- ities of ‘Doha — OIC Youth over to the host country in ticipants in these activities Capital 2019’, at the Doha Exhi- 2020. emphasized that Doha was able bition and Convention Center The ceremony will include to awaken youth creativity in on the main stage of the Doha a speech by Minister of Culture various technical and inno- International Book Fair. and Sports, H E Salah bin vative fields in a way that com- The ceremony will be Ghanem Al Ali, and a speech of bines all elements that benefit attended by a number of Their the representative of the the Islamic world. Excellencies the Ministers and Islamic Youth Forum, and a The State of Qatar had Ambassadors, and comes as a speech by the representative of received the key of ‘Doha — OIC culmination of the activities of Dakar, the new capital of Youth Capital 2019’ in recog- ‘Doha — OIC Youth Capital Islamic youth for year 2020, nition of Qatar’s efforts to 2019’ which were hosted in where Dakar will receive the support and empower young Attorney-General, H E Dr. Ali bin Fetais Al Marri, met yesterday with a judicial delegation from the 2019 under the theme “Youth key. Muslims. The ‘Doha OIC Youth State of Kuwait, who are currently visiting the country. The visit of the Kuwaiti delegation comes is the Power of the Nation”. About 30 young people Capital 2019’ activities gave the as part of the exchange of visits program through the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation The winners of the ‘Doha — from the Islamic world will par- youth an opportunity to build, Council, and the exchange of expertise between the two countries. The Kuwaiti judicial delegation OIC Youth Capital 2019’ awards ticipate in the closing ceremony innovate and participate was briefed about the system and mechanisms of work in the Public Prosecution and the nature of the will also be honoured at the as they have arrived in Doha. A actively in the issues of their judicial system in the State of Qatar, and the most important achievements of the Public Prosecution. event. The awards include the number of them participated in nation. Inaugural Katara Global Art Fair to benefit Argentinian children RAYNALD C RIVERA conference to announce the new Network (GPDNet), Al Shebani THE PENINSULA project, Farqane highlighted the vowed support for the project vibrant art landscape of Qatar encouraging participation from In yet another pioneering initi- as ideal to host such interna- member countries as well as ative, Pallas Arts and Katara tional event. from embassies and artists from Cultural Village Foundation “It is undeniable that the arts different parts of the world. have joined hands for a new and culture scene in Qatar has The first edition of the fair, project called Katara Global Art been flourishing, to the extent Farqane said, will benefit Fair (KatArt), a contemporary of drawing the world’s attention. children in Argentina through FROM LEFT: Hamzah Taleb, CEO of Outbox; Darwish S Ahmed Al Shebani, Director of Cultural Affairs at Katara; art fair aimed at promoting local Doha’s cultural environment the Margarita Barrientos Foun- Mariame Farqane, CEO of Pallas Arts; H E Carlos Hernandez, Ambassador of Argentina to Qatar; and Facundo and international artists while today makes it an ideal location dation. “This year we are col- Chadini, Director of Margarita Barrientos Foundation at a press conference held at Katara Building 15 yesterday. contributing to children’s for an international art fair. laborating with Argentina. We education in various countries. Qatar is indeed poised to are helping them to build cul- “The Katara Global Art Fair become a major international tural centres for those children commitment for art, education, needs for food, health care and and run until January 22 at (KatArt) in Doha is a contem- hub for art and culture and join and we are implementing it with and solidarity.” education,” said Hernandez. Katara. “This will serve as teaser porary art fair, which aims to the ranks of such major centers very revolutionary education “The Embassy of Argentina KatArt’s first edition will and officially introduce the fair. introduce collective and solo as Paris or New York,” she said. system which is absolutely new has deep appreciation for Pallas take place in October and will The preview will feature artists projects from leading and Darwish S. Ahmed Al and it is going to be our pilot Arts for this art and education offer an ideal platform of inter- from the US, France, Spain, the emerging local and international Shebani, Director of Cultural project this year with project which will strongly con- action between collectors, UK, Philippines, India and other artists. Its concept was Affairs in Katara, stressed Katara Argentina,” she said. tribute to the cultural benefit of artists, photographers, designers countries as well as artworks developed in 2019 by Pallas Arts takes the concept of art exhibi- H E Carlos Hernandez, poor kids in our country. This is and other art professionals. The from GPDNet countries,” said in partnership with the Katara tions to the next level through Ambassador of Argentina to something new which combines art fair will feature live perform- Farqane. Cultural Village, in line with this upcoming fair saying it will Qatar expressed appreciation culture and education for kids ances in addition to the expo- Facundo Chadini, Director Qatar National Vision 2030,” be a first for Katara “designed for having an Argentinean foun- in need. Pallas Arts is going to sition of numerous paintings, of Margarita Barrientos Foun- said Mariame Farqane, CEO of very carefully to be recognized dation to be the first beneficiary work with an important foun- sculptures, photographs, among dation and Hamzah Taleb, CEO Pallas Arts, which is Qatar’s first as an international event.” of the project calling the initi- dation in Argentina which look many other art pieces. of Outbox, also spoke at the registered arts brokerage. As Secretary General of ative “completely innovative after more than 8,000 kids on A preview of the first edition press conference held at Katara Speaking at a press Global Public Diplomacy and showing a clear a daily basis regarding their of the fair will open tomorrow Building 15 yesterday. New survey vehicles to provide Woqod opens New Industrial Area petrol station accurate geographical information THE PENINSULA — DOHA Qatar Fuel ‘Woqod’ opened SANAULLAH ATAULLAH New Industrial Area petrol THE PENINSULA station yesterday that raised its network of various petrol The Center for Geographic stations to 100. Information System (CGIS) at New Industrial Area petrol the Ministry of Municipality and station is spread over an area Environment has introduced of 14,400 square meters and vehicles equipped with has three lanes with six dis- advanced 3D equipment for pensers for light vehicles, and road survey to provide accurate two lanes with four dispensers geographical information to the for heavy vehicles, which will users, including individuals, serve New Industrial Area and companies and public institu- its neighbourhood, said the tions. Amer Al Humaidi, Assistant Director of the CGIS; RIGHT: Eng. Muhammad company in a press release “The Center is also using Ali Al Marri, Head of the Topographic Survey at CGIS, during the yesterday. drones for aerial survey and Survey Operations workshop. PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA Woqod’s Managing Director there are also plans to use and CEO, Saad Rashid Al The newly-opened petrol station at New Industrial Area. manned aircraft to provide He stated that the design of error rate in them does not Muhannadi, said: “We are complete service,” Assistant the number plates takes into exceed 1 centimeter, and pleased to open new fixed Director of the CGIS, Amer Al account many requirements, the therefore the plots are sorted in petrol station in New Industrial to meet the fuel and energy car wash, oil change and tire Humaidi told The Peninsula on most important of which is its a highly accurate way." Area. Woqod aspires to expand needs of the country. Woqod repair, for heavy vehicles, the sidelines of a workshop. accessibility to children and the Head of the Topographic its petrol station network in the team would like to extend their in addition to sale of The workshop was elderly. He noted that the ‘Wain’ Survey at the Center for Geo- country to meet the rising gratitude to all concerned gov- gasoline and diesel products organised by CGIS at Hilton app can help to access the graphic Information Systems and demand for petroleum products ernmental and private entities for light vehicles and heavy Hotel yesterday to introduce its address through building Head of the Regional Survey and achieve the goal of pro- that contributed to the com- Vehicles key projects and survey works. numbers, street and zones. Office for the Arab Gulf States, viding customers with access pletion of this project,” he Al Muhannadi added that Al Humaidi said the Center’s Talking about Geodetic Eng. Muhammad Ali Al Marri said to best-in-class products and added. Woqod is currently over- geographic systems network Network and GPS Services, Al the Geodetic Network is being services at their convenience New Industrial Area seeing the implementation of provides services to 98 Humaidi said: “This network cal- developed and under a new and comfort”. petrol station offers round- 12 new petrol stations, most institutions. ibrates all area devices in the project over 190km has been “Woqod has recently accel- the-clock services to resi- of which will be operational “An app ‘Wain’ was country, in order to obtain completed so far, and work is erated the process for the con- dents, and includes Sidra in the first quarter of year developed by the Ministry of accurate coordinates and the underway to achieve 8,000 km. struction of new petrol stations convenience store, manual 2020. Municipality and Envi- ronment in cooperation with a company, in addition to ‘Al Murshid’ app which are available on Android and iPhone and provide all geo- graphic information for Qatar while ensuring that the data is contin- uously updated. Speaking about the National Address project Anwani, Al Humaidi revealed the completion of the installation of 145,000 number plates at the entrance of various facilities including homes, shops, apart- ments, and other resi- dential establishments and Al Azab (animal farms), pointing out the linking of this address with all applications of geographical systems and tracking. THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 HOME 05 QA, Malaysia Airlines announce significant codeshare expansion THE PENINSULA — DOHA With 10 Qatar Airways destinations covered by

Qatar Airways announced the airlines’ current codeshare cooperation, yesterday expanded codeshare the expanded agreement will allow Malaysia cooperation with Malaysia Airlines passengers to book travel to 20 Airlines, starting from January 7. The new codeshare agreement additional Qatar Airways gateways in Europe, will strengthen the two airlines’ America and Africa, said the airline. strategic partnership, first initiated in 2001. With 10 Qatar Airways des- tinations covered by the airlines’ current codeshare cooperation, the expanded agreement will allow Malaysia Airlines pas- sengers to book travel to 20 additional Qatar Airways gateways in Europe, America, and Africa, said the airline in a press release yesterday. In turn, Qatar Airways pas- sengers will benefit from access to four exciting new destinations in South East Asia. They can now book travel on Malaysia Airlines’ Malaysian experience for our by Skytrax. It was also named flights to Sibu, Malaysia; Alor passengers.” ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’, Setar, Malaysia; Medan, Indo- Sales for selected new code- ‘World’s Best Business Class’, and nesia; and Surabaya, Indonesia. share destinations will open ‘Best Business Class Seat’, in rec- Qatar Airways announces 8 new destinations This brings the total number of today, January 15, when Malaysia ognition of its ground-breaking codeshare routes in Malaysia Airlines customers will be able Business Class experience, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, with other dignitaries at the Kuwait Airlines’ network to 24. to book travel on Qatar Airways Qsuite. It is the only airline to Aviation Show. Qatar Airways wowed the crowds on the opening day of the Kuwait Aviation Show, Qatar Airways Group Chief flights from Doha to Vienna, have been awarded the coveted showcasing two of the newest aircraftin its fleet alongside announcing new destination plans for 2020. Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, Brussels, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, ‘Skytrax Airline of the Year’ title, said: “Since 2001, both airlines Munich, Athens, Rome, Oslo, which is recognised as the pin- have witnessed the significant Barcelona, Madrid, Geneva, and nacle of excellence in the airline benefits codeshare cooperation Zurich. In turn, Qatar Airways industry, five times. have brought, providing pas- passengers will be able to book The world’s fastest-growing New Chinese Cultural Center sengers with unrivalled service Malaysia Airlines flights to Sibu, airline added several new des- and seamless connections. The Alor Setar, Medan, and Surabaya. tinations to its network last year, expansion of codeshare cooper- Qatar Airways began flying including Rabat, Morocco; Izmir, expected to open this year ation between Qatar Airways to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in Turkey; Malta; Davao, Philip- and Malaysia Airlines is a natural 2001, now a triple daily service. pines; Lisbon, Portugal; SIDI MOHAMED next step in the strengthening of Penang, Malaysia was launched Mogadishu, Somalia; Langkawi, THE PENINSULA our partnership.” in February 2018, initially with Malaysia; and Gaborone, Malaysia Airlines Group three weekly flights that Botswana. Chinese Cultural Center is in final Chief Executive, Izham Ismail, increased to five weekly flights Malaysia Airlines serves 59 stages that will be set up within this said: “Malaysia Airlines is in October 2019. A five-time destinations from its hub, Kuala year in Qatar, said H E Zhou Jian, delighted to further develop and weekly service to Langkawi, via Lumpur International Airport Ambassador of People’s Republic grow our relationship with Qatar Penang, was launched in (KUL). As oneworld alliance of China to the State of Qatar. Airways with this codeshare October 2019. In 2001, Qatar partners, customers of both air- “The new centre would help agreement. Through this coop- Airways and Malaysia Airlines lines are ensured recognition of introducing more people to eration, we will be able to announced their first codeshare their frequent-flyer status and Chinese culture. I hope the centre provide travel options for our agreement, which was expanded benefits including access to is to be set up this year,” said the outbound travelers as well as in 2018, to provide greater con- lounges worldwide, through Ambassador, while talking to inviting more travelers to expe- nectivity and new destinations check-in, extra baggage media persons on the sidelines rience the beauty Malaysia has to their passengers. allowance, plus accrual and of a ceremony held on Tuesday to offer. We look forward to Qatar Airways was named redemption of miles, priority on the occasion of Chinese New sharing our Malaysian hospitality ‘World’s Best Airline’ by the 2019 check-in and boarding across Year. The ceremony was further and provide a truly World Airline Awards, managed the carriers’ networks. The Ambassador of China to Qatar, H E Zhou Jian, giving a speech attended by around 300 people on Chinese New Year celebration at the InterContinental Hotel from the Chinese community in Doha, on Tuesday. PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA Qatar, in addition to many other guests. The event was held at the Intercontinental Hotel, and Xi Jinping and Amir H H Sheikh and the Chinese Enterprises included many Chinese cultural Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met Association in Qatar was and musical performances. It twice during the year to reach a founded. Qatar’s LNG has con- also included sports shows of the broad consensus on deepening tributed to China’s green Chinese people, as they per- China-Qatar strategic part- development.” formed in groups in traditional nership, building solid founda- The Ambassador pointed out Chinese attire. tions and strong pillars for the that Chinese in Qatar worked Addressing the ceremony, relation between two countries hard to chase their dreams in the Ambassador said: “In 2019, in the new era, and guiding it into various sectors. “While realising the relation between China and the fast lane.” their dreams, every one of them Qatar harvests a lot of progress He further said: “The prag- actively contributes to the Qatari under the blueprint drawn by the matic cooperation between two economic and social devel- leaders of two countries together. countries reaps much new fruits. opment, acts as a bridge to The political mutual trust The 2nd meeting of the China- promote cooperation between between two countries has Qatar Joint Economic and Trade two countries, and also rewards reached a new height. President Committee was held successfully the development of China.”

CEO of Scientific Excellence Award, Dr. Hamda Hassan Al Sulaiti, with officials and winners of the award. Winners of Scientific Excellence Award 2020 named QNA — DOHA expressing her happiness with wide and large participation by their sincere efforts, and said that private schools, as well as the The Organising Committee of the this decisive moment of victory diversity of the participation of Scientific Excellence Award has revived the feelings of the universities and specialized col- announced yesterday the winners winners and their relatives and leges, and the winning of a tech- of the 13th Scientific Excellence loved ones. She called on all nical school for the first time, Award 2020, who will be winners to maintain their dis- which is the Qatar Banking honoured at the closing ceremony tinction and work to leave unique Studies and Business Adminis- of the Award on March 3. and distinct marks in their future. tration for boys, which gives an This came during a press Dr. Hamda Al Sulaiti also indication of the development of conference held by the com- explained the various stages of the educational process in the mittee yesterday, where the CEO, the award from the beginning of country, she added. Scientific Excellence Award Dr. presentation and arbitration, She also affirmed the role Hamda Hassan Al Sulaiti evaluation of works according of the award in achieving aca- announced the names of winners to conditions, study of files and demic progress and building the and the medals they won in each evaluation by arbitration com- personality of the outstanding category, in the presence of com- mittees and specialized experts, citizen, noting their partici- mittee members, winners, and as well as monitoring, personal pation in the discussions, events their parents, the winning school, interviews and field visits to and dialogues of the recent winning teachers, and winners schools, and checking and Human Rights Council con- from holders of two winners of announcing the results. ference in Geneva, and the MA and PhD degree holders. This edition of the Scientific praise of the participants from Dr Al Sulaiti congratulated Excellence Award was con- several countries, which is the the 83 winners of the prizes, and sidered one of the richest for biggest proof of their praised their hard working, several reasons, including the excellence. 06 HOME THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 Qatari artists showcase artworks inspired by trip to India

RAYNALD C RIVERA spent over a month to create art- this board game and that she THE PENINSULA works inspired by the trip. The wanted to create the same results are a richly layered col- impression through the works The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) lection of diverse and unique but using local designs. yesterday opened Ektashif – an pieces ranging from sketches and Abeer also displays over a exhibition which brings together paintings to photography and dozen stunning photos she took seven Qatari artists and reflects installations which mirror how during the trip and a couple of their experiences after a trip to the trip has enriched the artists’ sketches. India which forms part of the experience and techniques. H E P Kumaran, Indian museum’s new initiative. The centerpiece of the exhi- Ambassador to Qatar; Dr. Julia As part of the recently con- bition located in MIA’s atrium is Gonnella, Director of MIA and cluded Qatar – India 2019 Year Abeer Al Kuwari’s version of the Salem Al Aswad Al Marri, Deputy of Culture, Abeer Al Kuwari, ancient Indian Pachisi board Director of Learning and Out- Eman Al Saad, Haifa Al Khuzai, game, which traces its origins reach at MIA and other officials Jameela Al Ansari, Maryam Al back to Medieval India. Unique attended the opening of the exhi- Sada, Maryam Al Majed and in this installation is Abeer’s use bition which also featured musical Shaikha Al Kuwari spent ten days of local designs found in Qatari and dance performances. in India where they visited sites nature including Oryx, Gerboa MIA supports an active edu- H E Hussain bin Ahmed Al Hamid, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of of historic interest. These have (desert rodent), Hoopoe bird and cation policy and believes that Qatar to the United Republic of Tanzania, presenting his credentials. included the Qutub Minar and a local fish as well as arch design museums are lively spaces, the Red Fort in Delhi, Amber from Qatari houses. The instal- natural extensions to schools and Palace and Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, lation is made of several mate- universities, where learning is Tanzania’s President receives and the Red Fort and Taj Mahal rials such as fabric and stones exciting. Ektashif is the latest ini- in Agra. cast in aluminium. tiative of the museum’s edu- The artists also attended “I do photography, sculpture, cation department and aims to credentials of Qatar’s Ambassador daily workshop sessions where drawing, painting and other art inspire the next generation of they discovered the intricate tra- forms but I wanted to explore creators by exposing them to QNA — DAR ES SALAAM H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Amir, wishing His Highness good ditional arts of India including more materials,” she said, adding new forms of art. Al Thani to H E the President of health and happiness and the marble inlay, known as parchin the installation was inspired by Ektashif is sponsored by Sea- President of the United Republic the United Republic of Tanzania, State of Qatar constant progress kari, block printing, jewellery a palace they visited in Agra in shore Qatar — a Qatari owned of Tanzania has received the wishing him the best of health and prosperity. making, carpet weaving and which she was fascinated by the company and one of the largest credentials of H E Hussain bin and happiness and the gov- Also, H E the President more. story of how the third Emperor multi-disciplinary business Ahmed Al Hamid as Ambassador ernment and people of Tanzania wished H E the Ambassador Upon their return, the artists of the Mughal Empire would play enterprises in the State of Qatar. Extraordinary and Plenipoten- further progress and prosperity. success in his new duties and tiary of the State of Qatar to the H E the President of the assured him of providing all the United Republic of Tanzania. United Republic of Tanzania support to upgrade the bilateral H E the Ambassador con- entrusted H E the Ambassador relations to closer cooperation veyed the greetings of Amir to convey his greetings to H H the in various fields. Police Dog Show and security awareness programs in Indian Community Festival THE PENINSULA — DOHA Museum of Islamic Arts in Doha. items and their skills. The police dog show by Today on the main stage at The Ministry of Interior repre- Police Canine Section under the 5.30pm, 8.30pm and 9pm, the sented by Police Dog Section, Ministry of Interior will be held Civil Defence, Community Civil Defence, Coast Guard, at the main venue of the festival Policing and Traffic Awareness Traffic Awareness Department, from 4 pm – 5 pm on Friday and Departments will present Drugs Prevention Department, this will be main attraction of respectively various awareness Community Policing the visitors to the festival. tips related to fire prevention, Department, Public Relations The show will display road safety and the services of Department and Al Fazaa Police various skills of police dogs the Community Policing Department will participate in in finding the bags contained Department to the public, while the Indian Community Festival drugs or explosives and iden- on Friday, the visitors can listen H E P Kumaran, Ambassador of India to Qatar (third left); Dr. Julia Gonnella (third right), Director of 2020 organised by Indian tifying criminal offenders to tips from Drugs Prevention MIA; Salem Al Aswad Al Marri (second right), Deputy Director of Learning and Outreach at MIA; and Cultural Center (ICC) ‘Passage and this will be a unique Department, Al Fazaa Police Qatari artist Abeer Al Kuwari with other officials, tour during the opening of “Ektashif” Exhibition at to India’ to be held today and opportunity for the public to and Coast Guard at 6.25pm, PIC: BAHER AMIN / THE PENINSULA tomorrow, at the park of learn about the dogs and its 8.30pm and 9pm respectively. Museum of Islamic Art atrium yesterday. Expert sheds light on AI and Machine Learning at NU-Q lecture

