BUSINESS | Page 1 SPORT | Page 1 Al Sadd draw with Pakhtakor despite superb Xavi QNB posts 4% rise in Q1 profi t to QR3.6bn brace published in QATAR since 1978

WEDNESDAY Vol. XXXX No. 11149 April 10, 2019 Sha’baan 5, 1440 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Sheikha Moza meets Ethiopian Speaker Katara hosts cultural event for IPU delegates

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), met yesterday with the Speaker of Ethiopia’s House of Federation, Keria Ibrahim, who is participating in the 140th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Doha. During the HE the Advisory Council Speaker Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud, who is also President of the 140th General Assembly of the IPU; Gabriela Cuevas Barron, IPU meeting, they reviewed issues of education and means of empowering young President; and other dignitaries at the cultural event hosted by Katara - the Cultural Village Foundation yesterday for the off icials and delegates to the ongoing 140th General people to achieve sustainable human development. Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. Performances focusing on Qatari heritage and traditions were among the highlights of the evening. Page 23

In brief ‘Ban’ on mercenaries to QATAR | Offi cial Qatar sees big fall in Bulgarian president arrives in Doha today help fi ght extremism Bulgarian President Rumen Radev will arrive in Doha today on an O IPU Committee on Peace “It is very interesting to see how dif- off icial visit to the country. His crime rates in 2018 and International Security ferent countries deal with diff erent is- Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin sues and how we deal with the same is- Hamad al-Thani and the Bulgarian passes resolution rejecting sues, and in this way we are closer than president will hold discussions at the O Qatar among the safest a drop in such crimes in 2018 by 14.5% Also, thanks to the eff orts of the the use of mercenaries at a what we imagine,” she noted. “So the Amiri Diwan that will touch on the countries in the world compared to 2017. General Directorate of Drug Enforce- special session in Doha outcome of this dialogue and personal relations between both countries Crimes of forgery decreased by ment, MoI data and indicators showed contacts cannot be underestimated, and the ways to boost them. O Major crimes 98.3% 31.8% compared to 2017, minor as- a signifi cant fall in the rate of drug that is very important.” lower than global average saults and quarrels by 19.1%, breach abuse in the country. The rate of drug By Joey Aguilar Besides a panel discussion on coun- ARAB WORLD | Politics of trust by 18.8%, non-payment by abuse was 0.1% of the total popula- Staff Reporter ter-terrorism and violent extremism, he Ministry of Interior (MoI) 16.3% and car thefts by 13.9%. This tion, 95% lower than the global rate of the conference also held presentations Lawmakers appoint said it has succeeded in bringing shows a marked improvement in the abusers, which is 2%. and discussions on various topics such Algeria’s new president Tdown the rate of major crimes in security situation in the country com- The security indicators were “very he passage of a resolution reject- as sustainable development, empower- Algerian lawmakers appointed 2018, making it 98.3% lower than the pared to 2017, the MoI stressed. positive” and exceeded global rates, ing the use of mercenaries as ing people and ensuring inclusiveness upper house speaker Abdelkader global average despite an increase in When compared to global fi gures, the statement added. Ta way to undermine peace and and equality, and meetings of women Bensalah as interim president Qatar’s population by 3.6% last year. the MoI data showed that there were In the service and awareness fi elds, violate human rights will have a posi- parliamentarians. yesterday, dismaying protesters Qatar is one of the safest countries 0.4 cases of murder per 100,000 peo- the 2018 indicators recorded signifi - tive impact on Middle East’s eff orts in About women entering politics, seeking sweeping change after the in the world, according to many inter- ple, 95% lower than the global rate of cant progress compared to 2017. fi ghting extremism, a Member of Par- Shkrum, who is a member of women resignation of Abdelaziz Bouteflika national rankings compiled by reputa- eight cases. Service transactions involving the liament from Ukraine has said. caucus in Ukraine parliament, lament- who ruled the country for two ble organisations. In terms of aggravated assault, the public increased by 3.2% in 2018 to The Inter-Parliamentary Union’s ed that they have the lowest number of decades. Page 10 Highlighting the signifi cant reduc- country recorded a fi gure of 0.2, which 72,200,506, amounting to around (IPU) Committee on Peace and Inter- women in parliament in the world. tion in the rate of criminal off ences was 99.8% below the global rate of up to 200,000 transactions daily. In 2017, national Security has approved the ac- “We have about 11% of women in the SPORT | Champions League last year across various parameters, 100 assaults. It also recorded fi gures of there were a total of 69,954,184 trans- cord during its special session in Doha parliament and we deal with this prob- statistics released by the MoI yes- 0.1 for burglary cases, 99.9% lower than actions. yesterday. lem all of the time, basically, the role Liverpool, Spurs win 1st terday showed that the total number the global average of 100 burglaries; 0.1 The General Directorate of Pass- “Mercenaries and foreign terrorist model is something that counts,” she leg quarter-fi nal ties of crimes in 2018 decreased by 2.4% in deliberate fi re crimes, which is 99.6% ports topped the list with 22,837,019 fi ghters provoke violence and human said. “I entered parliament only be- Naby Keita and Roberto Firmino compared to 2017. Also, 88.3% of the below than the global average of 25; and transactions in 2018, while the Gen- rights abuse, so obviously in the region cause when I was a little girl I was look- struck to earn Liverpool a 2-0 win total crimes committed in 2018 were 0.6 cases of forced theft, 99.4% lower eral Directorate of Traffi c completed and all over the world it is a very impor- ing up on the leader of my party who against Porto at Anfield in the first of a minor nature, such as cases relat- than the global average of up to 100. 10,111,677 transactions. The Airport tant topic,” Alona Shkrum, a delegate to was the woman in Ukrainian politics, leg of their Champions League ed to cheques, various violations and These low fi gures have been achieved Passports Department completed the 140th IPU Assembly, told reporters now it’s 11%”. quarter-final tie yesterday. In the non-criminal disputes. due to the MoI’s eff orts in maintain- 13,510,610 transactions for passengers, on the sidelines of the event. She underlined the important role of other match, Son Heung-min gave Major crimes against public secu- ing security and preventing crime and while the number of services provided “It (resolution) will be something to men in supporting women, either their Tottenham Hotspur a 1-0 victory rity accounted for 0.1% of all off ences reassuring citizens and residents, the by Metrash2 amounted to 14,389,763 look forward to, how will it be imple- children or siblings, to become political over Manchester City. committed in 2018. Statistics revealed ministry said in a press statement. through smartphones. To Page 23 mented, and how will it go (positively) leaders. Pages 4, 5, 6, 23, 24 in the region specifi cally,” she said. The Committee, which had lengthy discussions about the issue at the con- ference, wants to further strengthen the fi ght against the recruitment of cit- ‘Govt support for private sector to attract investments’ izens and children from other countries to become terrorist fi ghters. Rapporteurs of the Committee, Kha- O Initiatives designed volvement in various infrastructure encouraging the private sector to par- lid Bakkar of Jordan and B Tarasyuk of to attract investments projects, is expected to attract billions ticipate eff ectively in industrial activi- Ukraine, earlier identifi ed terrorism in direct investments into the country, ties. and confl icts as two biggest threats to have already been according to HE the Minister of Com- HE al-Kuwari’s interview with Ox- peace and security in various countries implemented, says merce and Industry Ali bin Ahmed al- ford Business Group has been included around the world today. minister Kuwari. in ‘The Report: Qatar 2019’. “The best thing that comes out of Several initiatives, which are de- On the role of the government ver- this Assembly is dialogue between dif- By Pratap John signed to attract investments in essen- sus that of the private sector in driv- ferent regions and between diff erent Business Editor tial projects in Qatar, have already been ing growth, al-Kuwari said: “Over the parliamentary members. There are a lot implemented, he said. past few years Qatar’s government has of things that separate us but there are These, the minister told the Oxford gradually narrowed the scope of its also a lot of things that unite us,” said atar’s governance and support Business Group, are “expected to at- intervention while enhancing the par- Shkrum, who lauded the Qatar govern- mechanism that encourages tract” billions in direct investments, ticipation of the private sector in the ment and its leadership for excellently Ukrainian MP Alona Shkrum speaking to Qpublic-private partnership in the process turning Qatar into a re- delivery of high-quality services. organising the conference – held for reporters yesterday. (PPP) and facilitates private sector in- gional centre for logistics services and To Page 24 HE Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari the fi rst time in the Arab World. PICTURE: Joey Aguilar Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 QATAR

Qatar’s envoy to Transport minister meets ambassadors Italy elected FAO vice-chairperson

Qatar was unanimously elected as Vice-Chairperson for the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) at the 161th session which kicked off on Monday and will run till April 12 at the FAO’s headquarters in Rome. Qatar’s ambassador to Italy and its Permanent Representative to the United Nations agencies in Rome, Abdulaziz bin Ahmed al-Malki, was elected to the post. Ambassador al-Malki is participating in the council’s session which will discuss a number of issues, most prominently the upcoming election for the director general position during the conference held from June 22 to 29.

HE the Minister of Transport and Communications, Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti, held separate meetings with the ambassador of eSwatini, Felizwe Dlamini, and Ukraine ambassador, Yevhen Mykytenko, in Doha Qatar condemns yesterday. During the meetings they discussed relations between Qatar and the Kingdom of eSwatini and Ukraine, in the fields of transport and communications. They also discussed ways to boost and develop killing of US troops them. in Afghanistan

Qatar has strongly condemned the the attack in which an improvised explosive device Culture minister meets killed three US soldiers and a contractor and wounded three Italian ambassador other US soldiers near the New mechanism urged Bagram Air base in Afghanistan. In a statement yesterday, the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs reiterated Qatar’s firm stance rejecting violence and terrorism, regardless of motives and to benefi t owners of reasons. The statement expressed the condolences of Qatar to the victims’ families, the government and the people of the United States, wishing the land acquired by govt injured a speedy recovery. Qatar condemns By Ayman Adly dled in detail by CMC Services commercial projects, or the price of the Commercial Registration Staff Reporter and Utilities Committee. It was of the land, whichever is pre- and Licenses Department at the shelling of stressed that the law regulating ferred. In this way, land owners Ministry, told the council that Tripoli airport the acquisition of private prop- would have a choice to go for a there is a specialised committee he Central Municipal erty for public good is a positive secure investment with possible at the Ministry, which supervise Council (CMC) suggested factor as the public good takes guaranteed return. this process and ban any word- Qatar has expressed, in Tyesterday the possibility priority over individual interests, The council issued other rec- ings or names that could con- the strongest terms, its of adopting a new mechanism while maintaining the rights of ommendations regarding the stitute a breach of public ethics condemnation of the aerial for the benefi t of land owners the individuals concerned. regulation of commercial adver- or religious values, or may imply bombardment of “Mitiga” airport when their properties are ac- However, it has been observed tisements, especially those posted insult to public fi gures. In addi- HE the Minister of Culture and Sports Salah bin Ghanem bin in the Libyan capital Tripoli, for quired by the government for that some individuals usually do at public places. The council had tion, there are inspectors who Nasser al-Ali met the ambassador of Italy to Qatar Pasquale which Haftar forces had claimed public good. not know how to properly invest earlier suggested that the Min- check for linguistic errors and Salzano. They discussed aspects of co-operation between responsibility. In particular, this applies for the money they get in exchange istry of Commerce and Industry make sure that the language is Qatar and Italy in cultural and sports fields and along means of In a statement yesterday, the the land plots that are taken over for their land plots, and may not should exercise tighter control on used properly. developing them. Foreign Ministry said Qatar to establish commercial projects. be able to purchase another plot this process and monitor it closely, The CMC also raised the issue considers the bombing to be a CMC members, who spoke at at the same prices. especially for advertisements that of banning workers accommo- flagrant violation of international the biweekly session, were of Accordingly the council rec- may contravene the established dations within family residential humanitarian law, that calls for an the view that such land own- ommended that the Ministry of values of the Qatari society and its areas and called for stricter en- urgent international investigation ers should be given the choice of Municipality and Environment traditions. Besides, the wording of forcement of the law passed nine to bring the perpetrators to becoming a partner in the project should study the possibility of these ads should be linguistically years ago. justice. set to be established on their land creating an investment author- correct with accurate translations The council is an elected QU College of Pharmacy Qatar, according to the Ministry’s with a share equal to the market ity to handle the issue of state in Arabic or any other targeted body to represent the people statement, stressed the need value of the property. acquisition of private property. languages. This also applies to the and meets every two weeks at a for regional and international The issue was earlier put for- Such authority would eventually boards, posters and placards at the public session to discuss vari- wins best poster award actors to move urgently to stop ward for discussion at the CMC give priority for the owners of various commercial outlets in the ous municipal services and re- the military escalation in Libya, by member Mohamed bin Saleh the acquired land to be partner country. lated issues to suggest the proper which threatens to undermine al-Khayareen and it was han- or shareholder in the relevant Ayyid al-Qahtani, director courses for improvement. at Kuwait conference the path of the political solution sponsored by the United Nations. The statement also aff irmed atar University College of Qatar’s full support for the Pharmacy (CPH) won the internationally-recognised Qbest poster award for the legitimate Government of clinical pharmacy track at the National Accord and its support ABP set for 3,000th graduate this year 7th Kuwait International Phar- for the eff orts of the UN envoy to macy Conference (KIPC) 2019, reach a just political solution for organised by Kuwait University the Libyan people. he Academic Bridge Pro- life. This is mirrored in the feed- universities at Education City is Faculty of Pharmacy. The statement also renewed gramme (ABP), under back that we get from universi- in English, I decided to join the The poster on “Curriculum Dr Mohamed Dr Ahmed Qatar’s call to all parties to the TQatar Foundation’s (QF) ties as well. Academic Bridge Programme Mapping and Perspectives of Diab Awaisu conflict in Libya to shoulder their Pre-University Education will “Four of the deans of QF’s to help me overcome this chal- Pharmacy Students on the Devel- historical responsibility for the pass the 3,000 mark in terms partner universities are on our lenge,” he said. “I also joined opment and Implementation of The Pharmacist Prescrib- Libyan people, and to prioritise of the number of students who board of advisers, and they of- because it would help me in Pharmacist Prescribing in Qatar” ing Project will be valuable in national dialogue over military have graduated and gone on to ten comment how students who other subjects, such as math, was presented by QU-CPH asso- generating evidence of the fea- choices and the interest of the study at universities in Qatar or have completed the ABP and join science, and computer skills in ciate professor Dr Ahmed Awaisu. sibility of implementing phar- Libyan homeland over individual abroad. their respective undergraduate English.” The presentation was on be- macist prescribing in Qatar. It ones. Established in 2001, the ABP courses are better prepared for “The programme contributes half of a research team from will also help in benchmarking is a foundation programme the highly independent style of to increasing the confi dence of CPH, comprised by: CPH dean with international competency designed to equip secondary learning that universities de- the students in their own abili- Dr Mohamed Diab, assistant standards and identifying areas North Sinai blast school graduates with the skills mand from them.” ties, and prepares them for the dean for Student Aff airs Dr Alla for improving pharmacists’ pre- to succeed in world-class uni- Noor al-Qaidi one of the ABP university stage, their careers El-Awaisi, assistant professor Dr scribing competencies in order condemned versities where the medium of graduates, testifi es, “When I and later, the workplace. And, Monica Zollezzi, and pharmacy to fully empower them with the instruction is English. It is a graduated from high school, I Dr Bryan K Lewallen during my study time in the pro- graduates Rwedah Ali, Wishah skills to prescribe medicines. Qatar condemned the explosion rigorous two-semester general wanted to complete my under- gramme, I learned about a vari- El-Khalif and Oraib Abdallah. Commenting on the that took place near a market in studies programme focusing graduate studies at one of the vation,” she explained. “It is not ety of cultures, because the pro- The objective of the study was achievement, QU CPH Dean the city of Sheikh Zuweid in North on English, maths, science, and universities at Education City. just a classroom; it includes ac- gramme includes students from to gauge the prescribing com- Dr Mohamed Diab said, “No Sinai, Egypt, killing four security computer skills. The ABP gave me an overview tivities and events as well, and I diff erent countries of the world petencies in CPH BSc Pharmacy doubt that having representa- personnel and injuring a number As many as 90% of these of university life in general, and have participated in quite a few and this adds a new dimension curriculum through mapping the tion and presentation at the of civilians. In a statement graduates have been accepted to this helped me gain acceptance of them, either through student to students’ personalities while curriculum against international KIPC 2019 highlights the Col- yesterday, the Ministry of universities in Qatar, Europe, the at Carnegie Mellon University clubs or volunteering.” also enhancing their communi- standards and to determine the lege of Pharmacy’s interna- Foreign Aff airs reiterated Qatar’s US, and Canada. To date, around in Qatar, from where I graduated ABP graduate, Saeed Binnoora cation skills,” he explained. perspectives of pharmacy stu- tional collaborations. It was a firm stance rejecting violence 80% of these graduates have with a distinction.” was aiming to complete his un- “In addition, the ABP con- dents and recent graduates on great opportunity to share our and terrorism, regardless of been Qataris. Al-Qaidi emphasises that the dergraduate studies at Texas tributes to providing students the potential of pharmacist pre- work abroad and show off our their motives and reasons. Dr Bryan K Lewallen, director ABP has not just had a positive A&M University in Qatar. How- with skills such as delivering scribing in Qatar. This project is excellence in quality, through The statement expressed the of ABP, said, “Our past students impact on her academic life – it ever, mastering listening and presentations, public speak- part of a larger project, funded competing and winning prizes. condolences of Qatar to the often remark that ABP is like has also benefi ted her on a per- speaking skills in English was a ing, social communication, and by QU under the National Ca- This also aligns with the qual- victims’ families, and the people a home to them; it is the place sonal level. challenge for him. time management, all of which pacity Building Grant aimed at ity of teaching and research of Egypt, wishing a speedy where they transitioned from “The ABP off ers an envi- “My high school studies were are important to, and useful for, scoping the development and that Qatar University adopts, recovery for the wounded. being school students to being ronment that encourages and mainly in Arabic, and since both my personal life and future implementation of pharmacist and highlights the extended well-prepared to face university stimulates creativity and inno- much of the curricula of the career,” he added. prescribing in Qatar. role of the pharmacist.” Iraqi president meets Qatar envoy

Iraqi President Dr Barham Salih National Development Strategies standing committee holds meeting received the credentials of Qatar’s ambassador, Khalid bin Hamad al-Sulaiti, in Baghdad QNA departments in ministries and for all government agencies. the committee was formed at grammes and projects within the and quality with the team while yesterday. The ambassador Doha government agencies. He stressed that these plans the directions of HE the Prime specifi ed time frame. establishing the required data. conveyed His Highness the At the outset of the meet- should cover all the projects ema- Minister and Minister of Inte- He explained that the Stand- The minister pointed out that Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad ing, the minister presented the nating from the Second National rior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser ing Committee will work in an all new initiatives or projects to al-Thani’s greetings and wishes he Standing Committee objectives of the Committee, Development Strategy 2018-2022; bin Khalifa al-Thani, with the integrated manner with the De- be presented to the Council of of good health and happiness to for the Follow-up of the explaining that it seeks to fol- programmes and projects emanat- aim of co-ordinating eff orts velopment Planning and Sta- Ministers by any government the Iraqi president and his wishes TImplementation of Na- low up the implementation of ing from the Supreme Directives among the various government tistics Authority within a joint body will require prior review by of more progress and prosperity tional Development Strategies, strategies in Qatar in a compre- included in the speeches of His agencies in the country; adopt- working group, pointing out that the Development Planning and to the government and people headed by HE the Minister of hensive and integrated manner; Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim ing strategic plans and opera- the follow-up will be through Statistics Authority to ensure of Iraq. The Iraqi president Justice and Acting Minister of consolidate eff orts and follow- bin Hamad al-Thani; projects tional programmes for these the Planning and Statistics Au- their compatibility with national reciprocated the Amir’s greetings State for Cabinet Aff airs, Dr Issa up mechanisms; emphasise the emanating from the ministries or time-bound plans and develop- thority. directions and then be included and wished the ambassador Saad al-Jafali al-Nuaimi, yes- importance of developing an- projects proposed by relevant na- ing programmes and indicators He also stressed the impor- in the approved executive plan success in his new duties and in terday held a meeting with the nual strategic plans and the im- tional and standing committees. to measure the performance tance of participation and inter- for that authority after being ap- promoting and strengthening directors of planning and quality plementation of fi ve-year plans HE Dr al-Nuaimi said that and delivery rates of these pro- action of managers of planning proved by the Cabinet. relations of friendship. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 3 QATAR

Attorney-general meets Rwanda’s vice-speaker

HE the Attorney-General Dr Ali bin Fetais al-Marri met yesterday with Jane Jacob, vice-speaker of Chamber of Deputies of Rwanda, and her accompanying delegation. During the meeting, they exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and means of enhancing co-operation between Qatar and Rwanda. 11,748 Qataris visited Turkey in Jan, Feb

he number of Qa- Qatari national visitors to Salih Ozer, attaché of nomic ties. The repeated tari nationals vis- Turkey nearly doubled to culture and information in visits of the friendly visi- Titing Turkey stood reach 96,327 in 2018, up Turkey, said, “Tourist fl ow tors from the GCC coun- at 11,748 in the fi rst two from 48,764 in 2017. from the GCC countries to tries help fuel the growth of months of 2019, accord- Tourist fl ow from GCC to Turkey continues to grow our economy.” ing to the latest data re- Turkey continues to rise due and I am happy to see the Turkey welcomed just leased by the Turkish to a number of factors that growth trend continues this over 46mn visitors in 2018, Consulate General Cul- include increased number year, despite headwinds in including 39.49mn foreign- tural and Tourism Offi ce of attractions and relaxa- the global economy. Turkey ers and 6.62mn Turkish in Dubai. However, this tion in the visa formalities. remains an oasis of peace citizens from abroad. is a fraction of the total Tourism revenues increased and tranquillity and off ers Nearly 6mn foreign- number of visitors from 12.3% reaching $29.5bn in a large number of tourism ers coming to Turkey in Qatar, when expatriate 2018, in comparison with attractions. It off ers a great- 2018 were from Russia, residents are included, $26.2bn revenues collected er value for money when an increase of 26.49% the report said. in 2017. compared to other popular compared with 2017, Turkey is one of the larg- Offi cial data revealed that tourism destinations across and 4.5mn visitors were est outbound tourism mar- 81.8% of the income came the world. from Germany, up by kets for people living in the from foreign visitors and “Turkey and the Gulf 25.88% from the previ- Gulf countries. 18.2% from Turkish citizens countries share centuries- ous year, according to the In 2018, the number of living abroad. old social, cultural and eco- ministry’s statement. Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 QATAR UNDP is looking to Qatar, Kyrgyzstan review parliamentary ties work with Qatar in many areas: offi cial HE the Deputy Speaker of Advisory Council Mohammed bin Abdullah al-Sulaiti met yesterday with the head of the By Joseph Varghese work together with the Supreme Council delegation of Kyrgyzstan, participating in the 140th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Staff Reporter people to make sure that Union (IPU), currently underway in Doha. During the meeting, they discussed parliamentary relations between the governments are accessi- Advisory Council and the Kyrgyz Supreme Council and ways to boost and develop them. They also reviewed topics ble to the people. Leader- on the agenda of the General Assembly. atar is a very impor- ships should be made ac- tant partner of the countable to their actions. QUN Development Similarly, parliaments also Programme (UNDP), a should be accessible and senior offi cial has said. approachable to people “The UNDP regards and should hold govern- Qatar as a strategic part- ments accountable for their Qatar exerts eff orts to promote ner of many of our activi- promises,” he noted. ties. Though Qatar is not Chauvel also highlighted a programme country of that parliaments need to the UNDP, we have a very represent a right mix of the peace, says Italian lawmaker important partnership for population to meet the as- some of our programmes pirations of the population, in the region and beyond,” including gender parity By Joey Aguilar late human rights. It aims portant topics tackled at the said Charles Chauvel, team that can help make the peo- Staff Reporter to strengthen the meth- conference, as well as hu- leader, Inclusive Political ple believe that parliaments ods against recruiting man rights, innovation, and Processes, Governance and Charles Chauvel is a team leader at the UNDP. stand for the people. citizens and children from sustainable development. Peacebuilding, UNDP. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil The UNDP offi cial also atar, the host of other countries to become “Everyone has to collabo- Chauvel was speaking on pointed out that many peo- the 140th Inter- terrorist fi ghters. rate to achieve peace, par- the sidelines of the 140th in the region,” he said. lives,” said the offi cial. ple are concerned about the QParliamentary Un- Migliore said Qatar and ticularly in a region where Inter-Parliamentary Un- Chauvel who highlighted “People are losing faith in fact that the emergence of ion (IPU) Assembly, has the Italian delegation, confl icts take place such as ion (IPU) Assembly being a research that had taken the practice of democracy robots and automation will been working hard to help among other IPU mem- in Syria, and that is why we held in Doha. Chauvel also place in the last several because they feel that sev- decrease their jobs. develop a framework that bers, took part in the draft- think that only an interna- took part in the standing years, said that people are eral things in their coun- “Many people feel that will promote peace and ing of the resolution, set to tional approach can change committee discussion on losing faith in democracy tries are mismanaged or not automation is going to af- stability in the region and be implemented soon. Gennaro Migliore the situation,” he pointed out. Sustainable Development due to various reasons. implemented properly. This fect them in a negative way. globally, Italian member of “I want to thank His Migliore expressed con- Goals. “People still believe that leads to disappointments It is a challenge that needs parliament (MP) Gennaro Highness the Amir Sheikh the world to foster peace fi dence that close col- “The UNDP is looking democracy is the best form and frustrations among the to be debated. They feel Migliore has said. Tamim bin Hamad al- and security. laborations with Qatar and increasingly to work with of government but many population towards their that their lives are headed “The country’s eff orts Thani for the hospitality The Italian lawmaker other countries in the re- Qatar in several areas. We are losing faith in it be- leadership,” he added. for troublesome times. are shown in our commit- because the organisation joins 21 other people in the gion will continue aimed at are confi dent that the part- cause they are concerned According to the UNDP Therefore, they want that tee - IPU’s Committee on of this important assembly Assembly in their eff orts combatting terrorism. nership will benefi t both about what is happening offi cial, parliaments have a their representatives un- Peace and International Se- shows that Qatar is totally to heighten co-operation “Qatar is crucial in this Qatar and the UNDP. Some in their own countries and great opportunity to regain derstand the issue and take curity - where we approved involved in the develop- against extremism other region,” he stressed, de- of these projects are aimed they want improvement faith in democracy. actions appropriately,” he a very important resolution ment international rela- terrorist threats. scribing it as “an extraordi- at empowering the youth in many aspects of their “Parliaments need to added. in the fi ght against terror- tionships,” he stressed. He noted that they also nary country where trans- ism,” Migliore said on the Migliore, who was elect- aim to develop new op- formations are so visible.” sidelines of the conference, ed as a member of IPU’s portunities in dealing with Qatar’s close co-oper- which concludes today. Committee on Peace and other global issues like cli- ation and solid support to The accord, drafted International Security, said mate chance and techno- the United Nations Offi ce of by members of the com- this high-level meeting logical revolution, among Counter-Terrorism was also QFFD signs $5mn deal to support mittee, rejects the use of saw close collaboration be- other challenges. underlined by the latter’s Un- mercenaries as a way to tween legislators from dif- Migliore considers peace der-secretary General Vladimir prevention of violent extremism undermine peace and vio- ferent parliaments around and security as the most im- Ivanovich Voronkov.

he Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) Tand Global Commu- nity Engagement and Resil- ience Fund (GCERF) signed a $5mn deal to strengthen the prevention of violent extremism, on the sidelines of the 140th Inter-Parlia- mentary Union (IPU) Gen- eral Assembly. The agreement was signed by QFFD Director General Khalifa bin Jassim al-Kuwari and GCERF Executive Di- rector Khalid Koser. Under the deal, QFFD will support GCERF ac- tivities through increas- Khalifa bin Jassim al-Kuwari and Khalid Koser sign the agreement. ing knowledge of violent extremism and responding to it, helping communities build awareness among leaders on the signs and negative consequences of violent extremism, pro- moting community en- gagement in events to pro- mote peace, and providing educational initiatives. Al-Kuwari said, “This agreement a continuation of QFFD and GCERF part- nership for good causes. We are proud of this partner- ship and are particularly interested in their goals to address the problem of ex- tremism around the world. Today we need to join to- gether to combat the mo- tives of violent extremism so that peace prevails and people enjoy a dignifi ed life.” He added, “This is in line with the role of Qatar in fi ghting extremism as the State has continuously renewed its rejection of ex- tremism.” Koser said, “GCERF is very grateful to Qatar for its con- tinued and substantial sup- port for our mission to boost local communities to become more resilient to the threat of violent extremism.” He added, “Qatar has been a strong supporter of GCERF since its inception, and has helped nurture the only international organi- sation dedicated to the pre- vention of violent extrem- ism. With Qatar’s support, GCERF’s funded projects have reached over 2mn people at risk of radicalisa- tion to violent extremism around the world. The new contribution will build on these initial successes and lessons learned, to widen our impact.” (QNA) Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 5 QATAR

Speaker Busy day for IPU delegates meets visiting leaders QNA Doha

HE the Speaker of the Advisory Council and President of the 140th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud yesterday met the Speaker of House of Representa- tives of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal Krishna Bahadur Mahara on the sidelines of the meetings of the 140th IPU General assembly currently in session in Doha. The meetings dis- cussed the parliamen- tary relations between the State of Qatar and Federal Democratic On the fourth day of the 140th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, delegates and off icials discussed a number of topics such as Sustainable Development Goals as well as democracy and human rights. A number of Republic of Nepal panel discussions also took place yesterday. The Assembly concludes today. PICTURES: Noushad Thekkayil and Ram Chand and ways of enhanc- ing them, in addition to the topics on the agenda of the General Assembly. Al-Mahmoud yesterday also met the President of Na- IPU president seeks more women in lawmaking tional Assembly of the Republic of Djibouti Mohamed Ali Houmed. By Peter Alagos “The world is about equal conditions. Women Another issue Barron raised was the various studies Saqr bin Fahd al- Business Reporter worldwide are not enjoying the same human rights released on gender based violence. Meraikhi, member of as those enjoyed by men. That is why we are here and “We used to think that parliaments were a safe the Advisory Council why this forum is very important because we have a place. But when we started a survey with our female and chairman of the he latest fi gures released by the Inter-Parlia- responsibility,” Barron explained. MPs at IPU and then with the Parliamentary Assem- Qatari-Djiboutian Par- mentary Union (IPU) revealed a slight increase Barron said several conclusions were made after re- bly of the Council of Europe, we found that 85% of liamentary Friendship Tin the number of women in parliament, ac- leasing IPU’s latest statistics to the UN. female MPs have suff ered some kind of violence or Committee attended cording to IPU president Gabriela Cuevas Barron. She said it would take 50 years or at least two gen- sexual harassment. the meeting. “It is our duty to change the reality women are facing erations to reach parity if no “better strategy is taken.” “Eighty fi ve per cent means that we are really, really Al-Mahmoud in all latitudes of the world,” Barron stressed during her Barron also underscored the need to raise more far from having parliaments as a safe space for wom- separately met the opening speech at the 29th session of the Forum of Wom- awareness and more information, as well as the need en…so let us go back to our parliaments and establish founder of Blue Planet en Parliamentarians held on the sidelines of the 140th for women parliamentarian to bring “a common a clear rule and accessible procedures to never allow a Foundation Henk Rog- IPU General Assembly, which concludes in Doha today. strategy” back to their respective countries man to have disrespectful behaviour against women,” ers. They discussed the Barron said from 2016 to 2017 the number of wom- “What has been working is affi rmative action and hav- she pointed out. topics on the agenda of en in parliament increased by only 0.1%. In 2018, the ing gender quotas…I decided to support affi rmative action “In this assembly, we are going to speak about edu- the General Assembly, fi gure barely climbed to reach 0.9%, she noted. IPU president Gabriela Cuevas Barron. because it is not about me but all women that are in need to cation. And education can be the most powerful tool especially with regard “It means that in two years, we only have 1% more PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil raise their voices, to have equal conditions for competition, that we have to fi ght against sexism and discrimina- to the preservation of women in parliament and that is not right. It is not and to have equal conditions to have a seat in parliament,” tion. We do not want education that is promoting mi- the environment. okay to having only 24% of women in parliament. The property rights, access to economy and the fi nancial said Barron, who encourage the audience “to legislate in fa- sogyny. We want an education for equality, inclusive- world is now about parity, women empowerment, system, as well as subsidies. vour of other women” in their own countries. ness, and education for all.”

World needs a more humane economic model, believes Oxfam offi cial

By Joseph Varghese He also stated that the world needs Staff Reporter to change and the parliamentarians have to grapple with the realities to provide better opportunities for all the he world needs a more humane segments of the society. economic model that caters to Ahmed suggested that the world Tall the sections of the society, leaders have to think of new methods noted an offi cial yesterday at one of the and solutions that will look into the panel discussions of the 140th Inter- mounting disproportionate wealth ac- Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly. cumulation into some hands alone. “Our present economies are rigged “I feel that there should be more ef- economies. They are rigged in favour forts in this regard. I have three recom- of the rich and the super rich at the mendations in this regard. I believe that expense of the lower sections of the this will help create better and equal societies. We fi nd the concentration Nabeel Ahmed ... ‘humane’ appeal opportunities for the people,” he noted. of wealth at some sections which we PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil “ I feel that the present systems need have not seen before. It is an extremely three factors to help the people: New unequal economy and that needs to be UN High-level Political Forum on Sus- rules, new co-operation and new ideas. changed,” said Nabeel Ahmed of the tainable Development. There should be publicly funded educa- Oxfam International, a global network “A handful of people around the tion opportunities for all to ensure that fi ghting inequality around the world. world are holding a big amount of all the people get empowered equally. Ahmed was speaking at the panel wealth. There are 26 people whose We need to look at the world with new discussion on ‘Empowering people and wealth is more than the wealth of 3.8bn policies and programmes. If not, we will ensuring inclusiveness and equality’ people in the world. This is an extremely fi nd the world’s wealth gets concentrat- which is the main theme for the 2019 unequal economy,” elaborated Ahmed. ed on a few people and can hinder.”

Draft resolution on free trade submitted

QNA They approved the nominations for importance of calling on parliaments Doha the vacancies in the committee’s of- to give main interest to allocate foreign fi ce, in addition to approving other direct investment in specifi c sectors to items on the agenda. ensure an equitable distribution of re- he Standing Committee on Sus- At the press conference after the sources in all economic areas. tainable Development, Finance session, committee president V Muz- It also urged parliaments to enact Tand Trade yesterday adopted the enda Tsitsi praised Qatar for hosting to relevant legislation and policy frame- draft resolution on the role of fair and the 140th IPU General Assembly and works to enable small and medium- free trade and investment in achieving Related Meetings. sized enterprises to enter the inter- the Sustainable Development Goals She said that she has visited many national supply chain by creating a (SDGs), especially regarding economic countries as part of her work with the supportive working environment for equality, sustainable infrastructure, committee and said the organisation of them and building their human, tech- industrialisation and innovation, at the Assembly in Qatar is great. nical and fi nancial capacities so that the 140th Inter-Parliamentary Union She highlighted the importance of they can understand and respond to (IPU) Assembly and Related Meetings. the results of the session as it will di- policies and processes in global supply Participating members agreed to rect all parliaments around the world. chains. present the draft resolution to the 140th She added that many of the deci- It stressed that global parliaments IPU General Assembly for adoption. sions made were for the important should be actively involved in the proc- They agreed to adopt suggestion re- topics on the agenda that will lead to ess of considering trade arrangements lated to the provisions of digitisation achieving sustainable development in and reconciling those arrangements and the revolving economy in the fi eld many countries as the IPU includes 178 with their national obligations towards of enhancing productivity to achieve members from around the world. sustainable development goals, espe- the objectives of sustainable develop- The draft resolution aimed to en- cially in the fi eld of infrastructure, in- ment. courage parliaments to take procedures dustry, and innovation. During the session, three rappor- that ensure free and fair trade and in- In addition, parliaments can play teurs were elected from Romania, Bel- vestment through reviewing national an oversight role in considering sub- gium, and Kenya to the Standing Com- and global policies to guarantee equity. sequent legislation and any budgetary mittee on Sustainable Development, It called for strong and increasing implications, as well as the domestic Finance, and Trade. investments in the infrastructure to impact of trade and investment. The also approved adopting the Bel- encourage economic growth to resolve The draft resolution stated that gian and Romanian suggestion regard- the increasing numbers of unemploy- parliaments should be empowered to ing the dissemination of digitalisation ment, improve social well-being and consider, monitor and measure global and the revolving economy in the fi eld reduce poverty, in line with sustainable impacts on such matters as sustainable of enhancing productivity to achieve the development goals for 2030. development goals, innovation, indus- objectives of sustainable development. The draft resolution highlighted the try, and sustainable infrastructure. Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 QATAR

Many issues on the table On the fourth day of the 140th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, delegates and off icials discussed a number of topics such as Sustainable Development Goals as well as democracy and human rights. A number of panel discussions also took place yesterday. The Assembly concludes today. PICTURES: Noushad Thekkayil and Ram Chand

Emergency aid sought for Idai victims

QNA by Hurricane Idai, pointing out sustainable livelihoods, and work to achieve their goals and to show ments of the concerned States to promotion of education to keep The two students called on Doha that leaders meeting in Doha ex- with governments in partnership their progress and future ambi- invest in community risk reduc- pace with modern era, both in parliamentarians and the inter- pressed the need to support these with the private sector to gradu- tions at the UN climate summit tion measures. terms of curricula and infra- national community to support countries to rebuild. ally progress towards clean and in September. The General Assembly con- structure, attractive school en- Palestinian students and protect he 140th General Assem- The General Assembly resolu- renewable energy. The resolution also urged all tinued at this session the general vironment or through vocational their right to safety and educa- bly of the Inter-Parlia- tion calls on parliamentarians to The resolution also called upon parties to invest in adaptation, debate on the main theme of the and career training and care for tion. Tmentary Union (IPU), un- urge their governments to sup- the United Nations, the relief or- fi nancing, and innovation at vul- discussion, ‘Parliaments as Plat- teachers and students of diff er- In this context, UNRWA rep- der the chairmanship of HE the port urgent United Nations ap- ganisations and the international nerable countries, as well as to forms for Promoting Education ent classes and stages of their resentative Abdulrahman pre- Speaker of the Advisory Council peals for Mozambique, Malawi, community to continue to focus urge high-income economies to for Peace, Security and the Rule studies. sented UNRWA’s role in provid- and President of the 140th IPU and Zimbabwe in accordance on the most vulnerable groups in provide more fi nancial and tech- of Law’. Ahmed Bakr and Hanan Abu ing high quality education to General Assembly Ahmed bin with the values of the interna- fl ood-aff ected areas to support nical assistance and help build It also devoted part of the dis- Asba from the Palestinian stu- Palestinian refugee students in Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud, tional organisation and to con- them in rebuilding their liveli- capacity for middle- and low- cussion to refugee education. dent parliamentarians of the the Middle East with the support yesterday unanimously adopted tribute appropriately by ensuring hoods and enhancing their abil- income economies to help them In their speeches, speakers ad- United Nations Relief and Works and solidarity of many countries. the emergency resolution on that adequate human and fi nan- ity to care for their families and deal with climate change. dressed the role of education in Agency for Palestine Refugees He stressed the importance of humanitarian assistance to Mo- cial resources are allocated to the to pay particular attention to the The resolution called upon the development, the rule of law, good (UNRWA) made a presentation education in lifting refugees out zambique, Zimbabwe, and Ma- concerned countries. needs of children, girls, women international community to sup- governance, ensuring human explaining the suff ering of half of despair and poverty, adding lawi after these nations were hit The resolution also called on and other vulnerable groups at port the aff ected countries in de- rights and tackling hate speech, a million Palestinian students in that the UNRWA education sys- by a hurricane. national parliaments to urge risk of abduction, traffi cking, ex- veloping comprehensive national violence and discrimination, 700 schools affi liated to the or- tem is recognized internationally The rapporteur of the drafting their governments to take a lead- ploitation and sexual abuse. mechanisms for disaster preven- pointing out that there is no devel- ganisation in their quest to re- and is a gift to humanity. committee read out the report ing role and take eff ective action The resolution urged all par- tion and to enhance their readi- opment, no peace and no security ceive knowledge and science to Professor Rajiv Uttamchanda- of the committee, calling for in- to combat global warming, raise ties, both signatories of Paris ness for eff ective responses, re- without education and vice versa. achieve their aspirations and the ni presented the experience of his tensifi ed international action to awareness about the impacts of Climate Change Agreement and construction, and rehabilitation, Speakers reviewed the expe- dreams of their families and con- academy in delivering education support the three states aff ected climate change and adopt more non-signatories, to do their best as well as to invite the Govern- riences of their countries in the tinue their right to education. to refugee girls in Bangladesh.

Universal health coverage takes centre stage

QNA He stressed that Qatar’s to it and use its services, and for workers who contribute Doha healthcare is comprehensive the State is currently con- to the construction 2022 and integrated in accordance sidering a health insurance FIFA World Cup facilities, with clear plans that have system. and in other projects. he Standing Com- absorbed the various chal- He pointed out that the Aisha al-Washahi, a mem- mittee on Democ- lenges of this sector, guided State of Qatar has built ber of the State Council of Tracy and Human by Qatar’s national vision, many hospitals to meet Oman, said that the proposed Rights of the Inter-Par- which has set its goal in the health challenges at the resolution on comprehen- liamentary Union (IPU) health sector as “healthy local level such as Heart sive health coverage should yesterday discussed population, physically and Hospital, Al Amal Can- include appropriate mecha- a draft resolution on mentally”. cer Hospital, and primary nisms adopted by national achieving universal health Today, he said, Qatar has healthcare centres, mater- parliaments to ensure the coverage by 2030 and the a comprehensive healthcare nity and childhood centres, rights of displaced persons role of parliaments in en- system that meets the high- and other centres for care from areas of armed confl ict suring the right to health. est international standards, and rehabilitation, in ad- to healthcare throughout the Dutch parliamentar- and all residents have access dition to building hospitals crisis period. ian Arda Gerkens, who chaired the session, stressed the importance of discussions on the pro- posal submitted by Bang- ladesh during the 139th Session, hoping to come up with specifi c parlia- mentary procedures to be included in the reso- lution, noting that uni- versal health coverage is essential, and is part of the goals of sustainable development 2030. Dr Zafar Mirza of the World Health Organiza- tion (WHO), who attend- ed the session within the partnership with the IPU, pointed to current global health challenges, say- ing that about 36% of the world’s population and 53% of the Middle East population do not have access to health services because of poverty or poor quality of services. The committee, through its rapporteurs, introduced parliamen- tarians to some general indicators on health serv- ices at the global level, noting that about half of the world’s population is deprived of basic health services, while the high costs of health services have pushed about 100mn people into poverty. Yousuf al-Khater, member of the Advisory Council, highlighted the experience of the State of Qatar in the health sector. He said that healthcare in Qatar, since its incep- tion, is free of charge for citizens and residents, except for a very small amount charged for med- icines only. Officially, Alfardan Sports Motors is the authorized reseller for Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Abarth & Fiat Professional in Qatar • Omar Alfardan, President and CEO of Alfardan Group: A new chapter for the prestigious Italian brands in Qatar. • The Qatar-based company has opened a new world-class showroom in the presence of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ representatives. • Alfardan Sports Motors also inaugurates the first high-level service center on Al Khor Coastal Road; a mere 20-minute drive from Downtown Doha. • “Alfardan Sports Motors” celebrates 20 years of growing success.

lfardan Sports Motors has officially announced that Known for its superb and high-touch customer services, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Fiat Professional, and Abarth are part As far as Fiat Professional vehicles go, the Fiorino and it has become the new authorized reseller for Alfa Alfardan Sports Motors aims to uphold the image of the illus- of a unique portfolio of world-class brands under the um- Ducato models prove comfort, reliability, and practicality can ARomeo, Fiat, Fiat Professional, and Abarth brands in trious Italian brands in Qatar. brella of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). The three Italian mix. The Fiorino commercial vehicle is equipped with a 1.4-li- Qatar. The world-renowned company has also opened a new Speaking at the occasion, Omar Alfardan, President and brands’ vehicles are blending sensational style with luxuri- ter diesel engine that produces 75 hp. However, there are two state-of-the-art showroom for the prestigious Italian brands: CEO, Alfardan Group, said: “The new showroom undoubted- ous amenities and unrivaled safety. versions of the Ducato model: The Ducato goods transport Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Abarth; serving as a one-stop-shop for ly represents a new chapter for the prestigious Italian brands: Originally launched in 1910, Alfa Romeo is a legendary and Ducato passenger van. Both variants are benefiting from their unique vehicles. Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Abarth in Qatar. We have always been brand that has a unique motoring history. Blending best- a 2.3-liter turbo diesel engine that delivers 130 hp. The brand-new, luxurious automobile showroom is lo- keen to offer the highest standards of customer service and in-class performance with pure Italian spirit, Alfa Romeo’s Dedicated to offering top quality customer service, Al- cated at Qatar’s upscale leisure destination—The Pearl-Qa- high value. We are looking forward to offering the best for our beautifully-built vehicles deliver an unparalleled driving ex- fardan Sports Motors has also opened a new service center tar’s Medina Centrale—an area which is home to luxurious customers and achieving the ultimate vision for excellence perience. for Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Abarth & Fiat Professional vehicles. living quarters, entertainment facilities, award-winning ma- and sustaining our economy.” The all-new Alfa Romeo Stelvio is one of the most stun- Located on Al Khor Coastal Road, the new facility is a mere rinas, and serene beaches. Commenting on the event, Charly Dagher, General Man- ning SUVs currently available on the market. Thanks to its 20-minute drive from Downtown Doha; aiming to provide With a modern design that combines style and function, ager of Alfardan Sports Motors, said: “It feels wonderful to elegant, sporty style, thrilling handling and supreme perfor- quick and convenient access to its customers. Open now, Al the landmark showroom takes the automotive experience to be associated with unique brands like Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Fiat mance, Alfa Romeo’s first SUV has been named 2018 “Cross- Khor service center includes a waiting area and an up-to-date another level. A line of luxury, high-performance, and beau- Professional, and Abarth. This is an important milestone for over of the Year” and “SUV of the Year 2018” by Popular Me- customer environment, along with a full package of main- tifully-designed models will be prominently showcased, in- Alfardan Sports Motors, as the introduction of this state-of- chanics and Auto Zeitung magazines, respectively, among tenance services and spare parts retail sales. Designed and cluding Alfa Romeo Giulia, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Alfa Romeo the-art showroom will definitely contribute to the reach and other international recognition and awards. built according to Alfa Romeo’s, Fiat’s, Abarth’s and Fiat Pro- Giulietta, Fiat 500, and Abarth 595 Competizione. growth of these Italian brands in Qatar. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio also proudly holds the title of fessional’s guidelines, the new service center allows custom- Designed in line with Alfardan Sports Motors’ retail con- The spacious facility has a perfect mix of style and func- “fastest SUV around the circuit” after it set the lap record at ers to experience a unique and seamless after-sales service cept and customer service standards, the new showroom is a tion, and is in harmony with the brands’ new global stan- Germany’s legendary Nürburgring. with all highly trained maintenance experts and with the use fine and full demonstration of the dealership’s commitment to dards.” Fiat, founded in 1899, has a century-long tradition of de- of only factory-approved diagnostic equipment to ensure that exceeding the expectation of every Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Fiat and This year also, Alfardan Sports Motors is remarkably signing and making small cars and boasts the Fiat 500, an the vehicles are properly maintained to the highest levels. Abarth owner in Qatar, not to mention to elevate customer celebrating 20 years of growing success and notable achieve- icon for entire generations. For Italian small supercars lovers, touch points in the country. ments and since its foundation, the company has always been the Abarth 595 Competizione is sporty, stylish and the pinna- keen to offer the highest standards of customer service and cle of performance. high value. Gulf Times 8 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 QATAR

Strong winds, scattered rain likely until weekend WCM-Q research hails

hundery rain is ex- Rain and scattered thun- ing thundershowers. The pected in the coun- dershowers were reported minimum temperature is Ttry along with sud- from a number of places expected to be 22C in Abu den strong winds and low yesterday, particularly the Samra today, followed by visibility, the Qatar Met southern parts of the coun- 23C in Dukhan, Al Khor and Qatar’s commitment department has said. The try. Ruwais, and 24C in Doha, weather offi ce has also is- Today’s detailed fore- Wakrah and Mesaieed. The sued a marine warning for cast says the wind speed maximum, on the other thundershowers, windy may go up to 35 knots in hand, will range from 28C conditions and high seas some inshore areas during in Ruwais to 32C in Abu today. thundery rain and 30 knots Samra, with Doha expected The department had ear- off shore, with the sea level to see a high of 29C. to health education lier said unsettled weather rising to 9ft. Yesterday, the mini- conditions were likely to Cloudy conditions are mum temperature was 18C he vision of Qatar’s leadership aff ect the country until the likely in both inshore and in Ghuwairiyah, 19C in Al to develop and train medical weekend due to the exten- off shore areas, and there is Khor, Dukhan and She- Tprofessionals and build na- sion of a low-pressure sys- a chance of scattered rain haimiya, and 23C in Doha, tional healthcare capacity has been tem over the region. The that may turn thundery at Wakrah and Abu Hamour. supported by new research conduct- period will see scattered times. The maximum was 37C in ed by Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar rain, which may become Visibility, meanwhile, Jumayliyah, 36C in Shee- (WCM-Q). thundery at times, and may drop to 2km or less in haniya and other places, The study, entitled ‘Capac- strong winds. some inshore areas dur- and 33C in Doha. ity building in healthcare professions within the Gulf Co-operation Coun- cil countries: Paving the way forward’, Recall of Harley Davidson models published in BMC Medical Educa- tion, was led by the dean of WCM-Q, Dr Javaid Sheikh, along with other The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the dealer to follow up on the maintenance senior doctors and scientists, against in collaboration with Nasser Bin Khaled and repair works and will communicate with the backdrop of a worldwide shortage Powered Sports, has announced the customers to ensure that the necessary of healthcare workers. recall of Harley Davidson Motorcycles repairs are carried out. Other study investigators includ- Street 750-Street Rod models of 2016- The Ministry urges all customers to report ed Dr Sohaila Cheema, Dr Karima 2018 as some internal components in any violations to its Consumer Protection Chaabna and Dr Ravinder Mamtani, the braking system may experience and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department, all of WCM-Q, and Dr Albert Lo- corrosion if subjected to a corrosive which processes complaints, inquires and wenfels from New York Medical external environment over time. The recall suggestions through the following channels: College. campaign comes within the framework of Call centre: 16001, e-mail: [email protected]. The research cites fi gures that the Ministry’s continuous eff orts to protect qa, Twitter: @MOCIQATAR, Instagram: show that in 2014 the GCC had an consumers and ensure that bike dealers MOCIQATAR, Ministry of Commerce and average of just 2.193 physicians for The study concluded that a locally trained healthcare workforce is vitally important for the GCC nations. follow up on vehicle defects and repairs. Industry mobile app for android and IOS: every 1,000 people, compared to the The Ministry said that it will co-ordinate with MOCIQATAR US which had approximately 2.5 per aid in further improving the overall The World Health Organisation der to facilitate high-quality, eff ec- 1,000, or Norway which had 4.38. A quality of healthcare. reported in 2017 that GCC coun- tive, patient-centred care. similar shortage is found in nursing Dr Sheikh said that it was presci- tries should plan their healthcare A further area which the research Embassy holiday and midwifery. ent of Qatar’s leadership to recog- systems by focusing on building hu- cited as being fundamental to the There is also a cultural schism be- nise this as early as they did, and man capacity at all levels, including development of national capacity, The Indian embassy will remain closed on April 14 on the occasion of Dr B R Ambedkar’s tween healthcare professionals and to establish Qatar Foundation and academia, and this is precisely what was continuing medical education. birthday, it was announced yesterday in a statement. their patients due to the fact that Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar. Qatar and Weill Cornell have been The research concluded that people from as many as 100 cultures He said, “The creation of Qatar doing together since the college was continuing medical education pro- live in the GCC. Foundation and its partnerships inaugurated in the country in 2002.” grammes are vital to capacity build- The study concluded that a locally with US universities have allowed The study also highlighted the ing in healthcare, and that strength- trained healthcare workforce is vi- the country to build capacity in a success of Qatar’s Nursing and Mid- ening this capacity is addressing tally important for the GCC nations. number of signifi cant areas but few wifery Strategy 2015-2018 which major healthcare challenges like In addition, capacity building eff orts can be as important to the well-be- was launched by Hamad Medical non-communicable diseases, but would help the nations to focus on ing of the population as biomedical Corporation under the leadership of also infectious diseases, mental ill- major healthcare challenges and also research and healthcare. the Ministry of Public Health in or- ness and women’s health.