THE PENINSULA — DOHA make decisions on how it is Thinking about the future applied.” of this digital era, Senior noted Artificial intelligence (AI) As an example, Senior two main areas of concern for continues to reshape all aspects explained how major media media and communication pro- of everyday life. From driverless Senior explained that corporations such as Netflix or fessionals: data bias and “deep- cars and supermarkets with no machine learning is Instagram may use AI to per- fakes.” Because data are input cashiers to factory automation the “acquisition of sonalise experiences and “make into the system to provide and e-learning, the roll-out of knowledge or skill by recommendations that amplify machine learning with machine-driven data and auto- certain values.” He pointed out knowledge and AI with mated processes are redefining a computer, where the that by using AI, these services guidance to develop algorithms, how the world operates, espe- knowledge is provided offer suggestions and recom- it is essential that the data are cially across the media industry. and fed by an expert,” mendations by “continuing to “collected in a way that elimi- During a lecture at North- while AI is where a optimise, which helps you to nates bias.” With “deepfakes,” western University in Qatar, break out of your bubble and he said, computer scientists and Dave Senior, partner, and strat- machine can “apply creates opportunities to explore media experts are being chal- egist at Toronto-based digital knowledge and continue new content, or highlights other lenged when confronted with agency Playground Inc, to optimise” using things that might be of interest fake news, images, and videos explained the difference algorithms and logic Dave Senior, partner and strategist at Playground Inc., during a based on previous activity.” that can be manipulated, between AI and machine lecture at NU-Q on the rise of artificial intelligence. He added that machine- adding that it is then “our learning, and the role each plays to make decisions and driven data and AI are also responsibility to analyse and in transforming experiences come up with solutions, being used by the media corpo- identify what is real and what and professions. without an expert. come up with solutions, without machine learning cares about rations to make business deci- is not.” Senior explained that an expert. how accurately it represents sions such as “deciding how and Senior concluded his talk by machine learning is the “acqui- “The differences between the data that has been pro- what content gets produced,” encouraging NU-Q students to sition of knowledge or skill by a machine can “apply AI and machine learning are vided. AI performs the work for based on the popularity of pursue their passion and to be a computer, where the knowledge and continue to fairly stark,” said Senior. you and decides what to show similar shows or on using head- curious and creative “because knowledge is provided and fed optimise” using algorithms and “While AI cares about the you, machine learning can lines that can achieve higher nothing will replace human by an expert,” while AI is where logic to make decisions and success of the outcome, analyse the data, but does not click-through rates. creativity.” Hyatt Plaza Mall hosts entertainment for DPS Modern kids, families during Shop Qatar 2020 Indian School marks World THE PENINSULA — DOHA

As part of Shop Qatar 2020, Hindi Diwas Hyatt Plaza Mall in collabo- ration with Qatar National THE PENINSULA — DOHA Tourism Council organises a wide range of activities and DPS Modern Indian School events for everyone — from (DPS-MIS), Qatar has organised children to adults — which will a programme to mark World A view of the programme organised by DPS Modern Indian School make this festival more Hindi Diwas with great enthu- to mark World Hindi Diwas. engaging and delightful. siasm. Students were oriented Children entered the about the importance of Hindi enchanted world of Masha and the language and how celebrating stressed the significance of blowing performance by the Bear International live show at the day helps in sustaining Hindi language. A speech was teachers of senior school. The Hyatt Plaza Mall to meet the ener- traditional values and glorifying presented on the importance grand finale of the celebration getic Masha and the warm them to reinforce the languages’ of Hindi language followed by was a well-choreographed paternal Bear who kept her out of importance. a ‘Kavita vachan’. dance performance. Children watching a live show at Hyatt Plaza Mall. trouble during their adventures. Celebration started with the Teachers of Junior sections The Principal while This show attracted kids and their Qatar National Anthem fol- presented the Kavi Sammelan speaking on the occasion gave families by interacting with its held on Thursday (January 9) and shows, workshops and musicals lowed by the Indian National (poetry reciting session) to an insight and importance of shows and activities, which was Friday (January 10), between 6pm which will create fun, festive Anthem. Students of primary enhance the usages of Hindi language. clearly apparent according to the and 9pm. atmosphere for residents, fam- classes sang a prayer song. The muhavare (proverbs) in Hindi She also insisted that the number of audiences which is an It’s worth mentioning that ilies and visitors during Shop Principal inaugurated the literature. It was unique as it language comes next to the increase of 40 percent in traffic. Hyatt Plaza Mall will host a Qatar 2020 which will conclude function. grabbed the attention of the country on the identification of “Masha and The Bear” show was variety of international roaming on January 31, 2020. A variety of programmes audience. Kawali was the mind any person. THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 HOME 07 Shop Qatar offers family-friendly entertainment THE PENINSULA — DOHA of events, we are pleased to see atar National Tourism Council (QNTC) and its Kids Zone at the 1st floor food A unique highlight of this the efforts of our partners, who partners have announced over 30 events and court from January 16 to 18 year’s Shop Qatar is the special The fourth edition of Shop collaborate to bring diverse while the famed children's Chinese New Year themed cel- Qatar, which kicked off on urban and family entertainment activations taking place across the country till Siwar Choir will also perform ebrations taking place in the January 7, offers a plethora of options to visitors and residents January 31, culminating in week-long Chinese at The Pearl-Qatar on January final week, with an authentic family-friendly entertainment alike. Qatar’s varied retail 17. Dragon Parade and a Drum besides shopping deals and offerings, including its shopping New Year festivities. Young and old alike An exclusive show, Disney Show at various malls from fashion forward events. malls and open-air venues can enjoy a host of family-friendly activities in Concert with Qatar Philhar- January 25 to 31 while special Qatar National Tourism including The Pearl-Qatar and on offer with shows, concerts and crafts to monic Orchestra will be staged Chinese arts and crafts activities Council (QNTC) and its partners Al Hazm, offer amazing oppor- from January 17 to 21 at QNCC will take place at participating have announced over 30 events tunities for families to enjoy the educate and delight audiences. (tickets available at Virgin malls from January 25 to 30. and activations taking place festivities as well as Qatar’s Megastore). Top Bollywood Running until January 31, across the country till January beautiful winter weather to the singer Sonu Nigam will return the festival provides shopping 31, culminating in week-long fullest.” Twelve retail partners animal show from January 16 to charm fans with his hit songs discounts of up to 70 percent Chinese New Year festivities. In addition to shopping dis- including the malls are hosting to 18 and an activation from on January 23 at the Asia Town across 12 retail partners : Al Young and old alike can enjoy counts, a host of fashion shows tonnes of activities for families, PAWS rescue where people can Amphitheatre while the PK Mirqab Mall, AlKhor Mall, City a host of family-friendly activ- by renowned regional and local with roaming characters every pet and/or adopt animals. There Music Festival returns for its Centre, Doha Festival City, Gulf ities on offer with shows, con- designers and makeup master- weekend and children’s shows. will also be a beIN Family Game second year, featuring Pakistani Mall, Hyatt Plaza, Lagoona Mall, certs and crafts to educate and classes by beauty experts, These include Shaun the Sheep Show & Jeem Jawab at Mirqab music legends Junoon on Landmark Mall, Mall of Qatar, delight audiences. there’s a packed calendar of (January 16-22 ), a Justice Mall from January 23 to 24 and January 24 at QNCC (tickets Villaggio, and The Pearl-Qatar Jawaher Al-khuzaei from family friendly entertainment League Parade and solo musi- 30 to 31 January, as well as a available at Q-tickets). A New and Galeries Lafayette, with QNTC commented: “As we start scheduled to run across the cians at various malls children’s fashion show on Year Concert will take place on three raffle draws offering cash the new year with Shop Qatar, country throughout the throughout the festival. January 24. AlKhor Mall will January 25 at Katara Opera and car prizes worth over QR2 a staple in our winter calendar festival. Mirqab Mall will host an have a special activation in the House. million. HBKU’s CIS hosts delegation from distinguished American institutions THE PENINSULA — DOHA had the opportunity to interact with dis- tinguished experts across related disci- The College of Islamic Studies (CIS) at plines from visiting American Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) institutions. hosted a group of alumni from prestigious “It was a pleasure to take the dele- institutions in the US, including Harvard gation on a tour of the unusual architec- University, the National Trust for Historic tural wonder that is the Minaretein Preservation, and the Archaeological building, and introduce them to the Institute of America (AIA). The delegation unique programs provided by the College of 50 people arrived by an Arabian Gulf of Islamic Studies. cruise ship with ports of call including The delegation was fascinated by the Oman and Qatar. state-of-the-art facilities designed for Dr Tarek Swelim, art historian and study and university life within the program coordinator for CIS’ master’s building and how it adds to the rich Participants during the Gulf Security conference. program in Islamic Art, Architecture and learning ecosystem HBKU strives to Urbanism (IAAU), led the delegation deliver,” said Dr Swelim. during their stopover in Doha. The first CIS is committed to forging local and AJCS and Gulf Studies Center conference to leg of the tour was to Minaretein, the international partnerships as a means of award-winning building that houses enhancing learning and outreach, and explore new approaches to Gulf security dilemma HBKU-CIS as well as the Education City promoting a deeper understanding of the Mosque. The delegation was introduced various aspects of Islam. In addition to THE PENINSULA — DOHA will reach a pragmatic vision that challenges that face Gulf states and to the IAAU program and its unique aca- hosting delegates from leading institu- provides practical solutions to issues societies locally and regionally as demic components, and how it reinforces tions, the college regularly participates Al Jazeera Centre for Studies and in this dynamic region and helps well as present approaches that take the wider HBKU vision to create in international events, including the Qatar University’s Gulf Studies decision makers come up with pol- into account constants and impactful change agents. Graduate stu- 2018 Harvard Islamic Finance Con- Center held a press conference in icies that define the features of the variables. dents and alumni of the IAAU program ference and the World Halal Summit. Doha yesterday to present the future. In this regard, the sessions will themes of their upcoming research Al Khalil also confirmed that the discuss the significance of the Gulf conference, “A New Gulf Security organisers were keen on hosting a system and its developments in its System: Leaving Zero-Sum diverse group of speakers so as to defining parties and relations Approaches Behind,” set to take ensure the discussion of topics from between them, shifting to the place at Ibn Khaldoon Hall at Qatar various perspectives. Accordingly, position of the Gulf system in the University on January 19 and 20 there will be 25 speakers from the international system and global ,2020. Gulf region and the Arab world in economy to shed light on the Regarding the idea, objective addition to Iran, Turkey, the United ensuing costs of conflict in the Gulf and anticipated results of the con- States and Europe participating in region. ference, Dr. Mohammed Mukhtar sessions over the course of two days. One of the sessions will discuss Al Khalil, Director of Al Jazeera On his part, Dr. Mahjoob Zweiri, the experiences of security systems Centre for Studies, explained: “The Director of the Gulf Studies Center in the Gulf region by analysing their preparation of the conference took at Qatar University, said that what contexts and the reasons behind place seven months ago and is unre- differentiates this conference from their failures. lated to recent developments in the others is its tackling of the dilemma Another session will analyse the region, especially in wake of the of Gulf security in all of its aspects nature of the current Gulf system, killing of General Qasem and dimensions, surpassing the tra- addressing its traditional and more Soleimani.” ditional concept of security. Accord- recent threats. Al Khalil added that the con- ingly, he said, the conference is set A third session will attend to ference aims primarily to analyse to address communal, food and current security approaches to dem- the question of Gulf security and cybersecurity in addition to political, onstrate the current Gulf system’s explore new approaches that take military and economic security. capability of dealing with threats. into account the interests of relevant Zweiri asserted that the con- Finally, the conference will conclude The delegation was introduced to the IAAU program and its unique academic components, parties. Hopefully, he said, by the ference is open to the public and by discussing the features of the and how it reinforces the wider HBKU vision to create impactful change agents. end of the conference, participants aims to delve into the threats and desired security system. Hydra Aquatics starts new year reflecting on its first successful season THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Hydra Aquatics has started the new year reflecting on its first successful season here at its home, the American School of Doha (ASD), already has many achievements to celebrate. Hydra is an ASD, not for profit, inclusive swim club that offers swimming programs for people of all ages and swimming abilities from both the ASD and greater Doha com- munity. Hydra’s mission is to be an inclusive club that provides members with the skills and knowledge to be confident and competent in, on, and around the water. The Hydra coaches push the students to reach their own individual potential The idea of ASD creating its own according to their goals. aquatics program started a few years ago with its Aquatics Director, Steve Shantz, who proposed the idea. The Slater, Hydra’s new Head Coach, will stay in the same location and see idea was to create an aquatics club played a significant role in the success many of the same coaches,” com- for ASD students and outside students. of Hydra’s start with the expertise and mented Coach Jeff. After a few years, the idea turned into experience he brings to the program. The Hydra coaches push the stu- reality. Coach Jeff is a Level 3 coach from the dents to reach their own individual The goal was not to make money, Canadian Swim Coaches Association. potential according to their goals. but to create a program that was an Over his 30 year career, Coach Jeff They are also dedicated to maxi- extension of the ASD sports family. has coached swimmers in devel- mizing the potential of aspiring young “Part of the reason we wanted to opment programs through to varsity athletes by offering a developmental create Hydra was because we wanted swimming. program that incorporates and builds to test whether this is a model we can Most of the coaches with Hydra upon the Sport for Life, Long Term use for other sports that have have been with ASD for years, Athlete Development Model. Hydra extended programs at ASD,” said Dr. including Coach Youssef, Coach offers programming for the novice to Tom Hawkins, Director of ASD. Marauone and Coach Jawad, who the international level athletes. Aquatics has been part of ASD have been with ASD for over 10 years. Hydra offers a range of programs culture for over a decade, so when “We have excellent coaches, many of and activities from beginner classes ASD declared that it was starting its whom work at ASD and are familiar like ‘FUNdamentals’ and ‘Become a own aquatics program, interest was with some of the kids already. We are Better Swimmer’ to more advanced very high. Hydra registered around centralized at ASD so as a swimmer classes like ‘Junior/Senior Compet- 300 swimmers in its first week. Jeff progresses through our program they itive’ and ‘Masters’. 08 VIEWS THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected] EDITORIAL People take part in a “Fire Drill Fridays” protest calling attention to climate change at the US Capitol in Washington.

QFC’s exceptional growth More protests, more crackdowns?

IT WAS a year of exceptional growth for Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), which is one of the world’s Climate activism faces ‘crunch year’ leading and fastest growing onshore business and financial centres. chief superintendent in Devon Alston said 2020 would be “a During the year, QFC took several initiatives that and Cornwall who is now crunch year” for the movement. will help in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) involved in Extinction Rebellion, Runaway fires in Australia to Qatar and promoting economic diversification. called the classification “just and other evidence of surging The Centre ended the year on a high note with an totally over the top”. climate threats mean there is a unprecedented growth of 33 percent in 2019 with close “Extinction Rebellion is not a “deeply growing realisation it’s to 200 firms being registered to the platform. The risk to the public. But the govern- now or never” for efforts to per- number of firms set up to operate out of the QFC now ment’s inaction on climate suade world leaders to effec- LAURIE GOERING stands at 816 as of December 2019. Compared to REUTERS change is very much a risk to the tively curb climate change. 612 firms at the beginning of the same year, the QFC public,” he said. But with key emitting coun- is well underway in its goal of registering 1,000 firms “If they took the time to tries like the United States and by 2022. As London’s police try to manage reflect on why Extinction Australia clearly demonstrating The World Bank has noted that Qatar’s economy a rise in non-violent street Rebellion are protesting, what they are not willing to respond, is projected to grow by 1.5 percent in 2020 and 3.2 protests aimed at spurring action this climate emergency is all “the only option that seems to percent in 2021. The International Monetary Fund has “Extinction to tackle climate change, they about, they would see that what remain on the table is public adjusted the GDP growth projections to 2.8 percent face a quandary, human rights we’re trying to do is entirely protest”, which is likely to for 2020 from 2 percent in 2019. Rebellion is experts said. appropriate and proportionate,” expand this year, Alston said. The expansion of firms on the QFC platform rep- not a risk to With violent protests, “if he said. London police officials In response, governments - resents a variety of industries, both financial and non- someone tries to punch you as an and others, such as the anti-radi- unnerved by the size of protests financial services, including Fintech, IT, and tax and the public. officer, you get the horses in and calisation Prevent programme’s or under pressure to curb dis- investment advisories, hailing from diverse countries But the kettle them and the public will former head, quickly disavowed ruption - are looking for ways to including the United States, Canada, the United absolutely support you,” said the group’s inclusion in the guide limit or manage protests, human Kingdom, France, Germany, Switzerland, Jordan as government’s Tobias Garnett, a legal strategist as a mistake. rights experts said. well as India. inaction for the Extinction Rebellion Sara Khan, who leads the The Australian state of The QFC kickstarted 2019 with the unveiling of its climate action movement. government’s Commission for Queensland last October 2022 strategy, announcing its renewed focus on devel- on climate But while last year’s mass Countering Extremism, said in a approved a new law to expand oping sectors of Qatar’s economy that are poised for change is protests by the grassroots group statement the guidance should police powers to search activists, substantial growth, namely digital, media, sports, and very much in London were disruptive, they and would be recalled. something unions called a financial services sectors, as well as targeting were peaceful. Neither were But Britain’s Home Secretary “slippery slope” that could lead emerging markets such as Oman, Kuwait, India, a risk to the members deterred by large-scale Priti Patel insisted it was to the restrictions being deployed Pakistan and Turkey. public. arrests or an October ban on important for the government to against a range of strikers. 2019 also saw the launch of the Investment Pro- gatherings that was later over- assess “a range of security risks”. Parliamentarians discussed, motion Agency of Qatar, which is registered on the turned in court. Despite the U-turn, that but rejected, amendments to QFC platform and aims to be a single and complete “Extinction Rebellion is an suggests “the policing mentality require prison sentences for source for investment solutions in Qatar by attracting unprecedented challenge for the remains one of trying to find repeat protest offenders and to FDI in all of the country’s priority sectors. police,” said Garnett, noting the ways to prevent, suppress and ban gatherings intended to block In addition, 2019 marked the year that the QFC large number of people “dedi- punish anyone who takes on traffic flow. And a number of US join the World Alliance of International Financial cated to an issue, prepared to be climate change by means of states have passed laws making Centres, a non-profit organisation established to facil- arrested and, crucially, totally serious public protest”, said protests opposing fossil fuel itate strategic cooperation among financial centres. non-violent in the process”. Philip Alston, chair of the pipelines criminal offences, As part of the alliance, the QFC will share its unique That consternation may be Center for Human Rights and Alston said. business model and expertise as well as impart suc- one reason the group this month Global Justice at New York In Britain, police pressed cessful endeavours in diverse financial sectors showed up in a guide produced University. charges against more than 95% including Islamic Finance, Fintech, Asset Management by British counter-terrorism The incident also raises ques- of the 1,100 Extinction Rebellion and Capital Markets. police on how to spot followers tions about the kind of push- activists arrested during April The year 2019 also saw the QFC reaffirm its social of extremist ideologies. back climate change protest protests, an unusually high rate, and humanitarian commitment, having signed The document put Extinction groups - including the school said the group’s lawyer Garnett. numerous agreements to support United Nations Rebellion alongside organisa- strikers inspired by Swedish The police service noted the agencies including the Office of the UN Secretary- tions ranging from Islamic State teenager Greta Thunberg - will activists had caused widespread General’s Humanitarian Envoy. to neo-Nazis. face as they ramp up demands disruption in London and pulled Rob Cooper, a retired police for urgent action. officers away from other duties. Encryption battle reignited as US govt at loggerheads with Apple D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR EMAIL: [email protected] ROB LEVER the company said in a and the US Justice intercept messages. “We have AFP statement. “Our responses to Department after the always maintained there is no EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 their many requests since the December 2015 mass such thing as a backdoor just FAX: +974 4455 7758 Apple and the US government attack have been timely, shooting in San Bernardino, for the good guys,” Apple’s are at loggerheads for the thorough and are ongoing.” California, when the iPhone statement said. “Backdoors MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 second time in four years over Late on Tuesday, Pres- maker rejected a request to can also be exploited by those unlocking iPhones connected ident Donald Trump weighed develop software to break who threaten our national DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 to a mass shooting, reviving in on Twitter, saying the gov- into the shooter’s iPhone. security and the data security debate over law enforcement ernment was helping Apple That fight ended in 2016 of our customers.” LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 access to encrypted devices. on trade issues “yet they when the government paid an Apple and others argue Attorney General Bill Barr refuse to unlock phones used outside party a reported $1 that digital “breadcrumbs” BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 said Monday that Apple failed by killers, drug dealers and million for a tool that circum- make it increasingly easy to to provide “substantive other violent criminal vented Apple’s iPhone track people, even without SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 assistance” in unlocking two elements.” encryption. Barr last year breaking into personal devices. iPhones in the investigation “They will have to step up called on Facebook to allow The government’s latest ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 into the December shooting to the plate and help our great authorities to circumvent demand “is dangerous and email: [email protected] deaths of three US sailors at a Country, NOW!” he added. encryption to fight extremism, unconstitutional, and would Florida naval station, which he The standoff highlighted child pornography and other weaken the security of millions PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 called an “act of terrorism.” the debate between law crimes. The social network of iPhones,” Jennifer Granick of email: [email protected] Apple disputed Barr’s enforcement and the tech has said it would move ahead the American Civil Liberties claim, while arguing against sector about encryption -- a with strong encryption for its Union said in a statement. ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 the idea of “backdoors” for key way to protect the privacy messaging applications. “Strong encryption FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] law enforcement to access its of digital communications, Digital rights activists enables religious minorities encrypted smartphones. but which can also make argue that any privileged facing genocide, like the CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 “We reject the characteri- investigations difficult, even access for law enforcement Uighurs in China, and jour- email: [email protected] zation that Apple has not pro- with a court order. would weaken security and nalists investigating powerful vided substantive assistance in The latest battle is similar make it easier for hackers and drug cartels in Mexico, to SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 the Pensacola investigation,” to the dispute between Apple authoritarian governments to communicate safely.” FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar We cannot say that the ceasefire has collapsed, it's much too early for /Peninsula_Qatar such an interpretation. /ThePeninsulaNewspaper Hulusi Akar, Turkish Defence Minister +974 6698 6188 THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 OPINION 09 Race to refine: Bid to clean up Africa’s gold rush DAVID LEWIS & PETER HOBSON already large refining Union. But because informal on metal it exports. Cam- market, he said. But it is time- REUTERS industry. There, authorities miners already often operate eroon’s government did not consuming and expensive, granted 19 refining licences in through smuggling networks respond to requests for and requires close regulation, the year to March 2019 - as to avoid tax and scrutiny, offi- comment. such as a In Uganda, AGR has In a refinery just outside many as in the previous three cials and industry sources say The Organisation for Eco- already established itself as a Uganda’s main airport, years combined. some refineries risk inevitably nomic Co-operation and major player. It said it workers slip bars of freshly Elsewhere in sub-Saharan joining these shadowy Development (OECD) has exported more than 17 tonnes refined gold into clear plastic Africa - where until 2012 channels. developed global sourcing of gold worth around $800 bags sealed with a sticker of there were only a handful of With so many refineries standards against which it million in 2019; it is listed in the national flag - black, refineries - as many as 26 are competing for gold to process, recommends refineries are the supply chains of more yellow and red - and the label now either operating or under each has scant incentive to audited. Outside South Africa, than 200 U.S. companies’ reg- “Ugandan’s Treasure.” construction across 14 coun- check where its gold comes no African refineries have yet ulatory filings for 2018. Governments of gold- Uganda produces little gold of tries from Mali to Tanzania, from. followed that recommen- It is surrounded by a man- producing countries its own. Alain Goetz, who set including in states which Just 13 of them - those for dation, said Louis Marechal, icured lawn and palm trees. up the refinery, says that by mine little gold at home, a which Reuters was able to an OECD expert on respon- Inside, men in fireproof in Africa have long branding gold from abroad as Reuters survey of public obtain data - state they can sible business conduct at who masks and aprons process complained that the Ugandan, the operation is reports found. Officials in at handle more than 1,400 has travelled widely in Africa metal through mills, furnaces merely imitating others - for least three more countries tonnes of gold a year, worth consulting with governments and cooling drums. precious metal in example, the Swiss don’t mine including Madagascar and around $70 billion. That and companies on how to Founder Goetz, a Belgian their rocks is being the gold they refine in Swit- Ivory Coast have publicly said means they could treat regulate and source gold whose family has traded gold illegally produced zerland. they are interested in hosting around twice Africa’s esti- responsibly. for two decades in Africa’s A pink building guarded a refinery. mated total gold production, The new refineries offer Great Lakes Region, said he and smuggled by dogs at Entebbe on the Governments of gold-pro- and nearly a third of the an important outlet for mil- set up the refinery in response out on a vast shores of Lake Victoria, the ducing countries in Africa world’s supply. lions of individuals who dig to informal approaches by refinery, African Gold have long complained that the Of 22 refineries surveyed for gold using basic tech- unidentified government offi- scale, sometimes Refinery (AGR), is part of a precious metal in their rocks by Reuters, 14 did not respond nology . cials in the region in 2014. by criminal trend across Africa. Small- is being illegally produced to requests for more infor- Industrial mining com- They saw “a need to make the scale mining is booming, and and smuggled out on a vast mation about the size and panies usually fly metal they supply chain more profes- operations, often at new gold refineries are scale, sometimes by criminal nature of their business. produce in Africa to large sional, more transparent by a high human and opening by the dozen, to operations, often at a high Two responses to the refineries accredited by the setting up a refinery,” he said. process metal produced by human and environmental survey showed a lax London Bullion Market Asso- In a landscape where new environmental cost. informal diggers in Africa and cost. approach: One small operator, ciation (LBMA), the industry’s refiners compete for metal to By refining gold - in beyond. By refining gold - in some Bupe Chipando who heads standard setter. All but one of treat, AGR has taken risks some cases obliging The refineries, which cases obliging producers and Alinani Precious Metals Ltd in these are outside the con- with the sourcing of its metal. often win high-level political traders to sell their gold to Kenya, said he does not yet tinent. Concerned about the Last year, it processed gold producers and backing, can be positive home-grown refineries - purify gold, but just melts risks of rights abuses, crime or from Venezuela, where the traders to sell their because they offer miners and states hope to capture value blocks of impure metal conflict in the supply chain, state-run gold industry has states a way to extract value that is being lost. Some new together and ships them LBMA-accredited refineries been sanctioned by the United gold to home-grown from their own mineral refineries have invested in overseas. Officials said they typically steer clear of metal States since 2018 to try to refineries - states wealth rather than just systems to ensure they knew of at least two other from informal miners. prevent the government from exporting raw commodities. process gold from legal and African refiners who did the Six of Africa’s new refin- using it to earn hard currency. hope to capture value But if not properly controlled, environmentally responsible same thing. eries - in Cameroon, Kenya, Ugandan authorities said that is being lost. they risk adding to problems miners. Another, Robert Baker, the Mali, Rwanda and Uganda - in March they were investi- of smuggling and funding “The only way to stop CEO of Bekora Miners in shared output data with gating AGR’s Venezuelan gold conflict. (smuggling) is having multiple Cameroon, said most of the Reuters. With combined imports worth $300 million Some of Africa’s new gold refineries in Africa,” said gold his refinery processed annual capacity for around on grounds it may have been refineries are in South Africa, Frank Mugyenyi, head of the was not declared to customs, 270 tonnes, they currently smuggled. a major gold producer with an minerals unit at the African in order to avoid paying tax process around 41 tonnes of The Attorney General dis- gold a year worth some $2 missed those allegations but billion. For comparison, refin- the same month, U.S. Assistant eries in Switzerland handle Treasury Secretary Marshall around 2,500 tonnes of gold a Billingslea travelled to year, worth $120 billion at Uganda to ask authorities current prices. about the fact AGR accepted Some people in the gold from Venezuela, a U.S. industry concede that it is official said. Investigators hard for Africa’s new refiners have returned twice since, the to be accepted as mainstream official added. suppliers. Large banks, jew- AGR says all the Vene- ellers and electronics makers zuelan gold it refined was generally only accept gold declared to the relevant from refineries accredited by Ugandan authorities, who groups such as the LBMA. declined to comment further. LBMA rules require a refinery Uganda has long been a to operate for at least five conduit for gold worth billions years and process large of dollars mined in neigh- amounts of gold before it can bouring Democratic Republic be accredited. of Congo. The trade fuelled Neil Harby, chief technical regional wars, funded rebel officer at the LBMA, said fighters and led to United several refineries in countries Nations sanctions on traders including Ghana are part- involved, to try to staunch the nering with LBMA-accredited flow. Uganda’s official gold refineries, which support their exports grew to $116 million efforts to control sources and in 2006/7, according to offer an outlet to the global central bank data. Then sanc- market by re-refining the gold tions were imposed and they produce. official exports collapsed, This helps to improve averaging under $17 million a miners’ livelihoods by lifting year until 2014/15, the data Employees pour liquid gold into a mould for the production of an ingot during the refining process at African Gold Refinery in Entebbe, Uganda. them out of the shadow show. Peru’s voters can solve Latin American riddle outsider. Peruvians swooned, peers, clocking 6.1% average since 2006. For the second against the wall.” Vizcarra, a and he still boasts an enviable growth from 2002 to 2013, time, he was named Central former provincial governor, 60% approval rating. But for and kept pace with Latin Banker of the Year by The has so far escaped the public how long? Few societies in America’s leaders ever since. Banker, an international wrath by playing to the the Americas have been so Even as growth slows this financial publication. “There’s crowd’s rejection of the Lima- Legislators have mercurial toward their politi- year, Peru’s gross domestic a class of technocrats who centered political estab- cians, hailing newly elected product will likely trump that have been little affected by lishment. An accidental pres- done even less MAC MARGOLIS leaders as redeemers only to of its continental neighbors. political convulsions,” ident with no party of his for democratic BLOOMBERG turn on them. To be fair, many Exports are up, inflation is the Melendez told me. “It’s the own, Vizcarra is “a populist of leaders have invited con- lowest in the region and idea that legitimacy comes the center, without any ideo- cachet: Only 8% of tempt. Nowhere else in Latin investment is robust (+4.2% in from following a rational eco- logical bent except that of Peruvians said they As nearly 25 million Peruvians America has the rolling 2020). Mining alone, which nomic model.” Peruvian pol- trolling for approval,” said head to the polls to elect a Brazil-born Carwash investi- kicks in 15% of gross domestic itics should be so blessed. The Melendez. “Peru’s politics is trust their congress, new parliament later this gation into payola and graft product, saw a 27% year on institutional clash that blew driven not by ideas or compared with month, here’s a Latin claimed so many alpha year increase in investment up congress last year was agendas, but contrarians - 21% regionally, American riddle: How does a authorities: Four Peruvian from January to November of driven partly by the sitting people who cast ‘no’ votes.” nation practiced in the art of former presidents have been 2019, according to the Econ- legislature’s attempt to That’s hardly encouraging for Latinobarometro political seppuku sustain one caught up in the scandal. One, omist Intelligence Unit. sandbag structural reforms a country heading to a snap found in 2018. of the hemisphere’s most Alan Garcia, shot himself to What’s behind the dis- that Peru badly needs, from election intended to pacify consistently flourishing econ- avoid arrest. connect? Political scientist anti-graft measures and an politics and reset national Three of four omies? Three months ago, a Legislators have done Carlos Melendez, who teaches overhaul of the judiciary to priorities. Peruvians named battle between caretaker even less for democratic at Diego Portales University in new rules for campaign The most popular of a President Martin Vizcarra and cachet: Only 8% of Peruvians Chile, reckons that after a finance. But the only banner kaleidoscope of parties vying the legislature as the obstructionist legislature said they trust their congress, ruinous run of profligacy, that resonated with for congressional seats, boasts the nation’s most pitched the Andean nation compared with 21% hyperinflation and authori- incumbent-weary Peruvians no more than 10% of voter into a constitutional crisis. regionally, Latinobarometro tarian spasms through the was the anti-corruption drive, preferences. The storied corrupt institution, Vizcarra took the nuclear found in 2018. Three of four 1980s and 1990s, Peruvians with parliament as the pre- Popular Force of the former Transparency option, invoking an extreme Peruvians named the legis- have since struck an unstated ferred target. caudillo Alberto Fujimori, International constitutional provision to lature as the nation’s most civic pact. While politicians The danger is that Peru now led by his daughter dissolve congress. The move corrupt institution, Trans- are ecumenically reviled and falls for “a false sense of Keiko, has no more than 8%. recently found. roiled the political estab- parency International fair game for popular security that nothing will In a country where voting is Another poll showed lishment and still vexes the recently found. Another poll derision, most everyone change, no matter who is in obligatory, 35% of Peruvians constitutional court, but no showed that 59% favored agrees on the basic rules of government,” said Jorge Val- voted blank or spoiled their that 59% favored matter. All 130 legislative shutting down parliament “in economic engagement and ladares, who tracks political ballots in the 2016 parlia- shutting down seats are up for grabs in the difficult times.” That’s more fiscal sobriety. Caudillos, pop- integrity for Transparency mentary contest. Jan. 26 balloting. So is Peru’s than double the rate for Mex- ulists and enchanters on the International. “But this rests The likely outcome: a parliament “in political future. icans, the second most coup- left and right may come and on a fairly fragile balance of stand-in parliament with a difficult times.” An accidental president, tolerant society. go, but market-friendly pol- power. As soon as you have a limited lifespan with “low hoisted into office after Pres- That depth of public funk icies have prevailed. skilled interest group able to credibility and little com- ident Pedro Pablo Kuczynski is a petri dish for economic Take the Central Reserve exploit public sentiment and mitment to structural resigned amid scandal in misadventure. Yet the Andean Bank, whose current pres- politicize the system’s failures, changes,” Melendez says. “It’s 2018, Vizcarra finessed the economy has long outper- ident, Julio Velarde Flores, has the economic consensus we easy to implode a congress, crisis by playing the righteous formed most of its continental been on the governing board take for granted could crash but difficult to build one.” 10 GULF / MIDDLE EAST THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020

Qatar’s Air Sports Committee takes part in Kuwait Air Show Members of Qatar’s Air Sports Committee performing during the Kuwait aviation show in Kuwait City, yesterday. Iran rejects idea of a new ‘Trump deal’ in nuclear row Iran denies any intent to acquire nuclear Khamenei to lead Friday prayers for weapons and says its first time since 2012: Iran media breaches of the deal TEHRAN would be reversed AFP — if Washington lifts Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran this week, state news agency sanctions. “All of our Irna reported. activities are under Khamenei is officially the imam of Tehran but usually del- the supervision of the egates the task of leading Friday prayers to others. The last time he led Friday prayers at Tehran’s Mosalla International Atomic mosque was in February 2012, on the 33rd anniversary of the Energy Agency(IAEA),” Islamic revolution and at a time of crisis over the Iran nuclear issue. said Rouhani.