Al Rayyan draws most PSA-building permits for March

By Santhosh V Perumal March this year, while ad- Business Reporter ditions constituted 44% (312 permits), and fencing 3% (24 permits). l Rayyan and Doha Of the new residential together consti- buildings permits, PSA Atuted 50% of the found that villas’ topped total 713 building permits the list, accounting for issued in Qatar in March 70% (219 permits) of all this year, according to the new residential build- official statistics. ings permits, dwellings On geographical basis, of housing loans 19% (59 Temporary diversion of Al Gharrafa Interchange the Planning and Statistics permits) and apartments Authority (PSA) found that 7% (22 permits). The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced a temporary diversion of Al Gharrafa Al Rayyan remained atop Commercial buildings Interchange roundabout (Immigration roundabout) for 10 days from April 12. The diversion the municipalities where were found to be in the has been announced in co-ordination with General Directorate of Traff ic to allow the upgrading the number of building forefront of non-residen- works of a new signalised intersection at Al Gharafa roundabout. During the time of closure, permits issued were 212 tial buildings permits with vehicles coming from Al Luqta Street and heading towards Khalifa Street should use Al Gharrafa permits or 30% of the to- 33% (22 permits), followed interchange underpass. They are also allowed to follow the diversion route via 22 February Street tal issued permits, Doha by industrial buildings as southbound to Al Rayyan interchange, then make a U-turn to reach Al Gharrafa interchange and 146 (20%), Al Wakrah 130 workshops and factories take the dedicated free right turn onto the service road to join Khalifa Street. Drivers coming from (18%), Al Daayen 84 (12%), 32% (21 permits), and gov- Khalifa Street and wishing to make a U-turn at Al Gharrafa Interchange Roundabout should turn Umm Slal 54 (8%), Al Khor ernmental buildings 20% left at the roundabout to reach Al Rayyan Interchange, then make a U-turn to reach Al Gharrafa 40 (6%), Al Shahaniya (13 permits). interchange and take the dedicated free right turn to join Khalifa Street. Vehicles can also access 35 (5%) and Al Shamal 12 Qatar witnessed a total Khalifa Street from 22 February Street by turning right onto Makkah Street and making a U-turn (2%). of 342 building comple- to go through Omar Bin Khattab underpass and then take left onto Al Zubara Street to reach tion certificates issued in Khalifa Street. The Public Works Authority will install road signs warning motorists about the Qatar witnessed a March, of which 221 was diversion. Ashghal has also requested road users to abide by the speed limit, and follow the road total of 342 building for residential buildings, signs to ensure their safety. completion certifi cates 37 for non-residential and issued in March, of 84 for additions. Of the which 221 was for 221 residential buildings residential buildings, completion certificates is- 37 for non-residential sued, as many as 134 were and 84 for additions for villas, 74 for dwellings of housing loans, 11 for On a month-on-month apartments and two for basis, total number of per- others. mits issued in the coun- During March, Doha is- try witnessed a robust sued as many as 79 build- 6% growth in March this ing completion certifi- year with Al Shahaniya cates or 23% of the total, registering 25% surge, Al Al Rayyan 77 (23%), Al Wakrah (24%), Umm Slal Daayen 64 (19%), Al Wak- (13%), Al Rayyan (10%) and rah 61 (18%), Al Khor 28 Participants will be given hands-on experiences in trans-editing techniques and skills. Al Daayen (2%); whereas (8%), Umm Slal 24 (7%), Al there was a 40% decline in Shamal 6 (2%) and Al Sha- HBKU TII to host workshop for translation professionals building permits issued in haniya 3 (1%). Al Shamal, 22% in Al Khor Of the 134 villas com- The Translation and understanding the functions an environment of self- and 2% in Doha. pletion certificates is- Interpreting Institute (TII), part and role of translation in development. TTC off ers The building permits sued, as many as 28 were of the College of Humanities various types of media texts. participants exposure data is of particular impor- in Al Daayen, 26 in Doha, and Social Sciences (CHSS) at The workshop is designed to the latest innovative tance as it is considered an 25 in Al Rayyan, 18 in Al Hamad Bin Khalifa University to benefit a range of media methodologies in the indicator for the perform- Khor, 17 in Umm Slal, 16 (HBKU), will be hosting the professionals: translator- field of translation, which ance of the construction in Al Wakrah and four in Translating News and Views journalists; multilingual can enhance and expand sector which in turn occu- Al Shamal. workshop from April 14-17. journalists; producers their skills for professional pies a significant position Of the 74 dwellings of Off ered by the Translation working in news agencies and growth. As an advocate of in the national economy. housing loans comple- and Training Centre (TTC), Dr other media outlets; press and innovation in Qatar and In terms of type of permits tion certificates issued, Al Ashraf Abdel Fattah, assistant communication off icers; as beyond, TII is building issued, data indicates that Wakrah received as many professor at TII, will be leading well as translation students bridges for the pursuit of the new building permits as 29 certificates, followed the workshop, which aims seeking to enhance their new solutions to the global (residential and non-res- by Al Rayyan (24), Al Daay- to explore the principles, media trans-editing skills. challenges facing our media idential) constituted 53% en (12), Doha (four), Umm techniques and constraints of “HBKU inspires a mindset professionals,” said Nada al- (377 permits) of the total Slal and Al Khor (two each) media translation, while also of continuous growth and Mahmeed, director, TTC. building permits issued in and Al Shahaniya (one). Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 9 QATAR Virtuocity sports 240 Zowie expert gaming monitors

enQ’s e-Sports entity, East in Al Maha Center on Salwa to becoming an e-sports hub. during the most high-motion BenQ Zowie monitors and gears, Zowie, has collaborated Road, FNAC in Lagoona Mall, Built across 3,500sq m, some scenarios. to provide gamers with an array Bwith Virtuocity, the fi rst and Doha Festival City, in addi- 600 gaming competitions will be It comes with a focus-increas- of gaming equipment. of its kind gaming zone in Doha tion to Virgin Megastore in Vil- held annually. ing adjustable “shield” mecha- The range features XL & RL se- Festival City, and installed 240 laggio and Landmark, and other The Zowie XL2546 monitor nism that can be attached to the ries monitors, fi ne-tuned for the units of XL2546 240Hz e-Sports major retailers in Qatar. comes equipped with Zowie’s sides of the monitor to block dis- best experience. monitors with Dynamic Accu- E-sports gaming is gaining exclusive technology “Dynamic tractions out of view. The gaming EC, FK & ZA racy (DyAcTM), to provide gam- popularity in Qatar, according to Accuracy”, which is designed to The Zowie XL2546 is also Mouse series are available in ers with the latest technology, a statement. maintain remarkable clarity dur- equipped with Black Equaliser various sizes and shapes for pre- making their gaming experiences Virtuocity is a gaming arena in ing in-game movements, allow- technology and Colour Vibrance ferred grips, with options for better than ever. Qatar that is preparing to become ing for a smoother gaming expe- settings, allowing gamers to ad- right and left-handed use. Represented in Qatar by Fifty a regional gaming destination rience. just settings according to their The Mousepads (SR and TF-X One East, BenQ Zowie XL2546 like no other. With a 240Hz refresh rate, the specifi c viewing requirements. range) are a fl awless combination BenQ Zowie XL2546 240Hz e-Sports monitors, supplied by Fifty One 240Hz monitors and gaming With the increasing number of XL2546 ensures fl uid gameplay Virtuocity also has a Retail of comfort and fl exibility, the East, are installed at Virtuocity in Doha Festival City. gears are available at Fifty One gamers, Qatar seems to be all set through fl awless viewing even Zone, selling the entire range of statement added.

New Ooredoo promotion Doha Bank does its part for Shahry customers to preserve the beaches arking World Health to the Environmental Develop- Day and delivering on ment pillar of Qatar National Vi- Mits commitment to pro- sion 2030. oredoo announced yes- mote environmental, social and “Our customers have enthu- terday that its Shahry economic sustainability, Doha siastically participated in our Opromotion will now be Bank hosted its annual “Beach Green Banking initiatives and extended to include Shahry 100 Clean-up” event at Al Wakrah this demonstrates that our en- and Shahry 150 customers. Family Beach, under the theme deavours are aligned with their Ooredoo’s Shahry 200 and Save the Beaches for the Future, thoughts and goals. above customers automatically on Saturday. “We remain committed to get a free subscription to the The event was held in col- continue exploring new ways to popular Urban Point discounts laboration with the Ministry of address the growing challenge of and off ers app. Municipality and Environment ecological degradation and posi- The extended promotion now (MME) and Al Wakrah Munici- tively contribute to the environ- includes Shahry 100 and Shahry pality. ment, society and economy.” 150 customers, giving them up to Held as part of Doha Bank’s Doha Bank’s Green Banking a six-month subscription to the Green Banking initiatives, the initiatives, which represent a Urban Point app. “Beach Clean-up” was aimed at major component of its Corpo- The Urban Point app, nor- raising awareness among its em- rate and Social Responsibility mally priced at QR15 per month, ployees and stakeholders as well (CSR) activity, include “Al Dana gives users access to a wide range as the Doha community about Green Run”, one of Qatar’s larg- of off ers and promotions around the importance of protecting the The participants of Doha Bank’s ‘Beach Clean-up’ event at Al Wakrah Family Beach with the trash collected. est community events, and the town, such as two-for-one deals environment and biodiversity, “ECO-Schools Programme”, and much more at all kinds of and minimising ecological foot- ecutive Dr R Seetharaman said: with our diff erent stakehold- ing pollution and preserving bi- Beach Clean-up event, and we which is designed to encourage places, including dining options, print. “Sustainability has remained at ers and the Doha community at odiversity are critical to keeping would like to extend our deepest schools in the country to proac- retail outlets, spas, salons and Reaffi rming their commit- the core of Doha Bank’s opera- large. the environment healthy, clean gratitude to them.” tively participate in the imple- gyms. ment to preserving nature, the tions and products and services, “With our Beach Clean-up and safe. Braik Ali HS al-Marri, Doha mentation of sustainable envi- Unlike many other discount bank’s senior management ex- and we have been actively part- activity on World Health Day, “The tremendous support Bank’s acting chief of retail, ronmental practices. apps, customers can use their ecutives, staff members, and nering with the authorities and we hope we have successfully we received from Ministry of said: “As a responsible organisa- In addition, the bank has vouchers more than once each customers actively picked up lit- leading organisations in Qatar driven the message home that Municipality and Environment tion, Doha Bank has placed great launched “Tree Planting” ac- month. ter from the trash-strewn beach. to promote sustainable practices concerted and deliberate eff orts and Al Wakrah Municipality has emphasis on fostering a culture tivities on several occasions in New outlets are also added all Doha Bank Group chief ex- through educating and working toward reducing waste, prevent- been key to the success of the of sustainability to contribute the past. the time, so users need never get bored of the selection. All Shahry 100 and Shahry 150 customers interested in the off er should open their Ooredoo app and redeem the free Urban Point Toyota Land Cruiser VXS wins subscription in the ‘Off ers’ sec- tion. Ooredoo director of Public Relations and Corporate Com- Best Extreme 4x4 2019 Award munications, Manar Khalifa al- Muraikhi, said: “We know our Shahry packs are already great oyota has once again achieved ture while off ering not just excitement value for money, off ering supe- success at the 2019 Golden but also utility”. rior services and fl exibility for TSteering Awards, a premier an- “The new Land Cruiser reaffi rms a our customers at great prices, nual competition, winning the Best tradition of quality and advanced tech- as well as off ering plenty of ad- Extreme 4x4 Award for the Land nology. That is why when people think ditional benefi ts, including Starz Cruiser VXS. four-wheel drive SUV - they automat- Play and Urban Point app sub- The event was attended by Firas ically think ‘Land Cruiser’ as it sets the scriptions. Mufti, senior marketing manager for standard,” the statement notes. “We’re delighted to be ex- Toyota and Lexus, and Rami Khatib, The Land Cruiser off ers a number of tending our Urban Point app marketing manager for Toyota, Abdul- safety features, such as airbags (driver, The Toyota Land Cruiser. promotion to include Shahry lah Abdulghani & Bros Co (AAB) said in passenger, curtain, side, knee), ABS 100 and Shahry 150 customers, a press statement. (anti-lock braking system), electronic “Toyota vehicles, which are known seven days a week, making it more meaning even more can access The Land Cruiser is a “true go any- brake distribution, active traction for their quality, durability and reli- convenient for customers to visit them the great deals and off ers the app where, all-terrain four-wheel drive control, height active control, crawl ability, are well-supported by AAB’s at their convenience. provides.” SUV that has always exceeded expec- control, parking sensor, power door after-sales facilities, which include a The main showroom is open from Customers can sign up for a tations all around the globe”. lock (with speed lock), tyre infl ation network of eight service centres set up 8am to 9pm, Saturday to Thursday, new Shahry subscription at any The SUV off ers elegance, sophisti- pressure warning, and others. in various parts of the country - some and from 5pm to 9pm on Fridays. Ooredoo shop around town with cation and luxury while being tough Toyota has a large line-up of vehi- of which are open seven days a week,” The City Center Doha showroom is their valid Qatar identity card. and practical. cles, including the Corolla, the Camry, the statement adds. open from 10am to 10pm, Saturday to The promotion is valid until Moreover, it represents a “luxurious the Avalon, the RAV4, the Prado, and AAB showrooms located on Airport Thursday, and from 5pm to 10pm on September 30, 2019. Off icials with the award. bridge between civilisation and adven- the Land Cruiser. Road and City Center Doha are open Fridays.

Westin Doha clinches three awards

he Westin Doha Hotel and Spa was recently hon- Toured with three awards during the fi fth annual FACT Dining Awards, which recognise excellence in the food and hospi- tality industry every year. This year’s awards were won by The Westin’s F&B outlets for Best Thai Restaurant: Sabai Thai, critics’ choice; Best Sat- urday Brunch: Sabai Thai, crit- The winners and other participants. ics’ choice; and, Favourite Friday Brunch, as decided by public online voting, the hotel said in a press statement. For the third year in a row, the AAB sponsors Touch Rugby Tournament Favourite Friday Brunch hon- our went to the “Bubbalicious brunch” at Seasonal Tastes, the bdullah Abdulghani & promote and provide assistance privileged students in Sri Lanka. leges in Sri Lanka, participated. hotel’s signature restaurant that Bros Co (AAB), the exclu- in educational scholarships for OZEE 7’s Touch Rugby was In a press statement, AAB said features a wide variety of inter- The Westin off icials and staff with the awards. Asive distributor of Toyota underprivileged students in Sri the fi rst-ever Sri Lankan com- it has been supporting diff er- national dishes. and Lexus in Qatar, has spon- Lanka. munity touch rugby tournament ent communities holding varied As for Sabai Thai, the restau- ment, Rui Eduardo, the food and “Our team’s passion for hospi- sored the OZEE 7’s Touch Rugby It is affi liated to the Sri Lankan to be held in Qatar in 2010. sports tournaments such as vol- rant was recognised for the sec- beverage director at The Westin tality and dedication to provide Tournament for the Sri Lankan embassy in Qatar. Since then, the popularity of leyball, basketball, cricket and ond year in a row for having the Doha Hotel & Spa, said: “We take world-class services lead us to community in Qatar. The main objective of the the game has grown among the futsal as part its corporate social Best Saturday Brunch, and also pride in this success and are very this one-of-a-kind recognition, The event is organised by event is to create fellowship Sri Lankan community. responsibility (CSR) initiative for being the Best Thai Restau- thankful to each judge, food crit- and we also promise more in- Zahira College Colombo – Old among the Sri Lankan com- This year, eight old boys’ as- geared towards the development rant. ic and of course our loyal guests novative off erings soon for our Boys’ Association (OBA) Qatar, munity in Qatar and to extend sociations, representing their of youth through education and Thrilled by this accomplish- for their continued support. guests.” which was formed in 2009 to educational facilities for under- respective universities and col- sports. Gulf Times 10 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 REGION/ARAB WORLD/AFRICA

CONFLICT 400 Palestinian inmates on hunger strike: NGO The number of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails on hunger Protesters strike reached 400 yesterday, the Palestinian Prisoners’ Club NGO said, but an Israeli off icial disputed the figure. In a statement the NGO said the hunger strike, which began Mon- day, had grown rapidly, with 250 in Algeria prisoners joining yesterday. The statement said the protests had spread to multiple Israeli prisons and had the backing of all major Palestinian political factions. An off icial at the Israel Prison Service said he was aware of only reject interim 50 people refusing food at the Rimonim prison in central Israel. The prisoners are calling for improved conditions in Israeli jails. Hamas in particular has ob- jected to new electronic jammers installed in some of the prisons, Military vehicles of Misrata forces, under the protection of Tripoli’s forces, are seen near a military president intended to block cellphone camp in Tripoli, yesterday. reception. Upper house chairman Abdelkader Bensalah assumes post; CRIME Thousands demonstrate Uganda cops claim against appointment arrests over Suff ering grows from Libya Reuters kidnapped tourist Algiers Ugandan police said yesterday they confl ict, migrants moved had arrested “suspects” involved lgeria’s interim president in the kidnapping of an American was quickly rejected by tourist and her safari guide, who Reuters Athousands of protesters were released in exchange for a Tripoli/Geneva UN Security Council to meet today yesterday after he was named by ransom. “All those arrested are parliament to take charge during suspected to be behind the kidnap,” The UN Security Council will hold urgent closed- a volatile transition period after police spokesman Fred Enanga asualties from the battle for Libya’s cap- door consultations today on the crisis in Libya, decades of autocratic rule. said. Enanga said the suspects ital mounted yesterday and the United where fighting has derailed UN-led eff orts to Replacing long-serving leader had been arrested in the area of CNations moved dozens of migrants to prepare for elections. UN envoy Ghassan Salame Abdelaziz Boutefl ika, who re- Kanungu on the border with the safety from a detention centre in the south of will brief the council on his decision to postpone signed last week, Abdelkader Democratic Republic of Congo. the city where fi ghting had raged nearby. a national conference aimed at drawing up an Bensalah is seen by protesters US tourist Kimberley Sue Endicott Medical facilities reported 47 people killed and election roadmap, diplomats said. Thousands of part of an ailing and out-of- was snatched, along with her 181 wounded in recent days as eastern Libyan people have fled Tripoli after forces under the touch ruling caste that has dom- Ugandan guide Jean Paul Mirenge, National Army (LNA) forces seek to take Tripoli command of Khalifa Haftar, who controls part inated since independence from from the Queen Elizabeth National from an internationally-recognised government, of eastern Libya. “We cannot ask people to take France in 1962. Algerian riot police monitor an anti-government protest in Algiers. Park on Wednesday. The American the World Health Organisation said. part in the conference during gunfire and air A long-time Boutefl ika ally, woman and her experienced safari The fatalities were mainly fi ghters, although strikes,” Salame said yesterday in announcing the Bensalah has been re-elected as ing for more radical change since player in politics — will react to guide were recovered unharmed they also comprised nine civilians, including postponement of the conference that was due leader of the upper house since Boutefl ika’s allies abandoned Bensalah’s appointment and any Sunday after a ransom was paid two doctors, the WHO said. to open on Sunday. Tripoli is controlled by a UN- the early 2000s. ”Appointing him in the weeks leading up to opposition that arises. for their release six days after they In central Tripoli, while there were no signs backed unity government, but its authority is not Bensalah will fuel anger and it his resignation last week. “I thank the army and all se- were abducted by gunmen while yet of military and security vehicles or person- recognised by a rival administration in the east. could radicalise the protesters,” They are unwilling to com- curity services for their work,” on an evening game drive in the nel on the streets, shops and cafes were clos- said taxi driver Hassen Rahmine promise in their demand for a Bensalah told parliament after Queen Elizabeth National Park. ing earlier than usual in the evening and resi- as crowds gathered in central Al- new generation of leaders in the his appointment. dents were apprehensive about the prospect the city, where witnesses said on Monday af- giers. At one point, police briefl y North African country, which Army Chief of Staff Lieuten- of violence. “War is war: I am not afraid of the ternoon the LNA had lost control of a former turned water cannon to disperse has failed to create jobs and im- ant General Gaid Salah carefully TERROR Libyan National Army, but I am afraid of the airport and withdrawn down the road. The protesters. prove living standards despite managed Boutefl ika’s exit after Suicide bomber destruction that will never be reconstructed,” government of Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj, Mass protests have led to the vast oil and natural gas resourc- declaring him unfi t to stay in said Mohamed Salem al-Sharwe, a taxi driver who has run Tripoli since 2016 as part of a UN- disintegration of what has been es. power and expressed support for kills seven in in Tripoli. brokered deal that Haftar boycotted, is seeking described as the ruling elite’s “You go means you go,” read protesters, who have put up little The LNA forces of Khalifa Haftar — a former to repel the LNA with the help of armed groups “fortress” — veterans of the war banners at the protest in central resistance to the military. Egypt’s North Sinai general in ousted strongman Muammar Gadd- from Misrata. of independence against France, Algiers, which ended in the late Hours after parliament made A teen suicide bomber killed four afi ’s army — seized the sparsely populated but Serraj’s forces carried out an air strike on an ruling party fi gures, business- afternoon. its choice, Salah said the military members of Egypt’s security forc- oil-rich south earlier this year before heading LNA position in the suburb of Suq al-Khamis men, the army and labour un- The critical question is how will do more to ensure peace for es and three civilians yesterday toward Tripoli this month. yesterday, a resident and an eastern military ions. Algeria’s military — long seen the Algerian people, the state in restive North Sinai, the interior They are fi ghting on the southern side of source said, without giving more details. But Algerians have been push- as a highly eff ective backstage news agency APS reported. ministry said, with the Islamic State group claiming the attack. “The suicide bomber aged 15 blew himself up” in a busy market area Khamenei slams US blacklisting of Guards near a police station in the town of Sheikh Zuweid leaving seven dead Calls for political transition in Sudan grow Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said the United States had and 26 wounded, an interior min- made “a vicious move” in designating the Revolutionary Guards as a foreign istry statement said. A six-year-old terrorist organisation, and Tehran vowed to take action against US forces in child was among the victims, the AFP sweeping to power in 1989, has been Protesters late yesterday were pre- the region. “They wish to plot against our Sepah (the Guard corps)...it is in statement added. IS, which has Khartoum battling the biggest challenge of his paring to camp out for a fourth night the front line of confronting enemies of our (1979) revolution and has always waged a bloody insurgency in the 30-year-old reign since December in a row at the complex, which also defended the country...America has failed to block our advances,” Khamenei, region, released a statement on when nationwide demonstrations houses Bashir’s residence, singing rev- was quoted as saying. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani also defended the its social media accounts claiming udanese President Omar al-Ba- erupted against his government. olutionary songs and anti-government corps as protectors of Iran, saying in a televised speech that the United States responsibility and praising the shir came under mounting pres- Thousands of angry protesters slogans. “holds a grudge” against the Guards who have “sacrificed their lives to protect suicide bomber. Egyptian security Ssure yesterday as three Western chanting “overthrow, overthrow,” have And yesterday the United States, the our people, our revolution” Turkey, a Nato ally of the United States, was also forces have been targeted by nations pushed for a political transi- taken to the streets of the capital and United Kingdom and Norway for the critical.”Such decisions will lead to instability in our region and once you start extremist groups since the army tion plan following weeks of unprec- towns and villages across the country, first time threw their weight behind the stepping outside international law, it is unpredictable where it will stop,” Turkish overthrew president Mohamed edented protests against his rule. blaming the veteran leader for the na- protesters, calling for a credible political Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told a press conference in Istanbul. Mursi in 2013. Bashir, who has ruled Sudan since tion’s worsening economic crisis. transition plan in Sudan. Militants attack after Nigeria town ponders cause of twin births many fl ee military op Reuters Igbo Ora AFP bakar Shekau launched a dawn Kano raid on Damaturu on Decem- ber 1, 2014. More than 150 n a dusty school playground people, including 38 police, in southwest Nigeria, the oko Haram fi ghters at- were killed. Irows of children lined up to tacked the northeast That raid followed a bomb return to their classrooms are BNigerian city of Dama- attack on June 18 that year that dotted with the faces of identi- turu for the fi rst time since killed some 21 football fans cal twins. late 2014, residents said, after watching a World Cup match Sights like this can be seen troops forced thousands to fl ee at a public viewing centre. everywhere in Igbo Ora, where a village across the state bor- The previous October, 30 a banner welcomes visitors to der because of a planned mili- people, all of them thought the “twins capital of the world”. tary off ensive. to be soldiers, were killed in a Twins are common in the Yoruba Two locals in the Yobe state gun and bomb attack on police ethnic group that dominates this capital said suspected IS- buildings in Damaturu. part of Nigeria. linked Boko Haram fi ghters The latest attack followed A 1970s study by a British gy- were behind the attack, which the evacuation of some 2,000 naecologist found that around began late afternoon. people from Jakana village, 50 sets of twins were born out of “Boko Haram militants some 90 kilometres from every 1,000 births in the south- launched an attack on Dama- Damaturu on the road to Mai- west — one of the highest rates turu at about 5:45pm (1645 duguri, in neighbouring Borno of twin births in the world. GMT), fi ring guns and throw- state. In Yoruba culture twins are so ing explosives,” Adamu Sani, a The National Emergency common that they are tradition- trader in the city’s Maisandari Management Agency (NEMA) ally given specifi c names. area, said. “Residents and said troops escorted the resi- They are called either Taiwo or businesses all closed as we dents to the Bakassi camp for Kehinde depending on whether fl ed into the city to avoid being internally displaced people they were born fi rst or second. caught up in the attack. While (IDPs) in Maiduguri “for their But even for Yoruba people, Nine sets of twins gather after a midday break at the Methodist School in Igbo Ora, Oyo State, Nigeria. fl eeing into the city, I saw own safety”. NEMA north- Igbo Ora is considered to be ex- truckloads of soldiers heading east co-ordinator Abulkadir ceptional. The leaves are used to make a Ekujumi Olarenwaju, an ob- “One of the plausible reasons how the leaves are consumed to Maisandari.” Ibrahim said the move was “a Among the nearly 100 sec- stew that is popular in Igbo Ora. stetrician gynaecologist based is the hereditary aspect of it be- were crucial. For example, a stew Hashimu Idris, a civil serv- result of ongoing operations ondary school children assem- Others have pointed to the in Lagos, around 160km away, cause maybe over the years they made from the leaves should be ant, added: “Everybody is in- to fl ush out insurgents in the bled at the end of their break popularity of Amala — a local believes the causes of the phe- inter-marry, they now have that eaten immediately and never doors. We pray the soldiers area”.Jakana residents said there were nine sets of twins. dish made from yams and cas- nomenon lie elsewhere because gene being pooled and concen- stored. push them back otherwise it they were given no notice. “There are so many twins sava fl our. the same kind of yam is eaten trated in that environment,” he Oyenike Bamimore, who sells will be another disaster in the One of them, Modu Kaka, because of the okra leaf that we One theory is that yams elsewhere in the world without said. the bread, said she was living city. “This is the fi rst attack on said: “The soldiers came this eat,” said 15-year-old Kehinde prompt the production of go- the same result. But the women who sell piles proof that the diet was the cause. the city since 2014.” morning and told us to assem- Oyedepo, one of the twins, re- nadotropins, a chemical agent “Thus far scientifi cally, no one of okra leaves at a town market “Because I eat okra leaves a Boko Haram fi ghters loyal ble and began herding us into peating a view commonly held in that stimulates the production can say this is the reason,” said are quick to disagree. lot, I gave birth to eight sets of to the faction headed by Abu- trucks.” the town. of eggs. Olarenwaju. They said local traditions over twins,” she said. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 11 AMERICAS

JUSTICE WEATHER HATE CRIME BRIBERY CASE RULING Self-defence claim rejected Snow falls in New England, Two arrested for vandalising Huff man pleads guilty in Judge blocks ‘Remain in in Minneapolis shooting Midwest set for a blizzard African American monument admissions scandal Mexico’ asylum policy