President Hassan Rouhani signing a book carrying the names of the victims of the Ukraine Flight 752 downing, following a cabinet meeting in Tehran, yesterday. REUTERS — TEHRAN The United States says its that the deal was still alive: “No, aim is force Tehran to agree a it’s not dead. It’s not dead,” Zarif Iranian President Hassan broader deal that puts stricter said on the sidelines of a con- the Europeans have reneged on Rouhani dismissed a proposal limits on its nuclear work, curbs ference in New Delhi. promises to find ways to cir- Tehran's warning puts for a new “Trump deal” aimed its ballistic missile programme But he told the conference cumvent the US sanctions. at resolving a nuclear row, and ends its regional proxy Trump’s withdrawal from the The flare-up in nuclear saying it was a “strange” offer wars. Iran says it will not nego- earlier deal made new negotia- diplomacy comes as military thousands of European and criticising US President tiate as long as sanctions remain tions with Washington pointless: confrontation between Wash- Donald Trump for always in place. “I had a US deal and the US broke ington and Tehran has also breaking promises. Tehran has gradually taken it. If I have a Trump deal, how reached a new peak. troops in spotlight British Prime Minister Boris steps to reduce its compliance long will it last?” The United States killed an Johnson, who has praised with the deal, which prompted In its biggest step away Iranian general in a drone strike AP — TEHRAN Trump as a great dealmaker, Britain, France and Germany to from the agreement yet, Iran in Baghdad on January 3. called on Tuesday for the pres- formally accuse it on Tuesday announced on January 5 it Tehran responded a week ago A warning by Iran’s president that European forces in the Middle ident to replace Iran’s 2015 of violating the terms. would abandon all limitations by launching missiles at US East could be at risk if their nations join the US pressure campaign nuclear deal with major powers “This Mr. Prime Minister in on enriching uranium set down targets in Iraq. No Americans against the Islamic Republic puts a focus on thousands of foreign with his own new pact to ensure London, I don’t know how he in the pact. were hurt, but hours later Iran troops in the region. Tehran does not get an atomic thinks. He says let’s put aside Britain, France and shot down a Ukrainian airliner Britain, France, and Germany have spent months trying to weapon. the nuclear deal and put the Germany reacted by activating in what its authorities have preserve the 2015 nuclear deal after President Donald Trump Trump said he agreed with Trump plan in action,” Rouhani a dispute mechanism in the deal acknowledged as a tragic unilaterally abandoned it in 2018. But on Tuesday, the European Johnson that a “Trump deal” said. “If you take the wrong step, on Tuesday, which eventually mistake, prompting anti-gov- Union initiated a dispute resolution mechanism to try to bring should replace the Iran nuclear it will be to your detriment. Pick could lead to the reimposing of ernment protests at home. Iran back into compliance after Tehran began openly breaching deal. In a televised speech, the right path. The right path is UN sanctions. Iran called this Rouhani repeated Iran’s some restrictions last summer. Rouhani told Washington to to return to the nuclear deal.” step a “strategic mistake”. longstanding position that Iran says it should not be bound to the agreement since the return to the nuclear pact, Iran denies any intent to US Treasury Secretary peace can come to the Middle US reimposed crippling sanctions. After a US airstrike in Iraq which Washington abandoned acquire nuclear weapons and Steven Mnuchin said Wash- East only when the United killed Tehran’s top general, Iran responded by firing ballistic mis- in 2018, under which Tehran says its breaches of the deal ington now expects the UN States withdraws. siles at US troops stationed there. No one was hurt in the missile curbed its nuclear work in would be reversed if Wash- sanctions to “snap back into “American soldiers today attacks. return for the lifting of interna- ington lifts sanctions. “All of our place” as a result of the are not secure in the region... “Today, the American soldier is in danger, tomorrow the tional sanctions on Iran. activities are under the super- European move. The European We don’t want there to be inse- European soldier could be in danger,” President Hassan Rouhani Since quitting the vision of the International countries have said that is not curity in the world. We want said at a Cabinet meeting without elaborating. agreement, Washington has Atomic Energy Agency(IAEA),” their goal. you to go from here, but not European countries have troops in Afghanistan, Iraq and else- reimposed sanctions to throttle said Rouhani. Rouhani upbraided with war. We want you to leave where in the Middle East, where they mainly operate alongside Iran’s oil exports as part of a Foreign Minister European powers for not the region intelligently and it’s much larger US deployments. Iran is allied with powerful armed “maximum pressure” policy. Mohammad Javad Zarif said standing up to Trump. Iran says to your benefit,” Rouhani said. groups in Iraq, , and Yemen. Four Gaza rockets fired at Israel, Regime air raids kill 9 civilians despite Idlib truce military says AFP — IDLIB destroyed and his four employees trapped under REUTERS — GAZA CITY Regime air strikes on Syria’s rubble. It was not immediately last major opposition bastion clear if they had survived. Four rockets were fired at Israel killed at least nine civilians “This is not the neigh- from the Gaza Strip yesterday, the yesterday, striking bustling bourhood I left two minutes Israeli military said, and there were areas of Idlib city despite a ago!” Mustafa said, tears rolling no reports of casualties or damage. fresh Russian-sponsored down his face. Idlib has come Two of the projectiles were shot truce, a war monitor said. under mounting bombardment down by Israel’s Iron Dome air At least 20 other civilians in recent weeks, displacing tens defence system, the military said in were wounded in the raids that of thousands of people in the a statement. Israel’s Channel 13 tel- hit a vegetable market and northwestern province home evision said the other two projec- repair shops in Idlib, capital of to some three million. tiles struck uninhabited areas. the rebel-held province of the A truce brokered this Sirens warning of rocket fire same name, said the Syrian month by regime ally Russia sounded in several Israeli commu- Observatory for Human Rights. and rebel backer Turkey was nities near the Gaza frontier. Israel’s The Britain-based moni- in principle to have taken Magen David Adom ambulance toring group said the death toll effect from Sunday. It follows service said no injuries or damage was likely to rise because a truce announced in late were reported in the first such many of the injured were in August, after strikes by the attack in three weeks. serious condition. regime and its Russian allies There was no immediately The bombardment charred killed some 1,000 civilians in claim of responsibility from the several vehicles in the indus- four months, according to the Palestinian Gaza Strip, which Israel trial zone, leaving torched Observatory. The Damascus Syrians make their way through the rubble of a building following a regime air strike on Ariha keeps under blockade citing corpses of motorists trapped government has repeatedly town in the last major opposition bastion of Idlib, yesterday. security concerns over its Islamist inside, One man was seen vowed to retake Idlib, which is rulers Hamas. running towards the site of the run by Hayat Tahrir Al Sham, a Last month, a rocket was attack, slapping his forehead Mustafa, who runs a repair escape with his life. He had just spare parts. He said he group dominated by Syria’s launched from the Gaza Strip at the with both hands in despair. shop in the area, was lucky to left the store to pick up some returned to find the shop former Al Qaeda affiliate. southern Israeli city of Ashkelon as it hosted a rally with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, prompting him to seek shelter briefly before UN official blames politicians for dangerous chaos in Lebanon returning to the venue. No one was hurt. REUTERS — BEIRUT With banks tightly limiting access toppled by the resignation of Prime pound has lost around a half of its value But simmering tensions have to cash, lenders were targeted in a night Minister Saad Al Hariri in October as a while anger at banking controls have mostly remained calm since a Lebanese politicians are watching on as of violent protests in Beirut’s Hamra result of protests against corruption led to rows and violence in branches. two-day surge of violence in the economy collapses and protests turn district. Bank facades and ATMs were and bad governance that are root “Another day of confusion around November between Israel and the angry, a senior UN official said yesterday, smashed and dozens of people causes of the economic problems. the formation of a government, amidst the armed Gaza-based faction Islamic rebuking a ruling elite that has failed to wounded in confrontations with police. Political rivalries have obstructed increasingly angry protests and free-falling Jihad that left 34 Palestinians dead agree a government or rescue plan for a Heavily indebted Lebanon has a deal on a new cabinet as the crisis economy,” Jan Kubis, UN special coordi- and dozens of Israelis injured. country in deep crisis. struggled since the government was hits ordinary people: the Lebanese nator for Lebanon, wrote on Twitter. THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 11 Sudan spy chief resigns after mutiny crushed AFP & AP — KHARTOUM “General Abu Bakr Mustafa called us by

Sudan said yesterday the coun- telephone and we asked him to give a written try’s chief of intelligence had resignation — which he did. We are now resigned after government examining it,” the chairman of Sudan’s ruling forces and paramilitaries crushed a mutiny launched by transitional council, General Abdel Fattah Al members of his agency in the Burhan, told state television. capital. General Abu Bakr Mustafa handed over his resignation General Mustafa had been The army quickly quelled after clashes between agents appointed as chief of the newly the short-lived mutiny with of the General Intelligence named General Intelligence “minimal losses,” said General Service, formerly known as Service after Gosh resigned in Mohamed Othman Al Hussein, the National Intelligence and the wake of Bashir’s fall. its chief of staff. The clashes Security Service (NISS), and Meanwhile, Sudan said it killed two people and injured government forces killed five reopened its airspace yesterday four others, including two people including two after an armed revolt from officers, he added. South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit (centre) attends a meeting with Riek Machar (right), soldiers. within its security forces shut In a separate statement, the former vice-president and rebel leader, and Lieutenant General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, deputy “He called us by telephone down the capital’s airport for doctors’ union in Sudan head of the military council and head of the RSF, at the State House in Juba, South Sudan, yesterday. and we asked him to give a hours and left at least two reported that a father and his written resignation — which he people dead. two children were killed when did. We are now examining it,” In a press conference, Gen. an errant artillery shell struck the chairman of Sudan’s ruling Abdel-Fattah Burhan, head of their home in a Khartoum S Sudan rivals seek to break transitional council, General the country’s ruling transitional suburb. The father was killed Abdel Fattah Al Burhan, told council, announced that “life instantly, it said, and his state television. has returned to normal,” fol- 19-year-old daughter and On Tuesday, heavy gunfire lowing a tense stand-off 25-year-old son died on the deadlock ahead of unity govt broke out at several Khartoum between the armed forces and way to the hospital. The dif- bases of the intelligence rogue intelligence officers. The ferent death tolls could not AFP — JUBA the contentious issue of the up under the peace agreement agency after some of its agents officers had fired shots in the immediately be reconciled. number of states and bound- to find a compromise, failed to rejected a retirement plan air to demand better severance After trying to persuade South Sudan President Salva aries in the country. do so and said only a political proposed by the country’s new benefits. the renegade officers to turn Kiir and rebel leader Riek “On the issues of the agreement would lead to authorities. However, airport author- over their arms, the military Machar held fresh talks number of states, we have not progress. NISS agents were at the ities in neighbouring said stormed and retook the head- yesterday in a bid to break a agreed up to now and the gov- Mabuza is holding consul- forefront of a crackdown on that as a precaution, all flights quarters of an intelligence deadlock over states and ernment’s position has not tations with various parties and protesters during a nationwide to Sudan remained suspended agency “using the least internal borders in the troubled changed,” Kiir’s security advisor is expected to present a report uprising that led to the ouster over security concerns. amount of force possible,” Al country, in order to form a unity Tutkew Gatluak said after the with his findings in the coming of longtime autocrat Omar The burst of unrest para- Hussein said. government next month. parties met for two hours yes- days as they work towards a Hassan Al Bashir last April. lysed street life in several parts The mutiny was the latest The longtime rivals have terday. When it won inde- compromise. Late on Tuesday, troops of the capital, Khartoum, along twist in Sudan’s fragile demo- held several rounds of discus- pendence in 2011, South Sudan War broke out in South from the regular army and from with another western city. cratic transition after three sions in the capital Juba since was divided into 10 states but Sudan in December 2013 after the paramilitary Rapid Support Videos circulated on social decades of authoritarian rule November, when they were it has since been subdivided a falling out between Kiir and Forces (RSF) crushed the media showing vast under former President Omar given 100 more days to form a into 32, in what many critics see Machar sparked ethnic clashes rebellion after storming these deployment of security forces Bashir. A sweeping protest unity government, after two as a gerrymandering of tradi- and brutal violence, leaving bases amid heavy gunfire. and heavy exchanges of gunfire. movement ousted al-Bashir in failed attempts to resolve all the tional boundaries by Kiir to almost 400,000 dead. Burhan’s deputy, General The armed forces will “not April and led to the creation of issues required under a Sep- shore up his power. Another sticking point has Mohamed Hamdan Daglo — allow any coup to occur,” said a joint military-civilian gov- tember 2018 peace deal. Machar is insisting on a been security issues, such as who else heads the RSF — has Burhan, adding that it’s a ernment last summer. The next deadline is Feb- return to the original 10 states, training and uniting rebel and blamed the former chief of “shame that weapons were During the transitional ruary 22, and South Africa has or 21 states as based on colonial government troops into a single NISS, Salah Gosh, for the raised in the faces of the period, Sudan is devising ways dispatched its deputy president boundaries. army, and assuring Machar’s rebellion. people.” to reorganize its armed forces. David Mabuza to help mediate A technical commission set safety in Juba. Somaliland Too early to say Libya ceasefire has collapsed: Turkey executes six REUTERS — ANKARA ceasefire has collapsed, it’s government continued. much too early for such an On Sunday, Germany will men for murder Turkey said yesterday it was Erdogan, Trump discuss Libya interpretation,” Turkish host a summit on Libya ANATOLIA — MOGADISHU too early to say whether a Defence Minister Hulusi Akar involving the rival camps, their ceasefire in Libya had developments in phone call told reporters in Ankara. He main foreign backers and rep- Somaliland’s authorities have collapsed after Khalifa Haftar, added that Ankara was awaiting resentatives from the United executed six men for murder, commander of eastern Libyan REUTERS — ANKARA the outcome of diplomacy by Nations, the United States, police said yesterday. forces, failed to sign a binding Moscow, which has relations Russia, Britain, France, China, The executions took place truce accord at talks this week. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US President with Serraj even as it has given Turkey and Italy. Haftar and in Mandhera prison following Russo-Turkish talks in Donald Trump discussed developments in Libya in a phone support to Haftar. Serraj have also been invited a death sentence that goes Moscow have aimed to halt call, Turkey’s presidency said yesterday, days ahead of a summit Turkey has sent a training but it is unclear whether they back several years, Khadar Haftar’s nine-month campaign in Berlin which will address the Libyan conflict. and cooperation team which will come, a German gov- Abdikarim, a police officer in to seize the Libyan capital German Chancellor Angela Merkel will host leaders of is now active in Libya, Akar ernment spokeswoman said. Somaliland said. Tripoli from forces aligned Turkey, Russia, Britain and Italy on Sunday at the summit, which said. Turkey committed to mil- The nine-month war over “All of them were con- with the internationally recog- follows a meeting in Moscow on Monday where Libya’s warring itary support for the Tripoli Tripoli is just the latest bout of victed for murder. Two of nised government of Fayez Al parties failed to sign a ceasefire agreement. government in December after chaos in Libya, an OPEC oil them were additionally Serraj. the arrival of Russian merce- exporter that has become a hub accused of being Al Shabaab Serraj, whose embattled naries helped Haftar’s Libya for human traffickers to ship members,” he said. government has struggled to Since veteran dictator Turkey backs Serraj’s gov- National Army (LNA) make migrants by boats to Italy, Human rights defenders repel the nine-month cam- Muammar Gaddafi was toppled ernment, while Haftar has some small gains along the while Islamist militants have have expressed dismay at the paign, signed the truce proposal in a 2011 uprising, the North received support from Egypt, Tripoli frontline. exploited the widespread development as they oppose but Haftar left Moscow without African country has been in the , President Tayyip Erdogan disorder. capital punishment. adding his signature. He has not turmoil, with outside powers Jordan and Russian said on Tuesday Turkey would The conflict also risks dis- commented since then whether providing support to rival mercenaries. “teach a lesson” to Haftar if his rupting oil production, the state 13 die at displaced he will sign it or not. factions. “We cannot say that the attacks on the Tripoli-based oil firm has warned persons camp in Mogadishu Mozambique’s Nyusi begins second term ANATOLIA — MOGADISHU AP — MAPUTO protested Nyusi’s reelection as armed attacks on vehicles in Thirteen people have been unfair, did not attend the central Mozambique have been confirmed dead at an inter- Mozambique’s President Filipe ceremony. reported in recent months, killing nally displaced persons camp Nyusi was sworn in for a second “Five years ago, in a ceremony 21 people. in Kahda district in Somalia’s and final term after five turbulent like this, I announced I would be Nyusi’s government is also capital Mogadishu. years in office amid two armed president of all Mozambicans,” battling to contain deadly attacks Goobjoog News, a Somali insurgencies. Nyusi, 60, won said Nyusi. “I renew this promise, in the northernmost province of radio and TV station, reported re-election in October with 73% to work for the Mozambique we Cabo Delgado by extremists on Tuesday that three of those of the vote, while the opposition all dream for. Our agenda is to reportedly linked to the Islamic who died were children. alleged irregularities. develop Mozambique. Our agenda State group. An estimated 300 “The three children died of The president of Portugal, is that this development is not people have been killed, including hunger, while 10 others per- Mozambique’s former colonial done at the cost of injustice, by beheading, since the attacks ished as a result of malnu- power, and the leaders of Angola, conceit, or inequality.” began in 2017. trition. Surviving families are South Africa and Zimbabwe were The crowning achievement of Cabo Delgado, Nyusi’s home now forced to feed on tree among the dignitaries who Nyusi’s first term was meant to be province, is home to two giant leaves with no support in sight,” attended the open-air inaugu- the peace agreement signed in natural gas projects worth billions it said. Adverse climatic condi- ration in downtown Maputo, August with the armed opposition of dollars that Mozambique hopes tions such as drought and floods capital of the southern African Renamo. Instead, it triggered fresh will transform it into a middle- coupled with conflict in Somalia country of 30 million people. violence in central Mozambique income country. Nyusi is expected have always equated to hunger, President Filipe Nyusi (left) is saluted as he is sworn in for a Ossufo Momade, the leader of by dissidents unhappy with the to announce his cabinet in the malnutrition, death of livestock second term in Maputo, Mozambique, yesterday. the Renamo opposition who had terms of the accord. More than 15 coming days. and cash shortages. Islamic State replaces Al Qaeda as enemy No.1 in Sahel

AFP — BAMAKO 2012 and then spreading to Niger and President declared a Senegal-based think tank, CERADD. back to fighting in the Polisario Front, Burkina Faso. on Monday at a summit gathering “There has been a major rise in (its) which aims to end Moroccan control Brutal attacks that have killed nearly Until recently, groups under the France and its five Sahel allies — Chad, power.” over the Western Sahara. 300 people in less than two months banner of Al Qaeda were in the fore- Burkina Faso, Mali, and The ISGS leapt to world promi- He became a leader of the have propelled the Islamic State (IS) to front of the bloodshed. Niger. The ISGS “has emerged as our nence after an ambush near the village Movement for Oneness and Jihad in the status of the Sahel’s most-feared But their position has now been main enemy, against whom we should of Tongo Tongo in Niger in 2017 that West Africa (MUJAO), which then jihadist group, eclipsing Al Qaeda, overtaken by an Islamic State (IS) focus our struggle,” Burkina President claimed the lives of four US special merged with a group led by one-eyed experts say. affiliate, providing the group with an Roch Marc Christian Kabore said on forces and four Nigerien troops. Algerian jihadist Mokhtar Belmokhtar, The vast fragile region on the image of resurgence in West Africa Facebook. Its leader is Adnan Abu Walid al- forming Al Mourabitoun. southern rim of the Sahara has been after its decline in Syria and Iraq. “Everyone has probably underes- Sahraoui, whose nom de guerre derives He then broke with Belmokhtar to battling an escalating insurgency by “The priority is the Islamic State timated the ISGS,” said Mahamoudou from his birthplace in the Western declare allegiance to IS, which the violent Islamists, beginning in Mali in in the Greater Sahara (ISGS),” French Savadogo, a Burkinabe researcher at Sahara. His history of militancy dates group recognised in 2016. 12 HOME THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 ASIA 13 Many Indian states resist new citizenship law ANATOLIAA — NEW DELHI The southern Indian enforce law which has been opposed by all communities As many as 14 Indian states have state of Kerala has including Hindus and Muslims, so far declared not to implement approached the according to chief ministers’ the controversial citizenship law, office. believed to be discriminatory Supreme Court, Another Chief Minister against Muslims. challenging the Kamal Nath, who heads state On Tuesday, country’s south- of Madhya Pradesh said that the ernmost state of Kerala even new law, known CAA would hit at the very foun- approached the Supreme Court, as Citizenship dation of the nation as it links challenging the new law, known Amendment Act. nationality with religion. as Citizenship Amendment Act Nath said that his gov- (CAA). India’s federal union com- India’s federal union ernment would stand with the prises 28 states and 9 centrally- comprises 28 states national leaders of his party on administered territories. this issue and they have already Those defying the central and 9 centrally- rejected CAA. government included the state administered “We don’t want to be a part of Bihar, ruled by Janata Dal of a process that sows seeds of (United) — an ally of India’s territories. divisiveness,” he had said, ruling Bharatiya Janata Party according to a statement (BJP). released by the party. The BJP and its allies’ control It guarantees citizenship to Similarly, Congress-ruled 16 states, while 13 are held by dif- non-Muslims of three neigh- Chhattisgarh has also refused ferent opposition parties. With boring countries Pakistan, to implement the contentious Bihar also opposing, the number Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. law. The western state of of states opposing the law has Critics see the new law as uncon- Maharashtra led by a coalition swelled to 13. stitutional and discriminating of Congress, Nationalist Con- In its petition, the Kerala against Muslims. gress Party (NCP) Shiv Sena has state government said that the The Left dominated Kerala Protesters demonstrating against India’s new citizenship law in Mangalore, Karnataka, yesterday. also declared that it would not CAA should be declared violative state assembly last month passed allow the legislation to be of the basic structure of the a resolution asking the central afresh Indian citizenship.While the main opposition Congress, the Constitution,” said Singh in implemented in the state. Indian Constitution, which government to withdraw the Act. non-Muslims would be covered has described the citizenship a statement. Chief Minister Uddhav promises equality, liberty and Leaders of the main oppo- under the new law and would be law as violation of the secular Another Congress-ruled Thackeray has said the Muslims freedom of conscience. sition parties in the country have citizens automatically, the coun- fabric of the country. northern state of Rajasthan has should not fear in his state. India has been witnessing vehemently opposed law, which try’s 180 million Muslim popu- “We will fight against it also come out against the law. The southern Andhra extensive protests against the is to be followed by updating of lation will be made to run helter- tooth and nail. BJP-led gov- Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jag- law, since it was cleared by the the National Register of Citizens skelter to prove citizenship. ernment at the Centre is said the law infringes on the anmohan Reddy has decided country’s Parliament and got (NRC). The exercise of the NRC Punjab Chief Minister Ama- attempting to change the values basic rights of the countrymen. not to implement the CAA in his presidential approval on Dec. 12. entails every citizen to prove rinder Singh, who belongs to enshrined in the Preamble of He said Rajasthan would not state. Protecting workers: Bangladesh ICJ set to rule on urgent measures in eyes agreement with Malaysia REUTERS — DHAKA reducing recruitment costs Rohingya genocide case next week would help prevent migrant Cutting recruitment fees for workers from being exploited in Bangladeshi migrants who move Malaysia. AFP — THE HAGUE their support. At the December to Malaysia for work under a “There should be no instance hearing, The Gambia alleged new deal could curb human traf- of trafficking under the garb of The UN’s top court said Myanmar had breached the ficking, according to officials, yet labour migration,” he told the yesterday it will deliver its 1948 UN Genocide Convention, activists said Bangladesh’s Thomson Reuters Foundation. decision next week on whether meaning that the case could go migration system must be “We feel that any effort to emergency measures should be before the ICJ, the highest revamped in order to protect bring down the cost of imposed on Myanmar over judicial organ of the United workers. migration... will contribute to the alleged genocide against its Nations. Malaysia last week said it prevention of human traf- Rohingya Muslims. It also said there was a was considering a zero-cost ficking,” he added. The ruling comes a month “serious and imminent risk of recruitment agreement with “Both sides should work on after Myanmar’s civilian leader genocide recurring” and called Bangladesh - having banned its this.” More than 250,000 Bang- and Nobel peace laureate Aung for urgent “provisional migrant workers in September ladeshi migrants moved to San Suu Kyi travelled to The measures” to prevent Myanmar 2018 over concerns that they Malaysia for work between 2016 Hague to defend the bloody from committing any further were being charged excessive and 2018 under a previous 2017 crackdown by her nation’s atrocities or erasing any fees by labour agencies and migration agreement that saw army against the Rohingya. evidence. brokers. workers charged an official fee The mainly Muslim African It is not clear how specific Bangladesh’s current of $1,900 - although middlemen nation of The Gambia brought the emergency measures would informal recruitment system were said to have widely the case against Myanmar at the be, but enforcing them would involves unofficial middlemen demanded far larger sums. International Court of Justice likely prove difficult. — who despite bringing It is unclear whether the new after around 740,000 Rohingya If the court rules in The recruiters and rural workers arrangement would see the cost Myanmar’s State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi speaks at the UN’s fled over the border into Bang- Gambia’s favour, this would be together — often give false for workers — which covers International Court of Justice in The Hague in this file picture. ladesh, carrying accounts of just the first step in a case likely promises about jobs and then expenses from airfare and visa widespread rape, arson and to take years. charge exorbitant fees that trap fees to health check-ups — mass killings. Gambia,” the court said in a The Gambia brought the An estimated 600,000 many workers in debt bondage. removed entirely or substantially “The International Court of statement, adding that it would case against Buddhist-majority Rohingya still live in Myanmar’s Ahmed Munirus Saleheen, a lowered. Justice... will deliver, today, its happen at 10am. Myanmar with the backing of western Rakhine state in what senior official at Bangladesh’s Bangladesh and Malaysia are order on the request for the The Gambian Ministry of the Organisation for Islamic Amnesty International has Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare both on a watchlist in the US indication of provisional Justice had announced the date Cooperation. Canada and the branded “apartheid” and Overseas Employment, said State Department’s Trafficking measures made by The on Twitter earlier Wednesday. Netherlands have since also lent conditions. that removing or even largely in Persons report. Japan environment China’s Xi to visit Myanmar to minister to take paternity leave drive home Belt and Road plan AFP — MYITSONE, MYANMAR state, which lies on Myanmar’s AP — TOKYO west coast beside the Bay of China’s President Xi Jinping Bengal. Japan’s popular environment arrives in Myanmar this week to Myanmar successfully minister said yesterday that nail down multi-billion-dollar slashed the cost of Kyaukphyu he will take paternity leave infrastructure deals in a country port from $7.2 billion to $1.3 when his first child is born abandoned by many in the West billion, reducing the chance of later this month to be a good appalled at the “genocide” of it turning into a debt trap. example for working fathers Rohingya Muslims on leader Like other Chinese-led in Japan, where men are Aung San Suu Kyi’s watch. projects, however, public details largely absent from child Xi’s two-day visit, his first as are scant. rearing. president, will seek to cement Rakhine’s northern fringes With Japan facing an Beijing’s position as Myanmar’s saw 740,000 Rohingya forced aging population and a dwin- largest investor and strategic out in a bloody military dling birthrate, the gov- partner. crackdown in 2017. ernment recently began pro- The much-trumpeted The state remains the stage moting paternity leave. China-Myanmar Economic Cor- for a civil war between the mil- Last month, it adopted a ridor (CMEC) aims to connect the itary and an ethnic Rakhine policy allowing public Middle Kingdom to the Indian rebel group. servants to take more than a Ocean, a key route in Beijing’s Undeterred, Myanmar has Wollemi pines survive bushfires month of paternity leave. Belt and Road Initiative that declared the area open for A firefighter sprays water on an area with endangered Wollemi Pines to protect them from bushfires Environment Minister envisions Chinese infrastructure business. at Wollemi National Park, New South Wales, Australia, yesterday. Shinjiro Koizumi said he will and influence spanning the While Western investors take two weeks over three globe. have shunned the opportunity, months on the condition it In addition to offering tens China -- competing against won’t affect his parlia- of billions of dollars in other regional giants -- has few mentary and Cabinet duties. investment, China shields its such qualms. Protests take toll on Hong Kong tourism While governors in Hiro- neighbour at the United Nations, Billions of cubic metres of shima and Mie in western where pressure is mounting for gas and millions of barrels of oil AP — HONG KONG 2019, visitor numbers fell by 39 rights retained by the former Japan have taken paternity accountability over the Rohingya from offshore rigs are pumped percent against the same period British colony when Beijing leave, Koizumi is the first crisis. each year across the country to Visitor numbers to Hong Kong a year before. Overall, arrivals took control in 1997. Cabinet minister to do so. Yet the relationship between China. fell by nearly 40 percent in the were off by 14 percent for the The extradition legislation He said it was a difficult the countries is tangled. Beijing now wants to secure second half of last year amid entire year. was withdrawn, but the protest decision, but that he is going Ethnic conflicts sizzling in plans for a high-speed rail link clashes between police and The protests have lost movement morphed to include ahead with the plan to pave border zones and the impact of between the port and China’s anti-government protesters. momentum amid mass arrests demands for greater democracy the way for other male dams, pipelines and transport landlocked Yunnan province. The Hong Kong Tourism by police and since major oppo- and an investigation into police employees in his ministry links risk awakening hostility Other key projects include Board said yesterday that the sition wins in district council tactics. and working fathers over Chinese intentions. industrial zones on the shared numbers of those visiting the elections in November. Financial Secretary Paul elsewhere. For China, it is “time to get border and a makeover for com- Asian financial hub started to Hong Kong’s economy fell Chan told a forum Monday that Koizumi is the son of things back on track”, historian mercial hub Yangon. drop off in July as protests into recession, its reputation as the government estimated eco- maverick former Prime Min- Thant Myint-U wrote in his latest Analyst Richard Horsey said against proposed legislation one of the world’s safest cities nomic growth for 2019 would ister Junichiro Koizumi and book. The headline deal will the visit brings both huge oppor- allowing extradition to China tarnished by the violence driven fall to -1.3 percent, a stark loss is considered a future prime likely be a colossal factory zone tunity and enormous risk for gathered pace. largely by anger over China’s for the center of trade, travel ministerial hopeful. and deep-sea port in Rakhine Myanmar. For the last six months of perceived encroachments over and finance. 14 ASIA THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 Philippines struggles to keep evacuees away from volcano AFP — TALISAY CITY Some 40,000 people with police officer Sarah Jane Saballa saying: “It’s for the Philippine authorities were have taken refuge safety of the residents.” struggling yesterday to keep in shelters since the People around Taal had to thousands of evacuees from leave at a moment’s notice, so returning to homes in areas volcano let loose a many fled with just the clothes threatened by a feared massive towering burst of ash on their back. eruption of Taal Volcano. and jets of lava on As the volcano has calmed Some 40,000 people have slightly in the past 24 hours and taken refuge in shelters since Sunday. is spewing less ash, the temp- the volcano let loose a towering tation to return has grown. burst of ash and jets of lava on Seismologists have noted a Sunday. from their roofs and pull their string of earthquakes and fis- Police subsequently set up boats from the water. sures opening up in roads, indi- no-go zones and mandatory Their community is on the cating magma is still on the evacuations in at-risk towns shore of a vast lake that rings move and Taal remains very around Taal, which is about 65 Taal, a popular tourist dangerous. However, some kilometres south of Manila. attraction despite being one of areas have made concessions, But days later locals are the nation’s most active allowing people in for short Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan looks at a young injured avalanche victim at a military hospital losing patience and demanding volcanoes. periods, despite the risks. in Muzaffarabad, yesterday. access, even as the nation’s “We want to visit our “These are residents seismological agency warns the houses and clean the roofs. appealing to us to allow them volcano could unleash a more They are smothered in thick to feed their pets,” said Gerry powerful eruption at any time. ash and they could collapse,” Malipon, San Nicolas town Girl buried under avalanche for Melvin Casilao said he and Casilao said. police chief. his neighbours in the town of Soldiers have been “But after they’ve fed them, Talisay need to feed their live- deployed at checkpoints in they will have to leave as soon 18 hours found alive in Pakistan stock, remove the thick ash some areas, including Talisay, as possible.” REUTERS — MUZAFFARABAD Muzaffarabad, where she and family were huddled round a dozens of other injured people fire when the avalanche hit. “It A 12-year-old girl was found were receiving treatment after happened in the blink of an alive yesterday after being being airlifted out of the ava- eye,” said Shahnaz. buried for 18 hours when an lanche area. More heavy snowfall is avalanche in near here engulfed For Samina’s mother, expected in the region from the family house even as search Shahnaz Bibi, who lost a son Friday. Rescuers were racing teams aided by Pakistani troops and another daughter, the against time to reach scores of pulled out 21 more bodies from rescue was nothing short of a people believed still to be homes destroyed by this week’s miracle. After being pulled out trapped inside their homes, avalanches, raising the overall of the snow earlier, Shahnaz buried under avalanches trig- death toll due to severe winter said she and her brother, Irshad gered by heavy snowfall. With weather to 160 for Pakistan and Ahmad, had given up hope of many roads still blocked by Afghanistan, officials said. finding Samina alive. snow, authorities were using Samina Bibi recalled Samina said she could not helicopters to evacuate those screaming and shouting for sleep while she waited to be injured. help as she lay trapped in a rescued. Her leg was fractured The worst affected area was room under the snow. and blood was oozing from her Neelum Valley, where the 21 The death toll from Mon- mouth. bodies were retrieved, said day’s avalanches in Pakistan’s For the family, the disaster Ahmad Raza Qadri, a minister Neelum Valley rose to 74, happened very fast. “We didn’t for disaster management. according to Pakistani officials, hear a rumble,” Shahnaz said, In Afghanistan, the situation as rescuers continued to recalling the moments before was returning to normal yes- recover bodies. the avalanche buried the three- terday, following days-long Samina was one of the storey house where she and her heavy snowfall, rains and flash lucky ones. “I thought I would family were sheltering with floods that killed 39 people and Volcano-affected residents ride along an ash-covered road as they return to evacuation centres after die there,” she told Reuters others from the village. At least damaged about 300 homes inspecting their homes in Agoncillo town, Batangas province, south of Manila, yesterday. from a hospital bed in 18 of them died. Samina and her there since Sunday.