Minnesota prosecutors yesterday rejected a New England states enjoying the first signs of Police on Monday arrested two people over the Actress Felicity Huff man and a dozen other A US federal judge on Monday blocked President former police off icer’s claim that he acted in self- spring were hit on Monday with a wintry blast vandalism of a memorial to slaves and African parents agreed on Monday to plead guilty to Donald Trump’s policy of returning asylum seekers defence when he fatally shot Australian national of snow and parts of the US Midwest prepared American workers who helped build the University using bribery to get their children into prestigious to Mexico to wait out the processing of their cases, Justine Ruszczyk Damond, saying the woman’s for a blizzard. The snow storm in New England of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a campus still roiled universities. Huff man, 56, agreed to plead guilty saying the Department of Homeland Security had call to report a crime resulted in her murder brought more than 5cm of snow to Portland, by last year’s toppling of a Confederate monument. to paying $15,000 to help her eldest daughter overstepped its authority. The ruling by US District by police. Former Minneapolis police off icer Maine, and up to 10cm fell in inland areas of the The Unsung Founders’ Memorial, erected in 2005 get better scores on the SAT college entrance Judge Richard Seeborg in San Francisco marked Mohamed Noor, 33, is accused of shooting and state and parts of neighbouring New Hampshire, at UNC’s flagship campus, was vandalised at about exam, the Massachusetts Department of a rebuke for the Trump administration’s eff orts to killing 40-year-old Damond through his patrol car said meteorologist Brian Hurley of the federal 1.30am on March 31 by two people, including one Justice said in a statement. The Massachusetts stop the flow of migrants seeking asylum through window while responding to her 911 call to report Weather Prediction Center. A stronger storm with ties to a group called Heirs to the Confederacy, Department of Justice said that in addition to the US border with Mexico. Several hundred people a possible sexual assault near her Minneapolis was forming over the Midwest, taking shape as a the university police said. Media outlets said Nancy Huff man, another dozen parents charged in the seeking asylum have been returned to Mexico to home in July 2017. The shooting added to a wave blizzard that will strike by today. The snow storm McCorkle, 50, of Newberry, South Carolina and case had also agreed to plead guilty. Huff man await the outcome of their request under the policy of controversial US police killings of unarmed will wallop Wyoming, Nebraska, Minnesota, Ryan Barnett, 31, of Sanford, NC, were arrested on could face a maximum of up to 20 years in prison first implemented in January at the San Ysidro in civilians, and led to the resignation of Minneapolis Wisconsin and South Dakota, said Dave Samuhel, misdemeanour charges of vandalism and ethnic for conspiracy to commit mail fraud but is not California and later extended to Calexico, a second police chief Janee Harteau. senior meteorologist at Accuweather.com. intimidation, and released on bond. expected to receive such a stiff sentence. California border point, and El Paso, Texas. Redacted Mueller report to Trudeau sinks in opinion polls be released ‘within a week’ as scandal By Paul Handley, Reuters Washington

S Attorney General Bill Barr said takes its toll yesterday his review of the Muel- Uler Russia meddling investigation report is on schedule and he could release By Steve Scherer, Reuters gineering and construction fi rm a redacted version by next week. Ottawa that has been accused of bribing But Barr repeated his refusal to turn Libyan offi cials to get contracts over the full unredacted report, includ- between 2001 and 2011. ing crucial secret testimony, to Congress hen Canadian Prime The prime minister has been despite the threat of a subpoena. Minister Justin Tru- on the defensive over allega- In his fi rst public remarks since declar- Wdeau took offi ce in late tions government offi cials inap- ing President Donald Trump cleared of 2015, he was a political golden propriately pressured Canada’s both allegations of conspiracy to collude boy who seemed destined to former justice minister Jody with Russia and obstruction of justice, build on the legend of his father, Wilson-Raybould to drop a Barr said his offi ce was still editing out who led the country for more criminal case against the com- sensitive materials in Special Counsel than 15 years. pany in favour of a deferred Robert Mueller’s fi nal report. But six months ahead of an prosecution agreement, or out- Barr said neither Mueller nor his team October election, polls suggest of-court settlement. had reviewed his March 24 summary of the 47-year-old politician with Wilson-Raybould, the fi rst in- the long-awaited report’s conclusions, the broad smile and a penchant digenous justice minister in Ca- which allowed Trump to declare “com- for colourful socks could be- nadian history, resigned over the plete and total exoneration” but also led come the fi rst prime minister to scandal. to reports that some of Mueller’s staff lose power after a single majority Former Treasury Board chief took issue with Barr’s conclusions. mandate since the 1930s. Jane Philpott also quit in protest. Since then Barr has been under heavy Trudeau is mired in a relent- They were two of the high- pressure to hand over the entire 400-page less scandal over alleged inter- est-profi le women in Trudeau’s report to Congress, where Democrats are ference in a corporate corruption Cabinet. seeking to fi nd if there was evidence of im- case that has led to the resigna- So far, Trudeau’s strategy ap- peachable wrongdoing by the president. tions of two Cabinet members, pears to have changed little, and “Within a week I will be in a position to his top advisor and the head of people close to him say he plans release the report to the public,” Barr told the federal civil service. ride it out without major shifts in the House Appropriations Committee. US Attorney General William Barr testifies on the Justice Department’s budget proposal before a House Appropriations The ruling Liberals have lost 6 strategy. Barr though made clear that he was not Subcommittee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington. percentage points since the start “Successful politicians know prepared to release the entire report to ei- of the year, ceding the lead to the when to pivot, and they have a ther the public or Congress. potentially damning information Demo- right to review any evidence against him ferent view on obstruction. rival Conservatives, according to strong survival instinct,” Nanos “I don’t intend at this stage to send the crats seek: testimony and documents of wrongdoing, even that of a grand jury. Mueller wrote that “while this report a Nanos Research poll published said, calling the scandal the “fi rst full unredacted report to the committee,” from Mueller’s grand jury, a panel of citi- Barr’s March 24 four-page summary does not conclude that the president yesterday. major test of Justin Trudeau’s he said, referring to the House Judiciary zens convened to develop and hear the raised as many questions as it resolved. committed a crime, it also does not exon- If an election were held now, leadership”. Committee, which last week threatened evidence and depose key witnesses be- He said that Mueller’s 22-month inves- erate him.” the Conservatives would win Ipsos pollster Darrell Bricker the attorney general with a subpoena. hind closed doors. tigation found no evidence of conspiracy Since then media reports cite unnamed 34.9% of the vote, the Liberals said even before the crisis erupt- Barr said his staff were in the process Grand jury evidence is usually kept by the Trump campaign to collude with Mueller staff saying that Barr downplayed 32.8% and the left-leaning New ed in early February, Trudeau’s of editing out “sensitive” information secret unless a prosecutor ultimately de- Russians during the 2016 presidential the obstruction evidence they presented. Democratic Party 16.6%. support had been softening amid — grand jury testimony, intelligence in- cides to level charges in the case, and Barr election. Barr’s own stance before he was chosen The poll suggests the result complaints he had broken major formation, information involving ongo- has maintained that the law prevents him He also said that the investigation by Trump to be attorney general — that would be deadlock or a fragile commitments such as reforming ing investigations and information on from releasing it. did not fi nd enough evidence to charge Mueller had no legal grounds to inves- minority government. the voting system and balancing “peripheral” subjects of the investigation Democrats argue that Congress, in its Trump with obstruction. tigate Trump for obstruction — has also “The Liberals have taken a hit, the budget by 2019. who have not been charged. constitutional responsibility to enforce But one quote from Mueller’s conclu- drawn questions about how he reached but they’re still competitive,” “Justin Trudeau was standing That includes the most crucial and the law against the president, has the sions that Barr revealed suggested a dif- his conclusion. said pollster Nik Nanos. on thin ice at the end of last year, “The most signifi cant eff ect and then somebody handed him has been the negative impact on an anvil and crash, the ice broke,” the prime minister’s personal Bricker said. brand.” “There’s a credibility problem An Ipsos poll from last month driven by a bunch of things, one White House widens leadership purge at Homeland Security put the Conservatives at 40%, 10 of which is promises made and points ahead of the Liberals. not kept.” Reuters Administration offi cials were also try- surge of immigrants along the US-Mexico Trump has interviewed several candi- Trudeau, the oldest son of the In a bid to fi nally put the Washington ing to push out the department’s General border, a topic Trump made a prominent dates for the top job over the past week late Prime Minister Pierre Tru- scandal behind him, Trudeau Counsel John Mitnick, and US Citizen- feature of his 2016 election campaign and and a half, including former Kansas sec- deau, has from the start pushed expelled Wilson-Raybould and ship and Immigration Services Direc- during the more than two years he has retary of state Kris Kobach, former Vir- a progressive agenda in support Philpott from the Liberal caucus he White House plans to remove tor Francis Cissna, said the source, who been president. ginia attorney general Ken Cuccinelli, and of gender equality, the environ- last week. more top leaders of the US Depart- spoke on condition of anonymity. DHS secretary Kirstjen Nielsen an- former acting Immigrations and Customs ment and aboriginal rights, all Neither minister has gone Tment of Homeland Security (DHS), In comments to reporters at the White nounced her resignation on Sunday after Enforcement head Thomas Homan. issues that appeal to his core vot- quietly, and yesterday, Philpott an offi cial familiar with the matter said House, Trump said he never said he was a meeting with Trump in which the two All three have expressed hard-line ers, but which after more than disputed the legitimacy of the yesterday, with President Donald Trump cleaning house at the DHS and that his disagreed on the best way to handle bor- views on illegal immigration. three years sound increasingly expulsions. dissatisfi ed by their ability to advance his administration was fi ghting “bad laws” der security. The Secret Service, also a part of DHS, scripted to some. On Sunday, Conservative Par- immigration crackdown. on immigration. US Customs and Border Protection said on Monday that its chief Randolph Trudeau is not helped by the ty leader Andrew Scheer revealed The department’s acting No 2 offi cial, The personnel changes were likely to Commissioner Kevin McAleenan is due Alles would depart his job next month, optics of the scandal involv- that Trudeau had threatened to Claire Grady, is expected to leave, the further destabilise the US domestic secu- to take Nielsen’s place on a temporary although this was not seen as related to ing SNC-Lavalin Group Inc, a sue him for libel over a Facebook source said. rity agency as it struggles to cope with a basis, starting today. Trump’s aggressive immigration agenda. prominent Montreal-based en- post about the scandal.

New York orders mandatory measles vaccinations, blasts misinformation fuelling outbreak

By Jonathan Allen and Gina called “misinformation” spread Those who have not received short of an epidemic, local media Cherelus, Reuters by opponents of vaccination. the measles-mumps-rubella reported. New York The disease is easily spread vaccine, and cannot give other A growing and vocal fringe and can be fatal. evidence of immunity, such as of parents oppose vaccinations, While there have been no con- having previously had the mea- believing, contrary to scientifi c ew York City Mayor Bill fi rmed deaths so far, 21 people sles, will face a fi ne of up to evidence, that ingredients in the de Blasio yesterday de- have been hospitalised, with fi ve $1,000. vaccines can cause autism or Nclared a public health admitted to intensive care, offi - It is the fi rst time New York other disorders. emergency in parts of Brooklyn in cials said. All but 39 of the con- City has ordered mandatory vac- “There is a campaign with very response to a measles outbreak, fi rmed cases are in children. cinations in recent history, ac- intentional eff orts to give mis- requiring unvaccinated people The outbreak is part of a cording to health offi cials. information,” Herminia Palacio, living in the aff ected areas to get broader resurgence in the United The mandatory vaccination the city’s deputy mayor for public the vaccine or face fi nes. States, with 465 cases reported in order follows an order from the health, said at the news conference. The city’s largest measles out- 19 states so far this year, accord- Health Department last week Health offi cials also expressed break since 1991 has mainly been ing to the US Centers for Disease requiring yeshivas and day-care alarm at reports of parents in the confi ned to the Orthodox Jewish Control and Prevention. programs serving Williamsburg’s city holding so-called “measles community in the borough of The Brooklyn outbreak has Orthodox Jewish community to parties,” where they intention- Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neigh- been traced to an unvaccinated exclude unvaccinated children or ally expose their unvaccinated bourhood, with 285 cases con- child who became infected on a face fi nes or closure. children to an infected child in fi rmed since October, de Blasio visit to Israel, which is also grap- Another outbreak has hit Or- the mistaken belief doing so is a said at a news conference. pling with a measles outbreak, thodox Jewish families in New safe means to create immunity. That compares to only two re- according to New York City’s De- York’s Rockland County. “I understand that parents ported cases in 2017. partment of Health. Offi cials there banned chil- may be afraid of getting their “This is the epicentre of a mea- Offi cials from the Department dren not vaccinated against children vaccinated,” New York sles outbreak that is very, very of Health will check vaccination measles from public spaces last City Health Commissioner Ox- troubling and must be dealt with records of anyone who has been month. iris Barbot said at the news con- immediately,” de Blasio said. in contact with infected patients That order was overturned by ference. “I know that getting He was joined by health of- in certain parts of Brooklyn, of- a state judge on Friday, who said vaccinated is far safer than get- fi cials who decried what they fi cials said. the reported number of cases fell ting measles.” New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio addresses a news conference yesterday in Brooklyn, New York City. Gulf Times 12 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 ASIA

Thai junta accuses Hundreds of extremists to several diplomats of ‘breaching protocol’

Reuters Over a dozen diplomats Bangkok accompanied Future surrender in Bangladesh Forward Party leader Thanathorn AFP Rafi qul Islam, police chief in the ous insurrection movements methamphetamine traffi ck- Police detain 80 in anti- hailand’s foreign min- Juangroongruangkit Dhaka restive northwestern district of into retreat through a brutal ers turned themselves in under drug drive: At least 80 people istry yesterday said it when he reported to a Pabna, said. crackdown. an amnesty struck with local have been arrested in Dhaka over Twould talk to more than Bangkok police station Bangladesh’s western regions Rights groups have accused authorities. the selling and consuming drugs, a dozen foreign diplomats af- undreds of Bangladeshi have been wracked with con- the Rapid Action Battalion po- The government announced a IANS reports. ter the military government matic protocol and could been left-wing “extremists” fl ict since the 1970s until quite lice unit of extrajudicial killings no-holds-barred war on drugs Dhaka Metropolitan Po- accused them of “breaching seen as interfering in the Hwere to lay down their recently, with left-wing move- of left-wing fi gures in the coun- last year to purge Bangladesh of lice Deputy Commissioner protocol” by witnessing a ris- justice system. arms yesterday in what police ments including Maoist outfi ts try’s west and northwest. drugs, killing dozens of alleged Masudur Rahman said that ing political star being charged “We have told ambassadors say was the largest surrender of and tribal groups fi ghting the Islam said the surrender would dealers and methamphetamine the arrests took place over the with sedition. of each country before that its kind in decades in the South state from jungle redoubts. be the largest since 1997, when kingpins. last 24 hours in raids across The diplomats mainly from this sort of action is inappro- Asian nation. Bangladesh describes them as several thousand tribal fi ghters Their main target was to curb the capital, bdnews24.com Western nations and two in- priate,” Don told reporters. More than 600 insurgents “extremists” and blames them from the jungle-clad Chittagong the smuggling of “yaba”, a cheap reported. ternational organisations ac- Foreign ministry spokeswom- were expected to turn in home- for the assassinations of political hill tracts bordering Myanmar and addictive methampheta- Police offi cials recovered companied Future Forward an Busadee Santipitaks said the made weapons and fi rearms to fi gures and journalists, as well laid down their arms in a peace mine pill traffi cked to the country 2,639 yaba drug pills, 155 packs Party leader Thanathorn diplomats would be invited to Bangladesh’s home minister and as deadly attacks on the armed deal with the government. by the hundreds of millions. of heroin, 25 kg of marijuana, Juangroongruangkit on Sat- the ministry “to hear our expla- police chief at a formal ceremony forces and police. Two years later, 400 other Police said 24 “godfathers” eight bottles of Phensidyl and urday when he reported to a nation about the truth.” at a sports stadium, offi cials said. Their resistance waned with militants surrendered and were were among the traffi ckers who syringes during the raids. Bangkok police station to face Future Forward made a sur- “The government will work the formation of Bangladesh’s appointed to Bangladesh’s re- surrendered in Teknaf, a key bor- Forty-eight cases were fi led criminal charges. prisingly strong showing in to help rehabilitate them so they elite police unit in the mid- serve police force. der gateway for smuggling yaba against the detainees under the The former auto parts ty- the March 24 election, coming can return to society,” Sheikh 2000s, which forced the vari- Two months ago, roughly 100 into Bangladesh from Myanmar. Narcotics Control Act. coon was charged with sedi- in third with 6.2mn votes. tion and other violations for The party has joined an op- allegedly providing assistance position “democratic front” to anti-junta protesters in alliance that will try to form a 2015. He said the charges are government and block Prayut Protection from landslides politically motivated, which from staying in power. The fi - UN fears 30 the government denies. nal results of the election may “This is a matter concern- not be known for weeks. ing the Thai justice system and The sedition charge is Rohingya if we don’t have confi dence in the latest legal case against it and don’t follow our proc- Thanathorn and the progres- esses, then it could provide the sive, youth-oriented party he killed in opportunity for others to in- formed last year. terfere,” Prime Minister Pray- Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, ut Chan-o-cha told reporters. the party’s secretary-general, Myanmar Referring to the observers, received a police summons on Prayut said, “I am not sure if Tuesday for an online state- they were real diplomats.” ment he made about the dis- air attack Foreign diplomats have solution of another anti-junta observed police and court party in March. proceedings against political Police have accused him of DPA activists since the 2014 coup, contempt of court and breach- Yangon but Foreign Minister Don Pra- ing computer crime law, which mudwinai said it broke diplo- he denies.

he human rights offi ce of the United Nations said Over 320,000 hit by weather in Lanka Tyesterday that it fears dozens of Rohingya civilians Sri Lanka’s Disaster The Disaster Management may have been killed in a military Management Centre yesterday Centre said the lack of rains, helicopter attack in Myanmar’s said that the number of people especially in the mountainous Rakhine state last week, despite aff ected by the severe dry areas, resulted in a severe an offi cial government death toll weather conditions prevailing water shortage. of six. across the island country had Authorities said that they “We are now receiving re- risen to over 321,000. were continuing to send ports that the number may The worst aff ected districts water bowsers into the areas be much higher than that. We were Vavuniya and Jaff na to supply fresh water to the have unconfi rmed reports that in the north, Puttalam in the aff ected families. the number may be as high as North Western province and The Meteorology Department 30,” said Ravina Shamdasani, Rohingya refugees construct reinforcements to prevent landslides ahead of the monsoon season at a refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, Kegalle in the Sabaragamuwa said hot weather conditions spokesperson for the Offi ce of Bangladesh, yesterday. Province, Xinhua news agency were likely to rise further in the the High Commissioner for Hu- reported. coming days. (IANS) man Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva. Rakhine state has been roiled by confl ict since August 2017, when a series of attacks by Ro- hingya insurgents on police outposts triggered a military re- Lanka launches fi rst new Thai cave boy divers explore sponse that displaced more than 730,000 Rohingya civilians and killed an estimated 10,000. UN investigators have accused Chinese-funded rail line new tunnel in Vietnam Myanmar military leaders of having “genocidal intent.” IANS was awarded to China Na- opened and it will make re- AFP helped organise the dive, said years because its entrance was This year, the military has Beijing tional Machinery Import and gional transportation more Hanoi yesterday at a press conference hidden by thick surrounding turned its attention toward the Export Corporation, Chinese convenient and facilitate lo- announcing the fi nd. jungle. Arakan Army, a Buddhist insur- state news agency Xinhua said cal economic and social de- The three divers - Rick Stan- Only 30% of Vietnam’s Phong gent group that seeks political hina has fi nanced and in a report. velopment. The Sri Lankan hree divers who helped ton, Jason Mallinson and Chris Nha national park - where Son autonomy for Rakhine state. constructed Sri Lan- The Matara-Beliatta rail- people are pleased to see rescue a Thai football Jewell - were part of the daring Doong and a network of adjacent More than 20,000 civil- Cka’s fi rst new railway way line is the fi rst to be con- that and China is pleased Tteam last year have made rescue to save 12 Thai football- caves are located - has so far ians have been displaced by the line after the island nation be- structed in Sri Lanka since for the Sri Lankan people,” a fresh discovery in Vietnam ers and their coach who were been explored. fi ghting. came independent in 1948. 1948 and it includes the Lu said. where they explored a tunnel trapped in a cave for 18 days Son Doong is the world’s larg- According to villagers in the The 26.75km-long Matara- longest and second longest “China will like to expand that could expand the footprint last year. est cave by volume, big enough state’s Buthidaung township, Beliatta railway extension was railway bridges of 1.5km and and deepen our practical co- of the world’s largest cave. Stanton - who found the boys to house a New York city block army helicopters fi red on a group declared open for the public 1.04km, respectively, the state operation under the BRI and The team was invited to de- on a ledge - said the painstaking - including 40-storey skyscrap- of Rohingya day labourers while by Sri Lanka’s Transport and media said. deliver benefi ts to the peo- scend into a waterlogged pit in task of safely leading the group ers - according to Oxalis, which they were collecting bamboo on Civil Aviation Minister Arjuna Chinese foreign ministry ple with concrete outcomes,” the Son Doong cave in central out of the tunnel alive helped runs tours into the caves. Wednesday. Ranatunga on Monday. spokesperson Lu Kang con- Lu added. Vietnam that has never been ex- to prepare for the mission in Proposed plans to build a cable The army later confi rmed the China has invested heav- fi rmed Chinese funding of the China is Sri Lanka’s big- plored and is believed to connect Vietnam. car in the area have sparked anger attack and placed the death toll ily and pledged fi nancial loans project. gest lender. Sri Lanks’s envoy to nearby chambers. “Our planning and prepara- among the Vietnamese public at six, with nine wounded. to Sri Lanka, a strategically “Yes, the phase-one exten- to China in February said Co- They were forced back at 77m tion is without parallel,” he said. who fear it will harm the area’s The army-run newspaper located country in the Indian sion line of the southern rail- lombo will get a $1 billion loan (252ft) because they did not have The team plans to return to wildlife and pristine views. Myawady said the victims were Ocean. Beijing already has a way in Sri Lanka is the fi rst from China and might sign enough oxygen to push further, Vietnam next year to try to link An offi cial said yesterday there “together with terrorists while 99-year lease of Sri Lanka’s railway project contracted a free trade agreement with but they think the tunnels could the tunnel to another cave near were no plans to move ahead the army was cracking down Hambantota port, a result of by a Chinese company in Sri Beijing. be 120m deep. Son Doong, which is so big that with the project despite off ers on the Arakan Army’s terrorist Colombo’s failure to repay Lanka under the Belt and Road Sri Lanka is returning to If the tunnel connects to an- it has its own ecosystem and from several companies. activities.” Chinese debts. Initiative (BRI) and it is indeed normalcy after being hit by a other cave, it would make Son weather patterns. “That is only in theory, in The OHCHR has rejected that The railway extension was the fi rst railway built after the deep political crisis last year Doong “easily the largest cave The cave in central Quang truth, to build a cable car there is accusation, saying Myanmar’s fi nanced by the Export-Im- country’s independence,” the that plunged the credit rat- in the world and it would never Binh province was fi rst found by no such project yet,” Quang Binh attacks on civilians “may consti- port Bank of China (China spokesperson said. ing of the already-indebted be overtaken,” British cave ex- a local forager in 1991, but was province vice chairman Tran tute war crimes.” Exim Bank) and the contract “It is now offi cially country. pert Howard Limbert, who not re-discovered for another 19 Thien Dung said.