New trial opens Taiwan elections do not change facts, says China for disgraced

ANATOLIA—ANKARA spokesman, saying at a news democracy, we have a pretty said that her government has people get a real sense that this South Korea's briefing. Taiwan’s incumbent decent economy, we deserve “shown restraint” but remains threat is real and it’s getting more China yesterday said that recently President Tsai Ing-wen won a respect from China,” Tsai said. committed to maintaining the and more serious.” former president held presidential elections in resounding re-election last Sat- Tsai said she was open to dia- cross-strait status quo — a She said that she is also Taiwan “will not change facts”. urday. China sees Taiwan as a logue with China but asked gesture she considers “very aware that China may increase AFP — SEOUL The Chinese Foreign Ministry “breakaway province”. Beijing to respect the island friendly” to China. its pressure on Taiwan as a result said that Beijing will continue In her first remarks to the nation’s “sovereignty”. “Because [for more than] of her election victory. The retrial of ousted former adhering to the “one-China press yesterday after her ree- Tsai received more than 8 three years we’re seeing China Early this week, during a tour South Korean president Park principle”. lection, Tsai said that Taiwan’s million votes, or more than 57 has been intensifying its threat ... of Africa, Chinese Foreign Min- Geun-hye began yesterday “The elections will not “sovereignty is not in doubt or up percent, the highest numbers they have their military vessels ister Wang Yi had said: “The uni- over the sprawling corruption change the fact that Taiwan is for negotiation”, daily Taiwan since direct presidential elections and aircraft cruising around the fication of the two sides of the scandal that saw her part of China,” ECNS online Today reported. began in 1996. island,” Tsai said. “And also, the strait is a historical impeached, convicted and quoted Ma Xiaoguang, a ministry “We’re a successful During her interview, Tsai things happening in Hong Kong, inevitability.” jailed, only for the hearing to end after five minutes. Park, the country’s first female president, boycotted the Thailand on high alert session, Yonhap news agency reported — she has refused to take part in the judicial pro- for mystery virus ahead ceedings against her for more than two years. As a result, the Seoul High Court adjourned and of Lunar New Year scheduled another session for January 31, when it will move REUTERS — BANGKOK country over the Lunar New straight to closing arguments, Year holiday later this month. Yonhap reported. Thai health officials are The Public Health Ministry Park was brought down in stepping up monitoring and has increased its monitoring at 2017 after huge street protests inspection at its airports for the four airports that have daily triggered by allegations that new mystery virus from China flights from Wuhan - Suvarn- she and a close friend took ahead of Lunar New Year, abhumi, Don Mueng, Chiang bribes from top conglomerates when Chinese visitors flock to Mai and Phuket - and any air- for government favours. the Southeast Asian country, a ports that receives charter She was convicted in April health official said yesterday. flights from the city. 2018 on bribery and abuse of The procedures comes days Preliminary lab tests cited power charges and sentenced after a Chinese woman was by Chinese state media showed to 24 years, later extended for quarantined in Thailand with the 41 pneumonia cases in an additional 12 months, and 20 the mystery strain of the coro- Wuhan, where one patient has billion won ($17m) in fines. She navirus, in the first instance of died, could be from a new type has also been sentenced to five its detection outside of China. of coronavirus. There have years’ jail for illegally taking Coronaviruses are a large since been no new cases or money from the country’s spy family of viruses that can cause deaths, Wuhan health author- agency and two years for infections ranging from the ities said on Tuesday. Military exercise election law violations. The common cold to SARS. “Usually there are 1,200 penalties apply consecutively, Taiwanese soldiers pose with a CM-11 battle tank during an exercise at a military base in Kaohsiung, The World Health Organi- arrivals from Wuhan in meaning she is currently southern Taiwan, yesterday. sation has said there may have Thailand, which can go up to serving a total of 32 years. been limited human-to-human 1,500 to 1,600 during Lunar transmission of the new coro- New Year, so we will increase navirus in China within personnel,” families. Thai Disease Control Afghanistan peace talks face gridlock over ceasefire Authorities in the central Department Director Sophon Chinese city of Wuhan con- Iamsirithaworn said ANATOLIA — KABUL The Afghan government, between them were sus- leadership in Pakistan,” a firmed yesterday that a married yesterday. however, stands firm on the pended following a Taliban western diplomat in Kabul said couple were among 41 people “Currently, officers are The invigorated yet delicate demand for an all-out ceasefire attack on the biggest American on condition of anonymity. diagnosed with pneumonia working 24 hours in three shifts peace talks in Afghanistan face ahead of the resumption of a base, Bagram airfield in the In September 2018, US believed to be caused by the of 5 to 6,” he said, adding that a gridlock as the warring parties formal peace parley. war-ravaged country in President Donald Trump can- new virus. The prospect of two infrared thermal scan fail to pick between ceasefire Washington’s top man for December. celled a proposed peace deal human-to-human transmission machines were being used, and a reduction in violence as these talks, Ambassador Zalmay “I underscore once again with the insurgents last minute of a new virus has put Thai with two in reserve. the way forward. Khalilzad, US special represent- that a meeting between Ambas- over the killing of a US soldier authorities on alert. Memories remain fresh in Sources privy to the devel- ative for Afghanistan reconcil- sador Khalilzad and Taliban in the Afghan capital Kabul. The president of the Asia of a 2002-2003 outbreak opments said the Taliban are iation, met in private with Tal- does not mean the talks have As per non-classified figures Tourism Council of Thailand of SARS, or Severe Acute Respi- only inclined toward “reduction iban’s deputy leader Mullah resumed, but it would be just to by the Nato-led Resolute said yesterday that about ratory Syndrome (SARS), which in violence” with little or no Abdul Ghani Barada. listen to them (Taliban) what Support mission, at least 20 US 800,000 visitors from China emerged in China and killed explanation of what would this This was the first time they they have to say after internal soldiers were killed in Afghan- were expected to visit the nearly 800 people worldwide. amount to. met since formal talks consultations with their istan in 2019. THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 EUROPE 15 Shock as Putin picks new PM, lays out constitutional reforms AFP — MOSCOW In a shock other top officials. announcement, Prime “Today in our society there Russian President Vladimir is a clear demand for change,” Putin named a little-known Minister Dmitry Putin said in his address. new prime minister and Medvedev said his The package of reforms proposed a constitutional would be put to a national vote, shake-up yesterday as he government was he said, without specifying announced sweeping changes stepping down after when. that fuelled speculation about “We will be able to build a his future plans. Putin used his annual strong, prosperous Russia only In a shock announcement, state of the nation on the basis of respect for public Prime Minister Dmitry address to propose opinion,” the 67-year-old Medvedev said his government leader said. Russian President Vladimir Putin (right) and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev meet with members was stepping down after Putin constitutional reforms A few hours later, Medvedev of the government in Moscow, yesterday. used his annual state of the that would strengthen and Putin appeared alongside nation address to propose con- each other on national tele- stitutional reforms that would parliament’s role. vision to say the government Stanovaya, head of the R.Politik Alexei Navalny said he believed far above those of most Western strengthen parliament’s role. was stepping down. analysis firm. Putin’s goal remained to be leaders. Recent polls put Putin’s Putin quickly nominated Medvedev said the consti- She said it appeared Putin “sole leader for life” and he rating at 68-70 percent, up a Mikhail Mishustin — the long- behind-the-scenes role. The tutional proposals would make was preparing for a powerful expected any vote on constitu- few points from a year ago, but serving head of Russia’s tax state of the nation address saw significant changes to the coun- post-presidential role as head tional changes to be “fraudulent down from a high of more than service and seen as a technocrat Putin propose the first signif- try’s balance of power and so of the State Council. crap”. 80 percent at the time of his last — to form a new government. icant changes to the country’s “the government in its current Medvedev had also “become Russia last conducted a ref- election. Lawmakers were due to meet constitution since it was form has resigned”. toxic”, Stanovaya said, and erendum in 1993 when it Hit by Western sanctions Thursday to begin reviewing his adopted in 1993. “All further decisions will needed to make way for a new adopted the constitution under over the 2014 annexation of candidacy. Putin said he wanted to see be taken by the president,” he prime minister. Putin’s predecessor Boris Crimea, Russia’s economy has Speculation swirled about more authority transferred to added. Mishustin, the 53-year-old Yeltsin. stagnated and most Russians how the changes might affect parliament, including the power Putin thanked Medvedev -- nominee for prime minister, is Putin has held a firm grip on have seen their disposable Russia’s political system and to choose the prime minister who also served as Russian a relatively obscure figure who the country since coming to income fall. potentially allow Putin to stay and senior cabinet members, president for four years from has run Russia’s tax service power with Yeltsin’s resignation Frustration boiled over last on after 2024, when he is due instead of the president as 2008 — and suggested that he since 2010. The former head of in 1999, staying on as prime summer, with thousands taking to step down after a fourth under the current system. take on a role as deputy head an investment group, he is a minister when Medvedev took to the streets of Moscow to Kremlin term. The powers of the State of Russia’s Security Council, “neutral figure” unlikely to be the presidency. protest the exclusion of oppo- Some suggested he could be Council, an advisory body, which Putin chairs. groomed as Putin’s successor, Re-elected to a six-year sition candidates from local laying the groundwork to would be expanded and resi- “Russia has entered its political analyst Ekaterina term in 2018, Putin has seen his elections, leading to wide-scale assume a new post or remain dency requirements tightened period of power transition Schulmann said. approval ratings fall to some of arrests and long jail terms for a in a powerful for presidential candidates and ahead of schedule,” said Tatiana Leading Kremlin critic their lowest levels, though still number of demonstrators. Environmentalist groups file lawsuits Germany investigates 3 against Merkel’s ‘weak’ climate laws over ‘spying for China’ AFP — FRANKFURT AM MAIN German states of Bavaria and AFP — BERLIN But climate activists argue Baden-Wuerttemberg. that the plan is too weak to halt German prosecutors According to Spiegel, pros- Environmental groups the planet from hurtling yesterday said they were ecutors accuse the former dip- announced yesterday they had towards irreversible and dev- investigating three people lomat and one of the lobbyists filed two lawsuits at Germany’s astating warming. who allegedly spied for of “sharing private and com- highest court accusing Chan- “It’s not just about future China, with media reporting mercial information with the cellor Angela Merkel’s generations, but also our gen- that a German former EU Chinese ministry for state government had failed to eration and our lives,” said diplomat was among the security”. protect basic rights through its Neubauer. suspects. The third suspect appar- weak climate protection law. After two blistering “We can confirm an ently only indicated “a will- Greenpeace together with summers and the escalating investigation into suspected ingness to do so”. German groups BUND and Fridays for Future protests espionage” for Chinese state The diplomat at the centre Deutsche Umwelthilfe filed the started by Swedish teenager security bodies, a spokesman of the probe reportedly ended legal actions, which are also Greta Thunberg, climate has for the federal prosecutor’s his EU career in 2017 and backed by Luisa Neubauer, a shot up to the top of Germany’s office said. switched to working for a lob- prominent activist of the political agenda. Der Spiegel weekly said bying firm, where he then Fridays for Future climate In her New Year’s address, one of the suspects was a recruited the two other sus- strike movement. Merkel addressed the environ- German diplomat who pects. The spying is alleged to A dozen Bangladeshis and mental challenge. worked at the European have started that same year. Nepalis, whose countries have “Global warming and the Commission in Brussels If the allegations are con- German Chancellor Angela Merkel (right) shakes hands with been hard hit by global crises that arise from it are before serving several stints firmed, it would be a rare Foreign Minister Heiko Maas prior to the weekly cabinet meeting warming, also support the caused by human activity. This as ambassador for the case of Chinese espionage in Berlin, yesterday. initiative. means that we must do every- European Union in foreign being uncovered. “Climate protection is the thing humanly possible to countries. “Although there is always protection of fundamental The environmental groups Merkel’s government last meet this human challenge,” The other two are much talk about large-scale rights, particularly those of had already backed three year agreed on a sweeping she said. The issue has also reportedly lobbyists employed Chinese spying operations in younger generations and farmer families who took their package of climate policy exposed a deep rift in by a “well-known Germany Germany and Europe, inves- inhabitants of most affected case to a Berlin administrative reforms that are estimated to Germany. lobby firm”. tigators are rarely successful countries,” said Remo Klinger, court last year, but that case cost 100 billion euros by 2030. Tens of thousands of Prosecutors refused to against Beijing’s secret a lawyer for the plaintiffs. was struck down by the judge. With plans to make train workers here are dependent provide details about the sus- services,” Spiegel wrote. Germany should “make a Undeterred, they have now travel cheaper and air travel on the vital car industry, and pects and said no arrests have The probe comes at a time contribution commensurate turned to Germany’s highest more costly, the package is where coal mining is still a key been made. of intense debate in Europe’s with its responsibility in terms court, evoking a decision of the intended to help Europe’s employer in many parts of But they confirmed top economy about whether of climate change”, added Dutch supreme court, which largest economy slash its eastern states. Spiegel’s information that or not to exclude Chinese Klinger, urging the Federal in 2019 ordered the Dutch greenhouse gas emissions by This gulf also runs through police were yesterday raiding tech giant Huawei from Constitutional Court to “show state to cut its greenhouse gas 55 percent by 2030 compared industries, such as in the agri- homes and offices linked to the developing Germany’s 5G the way to go”. emissions. to 1990 levels. culture sector. trio in Berlin, Brussels and the mobile networks. Swiss to vote on proposal to curb Meghan could face estranged father in UK court migration from EU nations in May AFP — LONDON October last year against pub- lishers Associated Newspapers AFP — GENEVA its 1999 agreement with Prince Harry’s wife Meghan over the alleged misuse of Brussels on the free movement could face her father in court private information, The Swiss will in May vote on of persons between Swit- over the publication of a letter infringement of copyright and a proposal that could dramat- zerland and the bloc. she wrote to him, British media breach of the Data Protection ically limit immigration from The initiative goes even said yesterday, as she made a Act 2018. the EU, six years after a similar further than a similar initiative, first public appearance in In an accompanying referendum nearly destroyed also backed by SVP, that was Canada after the couple’s shock statement, Harry lashed out at relations with the bloc. voted on in February 2014. It decision to quit as full-time negative press coverage, The Swiss government demanded that Bern impose royals. claiming British tabloids had announced Wednesday that the quotas on migration from EU Meghan launched legal mounted a “ruthless” and “mali- so-called “limitation initiative” countries. action against The Mail on Sun- cious” attempt to vilify his wife. would be one of the issues on That vote narrowly passed, day’s publishers in October after Newly-revealed legal docu- the ballot for the year’s second throwing Swiss-EU relations the tabloid printed a hand- ments outlining The Mail on round of popular votes, on May into disarray, with Brussels written letter it had been shown Sunday’s defence show they will 17. The initiative, backed by the warning that any curbs on by Thomas Markle. rely on evidence from Markle, populist rightwing Swiss Peo- immigration by EU citizens put The weekly newspaper has including that he “had a weighty Meghan with her husand Prince Harry. ple’s Party (SVP) and opposed in doubt a whole range of now issued its defence, leading right to tell his version of what by the government, calls for the bilateral agreements. to the possibility that Meghan had happened”. country to revise its consti- Bern struggled for years to and her father could be called details are due in the coming wedding after staging paparazzi The paper’s sister publi- tution to ensure it can autono- find a way to respect the will of to testify against each another. days. photographs and suffering chest cation the Daily Mail said on its mously handle its immigration the people without perma- Harry and Meghan are in The prospect of a high court pains in the build-up. front page yesterday that policy. nently alienating the neigh- the eye of a storm after their showdown only adds to the The letter was written in Markle would be prepared to SVP, Switzerland’s largest bouring EU, its main trading bombshell announcement last pressure on the couple. August 2018 and published in give evidence against his party, has built its brand by partner. week — before they had dis- Harry, sixth in line to the February 2019 shortly after the daughter. condemning immigration as After lengthy negotiations, cussed the plans with Queen throne, married US former tel- US magazine People ran a story The Mail on Sunday also well as the influence of the the agreement reached in late Elizabeth II. evision actress Meghan at citing Meghan’s friends talking argues that a “one-sided” article European Union in non-EU- 2016 stopped far short of an The Duke and Duchess of Windsor Castle in May 2018. about the letter, which shed in the US magazine People member Switzerland. initial plan to impose quotas on Sussex, as they are titled, are Her father, an award- light on her troubled rela- meant the letter’s existence was If the initiative passes, resident permits issued to EU now in talks with other senior winning former television tionship with her estranged already in the public domain. Swiss authorities would have citizens, which Brussels had royals about how their wished- lighting director now living in father. It could be months before one year to negotiate an end to fiercely rejected. for new roles could work. Final Mexico, did not attend the Meghan filed a claim in any trial takes place. 16 EUROPE THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020

Russia extends Blast at chemical cash payouts for babies to counter plant in Spain population slump leaves two dead AFP — MOSCOW Russian President Vladimir AFP — LA CANONJA, SPAIN The blaze erupted at Putin yesterday announced new financial incentives to Rescuers found a body at a 7pm on Tuesday and encourage Russians to have chemical plant in northeastern firefighters with 30 more children to boost the Spain yesterday, raising to two population. the number of those killed when fire engines worked “Russia’s fate and its his- an explosion ripped through the throughout the night toric prospects depend on how facility, triggering a massive and into the morning many of us there are,” Putin blaze which raged through the said in an annual address to night. to bring it under lawmakers. Catalan regional interior control. Russia is seeing falling minister Miquel Buch confirmed birth rates because the gener- the latest death, saying a body ation becoming parents now had been located under the by the force of the blast crashed were born in the 1990s, when rubble at the site on an indus- into a house several kilometres the birthrate fell drastically trial estate in La Canonja, just away in the Tarragona suburbs, due to economic Firefighters spray water after a large fire broke out after an explosion at a chemical factory in outside the northeastern port the Catalan government said. uncertainties. Tarragona, Spain, yesterday. city of Tarragona. Two others at site were The Russian leader, who Spain’s civil protection rushed to hospital with severe has two daughters, said he authority identified the victim burns, rescuers and local offi- service said some 30 fire followed,” Sergi Delgado told very closely with the authorities wanted to boost the number as “an employee at the plant” cials said, while one person sus- engines had been working to try Catalan radio RAC1, saying and following all their instruc- of births from the current reported missing on Tuesday. tained less serious burns and and contain the inferno and IQOXE had not provided the tions,” he told reporters. average per woman of 1.5 to Hundreds of firefighters five others were lightly injured. cool down the propylene oxide necessary information for He said it was not immedi- 1.7 by 2024. battled through the night to try Buch said firefighters were tank at the IQOXE facility, emergency workers to evaluate ately clear what caused the “Our historic duty is to and contain the blaze which still trying to put out the blaze which specialises in the pro- the situation and about whether explosion which took place ensure stable population erupted just before 7:00pm but that the situation had duction of ethylene oxide, glycol there was a toxic cloud. inside a storage tank with a growth,” he said. (1800 GMT) on Tuesday. stabilised. and propylene oxide. But Jose Luis Morlanes, capacity for holding 20 tonnes He named poverty as a key Dramatic footage of the “There is material there that The deputy head of the director general of IQOXE, of ethylene oxide that was factor in limiting family size moment of the explosion is burning and needs cooling region’s civil protection division insisted the company — whose located in a section of the plant and offered new financial showed a huge fireball lighting down so we can’t say yet that accused IQOXE of dragging its products are used in antifreeze that only began operating in incentives to give birth. up the horizon, causing the it’s over,” he told reporters, feet in providing details about fluids, dehumidifiers, detergents 2017. He vowed to give a popular ground to shake. saying the region had declared the incident, which led to delays and cosmetics — had done Although the substances at one-off payment for parents One person died when a two days of mourning for the in warning the public. “The nothing wrong. the plant were highly flam- who have a second child — this sheet of metal flung into the air victims. The regional fire (emergency) protocols were not “We have been coordinating mable, they were not toxic. year worth around $7,600 — to those who give birth to a first child as well. Putin introduced the Italy arrests dozens over mafia payouts in 2007 to all families where the mother has a second baby or further scam of EU farm funds children. “We need to support young people, those who are AFP — ROME funding. In a charge sheet, Judge Sergio beginning family life, and, I’m Matroeni said the swindle relied on the sure, are dreaming of Italian police said yesterday they had “unprincipled support” of white-collar children,” he said. dismantled a massive Mafia operation in workers who were able to access public Sicily which had been defrauding the funds and knew how to exploit lax European Union of millions of euros in controls. Croatia launches funds destined to farmers. The once-powerful Sicilian Mafia has Since 2013, the Tortorici Mafia — largely been surpassed in recent years by international bid named after a town in the mountainous the notoriously ruthless ‘Ndrangheta Nebrodi area in the island’s northeast — organised crime group in Calabria as well to buy fighter had defrauded about ¤10m ($11m) from as the Naples-based Camorra. the EU, said prosecutors. Still, prosecutors said the well-con- squadron A total of 94 people were arrested in nected clan was a “particularly active” A Polish F16 fighter jet demonstrates the interception of a Belgian air force early-morning raids and 151 agricultural group, heavily involved in drug trafficking AP — ZAGREB, CROATIA transport plane as they fly over Poland, as part of Nato drills. businesses tied to Mafia members were and extortion. seized, authorities said during a press con- Forty-eight of those arrested were sent NATO-member Croatia said ference in the northeast city of Messina. to jail while the others, including the mayor Nato showcases flight interceptions yesterday it has approached Those arrested included the heads of of Tortorici, were placed under house seven other countries to buy a two Mafia families, a notary, entrepreneurs arrest, authorities said. squadron of multi-role fighter and public administrators tasked with Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese over Baltics, with Russian jets nearby jets for its air force. helping farmers access funds. said the operation underscored the need REUTERS — ON BOARD A BELGIAN AIR FORCE PLANE The Croatian government The clan falsely claimed they owned for “careful supervision of the distribution bid for a dozen used or new plots of land that were in reality were of funds to prevent the Mafia from eluding A Belgian pilot runs across an aircraft hanger to his F16 fighter and leaps into aircraft has been sent to the owned by the region and local councils, controls and taking advantage of huge his cockpit for a practice drill of Nato interceptions of Russian aircraft in allied US, Sweden, France, Italy, thereby tapping EU funding. European subsidies to the detriment of airspace. While bad weather over Lithuania eventuality kept him grounded, Norway, Greece and Israel. “Instead of being usefully employed honest producers and farmers.” In fellow pilots from Britain, France and Denmark took to the air for close The wish list includes for the development of agriculture in this Brussels, European Commission encounters at speeds of 900 km/hour (560 mph). American, Israeli, Norwegian area, (funds) were misappropriated and spokesman Daniel Rosario said the agency Violations of Nato airspace over the Baltics have fallen since Moscow’s and Greek F-16s, the Swedish ended up in the hands of the Mafia,” had “zero tolerance” for misuse of funds. annexation of Crimea in 2014, but air activity on allied borders remains con- Saab JAS Gripen, the French Messina’s chief prosecutor, Maurizio de “First of all, it’s for member states to stant as jets fly from the Russian mainland across the Baltic Sea to Rafale and Italy’s Eurofighter Lucia, said on the sidelines of the press ensure that solid measures are in place to Kaliningrad. jets. conference. manage these funds and take necessary “They are present more or less everyday,” German air force Lieutenant Last year Croatia opted for The swindle presented the Mafia with measures in case of suspicion,” Rosario General Klaus Habersetzer, who runs Nato’s northern European air policing 12 used Israeli F-16 fighter jets, “low legal risks, in the face of very high said. But despite yesterday’s police oper- command, said yesterday while flying over the Baltics. but the $500m deal fell profits,” prosecutors wrote in a statement. ation and dozens like it in recent years, During the simulations, Nato pilots carrying air-to-air missiles took turns through. Key to the scam were employees of a liberating Sicily from the Mafia was to simulate the interception of a Belgian air force transporter — playing the Croatia faces a mini arms public agency for agricultural payments, unlikely to come purely from judicial pro- role of a Russian plane — en route to Lithuania, performing visual inspections race with neighbouring which distributes EU funds to farmers, and ceedings, Judge Matroeni wrote. of the aircraft’s status. Russian ally Serbia, which those working for assistance centres set “The measures do not stop a world rec- The air commanders hope such displays can highlight how Nato’s planes recently received 10 used up to help farmers access available onciled to the Mafia.” are helping to protect the continent. Russian MiG-29 fighter jets. Swedish French prosecutor probes military duped by ‘officer’ with Royal over funds use AFP — PARIS on Twitter after the investi- faked diploma gation was announced, saying French prosecutors said she would make a further AFP — STOCKHOLM yesterday they had opened an statement later. investigation into allegations France Info radio said A Swedish man who got a job that former French presidential Royal was suspected of using in the military using forged candidate Segolene Royal used her staff to accompany her on credentials was promoted to expenses meant for her ambas- missions unrelated to her work as staff officer at Nato’s sadorial job to promote her side official role, such as promoting headquarters and served in a interests. her book and working for her UN mission, the military and Royal, who unsuccessfully foundation. media said yesterday. stood as the Socialist candidate Even before the news of the The man lied about his against Nicolas Sarkozy for the investigation broke, Royal’s experience and forged a presidency in 2007, has since future was in question after the diploma from the officers’ 2017 worked as an ambassador government warned she faced academy, according to the for the polar regions with dismissal for repeatedly criti- Dagens Nyheter newspaper. responsibility for negotiating cising President Emmanuel Beekeepers drop honey on the pavement to set a sign against glyphosate contaminated honey at He served in the Swedish international agreements. Macron’s policies, including his the German Agriculture Ministry in Berlin, yesterday. Armed Forces for more than a She has an annual expenses controversial pension reforms. decade and completed budget of ¤100,000 for her “Madam Ambassador, we postings to high-security posi- Beekeepers stage sticky protest on ministry steps mission, as well as three staff are considering terminating tions and international mis- members who are paid for by your position in view of your sions, including Afghanistan AP — BERLIN that was sprayed onto fields used on flowering plants. the foreign ministry. recent public statements,” read and last year to the UN peace- near their apiculture business Environmentalists have The national prosecutors’ the letter jointly signed by the keeping force MINUSMA in Two beekeepers staged a sticky in Brandenburg state, which demanded an immediate ban office for financial crimes con- general secretaries of the Mali. protest yesterday outside surrounds Berlin. on the use of glyphosate, the firmed that Royal was under foreign and environment min- The Swedish Armed Forces Germany’s Agriculture Ministry The couple claim say they active ingredient in Bayer’s investigation. istries that Royal posted on her conceded that the man had against the continued use of a have been forced to destroy 4 weed killer Roundup, over con- The 66-year-old former Facebook page. been “wrongfully employed” controversial herbicide. tonnes of honey and lost about cerns it is leading to a decline environment minister, a key Royal said herself that she and confirmed in a statement Sebastian and Camille ¤60,000, endangering their of bees and other insects. figure in left-wing politics, has considered herself to have been he had served at NATO’s Seusing poured a bucket of livelihoods. The Seusings called The German government denied the allegations which dismissed. A source close to the Supreme Headquarters Allied honey onto the ministry steps, on Agriculture Minister Julia has agreed to begin phasing out she has slammed as “insinua- government said she would Powers Europe (SHAPE) in saying it was contaminated Kloeckner to do more to glyphosate this year and ban all tions” and “defamatory”. likely be fired after a cabinet Belgium. with high levels of glyphosate prevent glyphosate from being use by the end of 2023. “Nothing new,” she wrote meeting on January 24. THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 AMERICAS 17 Democrats name prosecutors for Trump impeachment trial AFP — WASHINGTON The trial, expected to begin on Tuesday in the Republican-controlled chamber, will decide Adam Schiff, the Democratic lawmaker who led the House whether the President is forced from office. impeachment investigation into Donald Trump, was named yesterday to lead the prose- Trump was formally presidential nomination. cution at the historic Senate impeached on December 18 He is also charged with trial of the 45th president. when the Democratic-con- obstruction for holding back Speaking hours before the trolled House voted to charge witnesses and documents from articles of impeachment are him with abusing his power by the House impeachment inves- ceremoniously transferred to illicitly seeking help from tigation in defiance of Congres- the Senate, House Speaker Ukraine for his reelection sional subpoenas. Nancy Pelosi named seven campaign. But his conviction in the impeachment managers to The naming of the Senate is highly unlikely as the make the case that Trump impeachment managers was president’s Republican Party abused his power and one of the last formal steps has a 53-47 majority. A two- obstructed the US Congress. required before the President thirds super-majority of sen- The momentous trial, goes on trial. ators is required to find him expected to begin on Tuesday Later yesterday the House guilty and remove him from in the Republican-controlled was expected to formally vote office. chamber, will decide whether to transmit the two articles of Pelosi demanded again yes- US President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally in Milwaukee recently. the President is forced from impeachment, or charges, to the terday that the Senate sub- office. Senate. poena witnesses and records In addition to Schiff, the Then, around 5pm (2200 from the White House that were prosecution team will include GMT), in a solemn procession denied the House Trump derides impeachment trial as a ‘con’ Judiciary Committee Chair Jerry seen only twice before in US investigation. Nadler, House Democratic history, the articles will be They especially want to AFP — WASHINGTON seven-member trial team. done nothing wrong,” she said. Caucus Chair Hakeem Jeffries, walked over from the House to hear from Trump’s chief of staff White House press secretary “He looks forward to having and four other senior Demo- the Senate by the impeachment Mick Mulvaney and former President Donald Trump Stephanie Grisham also dis- the due process rights in the crats, most of them with pros- managers and read aloud national security advisor John derided his impeachment as a missed Pelosi’s announcement Senate that Speaker Pelosi and ecutorial experience in the US before the 100 senators, offi- Bolton. “con” yesterday as Democratic in a statement. “The only thing House Democrats denied to justice system. cially placing the President on Bolton, who other officials leaders announced the team Speaker Pelosi has achieved him, and expects to be fully “There is an overwhelming trial. have testified was angered by that will lead the trial in the with this sham, illegitimate exonerated.” Trump was case, beyond reasonable doubt, Trump is accused of secretly the scheme to pressure Ukraine Senate. impeachment process, is to impeached in the House on two that President Trump betrayed holding up aid to Ukraine for Trump’s domestic political “Here we go again, another prove she is focused on politics articles. the country,” Nadler said. between July and September to needs, has volunteered to Con Job by the Do Nothing instead of the American The first alleges that Trump “It is essential that we bring pressure Kiev to investigate testify if subpoenaed. Democrats,” Trump tweeted people,” according to Grisham. abused his office. The second this impeachment to stop the former vice president Joe Biden, “We should have witnesses, seconds after Nancy Pelosi, the “The naming of these man- is obstruction of Congress, President from rigging the next the frontrunner in the race for and we should have docu- speaker of the House of Repre- agers does not change a single based on the White House’s election,” he said. the Democratic party’s 2020 ments,” Pelosi said. sentatives, unveiled the thing. President Trump has refusal to allow witnesses. Delta jet dumps Former Trump adviser Democrats: War fuel on California powers measure school ground Flynn asks to change has majority AFP — LOS ANGELES plea in Russia probe support in Senate A Delta airliner experiencing AFP — WASHINGTON mechanical trouble on Tuesday AFP — WASHINGTON team in June, prosecutors dumped jet fuel onto a school demanded that he admit US Senate Democrats on playground in the Los Angeles US President Donald Trump’s falsely that he knowingly lied Tuesday asserted that they area, leaving 20 students and former national security in filing forms with the Justice have sufficient bipartisan several adults with minor adviser Michael Flynn asked a Department that concealed backing to pass a war powers injuries. judge on Tuesday for work his lobbying firm did for resolution as early as next Delta Flight 89 took off permission to withdraw his the government of Turkey. week aimed at restricting from Los Angeles en route to guilty plea in the Russia “Michael T. Flynn hereby President Donald Trump’s Shanghai and was forced to election interference probe. moves to withdraw his plea military action against Iran. turn back due to engine trouble, In a big reversal, Flynn’s because of the government’s “We now have the 51 votes a Delta spokesperson said. lawyers argued that prose- bad faith, vindictiveness, and that we need for the version The plane landed safely cutors violated a plea breach of the plea agreement,” that’s the bipartisan version,” around noon after dumping its agreement that he struck with defense attorney Sydney said Democratic Senator Tim fuel, which fell onto a wide them because they demanded Powell wrote. Kaine, who introduced the area, including Park Avenue he give false testimony. The change of heart came measure intended to force Elementary School, located Flynn, a retired US Army just two weeks before Flynn Trump to seek authority from about 16 miles (25 kilometers) lieutenant general, lasted only was due to be sentenced. A Congress if military hostilities A Delta Airlines Boeing 777-200 jet empties its fuel tanks as it east of the airport. 22 days in the job in the early judge must approve any with Iran last for more than 30 makes an emergency landing at Los Angeles International Airport. Fire officials said about 20 days of the Trump’s change of plea. days. children and 11 adults com- administration. Flynn, 61, pleaded guilty in Kaine named four Repub- plaining of skin irritation or released to allow the plane to adults and children at a school He was being investigated December 2017 to lying to the lican senators — Rand Paul, minor respiratory problems at land safely. in the area.” for his contacts with Russians FBI about his contacts with Mike Lee, Todd Young and the elementary school were “We are in touch with Los The fuel also landed on when he was removed and then-Russian Ambassador Susan Collins — who he said treated on the spot and did not Angeles World Airports and the other schools in south Los eventually pleaded guilty to Sergey Kislyak during the will join the 47 Democrats require hospitalization. LA County Fire Department and Angeles but there were no lying to the FBI. presidential transition voting in favor in the 100- In a statement, a Delta share concerns regarding injuries among students or staff, His lawyers claimed that between Barack Obama and member chamber. spokesperson said the fuel was reported minor injuries to authorities said. after Flynn changed his legal Trump. Collins said in a statement that she would co-sponsor Kaine’s revised resolution US court hears because it “reasserts Con- Democrats lock horns over war, gender in Iowa gress’s constitutional role and 2013 ‘Bridgegate’ recognizes that the framers (of AFP — DES MOINES, US the US Constitution) did not retribution case vest in the president the AFP — WASHINGTON Leftist Bernie Sanders attacked authority to declare war uni- frontrunner Joe Biden on laterally.” The measure is priv- The US Supreme Court heard foreign policy on Tuesday but ileged, meaning Republicans arguments on Tuesday in a found himself fighting accusa- who oppose it would not be case involving public officials tions of sexism in the final pres- able to block a vote once the who created a monster traffic idential debate before Demo- legislation “ripens.” jam to inflict political retri- crats begin choosing who chal- That process occurs on bution. lenges incumbent Donald Sunday, and the resolution Several justices on the Trump in November’s election. would first be available for nation’s top court appeared to With no candidate yet to Senate consideration next be sympathetic to the argu- carve out a clear lead less than week, Kaine said. ments made by lawyers for three weeks to go before the But the measure could two New Jersey officials con- first votes in the nominations bump up against Senate victed of carrying out the battle, the stakes were high for responsibilities that will take political dirty trick. the six presidential hopefuls on center stage in coming days: The “Bridgegate” case stage in Iowa. Trump’s impeachment trial, dates back to 2013 when New The largely civilized which could begin next Jersey’s Republican governor showdown defied earlier Tuesday. Chris Christie was running for expectations of fireworks, with “We will work out the Democratic presidential hopefuls Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren (left), former vice-president re-election and Mark Sokolich, tensions largely held in check timing,” Senate Minority Joe Biden (center) and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders participate in the seventh Democratic primary the Democratic mayor of the during the two-hour debate. Leader Chuck Schumer said debate of the 2020 presidential campaign at the Drake University campus in Des Moines, Iowa. town of Fort Lee, declined to But a rift between Sanders of the war powers endorse him. and fellow Senator Elizabeth resolution. Aides to Christie were Warren appeared to widen exchanges. With Washington’s unity in preventing Trump from — are bunched together in “We have to figure out how accused of deliberately afterwards when Warren conflict with Iran as the winning a second term. polling. For months, Sanders it intersects with causing gridlock on the George declined to shake hands with backdrop, non-interventionist “The American character is and Warren have battled peace- impeachment, but we believe Washington Bridge leading her long-time friend and fellow Sanders drew a sharp contrast, on the ballot,” Biden said. “Not fully for the right to wave the that this resolution is the right from Fort Lee to New York City progressive. saying that while he opposed what Donald Trump is spewing campaign’s progressive flag. But way to go.” Should the over the Hudson River as The candidates tangled over an Iraq war that was “based on out — the hate, the xenophobia, their non-aggression pact measure pass the Senate it political score-settling against everything from troop deploy- lies,” former vice-president the racism. That’s not what we unravelled in recent days, with would serve as a congressional Sokolich. ments and foreign policy to Biden trumpeted the effort. are as a nation.” Each candidate Warren endorsing a report that rebuke of Trump after his Bridget Anne Kelly, Chris- health care, international trade, “I thought they were lying,” is desperate for a breakout Sanders privately told her he order to kill an Iranian com- tie’s deputy chief of staff, and climate change and a woman’s Sanders said of the Bush admin- moment that could give them believed a woman could not mander triggered retaliatory William Baroni, the deputy chance of winning the White istration’s justifications for war the vital momentum heading defeat Trump. missile strikes by Tehran and executive director of the Port House. in 2002. “I didn’t believe them into the Iowa caucuses on Feb- “I didn’t say it,” Sanders dramatically escalated Authority, were convicted of Sanders, 78, assailed former for a moment. Joe saw it differ- ruary 3 which begins the pres- insisted at the debate. tensions. fraud and sentenced to 13 and vice-president Biden, 77, over ently.” Biden said he had long idential primary season. Warren said he did, before The House passed its own 18 months in prison his vote in support of the 2003 acknowledged the war was “a The four candidates in the insisting that she was “not here war powers resolution last respectively. Iraq war as the modern-day mistake” but refrained from top tier — Biden, Sanders, to try to fight with Bernie.” She week. But unlike the Senate Kelly and Baroni appealed tensions in the Middle East sparring with Sanders over Iraq. Warren and former South Bend, then proceeded to highlight the version, the House’s measure their convictions. dominated the opening Instead, Biden appealed for Indiana mayor Pete Buttigieg electability of women. is not binding. 18 AMERICAS THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 Govt backers block oppn from Venezuela legislative meeting

AP — CARACAS, VENEZUELA The incident is part of collapse for the last five years. Basic medicines, food and Government security forces and a struggle for control gasoline are scarce, despite the armed motorcycle groups loyal of the opposition- fact Venezuela sits atop the to Venezuela's President force- dominated National world's largest oil reserves. fully blocked opposition The 36-year-old Guaidó lawmakers from entering the Assembly. leaped onto Venezuela's political National Assembly building stage a year ago when he yesterday, prompting them to declared himself acting pres- hold their session on the paramilitary groups armed by a ident under the constitution and outskirts of the crisis-torn "brutal and wild” dictatorship. vowed to end Maduro's rule. nation's capital. Guaidó was not in the The United States and more It's the second time this caravan that attempted to enter than 50 other nations quickly month that lawmakers have the legislative building, but later backed him, saying Maduro's been barred from the building emerged with other lawmakers reelection in 2018 was that houses the only branch of at a theater in the Caracas illegitimate. government that remains out of suburb of El Hatillo. Guaidó was also blocked control of President Nicolás "Today, we clearly reject from the National Assembly Maduro's socialist before the world this attack, this building early this month in a government. ambush against the Federal failed government attempt to Attempting to reach the leg- Palace,” Guaidó said, referring prevent him from being ree- islative chamber, the caravan of to the legislative building. "The lected as the body's leader. cars carrying the deputies dictatorship has clearly exposed Increasing tension, the rival dodged through downtown itself to the world.” National Constituent Assembly, streets, but ultimately failed. The incident was part of a which is stacked with Maduro A general view of a session of Venezuela’s National Assembly taking place in an amphitheatre, in Gunshots could be heard struggle for control of the oppo- loyalists, held its session in a Caracas, Venezuela, yesterday. near the cars, but no injuries sition-dominated National chamber within the same were reported. Two SUV's car- Assembly and Venezuela as a complex of government rying the lawmakers came under whole, a nation suffering eco- buildings in downtown Caracas, Maduro, alluded to events Assembly was created to rubber lawmakers that came under attack by people on the street nomic and social collapse that across from where the National playing out on the surrounding stamp socialist party policies as attack by men wielding rocks dressed in civilian clothes. They has led an estimated 4.5 million Assembly traditionally meets. streets. "The center of Caracas a way to circumvent the oppo- and sticks. She also reported struck the rear window of one, to emigrate. Leading the session, socialist is territory free of violence,” sition-led National Assembly. hearing gunfire. "Evidently, they shattering it. A once oil-wealthy nation, party chief Diosdado Cabello, Cabello said. "It's liberated Opposition lawmaker Delsa tried to kill us,” Solórzano said. Guaidó called it an "ambush” Venezuela has been locked in a who is considered Venezuela's territory.” Solórzano said she was riding in "Today, our parliament is prac- carried out by the military and political, economic and social most powerful man after Critics say the Constituent a car with at least three other tically kidnapped.”