Female boss vows to shake up Bangladesh’s fashion factories Dutch PM in Vietnam

Thomson Reuters Foundation they should be given a greater the Rana Plaza factory collapsed “But I’m here now and, being contributing to the economy Chennai chance to voice their interests,” in 2013, killing 1,100 people. a woman, I believe my attitude is a much bigger narrative,” said Huq, the new president Huq said that manufactur- towards the challenges faced by she said. of the Bangladesh Garment ers needed to strengthen their women workers will be diff erent Labour rights campaigners he fi rst woman to head Manufacturers and Exporters own monitoring mechanisms and more empathetic.” said that while Huq had bro- one of Bangladesh’s big- Association. to help the government take Huq said she planned to ken through the glass ceiling Tgest garment associa- “Today, the workforce is over from the Bangladesh Ac- educate women workers to se- for women, her loyalties - as tions said yesterday she would largely women but people in cord - signed by about 200 cure their futures and step up head of Mohammadi Group - boost female leadership as most the managerial levels are mostly major brands. to mid-managerial levels in were more to businesses than factory workers were women, men. That needs to change.” The textile magnate, who was factories. workers. amid scrutiny over safety. In Bangladesh’s 4,500 fac- elected unopposed, said her de- “I would like to have a gen- “Her election is good but I am Rubana Huq, 55, is managing tories, women have tradition- cision to represent manufactur- der-based leadership pro- not sure how much impact she director of Mohammadi Group, ally had to negotiate with male ers and exporters was a natural gramme that ensures more will have in an organisation that which owns a string of facto- managers over pay, workplace extension of her two-decade women are empowered to take is still dominated by men,” said ries supplying brands like H&M safety and respect on the job, a career in the industry, where on these roles,” said Huq, who is Nazma Akter, a former child and Primark in Bangladesh, fact Huq wants to change. she is one of a handful of senior also an award-winning poet and worker and founder of Awaj the world’s second largest gar- Her election comes at a time female executives. columnist. Foundation, which campaigns ment exporter, employing 4mn when Bangladesh’s Supreme “As a woman there is always She dismissed allegations of for labour rights. people. Court is deciding whether to a hiccup and always a mindset labour abuse in the industry as “I wish she would look at is- Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, left, during a meeting with “I believe that in an indus- shut down a factory inspection to change,” she told the Thom- “isolated, negative practices”. sues of living wages, health of Vietnam’s President and Communist Party General Secretary try where more than 80% mechanism which was set up son Reuters Foundation from “The fact that 80% of our workers, maternity benefi ts and Nguyen Phu Trong in Hanoi yesterday. of the workers are women, by European fashion labels after Dhaka. women are freely working and violence in factories.” Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 13 ASIA/AUSTRALASIA

Taiwan president says US trade deal would boost security

AFP Addressing a think-tank fo- ists under Tsai’s Beijing-friend- free-market actors, we can re- the fl ow of this supply chain so is seeking to preserve market a raft of trade disputes, notably Washington rum in Washington by video, ly predecessor, Ma Ying-jeou. duce our economic reliance on that critical technologies, infra- dominance. US objections to Taiwan’s ban on Tsai said the US and Taiwanese “Taiwan’s economic diversifi ca- China and their capacity to in- structure and assets do not fall The United States recognis- meat with traces of ractopamine economies were “complemen- tion is related to whether we can terfere in our media, politics and into the wrong hands,” she said. es only Beijing but, under the — a feed additive to boost ani- aiwan’s President Tsai tary” and that a trade pact could remain a free and open society,” security,” Tsai told the forum at The United States has been 40-year-old Taiwan Relations mals’ growth that is widely used Ing-wen yesterday provide a model for the Indo- said Tsai, who emphasises the the Center for Strategic and In- pressing for countries to avoid Act, is required to provide the in the United States but banned Tpitched a trade deal with Pacifi c region. island’s unique identity and has ternational Studies. Huawei as they build their next- island with the means to defend in the European Union. the United States, saying it China, which considers Tai- seen growing friction with Bei- She said a trade deal was “par- generation networks. US Secre- itself. President Donald Trump would both safeguard the is- wan a province awaiting reuni- jing. ticularly relevant” amid wor- tary of State Mike Pompeo says With Taiwan enjoying wide has been critical of free-trade land’s security and address US fi cation, has long opposed inter- “China’s infl uence campaigns ries over Chinese telecom giant Huawei presents security and support in the US Congress, agreements, but Tsai voiced concerns over China’s growing national agreements involving are undertaken using economic Huawei and “the scramble for privacy concerns, but his cam- several lawmakers have called hope, saying his administration control over fi fth-generation the self-ruling democracy but actors. By aligning ourselves control over the future of 5G paign has had limited success for a free trade agreement with “has shown the capacity to be communications. poured in investment and tour- with the United States and other networks.” “We need to shape with critics saying Washington the island. But the two sides face creative when it comes to trade.” HK pro-democracy activists defi ant after guilty verdicts

Reuters Hong Kong

Hong Kong court yester- day found nine leaders of Athe 2014 pro-democracy Occupy Central pro-democracy movement founders Chan Kin-man, Benny Tai, Chu Yiu-ming chant slogans “Occupy” movement guilty of after being found guilty over the Occupy Central, also known as ‘Umbrella Movement’, in Hong Kong, China. public nuisance during the mass protests, in a landmark verdict not have the undesirable ef- nearly fi ve years since the Oc- parts of the global fi nancial hub as freedoms in the city ruled by fect of curtailing or suppressing cupy protests, democracy ac- for 79 straight days in late 2014, in mainland China come under civil disobedience at its forma- tivists, diplomats and business one of the boldest populist chal- strain. tion stage or suppressing human leaders have expressed grave lenges against Beijing in decades. Scores of supporters applaud- rights as the defendants con- concern over what they call Bei- The demonstrators were fi nally ed the defendants, who included tended,” it read. jing’s tightening grip on the city’s cleared away by police, having won a law professor, two legislators Since the city returned to Chi- freedoms. no concessions. and former student activists, af- nese rule in 1997, critics say Bei- Pro-democracy lawmakers Tai, Chan and Chu were the ter a trial that critics said high- jing has reneged on its commit- have been kicked out of the legis- main conspirators who planned lighted the decline of political ment to maintain Hong Kong’s lature, a pro-independence party the protests a year in advance, freedoms in the former British high degree of autonomy and banned, and democracy advo- said David Leung, the director colony. freedoms under a co-called “one cates jailed and barred from con- of public prosecutions, adding Law professor Benny Tai, 54, country, two systems” arrange- testing local elections. The six that they caused “unreasonable” retired sociologist Chan Kin- ment. Chris Patten, Hong Kong’s other defendants were pro-de- public disruptions. man, 60, and retired pastor Chu last colonial governor, called the mocracy legislators Tanya Chan About 87% of roughly 1,200 Yiu-ming, 75 were found guilty verdict “appallingly divisive”, and Shiu Ka-chun, two former protesters polled during the of conspiracy to commit public and a “vengeful pursuit” of past student leaders Eason Chung and demonstrations said they had nuisance over their leading role political events. In Beijing, For- Tommy Cheung, activist Raphael participated to “protect Hong in planning and mobilising sup- Former student leader Joshua Wong and activist Agnes Chow arrive at the court to support leaders of Occupy eign Ministry spokesman Lu Wong, and veteran democrat Lee Kong’s liberty”, a public opin- porters during the 79-day pro- Central activists, in Hong Kong, China. Kang told a regular news briefi ng Wing-tat. ion poll by the Chinese Univer- test. that criticising the verdict as in- They were each found guilty sity of Hong Kong cited in court The trio had pleaded not guilty Hong Kong with one last eff ort, and spurring sustained applause The concept of civil disobe- dicative of shrinking freedoms in of at least one public nuisance showed. to all charges, which carry a and to walk with Hong Kong from supporters. dience is “recognised in Hong the city was “illogical and base- charge. All nine were accused of But in his 268-page judgment, maximum jail term of seven years people one step further,” Chu Outside the court, some Kong”, Justice Johnny Chan said less”. inciting and mobilising protest- Chan said, “It is naive to suggest each. The judge did not immedi- said in a passionate fi nal speech punched their fi sts in the air and in a summary of his judgment, The central government sup- ers during the demonstrations that a concession to introduce ately hand down sentences, and in court, despite being in poor shouted, “We want universal but it was not a defence against a ported the move “to punish, that sought to pressure Beijing to the form of universal suff rage ... the defendants have not said if health. “We have no regrets ... suff rage.” Others sobbed as sup- criminal charge. according to law, the main ... allow full democracy. could be made by the govern- they planned to appeal. we have not given up,” he said, porters called them “fearless and “The off ence of conspiracy plotters of the illegal Occupy Hundreds of thousands of peo- ment overnight with a click of “I am determined to fi ght for moving some witnesses to tears, invincible”. to cause a public nuisance does (movement),” Lu added. In the ple blocked major roads in several the fi ngers.”

Burger King Sydney stopover pulls NZ Australian teen chopsticks ad after outcry escapes with caution in China Burger King pulled a promo- for egging far-right tional video in New Zealand showing customers trying to eat burgers with chopsticks senator Anning after it sparked an outcry in China and demands for an apology from the US fast food AFP would donate money raised chain. The video posted on a Sydney to the victims of the attacks. franchisee’s Instagram account Victoria state police said after showed Westerners with an investigating footage of the oversized chopstick in each n Australian teenager incident they would not be hand struggling to eat the com- lauded worldwide for pressing charges against Con- pany’s new “Vietnamese Sweet Aegging a far-right sena- nolly. Chilli Tendercrisp Burger”. tor who made off ensive com- “The 17-year-old Hampton Burger King said it asked the ments about the Christchurch boy has been issued with an franchisee to remove the video mosque attacks was let off with offi cial caution in relation to immediately. The video was a police caution for the inci- the incident,” police said in a deleted from the Instagram dent yesterday. statement. They said Anning account by yesterday after- William Connolly, now had also escaped charges. noon. “The ad in question is better known as “Egg Boy”, “On assessment of all the insensitive and does not reflect cracked an egg on the head of circumstances, the 69-year- our brand values regarding Fraser Anning during a March old’s actions were treated as diversity and inclusion,” Burger 16 press conference, prompt- self-defence and there was no King said in a statement to ing the senator to hit him sev- reasonable prospect of convic- Reuters. Social media users in eral times in the face. tion,” police said. China demanded an apology, The controversial politician Several men could be seen saying Burger King had made a had a day earlier drawn inter- pinning Connolly to the A cruise liner docks at the international terminal in Sydney Harbour yesterday. mockery of Asian customs and national condemnation when ground after the egging. Po- dining etiquette. he blamed the attacks in New lice said they had charged a Zealand that killed 50 people 20-year-old man with assault at two mosques last month following the incident. on immigration. Connolly’s Anning, who was elected in act spawned viral memes and 2017 by a fl uke of Australia’s drew support from around the proportional voting system, China meddling claims hit Australian govt before vote world, with a GoFundMe page has refused to apologise for raising more than A$80,000 his remarks and was last week (US$57,000) to help with any censured for his “ugly and di- AFP Dutton met privately in 2016 ference saga even as it trails in have never seen him since,” he forced to quit politics because of legal fees and “more eggs”. visive” comments by his par- Sydney with Chinese billionaire Huang polls ahead of an expected May told reporters. In response to his ties to Huang, told the ABC The 17-year-old said he liamentary peers. Xiangmo to discuss obtaining 18 election. ABC’s report, China’s foreign Dutton in 2015 fast-tracked a re- Australian citizenship. Huang was eventually de- ministry reiterated its position of quest for the billionaire’s family ustralia’s hardline im- Huang has been at the centre nied citizenship on the advice “non-interference in any coun- to hold a citizenship ceremony. Japan F-35 fighter disappears over Pacific migration minister was of a series of scandals including of Australian spy agencies and try’s internal aff airs”. Dastyari said it “blew him away” Aswept up in the deepen- accusations he bought infl uence barred last month from the “We also hope that media when Dutton took a few weeks to A Japanese F-35 stealth fighter jet with one pilot on board disap- ing saga over Chinese meddling in Canberra with millions in do- country on suspicions he is part can objectively and fairly report approve a fast-track request that peared from radar while on a training mission over the Pacific in domestic politics yesterday, nations to major political parties. of a Communist Party infl uence on China’s foreign policy ... and would typically take months to yesterday night, the defence ministry said. The fighter jet went delivering another blow to a gov- He has long denied any wrong- campaign. Dutton dismissed not upset China-Australia rela- rubber stamp. missing at around 7:30pm as it was flying some 135km east of Mis- ernment facing defeat in next doing. The ABC alleged Huang allegations of interference as tions,” Chinese foreign minis- Prime Minister Scott Mor- awa, northeastern Japan, a ministry spokeswoman said. It was not month’s election. paid a lobbyist thousands of dol- “nonsense”. try spokesman Lu Kang said at a rison defended his government immediately clear if it had it crashed, the spokeswoman said, adding: An investigation by national lars for private access to Dutton, “I have never received a dol- regular press briefi ng. yesterday, labelling Dastyari a “We are still trying to search for the aircraft.” The fate of the pilot was broadcaster ABC revealed that throwing Australia’s governing lar from this individual. I had one Former opposition Labor party “disgrace” for “betraying” his not immediately clear. Home Aff airs Minister Peter coalition into the foreign inter- meeting with him over lunch. I senator Sam Dastyari, who was country. Gulf Times 14 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 BRITAIN

Grenfell survivor ‘housed in hotel with no accessible bathroom’

Guardian News and Media the hotel where she lived with wash her son in a bucket. tels or serviced apartments. no other quiet space available. tion in Ladbroke Grove last De- children moved into Grenfell London her three young children for 16 “The council do not care Their wait for a permanent She obtained a microwave and cember that it is not fully adapt- Tower in July 2016. She is con- months, every time she needed about human dignity,” said Toy- home has been beset with prob- said she had to survive on Pot ed for a wheelchair user. fi ned to a wheelchair because of to use the toilet or have a shower, oshima-Lewis, a former teacher lems. The children have multiple Noodles with the water boiled in There is a gleaming kitchen a degenerative disc problem and disabled Grenfell Tower because her wheelchair would from Japan. “The way they have food allergies and have had hos- the microwave as she was unable that she is unable to use because has other health problems. survivor has accused not fi t into the bathroom. treated me and my children has pital treatment on several oc- to reach the kettle. she cannot reach the sink, stove Toyoshima-Lewis and her AKensington and Chelsea When she was unable to make made our trauma from the fi re casions after having an adverse After the fi re the council or cupboards in her wheelchair. family lived in fl at 9 on the third council of robbing her of her the journey to an accessible so much worse.” Toyoshima- reaction to the hotel food. promised the family permanent Instead the council has installed fl oor of Grenfell Tower. Like the dignity and making her trauma bathroom in another hotel fi ve Lewis’s account of her treatment Toyoshima-Lewis struggled accessible accommodation, but a table for her to use. The council hotel bathroom, her Grenfell worse by putting her up in ac- minutes away, she had to use a comes almost two years after to transfer from her wheelchair almost two years on she is still is understood to now be working front door was too narrow to fi t commodation where she was commode, which her children the Grenfell Tower fi re, which to the hotel bed as it was too nar- waiting for it to be completed. to further adapt the accommo- a wheelchair into and she had to unable to use the bathroom. Kohana, 11, Taiyou, 9, and Ao- left 202 households in need of row and she could not reach the After spending 18 months in ho- dation and providing two hous- leave her electric wheelchair and In her fi rst interview since the zora, 7, had to empty for her. Be- rehousing. She and her children keyhole of the hotel room door. tel accommodation, Toyoshima- ing occupational therapists and a scooter outside and transfer to a fi re, Mariko Toyoshima-Lewis, cause she was unable to get into are among the 19 that are still in Kohana used the bathroom to Lewis in desperation accepted personal assistant. smaller manual wheelchair in- 43, said she had had to leave the bathroom she was forced to temporary accommodation, ho- do her homework in as there was some temporary accommoda- Toyoshima-Lewis and her side the fl at. Doctor struck off over boy’s death allowed to return to work

Guardian News and Media The medical tribunal gave her London a suspended sentence but the General Medical Council (GMC) appealed and she was struck off , doctor who was struck causing an outcry among medi- off the medical register cal professionals. Later the court Aafter the death of a child of appeal reinstated Bawa-Garba and then reinstated after a battle to the medical register. The orig- through the courts has been told inal suspension was reinstated she can return to work under su- and then renewed for six months pervision. in December. French President Emmanuel Macron accompanies Prime Minister Theresa May after a meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris yesterday. Hadiza Bawa-Garba has not She has been supported by the worked since November 2015 Doctors’ Association UK, which when a jury convicted her of welcomed the decision. Dr Jenny gross negligence manslaughter Vaughan, its law and policy of- over her treatment of six-year- fi cer and the founder of the or- old Jack Adcock, who developed ganisation Manslaughter and sepsis and died of cardiac arrest Healthcare, said: “I’m a patient, at Leicester Royal Infi rmary in doctor and a mother and I know February 2011. that Jack Adcock should have Her case caused an outcry received better care. However, EU’s Tusk proposes among doctors who believed she Dr Bawa-Garba was working in had been made a scapegoat for the appalling conditions that day in failings of an overstretched NHS. an NHS hospital, and all the evi- Bawa-Garba now hopes to dence of what the hospital actu- resume working in February next ally needed to put right was not year as a trainee paediatrician. She heard by the jury. is currently on maternity leave. “There is a culture of blame in She will be under supervision, the NHS at the moment which, long Brexit delay with conditions on her medical if left unchecked, will mean pa- registration, for two years. tient safety is not what it should AFP fl exible extension, which would proved by lawmakers — who servative Party voted alongside requested a delay, and with no The medical practitioners’ tri- be as staff will be too scared to Brussels last only as long as necessary have already voted it down the opposition Labour Party to alternative dates chosen to be bunal service, reviewing her case admit their mistakes. The next and no longer than one year, as three times. back the prime minister’s ap- voted on by lawmakers yes- towards the end of a period of generation of those who want to beyond that date we will need To answer fears that Brit- proach by 420 votes to 110. terday, the vote was not a ma- suspension, found Bawa-Garba’s care will simply vote with their U Council president Don- to decide unanimously on some ain could exploit a long delay The main rebellion came jor fl ashpoint in the country’s fi tness to practise was impaired feet. It’s right that Dr Bawa- ald Tusk yesterday urged key European projects.” to disrupt EU budget planning from pro-Brexit Conservatives long-running political crisis after four years without contact Garba is going to be restored to Ethe bloc’s leaders to allow Under this so-called “fl ex- and reforms as a way to try to who want Brexit to happen over how to deliver Brexit. with a patient. But the tribunal the medical register as the hos- Britain to delay Brexit for up to tension” arrangement, Britain win further Brexit concessions, sooner. Meanwhile, the Labour Party said she understood what had pital too was at fault and should a year, as London and Brussels could leave the bloc as soon as Tusk recommended any post- “We should all be very clear said it had not yet seen a clear gone wrong and had undertaken have provided better care. We scramble to avoid a chaotic “no parliament ratifi ed the with- ponement come with strict what this extension would be shift in May’s position after remedial training. The tribunal’s are calling for a just culture so deal”. drawal agreement. conditions. for — it is all about making talks with the government yes- job was not to punish but to pro- that the system here is made Prime Minister Theresa May “Importantly, a long exten- These would include no reo- sure we leave the EU in a time- terday aimed at fi nding a way tect patients, it said. safer, as locking up individuals has asked for Brexit to be post- sion would provide more cer- pening of the near 600-page ly and orderly way and that out the Brexit impasse. “We The tribunal “was satisfi ed achieves nothing.” poned to June 30 but Tusk said tainty and predictability by re- withdrawal agreement signed means leaving with a deal,” had further detailed and wide- that Dr Bawa-Garba has suf- Dr Samantha Batt-Rawden, the evidence of recent months moving the threat of constantly by May and EU leaders in No- government solicitor-general ranging talks with Cabinet min- fi cient insight into her convic- the chair of the Doctors’ Asso- gave “little reason to believe” shifting cliff -edge dates,” Tusk vember and a promise from Robert Buckland said ahead of isters and offi cials yesterday,” a tion, its seriousness and its con- ciation UK, said: “This verdict, divided British lawmakers wrote. London that it would maintain the vote. Labour spokesperson said. “We sequences” and that the public whilst welcome, is no cause of would ratify a divorce deal by “Furthermore, in the event “sincere co-operation” during The vote itself was the cul- have yet to see the clear shift in interest had been served by two celebration. There are no win- then. of a continued stalemate, such the extension. mination of an unprecedent- the government’s position that periods of suspension, of 12 and ners in this desperately sad case. “This is why I believe we a longer extension would al- Earlier, lawmakers endorsed ed power grab in parliament is needed to secure a compro- six months. However, restoring Dr Bawa- should also discuss an alterna- low the UK to rethink its Brexit May’s request to the European by lawmakers who this week mise agreement.” Bawa-Garber was given a sus- Garba to the medical register is tive, longer extension,” Tusk strategy.” Union to delay Brexit until June passed a law against the gov- The two sides have agreed to pended sentence after her con- the right outcome and will go wrote, in a letter inviting EU May made a whirlwind tour 30 at a vote in parliament yes- ernment’s wishes, seeking continue their talks tomorrow, viction for Adcock’s death. An some way in addressing the cur- leaders to the emergency Brexit of Berlin and Paris yesterday terday, adding weight to the guarantees that May would not Labour said. investigation later said “multi- rent climate of fear and blame in summit he will host in Brussels to plead with Europe’s key pitch she will make to EU lead- let Britain leave the EU without Earlier, May’s spokesman ple systemic failures” were also the NHS which is so toxic to pa- today. powerbrokers for more time to ers in Brussels. a deal on April 12. called yesterday’s talks wide- involved in the death. tient safety.” “One possibility would be a try to get her divorce deal ap- The majority of May’s Con- But because May has already ranging and productive. More than 1,000 schools Snow-covered Fugitive to appear turn to online donations in court tomorrow Daily Mail His legal aid-funded appeal London is based on perceived legal er- Guardian News and Media rious alarm bells for the govern- community primary school. rors made by the judge in rela- London ment,” said Paul Whiteman, the “The school at which I teach, tion to his police interview. National Association of Head Grove Road, does a great job of peedboat killer Jack If it fails, he could ask the Teachers’ general secretary. managing its budget to provide Shepherd has vowed Strasbourg court to uphold his ore than 1,000 schools While a signifi cant part of the core things we need, but Sto pursue his ‘human “human right to a fair trial”, across England are the activity includes tradi- there is so much more that we as rights’ at Europe’s top court to claiming he was unable to de- Mturning to crowdfund- tional parent-teacher associa- teachers often require to enrich clear his name. fend himself properly at the ing websites and wishlists to tion fundraising eff orts, for new our children’s education,” Mor- He is appealing against his Old Bailey – even though this raise money, with many appeal- playgrounds or sports facilities, land said. conviction over the death of is because he had absconded. ing for basic supplies such as many explicitly mention the ef- “We’re not a well-off school Charlotte Brown – whom he The Strasbourg court has pencils, glue and textbooks. fects of government funding and, unlike many in the Harrogate still blames for the tragedy. But nothing to do with the Euro- A Guardian investigation has cuts in their appeals to support- area, we can’t rely on a stream of if British courts reject his bid pean Union and Britain will revealed the extent to which ers. The pages have been set up extra income from our families, for freedom, he plans to take his remain under its jurisdiction schools across the country are by schools, teachers, parents, with many of our children from case to the European Court of after Brexit. turning to online fundraising in PTAs and even students. disadvantaged backgrounds or Human Rights – which has the Shepherd, a web designer the teeth of government budget One school, Lainesmead Pri- single-parent homes.” power to rule his trial was unfair. who spent 10 months living in- cuts, with 700 crowdsourc- mary school in Swindon, is seek- Chris Parkhouse, Grove A source close to his legal cognito in Georgia before being ing donations made through ing funds to buy equipment that Road’s headteacher, said Mor- team in Georgia, where he fl ed tracked him down, is due to be websites such as Justgiving and it cannot aff ord. “Unfortunately, land was “an inspiration for all last year, said: “He will pursue extradited to the UK to start Crowdfunder, and 300 schools due to government budget cuts, of us” because of his fundraising every avenue to clear his name. his six-year jail sentence. He is using Amazon wishlists. last year we lost £80,000 and had eff orts, which have so far raised Jack knows his rights... He will expected to face an Old Bailey The schools involved range to make several redundancies. Our more than £600. take it to the European Court judge tomorrow. from large secondaries and elite dire fi nancial situation has con- Parkhouse said his school had of Human Rights if he can. But He has issued a reluctant grammar schools to small prima- tinued this year and we are hav- used a wide range of fundraising he is quietly confi dent his fi rst apology to Brown’s parents, ry schools and outstanding spe- ing to make further cutbacks,” the activities, including a 24-hour appeal will succeed.” but shamelessly continues to cial needs schools, all of which school says on its Justgiving page. sponsored “bounce-athon” to Shepherd, 31, was last July blame her for her own death. have received fi nancial support In another case, Harrogate help refurbish the early years’ play- convicted at the Old Bailey He claims she was driving his from four crowdfunding websites teacher Stephen Morland has ground, and to enhance its status in his absence for the man- defective speedboat when it since 2017 and can be identifi ed pledged to run 1,000 miles over as an inclusive, diverse school with A lamb and a sheep stand in a snow covered meadow on a slaughter of Brown, 24, who hit a fl oating log. as state schools in England. 200 days, using a Justgiving a high percentage of special needs cold spring day at the Brookside Farm in Croglin, Carlisle, died when his speedboat He said from his cell in the “The fact so many schools are page to help fund maths and pupils and many for whom English Cumbria. fl ipped on the Thames on a Georgian capital Tbilisi: “Her doing this should be ringing se- music at his school, Grove Road is an additional language. drunken fi rst date in 2015. actions led to the fatal accident.” Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 15

BRITAIN Daughter pleads for release of mum facing jail in Dubai

Daily Mail when Pedro dos Santos, a Por- ported Shahravesh to Dubai police in a foreign country at the age of was crying, so they began to shout how scared I felt, especially af- and did not appear to match her London tuguese banker, left Shahravesh over the comments. 14. In the letter she described her at her constantly, telling us both ter losing my father just a week mother’s two-hour account, Paris after 18 years of marriage for a The 55-year-old was detained fear of losing her mother, just a not to cry. before, as I was having to worry said. The teenager said that they younger woman. along with Paris when she landed week after the unexpected death “Finally, at midnight my moth- about losing my mother as well,” were once again “intermittently he teenage daughter of a Shahravesh, from Richmond at Dubai airport to attend the fu- of her father from a heart attack at er was given a document written she said. yelled at” and then “told that we British woman facing jail in west London, admits to lash- neral of Santos last month. the age of 51. in Arabic which she did not un- “Yet even though I felt terrifi ed would be helped, before being Tin Dubai for calling her ex- ing out on the social network after She faces up to two years in The teenager, who is currently derstand and was given no choice on the day that we arrived, the told that there was nothing that husband’s new wife a ‘horse’ has learning that Santos had married prison and a fi ne of £50,000 for being cared for by relatives in the but to sign in order for us leave sick feeling in my stomach only they could do”. issued a heart-breaking plea for his lover. allegedly breaching the country’s UK, wrote: “The police forced us the airport police station.” The became worse.” She described She added: “The next day I had clemency. She claims she wrote two com- strict cyber-crime laws and is to sit in the immigration wait- teenager became even more fear- how her mother was later told to to leave Dubai without my moth- In an emotional letter to Du- ments – from the UK – in Farsi currently staying in a hotel with ing room for four hours, as they ful about her mother’s plight after sign another Arabic document er, and without the closure that I bai authorities, 14-year-old Paris where she called her ex-husband orders not to leave the country tried everything that they could police confi scated her passport which offi cials claimed was her had wished to gain from attending Shahravesh said: “Please let my an idiot and his new Tunisian wife ahead of tomorrow’s hearing. to transfer my mother to the po- and banned her from leaving the ‘statement’. my father’s funeral in Dubai. But I mum come home.” ‘a horse’. Santos’s second wife Paris described her terror at be- lice station. The police refused to country. But the words on the page had no other choice other than to The saga began three years ago Samah al-Hammadi, 42, later re- ing interrogated by police offi cers listen to my mother because she “I cannot emphasise enough amounted to a “mere paragraph”, leave as I had school to attend.”