US backs Brazil’s Hundreds of migrants bid for OECD gather in Honduras to membership AGENCIES — SAO PAULO attempt new caravan The US government is backing AP — SAN PEDRO SULA, been unemployed for the last Brazil’s bid to join the Organ- HONDURAS five years. He left his hometown ization for Economic Cooper- of Choloma, just north of San ation and Development, Hundreds of mainly Honduran Pedro Sula, in hopes of finding providing a foreign policy migrants started walking and a job and sending money back boost for Brazilian President hitching rides yesterday from to his family. Jair Bolsonaro. the city of San Pedro Sula, in a Monterroso set out with his “The United States wants bid to form the kind of migrant toddler son in his arms, but left Brazil to become the next caravan that reached the US his other children with their country to begin the accession border in 2018. grandparents in Choloma. process” to the OECD, said a Some migrants waved Hon- “Here in Honduras, oppor- US State Department spokes- duran flags and shouted slogans tunities are scarce and crime is person for the Bureau of against President Juan Orlando unbearable,” Monterroso said. Western Hemisphere Affairs. Hernández as they set out for “We are not even safe in our “The Brazilian government the Guatemalan border. own homes.” This, by his own is working to align its eco- Honduran migrants run to cross the border between Honduras and Guatemala after breaking a police Most attempts at forming account, was his third attempt nomic policies with OECD fence in Corinto, Honduras, yesterday. caravans in 2019 were broken to reach the United States. He standards while prioritizing up by police and the National was turned back the other two OECD accession to reinforce Guard in Mexico, which has times. in the US. They are instead to been living in Honduras since migrants in the first caravans, economic reforms,” the come under increased US The prospects for any kind be sent to Central America with fleeing political and social but things have changed since spokesperson said in a pressure to prevent migrants of caravan like the one in 2018 an opportunity to ask for pro- unrest in his home country, was then. statement yesterday. from arriving at the US border. — which involved thousands of tection there. undeterred. He set out Immigration analyst Sally The State Department Some migrants said they people — appear remote. Many “The truth is, it is going to Wednesday with his wife Valladares told local media: spokesperson declined to be were aware the voyage would of the migrants from the 2018 be impossible for them to reach Darlen Suazo and their three “The risks have become much named in line with department be tough, but said they would caravan applied for asylum, the United States,” said human children, aged 3 to 5. higher because of Mexico’s rules. try anyway. something that is now difficult rights activist Itsmania Platero. “We are going to struggle, threats of deportations, but also The Paris-based OECD “We aren’t living here, we’re or impossible. “The Mexican police have a but if God is with us, nobody can because, when they are not able advises developed countries just surviving,” said Elmer The US has used a carrot- large contingent and they are stop us,” said Connor. “We to cross (Mexico) as part of a on economic policy. Garcia, 26, a migrant from the and-stick approach in bilateral going to catch all the migrants know we are going to get caravan, they are going to The US announcement is town of Comayagua. “So it agreements struck since July without documents and they through Guatemala, and God search out routes as individuals, welcome news for Bolsonaro, doesn’t make much difference with Guatemala, Honduras and will be detained and returned will soften the hearts of the and they could fall into the whose alignment with US if you die there, or die here.” El Salvador to deny people an to their home countries.” Israel Mexican authorities.” That was clutches of criminal gangs that President Donald Trump has Gerson Noe Monterroso, 34, has opportunity to apply for asylum Connor, a Nicaraguan who has similar to rhetoric heard from prey on migrants.” been the cornerstone of his foreign policy. The US gov- ernment had said in October Bolivia’s former that it was prioritizing Argen- Bolivia pressures Argentina over Morales call for ‘armed militias’ tina’s inclusion, then governed minister arrested REUTERS — LA PAZ/BUENOS and the United States. by right-leaning President AIRES Anez has also rekindled Mauricio Macri, a Trump ally. for corruption Bolivia's relationship with the Macri lost his reelection bid. Bolivia's Foreign Ministry has United States. Mauricio Claver- Brazil's President wel- AFP — LA PAZ asked Argentina's government Carone, a senior adviser to U.S. comed the US backing. "The to disavow comments by President Donald Trump, is vis- news (of US support) was very Bolivia on Tuesday arrested a Bolivian former President Evo iting Bolivia, a sign of warming welcome," Bolsonaro told powerful ex-minister under Morales, currently living in exile relations between the two reporters in Brasilia. former president Evo Morales in Buenos Aires, that called for countries. "There are more than 100 on suspicion of corruption, the organization of armed After meeting with Anez requirements to be admitted prosecutors said. militias in his home country. yesterday, Claver-Carone said to the OECD. We are very The detainee is Carlos Morales said on Sunday that the United States wanted to advanced, even ahead of Romero, the former interior Bolivians had the right to cooperate with Bolivia on trade, Argentina," the far-right leader minister who was close to organize and defend them- investment, support for the added. “The American Morales, who resigned in selves, without firearms, from electoral process and the fight announcement of a priority for November amid protests over what he said was attacks by against corruption and drug Brazil to join the OECD once a disputed election and fled Bolivia's interim government, trafficking. more shows we are building a the country. which he claims took power in "The United States and solid partnership with the US,” Bolivia’s interim President Jeanine Anez speaks during an interview A conservative interim a coup late last year. Bolivia are naturally allied Brazilian Foreign Minister at the Presidential Palace in La Paz, Bolivia, on January 13, 2020. government has taken over "We ask the Argentine gov- countries. Unfortunately, we Ernesto Araújo said on Twitter. ahead of presidential voting in ernment to repudiate the prac- have been separated for many Trump recently walked May, and several ministers tices of Evo Morales, at odds Argentina's Foreign Ministry Argentina's center-left Per- years for no good reason and back an earlier decision to under Morales’ leftist gov- with the law and international said the country did not rec- onist President Alberto Fern- in an unnatural way, because impose tariffs on Brazilian ernment have been charged public order," Bolivia's gov- ognize Bolivia's interim gov- andez has previously supported we have the same interests, we steel and aluminum. or are under investigation and ernment said, adding it had sent ernment and was waiting for Morales' rights to speak freely. have the same democratic The OECD comprises 36 have sought refuge in the a diplomatic letter to Argentine "transparent elections to rec- Granting him asylum has, values and that is what we seek countries. In Latin America, Mexican embassy. Foreign Minister Felipe Solá. ognize the next government of however, created tensions to deepen," Claver-Carone only Chile and Mexico are Romero, 53, has been A spokesman for Bolivia." between his new administration said. members. arrested over alleged misuse of funds in a government agency tasked with fighting drug trafficking, the prose- Guatemala pursues former lawmakers after change of govt cutors said. Romero will now go before AP — GUATEMALA CITY Reformer Movement party, was influence trafficking, and commissions for hospital and prosecuted and ultimately a judge who will determine arrested at her home in the Rodolfo Moisés Castañón, who clinic construction and repairs. absolved by a court. whether to keep him in Guatemala detained a former Santa Rosa department, or is accused of influence traf- They also allegedly arranged for Chavarría had yet to appear custody, release him with lawmaker and said four more province, accused of influence ficking. Both are members of at least 450 jobs to go to in court in the capital, and the charges or place him under were wanted for arrest trafficking and taken to Gua- the National Convergence Front associates. whereabouts of the others was house arrest, the prosecutors yesterday for alleged temala City. Marco Antonio of former President Jimmy And Gilmar Othmar not known. There was no said. corruption, a day after they left Lemus of the Nation Unity of Morales, who also left office on Sánchez Herrera, a former rep- immediate comment by any From his exile in office amid a change of Hope party was wanted for the Tuesday. resentative to the regional representatives of the ex-law- Argentina, Morales defended government and lost the same charges. Prosecutors said that Central American Parliament, makers. During his inaugural Romero. Morales said the gov- immunity from prosecution Others being sought were between 2012 and 2014 the was accused in a case of cor- address on Tuesday, new Pres- ernment of acting president they enjoyed as sitting elected Estuardo Galdámez, an ex-law- lawmakers used their position ruption involving Guatemala’s ident Alejandro Giammattei Jeanine Anez “does not want officials. maker who ran in last year’s and ties to the then-health min- Registration of Property. It’s the announced the creation of a justice but rather revenge and Prosecutors said Aracely presidential election and is ister to set up a criminal same case for which Morales’ presidential anti-graft impunity.” Chavarría, a lawmaker from the accused of illicit association and network that charged son and brother were commission. THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020 HOME 19 New HBKU Press tale encourages love of language among youngsters

THE PENINSULA — DOHA her closer to her hopes and dreams. Whether it is fiction or non-fiction, most Educating and entertaining children through books have a real-life backstory and My Happy literature is no mean feat. While some are Language is no exception. Like many parents, more than happy to bury their heads in books Amura found it difficult to foster a love of the all day and every day, others become bored Arabic language in her own children. However, and frustrated very quickly. Balsem Amura she was not prepared to give up without a knows only too well the challenges posed by fight. Thanks to her steely determination, she youngsters who do not engage with language was not only able to reignite her children’s and literature. interest in their mother tongue, but also join Her response is documented in her first HBKU Press’ growing roster of homegrown book published by Hamad Bin Khalifa Uni- and international authors in the process. Balsem Amura, author of My Happy Language versity Press (HBKU Press) and showcased at Amura was one of several writers to visit Doha International Book Fair 2020. the HBKU Press booth at Doha International during a book reading at DIBF. My Happy Language tells the story of Book Fair 2020. On both occasions she read Ahmed, a young boy who is bored by his extracts and signed copies of her book for an collaborating with HBKU Press once again to Arabic language books and what to him are eager audience. No doubt that some of those publish other unique works that enrich reading their uninteresting stories. Ahmed’s mother present were parents who readily identified for children and that cover topics that are rel- soon picks up on this lack of enthusiasm and with her struggles to maintain her children’s evant to today’s youth and parents in an inno- resolves to change her son’s mind. As the title interest in the Arabic language. vative and imaginative way,” said Amura. of the book suggests, Ahmed is shown that “I had a great experience working with My Happy Language by Balsem Amura is Arabic is indeed a happy language that brings the Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press: they published in Arabic and available from the his mother immense joy. That is because each were constructive, professional and helpful Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press word and letter play musical tunes that bring in bringing my story to life. I look forward to bookstore. QNL a learning hub for book lovers at DIBF 2020 THE PENINSULA — DOHA part in the storytelling programs that are being offered here at Qatar National Library has DIBF and at the Library welcomed thousands of book throughout the year.” lovers keen to expand their For readers with a special literary knowledge at an inter- interest in history and heritage, active space in the heart of this the Library’s librarians are on year’s Doha International Book hand to share more about the Fair (DIBF). A team of librarians selection of Heritage Library and staff is engaging avid manuscripts that are on display. readers, authors, publishers, Visitors are also able to see the retailers and educators at the step-by-step process to digitize Central Plaza of DIBF and historical manuscripts using spe- helping them discover more cialized equipment brought to about the Library’s wealth of DIBF from the Library’s Digiti- resources. zation Center. Several dignitaries have Hashim Aalem, another visited to experience the visitor at DIBF, was fascinated Library’s offerings since DIBF by the digitisation demon- The Library’s family-friendly educational program has proved deeply opened on January 9, including stration. “I have heard about enriching and entertaining to children and their parents alike. H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al the digitisation of rare books, Thani, Vice-Chairperson and but seeing it live has given me Chief Executive Officer of Qatar and interests to register for free parents alike. a clearer perspective of the Foundation; H E Ahmed bin Library membership and learn “As a family, every year, we valuable work that the Library Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, how the Library’s vast resources look forward to visiting DIBF to is doing to make digital copies Speaker of the Shura Council; can help them reach their per- be part of the different activities, of historical manuscripts and H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, sonal learning goals. The read the latest books and meet accessible online for anyone to Minister of Transport and Library’s family-friendly educa- new people,” said Mahmoud Ali, use.” Communications. tional programme has proved who visited the Library’s space Visitors have until January Students from Qatari schools deeply enriching and enter- along with his two children. “My 18 to enjoy the activities and have joined visitors of all ages taining to children and their children particularly enjoy taking books on offer at DIBF 2020.

CROSSWORD MALL ROYAL PLAZA

Big Brother (2D/Malayalam) 2:30, 8:30 & 11:30pm Foodiverse (2D/Animation) 2:30pm Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2D/Telugu) 5:30pm Dolittle (2D/Comedy) 4:00 & 6:00pm L.O.L Surprise! on The Big Screen (2D/Animation) Big Brother (2D/Malayalam) 8:00 & 11:00pm 2:00 & 4:30pm; Dolittle (2D/Comedy) 3:15, 5:15 & Pattas (2D/Tamil) 2:00 & 11:30pm 7:15pm Bad Boys For Life (2D/Action) 9:15 & 11:30pm L.O.L Surprise! on The Big Screen (2D/Animation) 2:15 & 4:45pm Pattas (2D/Tamil) 2:00 & 11:30pm Bad Boys For Life (2D/Action) 6:00 & 11:15pm Foodiverse (2D/Animation) 5:30pm Parasite (2D/Comedy) 8:15pm Yom W Leila (2D/Arabic) 7:00pm Jai Mummy (2D/Hindi) 3:30pm Avane Srimannarayana (2D/Kannada) 8:45pm A Hidden Life (2D/Drama) 5:30pm Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2D/Telugu) 8:30pm LANDMARK FLIK Mirqab Mall Dhamaka (2D/Malayalam) 2:00pm 1917 (2D/Crime) 17:05, 7:30pm L.O.L Surprise! on The Big Screen (2D/Animation) Bad Boys For Life (2D/Action) 10:30am, 11:45, 1:00, 2:10, 3:30, 4:35, 4:15pm; Dolittle (2D/Comedy) 5:15, 7:30 & 9:30pm 6:00, 7:00, 8:30, 9:30, 11:00pm & 12:00 midnight Bad Boys For Life (2D/Action) 7:00 & 9:15pm Big Brother (2D/Malayalam) 10:20am, 11:50am, 2:20, 4:20, 5:55, Pattas (2D/Tamil) 3:30 & 11:30pm 8:20pm, 12:00 midnight & 0:20am Entha Manchivaadavuraa (2D/Telugu) 2:00pm Dolittle (2D/Comedy) 10:45am, 11:20am, 12:45, 2:50, 3:20, 5:20, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2D/Telugu) 4:30pm 7:20, 9:20 & 11:20pm Big Brother (2D/Malayalam) 5:30, 8:30 & 11:30pm Dolittle (3D/Comedy) 12:20, 6:20 & 10:20pm Foodiverse (2D/Animation) 2:00pm Jumanji: The Next Level (2D/Action) 12:50, 3:15, 5:40 & 8:05pm Jai Mummy (2D/Hindi) 11:30pm; L.O.L Surprise! on The Big Screen (2D/Animation) 10:10am & 11:30am; Miracle in Cell No.7 (2D/Comedy) 6:15 & 8:40pm AL KHOR Spies in Disguise (2D/Animation) 12:00, 2:05 & 4:10pm Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker (2D/Action) 11:10pm Pattas (2D/Tamil) 12:00, 6:00 & 12:00pm Underwater (2D/Action) 10:30pm & 0:25am Dolittle (2D/Comedy) 11:45, 4:45 & 9:45pm Yom W Leila (2D/Action) 9:50 & 11:50m Darbar (2D/Tamil) 11:45, 5:45 & 11:45pm Big Brother (2D/Malayalam) 3:00 & 9:00pm ASIAN TOWN Bad Boys For Life (2D/Action) 2:00, 7:00 & 12:00pm Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2D/Telugu) 2:45 & 8:45pm Big Brother (2D/Malayalam) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9;00, 10:00pm, 1:00am & 2:15am ROXY Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2D/Telugu) 12:15 & 6:00pm Entha Manchivaadavuraa (2D/Telugu) 3:15pm Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2D/Telugu) 10:30am, 12:50, Dhamaka (2D/Malayalam) 12:00 midnight 1:00, 3:30, 4;10, 7:00, 7;10, 10:00 & 10:40pm Pattas (2D/Tamil) 12:30, 3:15, 6:15, 8:45, 11:30 & 2:15am Avane Srimannarayana (2D/Kannada) 10:20 & Avane Srimannarayana (2D/Kannada) 6:00pm 10:30pm Sarileru Neekevaru (2D/Telugu) 12:30pm Bad Boys For Life (2D/Action) 10:30, 11:00, 1:00, 3:20, 5:00, 5:40, 7:20, 8:10, 10:00 & 10:40pm Big Brother (2D/Malayalam) 11:00am, 1:00, 2:10, 4:10, 5:20, 6:50, 7:20, 7:30, 8:30 & 11:40pm Dolittle (2D/Comedy) 10:30am, 12:30, 12:40, 1:20, 2:40, 2:50, 3:00, 4:50 & 5:00pm Pattas (2D/Tamil) 1:50, 4:20, 4:50, 7:20, 7:50, 10:30 & 10:50pm Underwater (2D/Action) 1:00pm

BIG BROTHER

Big Brother is an upcoming Indian Malayalam-lan- guage action thriller film written, directed and co- produced by Siddique. 20 MORNING BREAK THURSDAY 16 JANUARY 2020

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER TODAY

FAJR05.01 am SUNRISE 06.21 am o o Misty at places at first becomes moderate temperature daytime with some clouds, cold by night ZUHR 11.44 am ASR 02.46 pm 15 C 21 C Minimum Maximum HIGH TIDE 07:43 – 19:13 LOW TIDE 01:55 – 15:34 MAGHRIB 05.08 pm ISHA 06.38 pm W ALRUWAIS: 15o↗18o W ALKHOR: 13o↗19o W DUKHAN: 14o↗19o W DOHA: 15o↗21o W MESAIEED 12o↗21o W ABUSAMRA 13o↗19o ‘LightMe Lusail’ wows people with magnificent light works

THE PENINSULA — DOHA with its magical effects. sculptures. The festival fea- The four-day celebration tured 2 KM Festival, 12 Art The International Light and of fantastic and interactive Light Installations, two Boat Digital Media Festival ‘LightMe light works illuminated the Routes, LML Cars and Food & Lusail’ under theme ‘#Respect’ magnificent Lusail Marina Beverages. began yesterday at Lusail Eastern and South Promenade, To enjoy the fascinating Marina Eastern and South turning the whole area into a effects of magical lights, hun- Promenade which mesmerised spectacular fusion of culture, dreds of families reached a large number of residents vibrant colours, and artistic there. This year, the four-day

The dazzling light works at the International Light and Digital Media Festival ‘LightMe Lusail’ under the theme ‘#Respect’ began at Lusail Marina, yesterday. LEFT: Spectators enjoying the light works. PICS: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA

event is bigger and better Light Tourism & Cultural Hub, deliv- vividly lit scenery, making for Art Festival with extraordinary ering creative and innovative a magical experience. light art installations. entertainment solution, pro- This sought-after event has The event started at moting diversity and unity been brought by number of 5:30pm and concluded at among the local communities, renowned companies in Qatar, 11:30pm at Eastern and South and delivering a clear message as it is brought by Qatari Diar, Promenade of Lusail Marina. of respect to the international Vibrant, Nakheel Landscapes Light art is an applied art form community through the uni- and hosted by Lusail. The in which light is the main versal language of art. sponsors and partners include medium of expression. The light festival promises Qatar Airways, Katara Hospi- LightMe Lusail is solidi- to offer an amazing family tality, The Ritz-Carlton and fying Qatar’s position as a photo opportunities and EPSON/EDGE. Molang the chubby rabbit woos world on wave of niceness AFP — PARIS including China and has been where some 100 animators “And ‘Ko te ta da ki!’ means picked up by both Disney and work on the series. She also ‘I have an idea!’,” she added, A giggly white rabbit called Netflix. helped come up with the very a key phrase in Molang’s Molang who loves nothing “Molang is a big round particular language that the problem-solving lexicon. more than cuddles and helping rabbit, who is extremely pos- characters speak, which Drawing the rabbit is “both his friends has become a itive, imaginative and enthu- although utter nonsense is easy and difficult”, chief ani- global children’s megastar. siastic,” said Marie-Caroline actually quite easy to mator Nicolas Marrocco said The ever-smiling character Villand, who developed the understand. in his glass-roofed studio. began as an emoji in South animated character from the Molangese is a mix of “It’s easy because they are Korea before the French ani- emoji created by Yoon Hye-Ji. French, Italian and Russian all just little balls — but because mation studio Millimages gave Molang and his best friend, with a smattering of gibberish, of their shape some actions are him new life as the star of his a chick called Piu-Piu, are kin- which means anyone any- very difficult to do,” he added. own quirky kids series four dergarten Laurel and Hardys, where can understand it “For instance, how do you years ago. forever getting themselves into without need for dubbing. “The touch your head when you have It has since become a a tizz in bite-sized five-minute words are very clearly said and such tiny arms?” (The answer global sensation not just for adventures that always end they come back all the time,” is by cleverly moving the arms pre-school children at which with a smile. said Villand, meaning fans around Molang’s back.) Mil- it was first aimed, but also Piu-Piu is “smaller, a little quickly get the drift. “’Bah kah limages managing director Roch among teenagers and adults more nervous and shy,” ki kou?’ means either ‘What is Lener picked up the worldwide who have been swept up in its Villand said at the Millimages A screen grab taken from a video shows an editor working on an it?’ or ‘What are you doing?’, rights for Molang in 2014 and fluffball of cuteness. “Molang” Paris studio near the pictur- animation of the white rabbit called Molang at the French animation depending on what is going on the first series aired on France’s now shows in 190 countries esque Canal Saint Martin, studio Millimages in Paris, yesterday. on the screen,” she said. Canal+ the following year.