Hacker New Charles portrait gets six Government years in prison unveils major DPA London

court yesterday sentenced a prolifi c hacker to six Ayears and fi ve months in overhaul of prison after he was convicted of blackmailing Internet users worldwide, in a campaign linked to organised criminals in Russia and other countries. Zain Qaiser, 24, was part of a “sophisticated organised crime divorce laws group” that targeted visitors to pornographic websites with ma- Daily Mail demand” and more couples split- rates” and produce a long-term licious browser-locking soft- London ting. Under existing divorce law, increase in the number of married ware, prosecutors said. which dates from 1969, there are couples splitting. The Crown Prosecution Serv- fi ve grounds for divorce. “The government is going to ice (CPS) said the London-based ivorce laws are undergoing Two do not involve any claim of make divorce easier so sadly, as former university computer sci- a radical overhaul to try to fault – a couple can be divorced af- has happened in every previous ence student had “worked with Dlimit the blame and bitter- ter two years of separation if both liberalisation of divorce law, the top-level cyber criminals based ness of marital break-up. agree, or after fi ve years if just one number of divorces will go up, as in Eastern Europe, who made The shake-up – the biggest in wants a divorce. will the misery it causes to fami- huge profi ts from the distribution 50 years – will sweep away the At-fault divorces are more lies. This will increase the insecu- of ransomware.” legal principle that one partner common, usually because they are rity that many people feel within British police said Qaiser was should usually be identifi ed as at quicker. One ground is adultery, their marriages, since it will mean a member of “an international, ‘fault’ for a split. another is unreasonable behav- that one partner can simply re- Russian-speaking organised The three grounds for an at- iour, which can include fi nancial sign from the marriage, leaving crime group that made massive fault divorce – adultery, unrea- irresponsibility, abuse and obses- the other partner little time or profi ts from victims in more than sonable behaviour and desertion sive behaviour. A third reason, de- opportunity to rescue it.” Gauke 20 countries.” – will be axed. sertion, is used only rarely. intends to bring a legislative bill He laundered his earnings ‘Irretrievable breakdown’ be- Under the new system, divorce before Parliament “as soon as through an international network comes the sole reason and it will will follow after one partner de- time allows”. However its passage of “illegitimate fi nancial service take just one party to state that a clares the marriage has irretriev- through Westminster may not be providers,” including cyber crim- marriage is over. ably broken down. There will unchallenged. inals in China and the US, the Na- The legal right for a husband or however be a cooling-off period of In the mid-1990s John Major’s tional Crime Agency said. wife to contest a divorce will also six months for “refl ection and an Tory government introduced a “Qaiser is a member of a pro- be dropped. opportunity to turn back” before no-fault divorce bill which ran into lifi c and technically sophisticated Drawn up by Justice Secretary the divorce is fi nalised. a powerful backbench rebellion. international criminal organisa- David Gauke, the reforms follow This is designed to give people a Although eventually passed in tion that has terrorised Internet years of campaigning by fam- chance to change their minds. 1996, the Family Law Act proved users throughout the world,” said ily lawyers and judges. They have The new law will allow a couple unworkable and was repealed by Russell Tyner of the CPS organ- been trying to remove the idea of for the fi rst time to lodge a joint Tony Blair’s government. ised crime division. fault, which they say can increase application for divorce. It will keep Gauke’s proposals were wel- “While he enjoyed an extrava- confl ict, reduce the chances of the two-stage process, where a comed by Christina Blacklaws, gant lifestyle on the proceeds, reconciliation and undermine re- ‘decree nisi’ is followed by a ‘de- president of the Law Society of Qaiser subjected his victims to a lationships with children. cree absolute’. England and Wales. prolonged and relentless cam- Gauke said: “Hostility and con- The right to contest a divorce She said: “The government’s paign of blackmail, which caused fl ict between parents leave their will also go, meaning a husband or decision to introduce a no-fault them signifi cant fi nancial and mark on children and can damage wife who wants to save their mar- divorce will help to cut some of the emotional harm,” Tyner said. their life chances. While we will riage will be unable to block the confl ict from what can be a highly Qaiser made more than always uphold the institution of process. Divorce rates are at their stressful experience. For separat- £500,000 by targeting millions marriage, it cannot be right that lowest in 45 years. But Whitehall ing parents, it can be much more of computers with messages pur- our outdated law creates or in- assessments have warned that diffi cult to focus on the needs of porting to be from government creases confl ict between divorcing when the new law comes into their children when they have to agencies in their home countries couples. I have listened to calls for operation there is likely to be an prove a fault-based fact against since 2012. He threatened the Prince Charles unveils a new portrait of himself painted by local artist Gareth Reid during a visit to reform and fi rmly believe now is instant rise in divorce as couples their former partner. Introducing victims with prosecution unless Hillsborough Castle and Gardens with the Duchess of Cornwall in Hillsborough, Northern Ireland, the right time to end this unneces- rush to take advantage of it. After a no-fault divorce will change the they paid “fi nes” to unlock their yesterday. sary blame game for good.” that, offi cials have said, “there is way couples obtain a divorce – for devices. Critics fear a rise in “divorce on a possibility that it could impact the better.”

On Your Feet! musical Storm brews over Woman jailed for false BBC’s Cornish cover-up

£2.5mn NHS claim Daily Mail said. “The Isles of Scilly are small London and precious and we need to keep awareness up about them. Stand- Daily Mail She claimed to have been High Court using a walking stick, ing right in front of them doesn’t London particularly upset that she had was sentenced in her absence ome rain or shine, one help at all. They are Cornwall’s not been able to go to daugh- after she appeared to swallow a thing seemingly guaran- islands so we feel we need to stand ter Tania Bunston’s hen do. But number of pills and was taken to Cteed to upset the locals in up for them. mother sued the NHS photographs posted on Facebook hospital shortly before the judge Cornwall is the weather forecast “Weather predominantly for £2.5mn claiming she showed her in an Ibiza nightclub, returned to the courtroom. itself. comes from the west and often Ahad been left crippled by wearing a straw hat and sash, Judge Karen Walden-Smith Tourism chiefs say BBC pre- they start with talking about that. botched surgery – only to be pic- with her daughter and other said: “This was a deliberate and senters often stand in front of the Presenters talk about it and move tured partying in Ibiza. women. persistent making of false state- South West when explaining what on before giving the correct fore- Lesley Elder, 50, said she could Elder insisted the trip was not ments for the purpose of falsely is in store for Britain. cast for the rest of the country. no longer work or perform rou- a hen party but a holiday. How- recovering signifi cant monies That means no one can see what But even if it is wet elsewhere, it tine tasks without help. ever the group was female only from a publicly-funded body.” the weather will be like in one of is often very diff erent in Corn- But her claim unravelled when – and all wore T-shirts with the Given the “great seriousness” the country’s favourite holiday wall and the weather has already NHS lawyers produced photo- slogan ‘Tania’s hen party’. of the contempt committed by regions. Worse still, they claim, blown through by the time they graphs of her partying after mid- Surveillance by private inves- Elder, a jail sentence was inevi- broad ‘throwaway’ predictions of talk about it. night at her daughter’s hen do. tigators showed she regularly table, she added. “This was an rain coming in from the West tend “It is especially important Elder saw her damages drasti- went shopping and exercised attempt to eff ectively defraud to ignore Cornwall’s sunnier, drier around times like Easter and this cally reduced and has now been her dog without using a walk- the NHS of a sum of more than climate. forecast aff ects people making jailed for lying during the case. ing stick. The judge hearing £2mn – public funds which are Malcolm Bell, chief executive of short breaks. This equates to 25% She had sued the George Eliot her claim in 2017 found Elder, a desperately needed for frontline Visit Cornwall, has complained to of our business, so that is £400mn Hospital NHS Trust in Nunea- mother-of-two who appeared services.” The judge said Elder the BBC, saying inaccurate fore- a year. Careless weather words can ton, Warwickshire, after under- in court in a wheelchair, had had suff ered a genuine injury as casts could cost the tourism in- cost money. We don’t want them going an operation in 2010 that it “grossly, dishonestly and repeat- a result of the surgery, which it dustry millions of pounds. to lie but just be accurate and instil turned out was unnecessary. edly” exaggerated her symptoms later transpired was unnecessary He has met the BBC Weather a bit of caution. This weekend was Elder, of Poole, Dorset, said The NHS Trust brought commit- because she had been misdiag- team, including BBC Breakfast a classic as it was not as bad as fi rst she had been left severely disa- tal proceedings against her over nosed. forecast presenter Carol Kirk- forecast.” bled by the operation. She had the lies she had told during the The NHS trust admitted liabil- Singers Gloria Estefan and Christie Prades pose for a wood, to convey his concerns. “We The BBC said: “We welcome to use a walking stick and due to case and on Friday she was jailed ity but disputed the amount she photograph at the London Coliseum theatre where the “On complained about the throwa- feedback from our viewers and the chronic pain in her leg was for fi ve months after being found claimed, and the county court Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan” musical way lines and presenters standing know how important it is for our unable to do many activities she in contempt of court. judge at the 2017 hearing ruled will start in June. in front of the Isles of Scilly and audience to get accurate and up- previously enjoyed. Elder, who hobbled into the Elder was entitled to £120,000. sometimes west Cornwall,” he to-date forecasts..” Gulf Times 16 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 EUROPE Alpine glaciers risk 90% melt by 2100, says study

By Patrick Galey, AFP However, as humans pump out cede towards the century’s end – tion, representing 5% or less of European scientists said that the “A glacier is a reservoir. Even a boost glaciers currently provide Vienna more and more planet-warming a scenario known among clima- the present-day ice volume,” said world’s glaciers had lost around healthy glacier will typically melt through tourism, they also play gases through burning fossil fu- tologists as RCP 2.6 – they found Matthias Huss, a researcher at 9tn tonnes of ice since 1961, con- in summer and become a bit big- a role in helping produce hydro- els, construction, aviation and that one-third of Alpine glacier ETH Zurich and study co-author. tributing to a 27mm rise in global ger in winter. That means that electric power in several Alpine nchecked greenhouse gas mega-farming, those mountain- mass would survive. Earth’s atmosphere currently sea levels. when people need water most, nations. emissions could see more side ice sheets are in danger. However, under RCP 8.5 – es- contains more than 400 parts per Europe’s glaciers contain they get water from the glacier,” The glaciers also protect peo- Uthan 90% of glaciers in A team of researchers in Swit- sentially a business-as-usual million of carbon dioxide (CO2) – around 100 cu km of ice – equiv- Zekollari told AFP. ple living in the valleys beneath the Alps disappear by the end of zerland used cutting-edge cli- approach where man-made the highest level in three million alent to around 400mn Olympic “If the glacier disappears them. the century, scientists said yes- mate models and paired them emissions continue to rise as the years. swimming pools of water. you don’t have this reservoir. In “We know that if glaciers are terday in new research. with the most sophisticated global population swells – the Perhaps most troublingly, the Harry Zekollari, from Delft the Alps maybe this is OK but if changing a lot they are more There are more than 4,000 measurements of glaciers to date models turned up worrying re- team found that due to historic University of Technology in the you consider the Andes and the prone to cause natural hazards,” glaciers – vast reserves of ice – to compare how they fared under sults. emissions and current CO2 lev- Netherlands, led the Alpine gla- Himalayas, there are billions of said Zekollari. dotted throughout the Alps, pro- various emissions scenarios. “In this pessimistic case, els, the Alps will lose half of its cier study. people living there who really He said people could expect viding seasonal water to millions Under a situation where the Alps will be mostly ice free glaciers no matter what is done He said that people did not ap- need the water from the glaciers,” more frequent fl ash fl oods and and forming some of Europe’s greenhouse gas emissions peak by 2100, with only isolated ice about emissions. preciate how crucial the giant ice he said. landslides as the glaciers con- most stunning landscapes. within a few years and rapidly re- patches remaining at high eleva- The study came a day after structures were. Aside from the economic tinue to melt.

Malta evacuates Turkish ruling party to migrant from seek fresh Istanbul vote rescue Reuters nary appeal today. We will say appeals were unlawful. vessel Istanbul/Ankara that there have been events that “You are complaining and ap- directly impacted the outcome pealing nonstop, and this shows of the elections and that we de- one of two things. Either you AFP resident Recep Tayyip Er- mand the renewal of the elec- are so incompetent that you Valletta dogan’s AK Party (AKP) tions in Istanbul,” he said. can’t even get an election right, Pwill demand a new vote in Yavuz later tweeted that the or you are such sore losers that Istanbul, a senior party offi cial appeal could happen “in coming you can’t accept defeat,” CHP woman among 64 mi- said yesterday after its bid was days”. spokesman Faik Oztrak said. grants rescued in the rejected for a citywide recount He said if the YSK rejected The YSK’s decision on the AMediterranean by Ger- of March 31 election results that the party’s appeal to renew the AKP’s appeal for a fresh vote in man charity Sea-Eye was evacu- appeared to hand the party de- votes, doubt over the elections Istanbul will be fi nal. ated to Malta yesterday after feat. would remain until the next If rejected, the ongoing re- feeling unwell, the charity and Initial results show the main mayoral polls due in fi ve years. counts across the city will be Valletta said. opposition Republican People’s Erdogan said on Monday that completed and the results fi nal- The 24-year-old woman was Party (CHP) narrowly won con- the local elections were marred ised. taken from the Alan Kurdi ship trol of Turkey’s biggest city in by “organised crime” at ballot If the appeal is accepted, the after her low blood pressure and the mayoral elections, seeming- boxes in Istanbul, raising the re-run of elections in Istanbul fainting spells prompted the ly bringing an end to the 25-year possibility of re-running the would be held on the fi rst Sun- captain to call Maltese authori- rule there by the AKP and its Is- vote in the city of some 15nmn day 60 days after the initial elec- ties for help. lamist predecessors. residents. tions, which would be June 2. “They reacted promptly and Since the vote, the AKP has Erdogan’s comments, his Erdogan’s party also lost the professionally and initiated the fi led a series of requests for re- strongest challenge yet to the mayoralty in the capital Ankara evacuation of the young wom- counts in the city. election process in Istanbul, to CHP candidate Mansur Yavas, an,” Sea-Eye said. Overnight, the High Election briefl y drove the lira down and despite seeking recounts across Malta confi rmed the opera- Board (YSK) rejected a request also weighed on Turkish stocks. the city. tion in a brief statement. to recount all votes across 31 of The lira was steady at 5.6850 Yavas received his mandate The Alan Kurdi rescued the 64 Istanbul’s districts, the party’s to the dollar yesterday. on Monday after the YSK upheld people – including 12 women, a representative at the YSK said. In Istanbul, CHP candidate the initial results. child and a baby – off the Liby- The YSK agreed only to a re- Ekrem Imamoglu called on the Erdogan said that the scale an coast on April 3 as they were count of 51 ballot boxes, spread YSK to fi nalise the election re- of irregularities his party had making the perilous journey to across 21 of the city’s total 39 sults as soon as possible and said uncovered meant the margin Europe. districts, but the AKP called this that the AKP was to blame for of votes between Istanbul’s top The rescue ship initially tried decision “unfathomable”. the uncertainty surrounding the two candidates, currently at less to take them to the Italian island Speaking to reporters in Is- vote. A banner with a picture of main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) mayoral candidate Ekrem than 15,000 in a city of 10mn of Lampedusa, but Italy’s far- tanbul, AKP deputy chairman “If they’re looking for the Imamoglu reading ‘Istanbul alliance has won’ is seen next to a billboard reading ‘Municipality has been voters, was too narrow for the right Interior Minister Matteo Ali Ihsan Yavuz said that his perpetrators, they should look in won with heart, Thank you Istanbul’, portraying AKP ruling party mayor candidate Binali Yildirim and opposition to claim victory. Salvini refused to let them land party would fi le an extraordinary the mirror. Look in the mirror if President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in Kadikoy district of Istanbul. However, his AKP candidate and said Berlin should take them. appeal to the YSK for a fresh vote you want to see who is responsi- and former prime minister Binali Salvini eventually accepted in Istanbul over what he said ble for this,” he said. pull Turkey out of recession. of stellar economic growth. illegal appointments of repre- Yildirim had declared victory by for the two minors and their were irregularities that directly The election defeat in Istan- The Turkish president has To justify its calls for recounts sentatives at ballot boxes and ir- some 3,000 votes in Istanbul on mothers to disembark, but they impacted the outcome. bul, if confi rmed, would be a dominated Turkish politics for and for a full re-run of the elec- regularities across the city. election night, before conceding refused to do so without the “We will fi le our extraordi- setback for Erdogan’s eff orts to more than 16 years on the back tions, the AKP said there were The CHP said that the AKP’s that Imamoglu held a lead. children’s fathers, who were not allowed to off the ship. The vessel then headed for Malta, which has since last year allowed rescued migrants to dis- embark only provided that a deal Talks between striking teachers, Polish government collapse to redistribute them among oth- er European countries has been agreed. AFP to end or limit the strike,” said An experienced teacher in The strike comes as the gov- Yesterday Malta authorised Warsaw Slawomir Wittkowicz, an of- Poland gets a gross base sal- ernment has rolled out a raft food and water to be delivered fi cial from the Trade Unions ary of nearly 3,500 zloty (€814, of generous social spending to the vessel, which had been ra- Forum. $921), which is around 70% of measures ahead of European tioning supplies. oland’s conservative “Today’s meeting was a the average monthly salary, ac- elections in May and a general The rescued migrants and 17 government and teacher waste of time,” he added after cording to the ZNP. election this fall to shore up crew are all sleeping in a room Punions have announced brief talks with Deputy Prime Solidarity had agreed to the popularity dented by a string of designed for 20 people. the breakdown of talks meant Minister Beata Szydlo. government’s proposal of a 15% scandals. Around a third of those res- to bring an end to a national Wittkowicz and Slawomir salary hike. Focusing its campaign on cued are suff ering from sea sick- strike for higher wages, putting Broniarz, president of the ZNP The other unions are calling bread-and-butter issues, the ness, the aid group said. a question mark over upcoming Polish Teachers Union, accused for around double that. PiS has passed a pension hike Italy’s tough line on the issue school exams. the government of off ering Szydlo for her part stressed and vowed to expand a child al- has seen many boats that pick up As many as 80% of schools in no new proposals beyond the that it is necessary to meet the lowance it launched after taking migrants making the dangerous some Polish regions launched agreement it signed on Sun- timetable for exams, which be- offi ce in late 2015. journey across the Mediterra- the indefi nite strike on Monday, day with the Solidarity union, gin this morning for secondary It has also promised no in- nean increasingly return them to according to unions, in a move which is close to the ruling con- school students and next Mon- come tax for employees under chaos-wracked Libya. that challenges the Law and servatives. day for those in primary school. 26 years of age, lower income But there they face human Justice (PiS) party government The other unions and striking Public offi cials continued tax for pensioners and special traffi cking, kidnap, torture and in an election year. teachers found Sunday’s agree- yesterday to look for substitutes allowances for the owners of rape, according to the United “There’s no reason to expect ment insuffi cient. who could supervise the exams. cows and pigs. Szydlo: stressed that it is necessary to meet the timetable for exams. Nations and aid groups.

Hungarians start news agency with pro-Orban content Smugglers who hid

Reuters Last month, Arpad Habony, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and A report about Matteo Salvini, man in coffi n jailed Budapest Orban’s main spin doctor and the Czech Republic. leader of Italy’s League, anti-im- eminence grise (someone who It plans more coverage of other migrant interior minister and ally exercises power or infl uence in a centres in the run-up to Euro- of Orban, was headlined “Salvini: AFP When guards searched the group of Hungarian busi- certain area without holding an pean Parliament elections due in Citizens should control Europe”. Lille, France consignment they found an ness leaders and politi- offi cial position), acquired a 40% May. “Hungarian minister on EP Iraqi national lying inside one Acians close to Prime Min- stake in V4NA via his London “Our team of 50 journalists elections: Hungarian votes also of the boxes. ister Viktor Orban has founded political advisory fi rm, Danube and rapid-response news teams matter” and “Immigration is a French court has sen- The smugglers feigned sur- an international news agency Business Consulting Ltd. are on location where the lead- war of cultures and civilisations” tenced two Polish truck prise, saying they were not in London, whose coverage will Orban: one of the fiercest critics Subsequently, New Wave Me- ing stories happen in Europe: were headlines that borrowed di- Adrivers to 14-month jail aware of his presence. focus on central and eastern Eu- of immigration to Europe. dia Group, owned by KESMA, a London, Brussels, Paris, Berlin, rectly from Orban’s rhetoric. terms for trying to smuggle an But the court noted that “the rope. foundation that controls most Prague, Budapest, Belgrade, Bra- In an e-mailed statement, Iraqi migrant across the Chan- coffi n wasn’t accessible from Orban’s associates have gained far more critical of him than lo- of Hungary’s pro-government tislava, Warsaw,” the agency says V4NA said it off ered a “conserv- nel to Britain in a coffi n, local the outside without destroying control over a large chunk of the cal media. media, acquired a 57% stake from on its web site, V4NA.com. ative, right-wing perspective” on authorities said yesterday. a lock” meaning that the man Hungarian media in recent years, The new agency’s early con- Szalay-Bobrovniczky. Most of the site’s content is European news. The men showed up at the could not have climbed aboard and his Fidesz party has taken to- tent suggests it is more sympa- Despite its huge role in the behind a paywall, but the se- It did not answer questions Calais entrance to the Channel en route without help from the tal control of state media, draw- thetic to him. Hungarian media market, KES- lection of front-page headlines about its relations with Hun- Tunnel linking France to Eng- drivers”, Marconville added. ing international accusations The new company, called MA was exempted from regula- resonates with the populism of gary’s government or its business land on April 2 in a van fi lled The men received 14-month that they are weakening freedom V4NA, was registered in London tory scrutiny last year on grounds Orban, one of the fi ercest critics plans. with coffi ns, local prosecutor custodial sentences for “help- of speech. by Hungary’s ambassador to the that it was a strategic national of immigration to Europe. KESMA did not immediately Pascal Marconville told AFP. ing transport undocumented However, Orban has been un- UK, Kristof Szalay-Bobrovnic- asset. “Migrant kills wife after she reply to Reuters’ questions. Marconville said they told foreigners”, a crime aggravated able to control international zky, on December 31, 2018, ac- V4NA’s name refl ects a focus converts to Christianity,” says Habony could not be reached border offi cials they wanted to by the fact that they hid their news coverage, which has been cording to company fi lings. on the Visegrad Four countries – one headline from Monday. for comment. deliver coffi ns to Britain. charge in a coffi n. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 17 INDIA BJP legislator among fi ve killed in Maoist attack

Agencies Police said the Bharatiya Ja- Another senior police offi cer dia’s national poll, delivered a jolt “The sacrifi ces of these mar- Maoist groups are believed to The year before, 25 politicians Raipur nata Party (BJP) legislator Bhima said the explosion left the car a to security as authorities prepare tyrs will not go in vain.” be present in at least 20 other from the Congress Party were Mandavi, his driver and three of twisted ruin, and the bodies of to hold the biggest election in Chief Minister Bhupesh states. murdered in Chhattisgarh in an his state bodyguards were killed some victims unrecognisable. history. Baghel cancelled his election But they are most active in ambush on their convoy during ive people were killed yes- in a “massive” explosion in Dan- A second trailing vehicle was The Maoists carried out “the meetings and rushed to his offi ce a forested belt of the coun- state assembly polls. terday in a massive road- tewada district, a remote part of ambushed after the blast and meticulously planned attack” for a meeting with senior police try dubbed the “red corridor” The rebels, who say they are Fside bomb attack on a po- the state roughly 340km from the came under heavy gunfi re from when Mandavi was on his way to and intelligence offi cers after the and encompassing the states fi ghting for the rights of tribal litical convoy in central India, capital Raipur. rebels hiding in the surrounding attend an election meeting just attack. of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Bihar, groups and landless farmers, of- police said, just two days before “According to our prelimi- jungle, he added. before the close of campaign at India has a history of political Jharkhand and Maharashtra. ten collect funds through extor- voting begins in the country’s nary investigation, fi ve people Attacks on security forces by 5pm violence, with particular blood- The rebels often call for a boy- tion. national election. have died,” said P Sundar Raj, the jungle-based Maoist units are for the fi rst phase of Lok Sabha shed around election time. cott of polls as part of their cam- The decades-old insurgency The blast tore through a vehi- state’s police deputy inspector frequent and often deadly in battle starting tomorrow. Armed insurgencies simmer in paign against the Indian state, is believed to have cost tens of cle carrying a local lawmaker and general for anti-Maoist opera- Chhattisgarh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi at least nine states, from Kashmir and have timed past strikes with thousands of lives. his security personnel in Chhat- tions. Four soldiers were killed in an condemned the strike. to the jungles of the country’s in- election time. Critics say the government’s tisgarh, a restive state where “It was a powerful IED (impro- ambush there just last week. “My tributes to the security terior, creating risky conditions They struck in the last national attempts to end the revolt Maoist rebels have been waging vised explosive device) blast. It But this strike, less than 48 personnel who were martyred,” for party offi cials and their can- election in 2014, killing seven po- through a no-holds-barred mili- an armed insurgency for decades. left a crater on the ground.” hours before voting begins in In- he posted on Twitter. didates on the hustings. lice in a landmine attack. tary off ensive are doomed to fail. SC dismisses petition to stall Modi biopic

Agencies the fi lm Prasoon Joshi also hap- New Delhi pens to be chairman of the cen- sor board. “The visual impact is much he Supreme Court yes- stronger”, Singhvi, a Congress terday dismissed an ap- MP said. Tpeal to delay the release He also said that Anand Pandit, of a Bollywood biopic about who is a producer of the biopic, is Prime Minister Narendra Modi also the convener of the commerce that the opposition says is cell of the BJP; Acharya Manish, propaganda, until after India’s another producer, has also become mega-election. part of the prime minister’s team The court threw out the peti- and that the the third producer tion from the opposition Con- Suresh Oberoi, who happens to gress Party, saying the fi lm PM be the father of actor Vivek Oberoi Narendra Modi was not even cer- who plays Modi in the fi lm, has tifi ed yet and the matter should been an active member of the BJP be considered by the Election since 2004. Commission (EC). But in its ruling, the three- Under Indian election rules judge bench said “too much of now in eff ect, the publication of court’s time was being wasted on any content deemed as campaign non-issue”. material - including advertise- “It will be premature for this ments, fi lms and even social me- court to decide since the fi lm is dia - requires the Election Com- yet to be certifi ed.” it said. mission’s prior approval. The Election Commission was Congress says the fi lm is fl at- expected to announce last week Lambadi tribal women carry pictures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a cutout of BJP president Amit Shah at a rally in Hyderabad yesterday. tering of Modi and has slammed whether it would block the fi lm’s the timing of its cinematic release release because of the election. as hundreds of millions prepare to A spokesperson for the com- start voting in a national election mission declined to comment starting tomorrow. after the court’s ruling. It has lobbied for the movie - Filmmakers postponed the which tells the story of Modi’s scheduled release from April 5 ascent to power from his days after failing to get a censor’s cer- selling tea at a train station - be tifi cate on time. People have decided on withheld from cinemas until The fi lm’s producer, Sandip voting in the mega-elections Ssingh, thanked the court “for ends on May 19. the much deserved justice”. Senior lawyer Abhishek Manu “Our fi lm, PM Narendra Modi Singhvi, appearing for the pe- to release on 11th April 2019. Jai titioner, said the trailer begins Hind (Hail India),” he posted on with an overly-enthusiastic Twitter after the ruling. Modi as PM again: Shah young boy selling tea at a railway In media interviews, Ssingh station, with the narration ‘ek denied political links and said he IANS said, referring to Congress presi- Shah said the manifesto re- in Latur in Maharashtra, Modi Thackeray, Modi said he would mamuli chaiwala desh ka PM ban wanted to tell the story of Modi. Hyderabad dent Rahul Gandhi and the oppo- leased by the BJP was nothing said that this generation, born not let the aspirations of the gaya’ (an ordinary tea-vendor Congress told the Election sition alliance. but a document to make India in the 21st century, has got a lot people in backward Mar- became the nation’s PM), that Commission that the fi lm was The BJP chief also referred to a superpower. “Can the tukda from their families, people and athwada region go in vain and the song released with the trailer “no artistic venture. It is a politi- haratiya Janata Party pres- eff orts being made by Telangana tukda gang give a stable and the country as they stepped into would take up developmen- is BJP’s campaign anthem from cal venture”. ident Amit Shah yester- Chief Minister K Chandrashek- strong government? Only BJP adulthood. tal activities and ensure their the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Meanwhile the fi rst fi ve instal- Bday said the people of the har Rao to form a Federal Front. can do it.” “This is the opportunity to re- faith is not belied. that some of Modi’s popular dia- ments of a 10-episode television country have decided to make “You tell me can KCR in any way The reference was to the al- pay it... I ask you, will you ensure After harsh criticism of the Na- logues have been employed in series on Modi’s life have already Narendra Modi the prime minis- become the prime minister,” he leged comments by some activ- that your fi rst vote will be for the tionalist Congress Party (NCP) the movie and that the lyricist of gone live-to-air. ter again. asked. ists to divide the country. Pulwama martyrs, for the poor to and its president Sharad Pawar Addressing a meeting on the Shah said the Telangana Rash- The BJP president said the get homes, water or the farmers in the past few rallies, Modi yes- Poll surveys ‘big bluff ’: Vijayan last day of the Lok Sabha election tra Samithi (TRS), like the Con- entire country was happy when and health for all countrymen? terday warned the Maratha su- campaign in Hyderabad, Shah gress, was a party of family rule India launched air strikes on Pa- “You must only vote for the premo of the consequences of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan yesterday dismissed election said during the last fi ve years the and claimed that only the BJP can kistan to destroy suspected mili- country and for a strong govern- allying with the Congress. surveys as “big bluff s” far from the reality, adding that his government will Modi government enhanced the work for the country’s develop- tant camps. ment,” Modi said. “The manifesto of the Con- win 18 of the 20 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Vijayan made the remark country’s stature and its biggest ment and make it strong. Meanwhile, Modi yesterday He said that every vote that gress and its allies are anti-na- while addressing an election rally in Thiruvananthapuram. The latest achievement was making the He claimed that the BJP-led made a passionate appeal to the is cast for the BJP would “come tional... For decades, they have poll surveys have predicted a near washout for the Communist Party country safe and secure. National Democratic Alliance millennial generation exhorting directly to me...” and asked the pushed the nation into insecurity of India (Marxist)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) candidates. While one “There are two camps. One government provided Rs2.45 them to select the nation above millennial to now vote only in fa- and nobody has any expectation predicted just three seats for the LDF, another said the it will win only camp is of patriots of BJP led by lakh crore to Telangana in fi ve everything else while exercising vour of national interest. from the Congress... But you, four, with the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) getting 14 to Narendra Modi and NDA allies years against Rs16,500 crore their fi rst-ever vote in the 2019 Sharing the dais for the first Sharadrao, you? Does it suit a 17 seats. The surveys also predicted that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)- and the other camp is led by Ra- given during 10 years of Congress elections. time in 28 months with ally person of your stature to ally with led NDA has bright chances to win at least one seat. hul Baba and gathbandhan,” he rule. Addressing a rally at Ausa Shiv Sena president Uddhav such people?” Rahul pledges to revive two RSS leader gunned closed paper mills in Assam down in Kashmir Reuters police offi cer, Kishtwar Angrez IANS people of the country in the last Terming the NYAY scheme con- Srinagar Singh Rana, told Reuters. Cachar, Assam fi ve years. They had given the keys ceived by the Congress as a surgi- He was fl own to a hospital at of Indian banks to the rich people cal strike on poverty, Gandhi said it the Government Medical College only. Mehul Choksi, Nirav Modi, did not matter to which religion or nknown gunmen burst in Jammu, but succumbed to his ongress president Rahul the list goes on,” said Gandhi. community the poor belongs and into a hospital in Jam- injuries, Rana added. Gandhi yesterday accused “The BJP has done only ‘anyay’ where he lives. Umu and Kashmir and An indefi nite curfew was im- Cthe Bharatiya Janata Party (injustice) to the poor people,” he “A list will be made of these killed a regional leader of the posed in the town, with more of lying to the people and said his said, adding that the Congress will 5 crore poorest families and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh troops deployed to the area to party, if voted to power, will revive bring the historical NYAY scheme Rs72,000 will transferred to their linked to the Bharatiya Janata deter sectarian violence, Rana two closed paper mills in Assam. for the poor people of the country. accounts directly,” he said add- Party, police said yesterday, added. Gandhi was addressing a rally “We are going to give Rs72,000 ing that the money will, however, two days before general elec- “He was the centre of hope near Panchgram in Cachar dis- per annum to each of the 20% be transferred to the account of tions at which security is a ma- and trust for a patriotic society trict of Assam’s Barak Valley. The poorest people of the country. Five women heads of the families. jor concern. that is against terrorism,” said Congress president campaigned crore families of the country with “The unemployment rate in the Authorities imposed an in- Manmohan Vaidya, general sec- for the sitting Lok Sabha MP from approximately 25 crore people country at present is highest in the defi nite curfew in the town of retary of the RSS. Silchar, Sushmita Dev, who is con- will be benefi tted from the NYAY last 45 years,” Gandhi said. Kishtwar after the killing of “His sudden demise is an ir- testing the forthcoming polls. scheme,” he said. Targeting the ‘chowkidar’ Chandrakant Sharma, 48, and a reparable loss for the Hindu Saying that the country needs “The Narendra Modi-led gov- (watchman) slogan of the BJP, bodyguard. community.” young leaders from Assam and the ernment failed at all fronts includ- Gandhi said that it is the rich peo- Sharma was a leader of the The killing is the second of a northeast, the Congress chief said ing the promise of depositing Rs15 ple who need a ‘chowkidar’. RSS, the infl uential parent or- Hindu leader in the town since that Sushmita Dev will be made a lakh to everyone’s bank account, “The poor people of the country ganisation of Prime Minister November, when a BJP leader, minister if the Congress govern- proper price to farmers for their do not need a ‘chowkidar’. Naren- Narendra Modi’s BJP. Anil Parihar, 52, and his brother, ment comes to power. produce and employment to 2 dra Modi is a ‘chowkidar’ of the “Sharma’s personal security Ajeet, 55, were killed. “The government of Naren- crore youths every year,” Gandhi rich people like Nirav Modi, Mehul Congress Party president Rahul Gandhi addresses an election rally in offi cer died on the spot and he Sharma was a close associate dra Modi helped only the richest said. Choksi etc,” said Gandhi. Gaya, Bihar, yesterday. was critically injured,” a senior of Parihar. Gulf Times 18 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 INDIA

JUDICIARY CONTROVERSY INVESTIGATION SURGERY TRIAL CBI opposes Lalu’s bail Verma withdraws plea I-T raids on Kamal Nath’s Delhi doctors remove ED opposes Gupta’s bail in fodder scam case on navy appointment associates continue ‘longest’ ureteric stone in AgustaWestland case

The Central Bureau of Investigation yesterday Vice Admiral Bimal Verma has withdrawn Income Tax off icials yesterday continued to Doctors of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New The Enforcement Directorate (ED) yesterday opposed the bail plea of Rashtriya Janata his petition challenging his supersession search for a third day the premises of close aides Delhi have removed the “longest ureteric” opposed the bail plea of Sushen Mohan Gupta, Dal chief Lalu Prasad Yadav in the fodder for the post of navy chief after the Armed of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, stone from the ureter of a 35-year-old an alleged middleman in the Rs3,600-crore scam. The CBI wants the court to dismiss Forces Tribunal asked him to first approach claiming they have the details about transactions woman from Uttar Pradesh, the hospital said AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal case. Special Yadav’s plea that has been sought on medical the Ministry of Defence. Under the rules, involving Rs281 crore linked to businessmen, yesterday. The stone was 22cm long and Judge Arvind Kumar said he would hear further grounds. The agency said the RJD leader Verma had the option of filing a statutory politicians and bureaucrats. The off icials are weighed 60g, the hospital said in a statement, arguments on the bail plea tomorrow. Gupta was wants to actively participate in election complaint with the ministry before taking searching the residences and off ices of Ashwini adding its length was approximately the same arrested on March 26, a day after the court allowed campaigning and activities related to the the legal recourse. He had approached the Sharma, manager of an NGO in Bhopal, his close as that of the ureter - a urinary pipe leading Rajiv Saxena, a Dubai-based businessman and also Lok Sabha elections starting tomorrow, and tribunal challenging the appointment of Vice aide Prateek Joshi, and the chief minister’s Off icer from the kidney to the bladder. The normal an alleged middleman in the deal, to turn approver. his medical reasons are just excuses. The Admiral Karambir Singh as the next navy chief on Special Duty (OSD) Praveen Kakkar who was length of the ureter is around 25cm. The stone Saxena, in his disclosure statement submitted to CBI sought the court’s permission to file an to replace Admiral Sunil Lanba. Verma can interrogated till late on Monday. Income tax was detected inside the body of Natasha, the ED, revealed that Interstellar Technologies, affidavit opposing his bail plea claiming that approach the tribunal if he was not satisfied off icials said on Monday they had seized over a resident of Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh. a company that received AgustaWestland the former Bihar chief minister has in the with the way his complaint is addressed by the Rs14 crore, claiming they are now in possession The doctors used a robot known as Da Vinci kickbacks, was controlled by Khaitan and garb of illness successfully managed to spend ministry. When asked why he did not approach of the details about organised transactions to the to remove the stone in a single stage in an Gupta. According to the statement, Saxena most of his jail time in a special hospital ward the ministry he said he felt the matter was tune of Rs281 crore. The off icials had earlier seized exhaustive procedure lasting four hours, the also presented two diaries, some loose sheets, ever since his conviction in the case. outside the ministry’s purview. cash and documents from Ashwini Sharma. statement said. documents and a pen drive, all related to Gupta. Campaigning ends for the fi rst phase of LS elections

IANS Uttar Pradesh’s eight out of 80 ises on the economic front men- New Delhi Lok Sabha seats, four out of 40 tioned in its manifesto including seats of Bihar, two out of 42 seats the investment of Rs100 lakh of West Bengal and two out of six crore in infrastructure over the he hustle and bustle of in Jammu and Kashmir. next fi ve years and pension to campaigning came to an The electorate in fi ve of 14 marginal farmers seem over- Tend yesterday in 91 Lok constituencies in Assam, one ambitious. Sabha constituencies spread (of 11) in Chhattisgarh, seven (of The promises if implemented over 20 states and Union Terri- 48) in Maharashtra, one (of two) would have a huge impact on the tories which will go to the polls in Manipur, four (of 21) in Odi- country’s exchequer, they said. tomorrow marking the start of sha and one (of two) in Tripura The slowdown in several eco- the mega seven-phase electoral would also cast their votes in the nomic indicators adds the scep- exercise. fi rst phase. ticism towards the actual imple- Polling off icers and security personnel arrive in a ferryboat at Nimatighat, Jorhat district, in the northeastern state of Assam, yesterday. An Election Commission (EC) The seven-phase Lok Sabha mentation of the decisions. offi cer said that since poll tim- elections begin tomorrow and The manifesto said that by ings vary in diff erent seats, the end on May 19. Counting will 2024, the party would make campaigning period also ended take place on May 23. capital investment of Rs100 lakh at diff erent times between 4pm Also yesterday, over 175 farm- crore in the infrastructure sec- and 6pm, 48 hours before the ers, who are contesting the elec- tor, which has raised eyebrows in Many veteran leaders vanish voting closure time. tion in Nizamabad Lok Sabha many quarters. The 48-hour period preced- constituency of Telangana, held Expressing astonishment ing the conclusion of voting is a joint election rally, calling upon over the promised investment called the “silence period” dur- the farming community to reject amount N R Bhanumurthy, pro- ing which any kind of political parties not accepting their long- fessor at National Institute of from UP’s political fi rmament campaigning is prohibited. pending demands. Public Finance and Policy said As the silence period began, On the last day of campaign, that it was unrealistic as Rs100 the election rallies and street the contesting candidates came lakh crore is over 50% of coun- IANS After the formation of Prime Murli Manohar Joshi and Uma diqui have also quit the party, corner meetings ended in the 91 together to hold the rally under try’s GDP. Lucknow Minister Narendra Modi’s gov- Bharti have also remained invis- leaving it without a second rung constituencies of Uttar Pradesh, the banner of Rythu Ikya Vedika, “It is very important to know ernment at the federal level, ible in the BJP campaign after leadership apart from Satish Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal slamming the state and central how the proposed number has Kalyan Singh was appointed they were denied ticket for the Chandra Misra. Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhat- governments for their failure to been generated,” Bhanumurthy n 2014, they were an im- governor of Rajasthan and his general elections. One leader whose absence is tisgarh, Jammu and Kashmir, address the farmers’ issues. told IANS. portant part of the election absence form Uttar Pradesh Vinay Katiyar, once a fi re- being deeply felt in the elections Maharashtra, Manipur, Megha- Speakers from diff erent farm- Former chief statistician Icampaign. They were deci- politics is being deeply felt by his brand Hindu leader in the Ayod- is former SP leader Amar Singh. laya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odi- er groups urged the farmers to Pronab Sen said that political sion-makers of their respective supporters. hya movement, is also not visible Amar Singh is in hospital and sha, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, vote for those contesting from parties do not actually tend to parties, and they helped in can- Another popular leader whose in the election campaign. unable to campaign for Jaya Uttarakhand, West Bengal, An- their own community to teach a spend the amount of money they didate selection and managed gubernatorial assignment took In the Samajwadi Party, its Prada who is contesting the daman and Nicobar Islands and lesson to the parties which have promise in manifestos and while the campaign. him away from active politics is founder Mulayam Singh Ya- Rampur Lok Sabha seat on a BJP Lakshadweep. failed to fulfi l their promises. presenting a budget they would In 2019, they are not only former Lucknow MP Lalji Tandon. dav has been excluded from the ticket. In the fi rst phase, voting will A total of 185 candidates in- come out with more pragmatic missing from the limelight but Tandon’s house in Lucknow party’s campaign and the octo- Though Amar Singh still take place in all seats in eight cluding 178 farmers are in fray. proposals. have even been forgotten by their was a pilgrimage of sorts for genarian leader is now restricted posts his appeal for Jaya Prada states and two Union Territories. The entry of farmers has created The BJP on Monday reiter- own party workers. BJP workers and the veteran to campaigning for himself from on social media, his active pres- These include all the 25 Lok problems for the main contest- ated its promise to double farm In 2014, Kalyan Singh was the leader welcomed everyone with his Mainpuri Lok Sabha seat. ence would have given the mush Sabha seats of Andhra Pradesh, ants. income by 2022, extend PM- cornerstone of the Bharatiya Ja- a smile. Tandon was appointed Other senior SP leaders who needed edge to the BJP campaign 17 of Telangana, fi ve seats of Turmeric and red sorghum KISAN scheme to all farmers, nata Party’s OBC (other back- governor of Bihar last year and had been a part of the election in Rampur. Uttarakhand, two each of Aru- growers from various parts of and give pension for small and ward classes) politics in Uttar his house wears a deserted look campaigns in the past but are “This is a clear indication that nachal Pradesh, Jammu and the constituency attended the marginal farmers. Pradesh that helped chart the in these elections. conspicuous by their absence the old order is changing and Kashmir and Meghalaya, and meeting and passed resolu- The ‘Sankalpit Bharat Sashakt incredible victory of the party. Former assembly speaker this time are former MPs Beni a new brand of politics is tak- one seat each of Chhattisgarh, tions. It sought Minimum Sup- Bharat’, released by Prime Minis- Party workers fl ocked to his Kesri Nath Tripathi is another Prasad Varma and Reoti Raman ing shape. We will all have to Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, port Price of (MSP) Rs12,000 per ter Narendra Modi and BJP pres- residence, sought his advice on leader who left a vacuum in BJP Singh. get used to this,” says political Sikkim, Tripura, Andaman and quintal for turmeric and Rs3,500 ident Amit Shah, also pledged an crucial issues and many others politics in Uttar Pradesh after Most veteran bahujan Samaj scientist and Uttar Pradesh Na- Nicobar Islands as well as Lak- for red sorghum. investment of Rs25 lakh crore to sought his recommendation for being appointed governor of Party leaders like Swami Prasad tionalist Congress Party presi- shadweep. Meanwhile, experts said the improve productivity in the farm a ticket. West Bengal. Maurya and Naseemuddin Sid- dent Ramesh Dixit. The fi rst phase will also cover Bharatiya Janata Party’s prom- sector.

Bishop charged Cool treat with sex abuse Police yesterday charged Bishop Mani, longest-serving Franco Mulakkal with repeatedly raping a nun at a convent in Kerala in a case that puts a new spotlight on sexual abuse in the Roman Catholic church. Kerala legislator, dies Mulakkal was charged with raping the nun several times between 2014 and 2016, police IANS not sworn in. Two years later he deputy superintendent of Vaikom Kochi became a legislator for the fi rst district, K Subash, said. time - and remained so for 52 The bishop faces other charges long years. including unlawful detention, eteran politician and Mani fi rst became a state min- unnatural sex and abuse of Kerala Congress – Mani ister in 1975 in the C Achutha authority. Facing a maximum Vchairman K M Mani, who Menon cabinet and since then punishment of life imprisonment, never lost an assembly election he has sat in the cabinets of E K Mulakkal has denied the since 1967, died yesterday. Nayanar, P K Vasudevan Nair, allegations. Local media said the Mani was suff ering from a C H Mohammed Koya, K Karu- charge-sheet ran into more than lung ailment and was in a Kochi Mani: veteran politician who nakaran, A K Antony and Oom- 1,400 pages. The charge-sheet hospital for the past one week. never lost an assembly election men Chandy. was filed in the Magistrate Court He had been unwell since Janu- He holds the state record of in Pala, near Kottayam, where the ary. longest-serving legislator in the having presented 13 budgets. trial will take place. Announcing the death, a doc- Kerala assembly began in 1967 He is survived by his wife, The charge-sheet names 83 tor told journalists that Mani’s when he represented his home son Jose K Mani, a Rajya Sabha witnesses, which include the condition turned worse after constituency Pala in Kottayam member, and fi ve daughters. Cardinal of the Syro-Malabar 11.30am yesterday and he died at district - from where he won a Chief Minister Pinarayi Vi- Catholic Church, Mar George 4.57pm. record 13 elections. jayan said Mani’s death had left Alencherry, three bishops, 11 Mani joined the undivided He often used to say that he Kerala grieving. priests and several nuns. Kerala Congress in 1965 and has two wives: one is Kuttiyama “He was certainly a very tall The victim filed a formal went on to become its undis- and the other is Pala. politician and is going to be complaint in June last year, puted leader. Over the years, his Although he won his fi rst missed in Kerala politics. He had but police only started formal party underwent several splits. election in 1965, the assembly proved his mettle in his job as a A mahout splashes water on his elephant on a hot summer day in Ahmedabad. questioning in September after Mani’s record of being the was not convened and so he was very eff ective minister,” he said. fury over the case mounted. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 19

LATIN AMERICA

Cuba blasts US for blocking baseball players from joining MLB

DPA that it reversed the authorisa- The existing deal will not be land’s National Sports Institute, MLB teams would have paid baseball programme. pedes of the New York Mets and Havana tion allowing the payment of a allowed to go forward because it which, according to the US offi - the federation a release fee for Cuban players older than age Jose Dariel Abreu of the Chicago percentage to the FCB for every was based on an erroneous ruling cial, is a government entity that each Cuban player signed, pro- 25 and with six years of service White Sox — all of whom have player signing with the American by the former Obama adminis- US law says makes such business viding a windfall for Cuban base- in the Cuban league would have signed multi-year, multimillion- he Cuban Baseball Federa- league. tration that the Cuban Baseball dealings illegal. ball, which has suff ered from been free to sign with MLB teams. dollar contracts. tion (FCB) has blasted a US The decision was made public Federation was not part of Cuba’s “A payment to the Cuban dwindling budgets and the de- Younger players would have Puig defected from Cuba on Tgovernment decision to on Monday. Communist government, a sen- Baseball Federation is a pay- fection of its best players. needed Cuban baseball’s permis- a speedboat at age 21 and soon block a historic agreement that The rule about payments was ior US offi cial said. ment to the Cuban government,” Under the deal agreed by MLB sion to leave. found himself entangled with allowed Cuban players to join established during the govern- The US offi cial, speaking on Treasury said in a letter to MLB. and the Cuban federation in De- In the past, some Cuban stars Mexico’s notorious Zetas crime Major League Baseball (MLB) ment of former president Barack condition of anonymity, said the Cuba maintains, however, that cember, MLB teams were going have undertaken risky escapes, organisation, which threatened teams without having to defect. Obama, who considered the FCB administration would be willing its baseball federation is not part to pay the federation a fee rang- including being smuggled off the to chop off his arm if it failed to “Politically motivated attacks an organisation independent of to work with MLB to seek an ar- of the state. ing from 15 % to 25 % of the value island in speedboats. receive the promised $250,000 on the agreement we had reached the government of Cuba. rangement consistent with US It says the federation falls un- of player contracts. Others abandoned the Cu- fee for his passage. harm the athletes, their families President Donald Trump’s ad- law. We are unsure of the next der the Cuban Olympic Com- That money, which was not ban national team while playing When Puig fi nally reached US and the fans,” the FCB said in a ministration disagrees with that steps,” an MLB source said. mittee, which in turn reports to be deducted from the play- abroad. shores in 2012, he was rewarded statement. view and believes that the pay- The Trump administration to the International Olympic er’s salary but be paid on top Cuban MLB players who had with a seven-year, $42mn con- On Friday, the US treasury de- ments would aid the Cuban state considers the Cuban Baseball Committee, not the Cuban gov- of it, would have been used to defected include Yasiel Puig of tract with the Los Angeles Dodg- partment notifi ed MLB lawyers rather than players. Federation to be part of the is- ernment. help Cuba further develop its the Cincinnati Reds, Yoenis Ces- ers.

Three dead as Venezuela heavy rains lash Rio ‘removes 8t

Reuters Rio de Janeiro gold from orrential rains doused Rio de Janeiro yesterday, kill- Ting at least three people and sowing chaos in Brazil’s sec- ond largest city, which declared a state of emergency after a storm the mayor described as “abso- central bank’ lutely abnormal.” Two sisters died when their Reuters “troika of tyranny” in Latin blasted companies buying Ven- home in a slum was buried in a Caracas America, including left-leaning ezuelan gold or holding it as col- mudslide, while a man drowned governments in Cuba and Nica- lateral for loans, saying they are in another part of the city, the ragua. giving Maduro a fi nancial lifeline mayor’s offi ce said in a statement. enezuela removed eight It is seeking to cut off cash owfl during an economic and human- The rains began around Mon- tonnes of gold from the to Maduro’s government, foster itarian crisis. day evening and had not let up by Vcentral bank’s vaults last dissent in the armed forces and Aside from the reserves held midday yesterday, with a heavy week, and the cash-strapped so- oust him from power in the Opec by the Central Bank in Caracas, downpour forecast through the cialist state is expected to sell the nation. Guaido is attempting to freeze end of the day. bullion abroad as it seeks to raise The US and 50 other Western bank accounts and gold owned Some parts of the city got more hard currency in the face of US nations have recognised opposi- by Venezuela abroad. than 21cm (eight inches of rain sanctions, a lawmaker and one tion leader Juan Guaido as Ven- This includes 31 tonnes in the within four hours, according to government source said. ezuela’s legitimate president. Bank of England worth an esti- the mayor’s offi ce. With sanctions imposed by Guaido invoked the Consti- mated $1.3bn. That is three times the month- Washington choking off rev- tution in January to assume an Last week’s operation took ly average rainfall for April. enues from exports by state oil interim presidency, saying Ma- place while only high-level offi - Videos on local news showed company PDVSA, President duro’s May 2018 re-election vote cials were present at the central normally calm residential streets Nicolas Maduro’s increasingly was a sham. bank’s offi ces, given that most turned into raging torrents that isolated administration has Maduro has branded Guaido rank-and-fi le employees stayed dragged people and cars. turned to sales of Venezuela’s a US puppet and accused him of home due to blackouts and wa- A coastal bike path meant to substantial gold reserves as one collaborating with Washington ter shortages that have plagued be a legacy of the 2016 Olympics, of the only sources of foreign to sabotage the economy. Venezuela in the past month, the already weakened by previous currency. Opposition lawmakers have government source said. storms, suff ered more damage, The government source said with chunks of it falling into the the central bank’s reserves had sea. fallen by 30 tonnes since the Bolsonaro working with US to sow ‘dissent’ “Rio de Janeiro lost three start of the year before US Presi- victims in these rains,” mayor dent Donald Trump tightened Brazilian President Jair said. Bolsonaro said that if any Marcelo Crivella told an ear- sanctions, leaving the bank with Bolsonaro said he is working military intervention actually ly morning news conference. around 100 tonnes in its vaults, with the US government to sow deposed Venezuela’s president, “These rains are absolutely ab- worth more than $4bn. dissent within the Venezuelan Nicolas Maduro, it is quite likely normal for this time of year; none At that rate of decline, the cen- army. Bolsonaro, during an that the country would see of us expected so much rain at tral bank’s reserves would nearly interview with Jovem Pan radio, guerrilla warfare waged by this time.” disappear by the end of the year, said that if there is a military Maduro’s diehard backers and The mayor’s offi ce declared a leaving Maduro’s government invasion in Venezuela, he would whomever took power. state of emergency on Monday struggling to pay for imports of seek the counsel of Brazil’s Meanwhile, US Vice President night. Major roads were closed, basic goods. National Defence Council and Mike Pence met with his and the mayor’s offi ce said 785 Neither Venezuela’s central Congress on what, if any, action Brazilian counterpart Hamilton places in the city were without bank nor its information min- his country should take. “We Mourao to discuss sanctions power. Emergency services went istry responded to requests for cannot allow Venezuela to and diplomatic eff orts aimed into action across the city to res- comment. become a new Cuba or North at increasing the pressure on cue people trapped in cars and A man drives his motorbike through a flooded street in Humaita neighbourhood in Rio de Janeiro, Trump’s administration has Korea,” the right-wing president President Maduro to exit. out on the streets. Brazil, yesterday. declared Venezuela part of a

Morales in Ankara Duque plan to modify Ecuador rethinking peace process rejected

DPA sexual crimes against minors Assange asylum from being judged by the JEP, Bogota and facilitate the extradition of AFP tion on the grounds that it was stay in the embassy is the gov- former guerrillas. Quito part of a Washington plan to ex- ernment’s suspicion WikiLeaks olombia’s Chamber of Duque says the peace process tradite him to the US and try him hacked into Moreno and his fam- Representatives rejected does not guarantee the victims over WikiLeaks’ release of thou- ily’s communications and leaked CPresident Ivan Duque’s suffi cient justice. cuador says it is reassess- sands of classifi ed documents videos and private conversations, proposals to modify a post-con- But his critics accuse him of ing its asylum for Julian into the public domain. giving ammunition to his politi- fl ict justice system, raising hopes jeopardising the peace process. EAssange after WikiLeaks Quito’s then-president Rafael cal foes. that the country’s peace process “The obstacles that... Ivan Du- warned last week that the organi- Correa said Assange’s human Assange has wanted to remain with former Farc guerrillas will que is putting are very serious, sation’s controversial founder rights could be at risk and granted a relevant “actor on the world remain on track. because they would take away faced imminent expulsion from him asylum in August. However, stage,” said Katalina Barreiro of The lower chamber of parlia- the country’s dream (of peace),” Quito’s London embassy and ar- Britain refused to give him safe the Institute of Higher Studies ment rejected the changes by 110 said Luz Marina Bernal, a human rest by the British authorities. conduct out of the embassy, given in Quito, but he ended up break- votes to 44. rights activist fi ghting to shed Foreign Minister Jose Valen- that he faced charges in London ing “the minimum code that an The Special Jurisdiction for light on Colombia’s “false posi- cia has remained coy about what over violating his bail conditions. asylee must have — to not com- Peace (JEP) was created to help tives” scandal. Ecuador will decide, and when — Sweden’s state prosecutor fi - ment or involve himself in any implement a 2016 peace deal The JEP is investigating the amid repeated signs that Assange nally abandoned the sexual as- type of political process.” with Farc following 52 years of scandal, in which up to 10,000 has worn out his welcome. sault case in 2017. Assange’s status is complicated confl ict. civilians were killed by the “The Ecuadoran state will de- Ecuador’s attitude toward its by the fact that he became an Ec- The arrangement foresees army and disguised as guerril- termine what it should determine guest in London changed with the uadoran citizen in 2017. The gov- milder punishments for ex- las to gain bonuses and other when it considers it appropriate,” arrival in power of Lenin Moreno. ernment even appointed him to guerrillas and soldiers who agree benefits. Valencia told reporters in Quito. He has accused Assange of med- a diplomatic post in the Moscow to co-operate with the JEP, and The victims included Bernal’s So what’s next for Julian As- dling in Ecuador’s internal and embassy as a means of getting Duque has criticised it as being son, who was shot dead in 2008. sange, who has spent more than external aff airs. Assange is ac- him out of Britain with diplomatic too lenient on the rebels. Most of the victims were killed six years cooped up inside the Ec- cused of trying to infl uence the immunity. The JEP is already at work, but during the 2002-10 presidency uadoran embassy in London. 2016 US elections as well as the London rejected his new desig- Duque has so far not signed the of Duque’s mentor, senator Al- Assange took refuge in the em- Catalan independence process in nation, however, so the appoint- legislation regulating it and sent varo Uribe. bassy in June 2012 having lost his Spain. ment was cancelled. Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (left) and his it back to Congress, asking it to The two are trying to “deprive appeal in Britain’s Supreme Court Moreno temporarily cut his Ecuador could now use its right Bolivian counterpart Evo Morales review a guard of honour modify six of its 159 articles. the victims of the right to know against extradition to Sweden communications with the outside “to revoke the asylum as grant- during an off icial welcoming ceremony at the presidential Some of the changes would the truth,” Bernal said just before over accusations of sexual assault. world in 2018. ed,” constitutional lawyer Rafael complex in Ankara yesterday. toughen the rules on the sen- the Chamber of Representatives The Australian fought extradi- But what could cost him his Oyarte said. tencing of war crimes, exclude voted on Duque’s proposals. Gulf Times 20 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 PAKISTAN

Pakistan will see ‘burst of jobs’ in a week: minister Water Resources Minister Faisal Vawda has claimed that in seven-10 days, there will be so Imran says peace likelier many jobs that they will exceed the number of people. Speaking on Geo News programme Capital Talk, Vawda said there would be a “burst of jobs” and a dearth of people (to take them up) very soon. In a few days, he stressed if Modi wins Indian polls further, the stock market and the property and industrial sectors Reuters Kashmir and Muslims in general Khan said that Kashmir is a boost from a wave of patriotism will all improve a lot. “So many Islamabad are facing in Modi’s India, said political struggle and there is no after the suicide bomb attack jobs will be created, and I am Khan, who took offi ce last Au- military solution, adding that and the Indian government’s fast not talking about years, but a gust. Kashmiris suff er if armed mili- response. week, ten days, two weeks or four rime Minister Imran Khan “I never thought I would see tants from Pakistan came across Khan said there is still the weeks, in which this will happen.” says he thinks there may what is happening in India right the border, leading to Indian possibility that if the polls turn “The living standards will be so Pbe a better chance of peace now,” said the former interna- army crackdowns. against Modi in the next few great that paan walas [tobacco- talks with India if Prime Minis- tional cricket star. “Muslim- Relations between Pakistan weeks, India could take some sellers] and hawkers will off er to ter Narendra Modi’s Hindu na- ness is being attacked.” and India, which have fought further military action against pay taxes,” he added. tionalist Bharatiya Janata Party Khan said that Indian Mus- three wars since gaining inde- Pakistan. The minister said that he is so (BJP) wins the general election lims he knew who many years pendence from Britain in 1947, The rolling election is held in sure of his prediction that he due to begin there tomorrow. ago had been happy about their two over Kashmir, reached a cri- phases and does not fi nish until can be challenged if it does not Khan said that if the next In- situation in India are now very sis point in February after a sui- May 19. The result is not due un- happen. dian government is led by the worried by extreme Hindu na- cide bombing killed 40 Indian til May 23. The talk show host Hamid Mir opposition Congress party, it tionalism. paramilitary police in Kashmir. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister said Vawda should return after might be too scared to seek a set- He said that Modi, like Is- Islamabad denied responsi- Shah Mahmood Qureshi warned five weeks, and if this doesn’t tlement with Pakistan over dis- raeli Prime Minister Benjamin bility for the February 14 attack, on Sunday that Islamabad had happen, should not make any puted Indian-controlled Kash- Netanyahu, is electioneering which was claimed by Pakistan- “reliable intelligence” that India excuses. mir, fearing a backlash from the based on “fear and nationalist Prime Minister Khan: Perhaps if the BJP – a right-wing party – wins, based militant group Jaish-e- would attack again this month. “You can butcher me,” Vawda right. feeling”. some kind of settlement in Kashmir could be reached. Mohamed, but the bombing India described the claim as replied. “Perhaps if the BJP – a right- The BJP’s pledge this week to prompted India to carry out a irresponsible. When Mir said that Abdul Razak wing party – wins, some kind propose stripping decades-old The prime minister did appear ful army for the programme. cross border air strike against Prime Minister Khan said that Dawood – the adviser to the of settlement in Kashmir could special rights from the people to off er India an olive branch, Those to be dismantled in- what it said was a militant train- it is vital for Pakistan to have prime minister on commerce, be reached,” Khan told a small of Jammu and Kashmir, which saying that Islamabad is deter- clude groups involved in Kash- ing camp in Pakistan. peace with its neighbours Af- textile, industry, and investment group of foreign journalists in an prevent outsiders from buying mined to dismantle all Pakistan- mir. Pakistan responded with air ghanistan, India and Iran, if it – had earlier said that Pakistan interview. property in the state, is a major based militias in the country, Nuclear-armed neighbours strikes of its own. is to have the kind of economy has become bankrupt, Vawda This is despite the mas- concern, though it could also be and that the government had full Pakistan and India both claim Pollsters say that Modi and needed to pull 100mn people out said Dawood is not an elected sive alienation that Muslims in electioneering, Khan said. support from Pakistan’s power- Kashmir in full but rule in part. the BJP’s re-election bid got a of poverty. member of the National Assembly.

All in a day’s work Haroon Bilour’s MQM ex-leaders son quits ANP The son of slain Awami National Party (ANP) leader Haroon issue threat Bilour has announced his resignation from the party, after its leadership allegedly stepped Internews Bhai’s solicitors guarantees to back from an earlier decision to London discharge all dues, arrears or elect him information secretary penalties payable to HMRC, unopposed in the upcoming we would have no objection to intra-party elections. wo former senior leaders transferring the properties to Danyal Bilour, 21, was in the of the Muttahida Qaumi the benefi ciary,” he added. running for the position of TMovement (MQM) and The letter to the MQM ANP’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa confi dantes of its founder, Al- founder alleges that he is re- information secretary, a position taf Hussain, have threatened to sponsible for starting a “slan- that had also been held by his spill the beans on the assassi- derous character assassination father, the party’s “political heir”, nation of Dr Imran Farooq. campaign against both of us”, who was killed in a terror attack Former Rabita Committee and “we are well aware of the in the lead-up to the 2018 General members Mohamed Anwar methods of coercion and lies Election. and Tariq Mir, in a legal letter these people use to put pres- In a resignation letter sent to sent to Altaf Hussain through sure upon any opposition”. party leadership, Danyal claimed his solicitor, warned him of The letter demands “an end that the ANP “wished to have him both police and public action. to the pack of lies” and apol- withdraw his candidacy – a feat Anwar and Mir have threat- ogy. against the democratic process”. ened that they will report their “Otherwise we will have “Such behaviour on the party concerns to Scotland Yard no alternative but to take two leadership’s part, in the face of and hold a press conference steps: inform the Metropoli- my many sacrifices for the party, to share all communications tan Police (Scotland Yard) that has led to the decision to resign,” between them and the MQM their false propaganda is a the youth added. founder, if the alleged “propa- threat to our lives and our rela- Senior ANP leader Ghulam ganda” against them does not tives in Pakistan. Bilour, Haroon’s uncle, confirmed cease. “If any harm comes to them, Danyal’s resignation, saying that The legal letter contains a we will hold your clients re- the youth was unhappy with reference to Dr Farooq’s killing sponsible, there is already a party leadership. in September 2010 in Edgware, murder inquiry on going in UK and asks the MQM leader to and Pakistan; pass on all our stop the alleged “nefarious correspondence to media in FIA seeks access campaign” or else the matter the UK and Pakistan,” it adds. A technician repairs a fan at his workshop in Lahore. will be reported to Scotland Land registry papers show to govt records Yard which is investigating the that the two properties 185 and killing of the former deputy 221, 185 and 221 Whitchurch The Federal Investigation Agency convenor of the party. Lane, Edgware, have Anwar (FIA) should have the same “There is already a murder and Mir as the title holders access to government records inquiry ongoing in UK and Pa- for both properties, registered as the National Accountability kistan,” says the letter in refer- with the HMRC. Court instructed to Bureau (NAB), additional director ence to Dr Farooq’s death. However, the legal papers general Basharat Mehmood As Geo.tv reported on Mon- related to the same proper- Shehzad has told the National day, the dispute between Mir, ties have Altaf Hussain and the decide Zafar-Shafi Assembly. Anwar and the MQM founder MQM as the “benefi ciaries” on Briefing the National Assembly’s pertains to two properties the restrictions section, which Standing Committee on Interior, worth £2mn in Edgware, of means that the ultimate ben- case in three months the FIA off icial said that the which Altaf Hussain is the legal efi ciaries of these properties, if agency is unable to achieve benefi ciary. sold or leased, will be the MQM the desired results due to the The MQM founder wants founder and the MQM. Internews trict and sessions court, seek- many flaws in the Anti-Money the properties to be trans- It is to be noted that Altaf Lahore ing disposal of his defamation Laundering (AML) Act 2010. ferred to his name or anyone Hussain, Anwar, Mir and sev- suit against singer Shafi in one Due to these flaws, records he nominates from his family eral other MQM leaders have month. are not received on time, and or party, but his demand is be- been interviewed by Scotland ustice Masood Jahangir He had fi led the defamation Meesha Shafi and Ali Zafar. investigation is delayed, the ing resisted by the title holders Yard in relation to Dr Farooq’s of the Lahore High Court suit last year against Shafi , who director lamented. of the two properties: Mir and murder and their attendance – J(LHC) has suspended the or- had accused him of sexual har- ments, which is a waste of the accomplished woman who is Anwar. and interviews –was recorded der of a district judge directing assment. court’s precious time. known for speaking her mind!” Anwar confi rmed: “We by the police. the trial court judge to conclude The suit, claiming damages of He further requested that the her statement had read. Health card warned his [Altaf Hussain’s] The MQM leadership, ac- Ali Zafar’s defamation case Rs1bn, was fi led under the Defa- court decide the case within the Zafar, on the other hand, solicitor that we would go cording to a source, is of the against Meesha Shafi by April 15. mation Ordinance 2002. next 30 days as it had already “categorically” denied the al- facility expanded public if he did not stop the view that it will stick to its The time limit was increased In the notice, the singer been almost a year since the in- legations and threatened to take nefarious campaign against us rightful demand and will act by three months, and Justice claimed that Shafi damaged his ception of the case. legal action against the actress. Health Minister Aamir Mehmood showing all the correspond- within legal means. Jahangir observed that Shafi ’s reputation through false allega- In April 2018, Shafi took to “I intend to take this through Kiani says the Sehat (health) Insaf ence etc.” The source said that the legal team is at liberty to seek a tions of sexual harassment. Twitter to publicly accuse Zafar the courts of law, and to address Card facility has been expanded “Our concern is the on- MQM leadership has not been further extension. In his plea for early disposal of physically harassing her on this professionally and seriously to the entire country. going HMRC (Her Majesty’s involved in any kind of of- Singer and actor Zafar fi led a of the case, Zafar pleaded that “more than one occasion”. rather than to lodge any accusa- The minister said that 2.2mn Revenue and Customs, the fences as alleged by its former plea last week through his coun- Shafi and her lawyers should not “This happened to me despite tions here,” he had said on Twit- families have so far received the UK’s tax body) inquiry. If Altaf leaders. sel before an additional dis- be granted any more adjourn- the fact I am an empowered, ter. Sehat Insaf Card.

Living the dream: Woman wins over family to let her sing

By Sheree Sardar, Reuters Lower Dir, once a Taliban strong- war, allegedly by her husband. again,” Tajik told Reuters at her tening to my songs and liked Peshawar hold of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa However, two years ago, Tajik’s home. them. My passion for music in- province, where the performing family moved from their ances- She has released her songs over creased further, and I decided to arts were widely considered to be tral village to the state capital social media and said that she al- make more and more songs and wenty-year-old Sana Tajik un-Islamic. Peshawar, where she managed to ready had a fan following in the videos,” she said. managed to convince her She realised early on that vio- convince her parents to allow her Pashto-speaking areas of Paki- Despite her success, Tajik says Tparents to allow her to fol- lence against female artists was to sing. stan and neighbouring Afghani- she often feels nervous about se- Tajik performs in a music recording studio in this screen grab taken low her childhood dreams and common. “At fi rst, there were a lot of stan. curity because the Taliban’s in- from an undated video. become a singer, but she realises In 2018, fi ve female singers objections, from family, as well Her second song, Halaka fl uence in the region can still be the dangers of being a woman, were killed in the northwest, and as people in our village. But now, Charta Ye, which means Oh boy, felt. the devil, particularly if the artist tuns, the largest urban Pashtun let alone a woman entertainer, in in March this year, a popular Pa- with the passage of time, and af- where are you?, was a great hit. During the 1996-2001 Taliban was a woman. population in the world, includ- tribal northwest Pakistan. shtun stage singer and actress ter seeing my videos and songs, “I was extremely happy be- regime in Afghanistan, music The port city of Karachi is ing 50,000 registered Afghan The Pashtun singer grew up in was shot and killed near Pesha- things have become normal cause so many people were lis- was considered the handiwork of home to an estimated 7mn Pash- refugees. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 21 PHILIPPINES Duterte nod for plan to avert water crisis

By Catherine S Valente he said. Nograles said the crea- including rivers, bays and lakes, Manila Times tion of the Department of Water that have been identifi ed as po- should be pushed by the Legis- tential sources of potable water lative-Executive Development in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. resident Rodrigo Du- Advisory Council (Ledac), the The Philippines now has a to- terte has approved a draft consultative and advisory body tal of 824 classifi ed water bodies, P“master plan” calling for that helps the president co- as contained in a memorandum an “integrated approach” and ordinate his legislative agenda circular issued by Environment placing water agencies directly with Congress. Secretary Roy Cimatu. under him to ensure long-term “This needs to be included in Republic Act 9275 or the “Wa- water supply, a Cabinet offi cial the Ledac agenda because of the ter Quality Management Act” said. fragmented approach (to the wa- mandates the DENR to cat- Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alex- ter supply issue) that we have,” egorise water bodies — whether ei Nograles said Duterte had ap- Nograles said. freshwater or coastal — accord- proved “in principle” the draft Otherwise, the next adminis- ing to their quality, area, purpose master plan, enclosed in an ex- tration could simply set the or- and vulnerability to pollution. ecutive order. der aside, he said. “Ideally it has Fresh surface water, which in- “The president approved it to be institutionalised through clude lakes, rivers and reservoirs, during the last Cabinet meeting. the Department of Water. We are classifi ed as “AA,” “A,” “B,” Anti-China protesters carrying national flags and placards march towards the Chinese consular off ice in a protest in the financial district of So the draft has been given to the hope we will have allies in both “C” and “D,” while coastal and Manila, yesterday. Offi ce of the Executive Secretary houses of Congress to pass this marine waters are classifi ed as already for vetting. The draft will bill and all the other priority leg- “SA,” “SB,” “SC” and “SD.” be fi nalised and signed by the islations,” he said. Under the latest circular, nine president,” Nograles said. Socio-economic Planning rivers in Zamboanga Peninsula He said the provisions under Secretary Ernesto Pernia fi rst (Region 9), namely Batu, Binu- the draft master plan would pre- broached the idea of creating a angan, Buayan, Catituan, Lam- Protesters warn of Chinese cede the establishment of a De- water department, but Palace buyong, Logpond, Lutiman, partment of Water. spokesman Salvador Panelo said Suloan and Sinusayan were clas- Among these provisions is the on March 18 that there was no sifi ed as Class “B” and “C.” reconstitution of the National need for it since the water short- Class “B” refers to recreation- Water Resources Board into a age in parts of Metro Manila and al water intended for primary body that would be responsible Rizal had been addressed. contact recreation such as bath- ‘invasion’ of Philippines ing and swimming, while Class for policy, direction-setting, and Duterte approved the proposal the integration of all government to create a water department “C” pertains to fi shery water for AFP not responding. What China has courted for trade and in- Chinese loans for infrastruc- eff orts pertaining to water. during the Cabinet meeting on propagation and growth of fi sh Manila is doing is almost an invasion,” vestment. ture in the Philippines, includ- “The best way to do that is to April 1. and other aquatic resources. said marcher Alex Legaspi, a Duterte has been criticised at ing a massive dam-building put them under the Offi ce of the A bill seeking the establish- In Mimaropa (Region 4B), 53-year-old teacher. home as being too eager to grow project. President, so pending Congress ment of a Department of Water, classifi ed either as Class “C” rotesters descended on While Duterte has largely ties with Beijing, and giving up China is poised to loan some passing the Department of Wa- Irrigation, Sewage and Sanita- or “SC,” which refers to fi shery the Chinese embassy in set aside the once-heated ter- too much leverage on the South $210mn toward the construc- ter, this is the fastest way that tion Resource Management, water for propagation intended PManila yesterday to op- ritorial standoff over the sea, China Sea issue. tion of the Kaliwa Dam, a we can resolve all our water re- which would, among other du- for commercial and sustenance pose the Asian superpower’s tensions have fl ared since hun- Meanwhile, the United States project that has been delayed source issues and concerns… We ties, “manage and protect the fi shing, were Sabang River in growing sway in the Philippines dreds of Chinese vessels ap- has moved to boost its rela- for years and would fi ll gaps in will have an integrated approach country’s water resources” is Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, and as tensions rise over Bei- peared recently near the Ma- tionship with long-time ally the Philippines’ chronic need when it comes to dealing with pending in the Senate. and Bangon, Gabawan and Bon- jing’s presence in the disputed nila-held Pagasa (Thitu) island. and former colony the Philip- for infrastructure. our water resources,” he added. In March, tens of thousands goy rivers in Romblon. Mimaropa South China Sea. The Philippines called the pines. A small group of police- “We cannot allow...China to Nograles said the plan would of Metro Manila residents serv- refers to Mindoro, Marinduque, Filipino fl ag-waving march- boats’ presence “illegal” and men monitored the protesters, control Filipinos and the Phil- also seek a review of agreements iced by Ayala-led Manila Water Romblon and Palawan. ers chanted “China out” and Duterte threatened China with who numbered around 1,000 ippines’ sovereignty,” Wilma with water concessionaires of formed queues for hours at wa- Portions of Guimaras and Il- brandished a banner saying possible military action if it according to journalists on the Quierrez, 53, member of indig- the Metropolitan Waterworks ter rationing stations, after their oilo straits in Western Visayas “Defend our sovereign rights”, touches the island. scene. enous rights group said. and Sewerage System, namely taps ran dry because of increased (Region 6) were declared Class referring to Beijing’s expansive However, the president has The marchers dispersed “The loan agreement signed Manila Water Co Inc and Mayni- demand amid the dry season. “SB” or fi shery water suitable claims to the resource-rich wa- repeatedly said war with China peacefully after the demonstra- by (Chinese President) Xi Jin- lad Water Services Inc. In a related development, the for commercial propagation of terway. would be futile and he has no tion. ping and President Duterte “We will examine their per- Department of Environment and shellfi sh and intended as spawn- “The government headed by intention of getting into a con- Protesters also voiced sim- will send us into debt trap,” she formance vis a vis what is in the Natural Resources (DENR) has ing areas for milkfi sh and similar President (Rodrigo) Duterte is fl ict with the rising power he mering unease over the terms added. agreement, what the terms are,” classifi ed 35 new water bodies, species. Bomb preparedness drill War veterans’ kin thank president for pension hike

By Ernie B Esconde country marks Day of Valour to Manila Times honour and remember Filipi- nos who defended Bataan and Corregidor. “With their blood, urvivors of World War 2 sweat and tears, our veterans thanked President Rodrigo bequeathed to our generation SDuterte for raising their the air of freedom we breathe, pension ahead of the 77th an- the atmosphere of peace we live nual commemoration of Araw and the democracy we enjoy,” ng Kagitingan (Day of Valour) he said in a statement. yesterday. He added that for all Filipino One of them, 97-year-old soldiers, everyday was a day of Onofre Bugay of Samal town, valour as they carry out their lauded the president for increas- missions either in high seas or ing the pension from P6,700 to in jungles. P20,000 a month, starting Janu- Vice President Maria Robredo leads the 77th commemoration of the “From the desolate and iso- ary this year. Day of Valour in Mount Samat National Shrine in Bataan. lated islets and features in In Samal town with 14 villag- the crevices of our territorial es, Bugay said only six remaining the widows have long wanted an Luis died on March 7, 2016 at 92. seas; to the lonely and distant World War II veterans were en- increase in their pension. Luz Siasat said the surviving posts in the hinterlands; to joying higher pension. said there were about 24 surviv- spouses badly need the in- the densely populated ur- Surviving spouses, howev- ing spouses, “already weak and crease for their maintenance ban jungles where we perform Quezon City Police District members carry bombing victims during a simulation exercise at a er, are receiving only P5,000 a senile.” medicines. our mission without fanfare, food park at the Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City yesterday. month. Aida Siasat, also of Samal, be- Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, everyday is Day of Valour,” Luz Bugay, wife of Onofre, said came a widow when her husband military spokesman, said the Arevalo said.

Ejercito to contest despite graft conviction Probe launched into traffi cking at Manila airport Former Laguna governor Emilio Ramon “ER” Ejercito may still run even after the Sandiganbayan’s Fourth Division convicted him and others of graft in connection with a supposed insur- By William Depasupil complaints were fi led fi rst. “My bled the Philippines to retain its ance deal in 2008 when he was municipal mayor of Pagsanjan, Manila Times stand as chief of the (division is Tier 1 rating for three consecu- his camp said. that) I remain accountable and tive years, 2016 to 2018, in the US The deal, which was entered into with First Rapids Care Ventures responsible for alleged incidents State Department’s Traffi cking (FRCV), was for the provision of accident protection and financial ureau of Immigration of human traffi cking and even in Persons report. assistance to tourists and boatmen plying the route to and from (BI) Commissioner Jaime for those incidents that hap- Tier 1 rating implies that a the Pagsanjan Gorge Transit Zone, Manila Times reported. “Former BMorante has ordered an pened before, even if they did country complies with the mini- Laguna governor Emilio Ramon ‘ER’ Ejercito can run for governor investigation of alleged involve- not happen during my time,” mum standards set by the United of Laguna this 2019. He is not disqualified to run because the deci- ment of some immigration offi c- he told Manila Times in an ex- States Traffi cking Victim Pro- sion of the Sandiganbayan is not final and executory,” Ejercito’s law- ers assigned at the Ninoy Aquino clusive interview. Medina said tection Act. yer Larry Gadon said. “The social media ‘fake news’ and rumours International Airport (NAIA) in it was possible that there were Immigration records showed that ‘Gov. ER Ejercito is perpetually disqualified to run for Governor large-scale human traffi cking. cases of human traffi cking at the that from January 2016 to Feb- of Laguna and to hold public off ice, and will be jailed for a period Acting BI Port Operations Di- NAIA but added that they were ruary 2019, the Traffi c Enforce- of six to eight years’ is not true,” Gadon said in part, adding that “it vision (POD) chief Grifton Me- isolated incidents. ment Control Unit has deferred is plain and simple political harassment.” Based on the statement, dina yesterday disclosed that In his column, Tulfo said the the departure of 111,912 passen- Ejercito posted additional bail for his provisional liberty and has Morente’s order was in reaction human traffi cking syndicate at gers at the NAIA and other air- filed a motion for reconsideration before the Sandiganbayan. The to President Rodrigo Duterte’s the NAIA nets P10mn to P50mn ports and seaports. court on Friday sentenced the following to six years and a month special envoy to China Ramon a day. “If we have no accomplish- up to eight years in prison with disqualification from holding public Tulfo’s column in Manila Times Passengers are seen on arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. But Medina said the fi gures ments and we are not on Tier 1 off ice: Jeorge Estregan (Ejercito) Arlyn Lazaro-Torres, Terryl Gamit- alleging that several middle- were “mathematically impos- status, that’s possible. The fi g- Talabong, Kalahi Rabago, Erwin Sacluti, and Gener Dimaranan who level immigration offi cials are At the same time, Medina said he urged that it would be to the sible,” considering the accom- ures do not match. It’s math- were municipal councilors at the time material to the case; and leaders of a human traffi cking as head of the POD, he was tak- best interest of everyone if evi- plishments of BI in preventing ematically impossible for me,” then-FCRV owner and proprietor Marilyn Bruel. syndicate at the NAIA. ing full responsibility, even as dence was presented and formal human traffi cking, which ena- Medina said. Gulf Times 22 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF How India’s premium airline, Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko Jet Airways, crumbled P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] By Anshuman Daga and Aditi Shah Singapore/New Delhi 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), n early January, Jet Airways and its 44466636 (Home delivery) main lender, State Bank of India, met with aircraft lessors to assure 44350474 Ithem there was a plan to rescue the facebook.com/gulftimes debt-laden carrier so it could pay them, sources familiar with the matter said. twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar The idea was to shore up confi dence in one of India’s biggest brands, squeezed by low fares and high costs. But some lessors quickly lost patience as the bank did not provide details and GULF TIMES Jet’s founder angrily defi ed them to take back planes. At one point, the airline’s usually jovial founder and chairman, Naresh Algeria’s choice: Goyal, banged his fi st on a table, jarring some of the lessors who had fl own to Mumbai from Dublin, Singapore and Dubai, said one person who attended Sustainable policies the discussions. “That meeting went horribly wrong,” recalled the executive from a global or economic disaster leasing fi rm, who did not want to be identifi ed because the meeting was not public. The massive protests that erupted on February 22 in Goyal’s emotional outburst and Jet’s Algeria against the ruling elite were driven by a potent subsequent failure to pay up as promised mix of anger and hope for change. may have pushed the relationship between the airline and its lessors to a After 20 years in power, and six weeks of mass protests, breaking point, two other executives who FILE PHOTO: Jet Airways aircraft are seen parked at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, India, March 26, 2019. President Abdelaziz Bouteflika has succumbed to were at the meeting said, prompting some popular pressure. But here’s another crisis-in-the- to take the drastic step of pulling their terms for potential bidders to buy up to around 20 % growth in the number of In 2013, Jet was close to running out making for the country: The economy. planes from its fl eet. 75% stake in the carrier. passengers over the past few years. of cash, but survived collapse when Abu That has led Jet, which blazed trails Expressions of interest are due today, Carriers including IndiGo, SpiceJet Dhabi’s Etihad Airways bought a 24% Even before hundreds of thousands of Algerians began in one of the world’s fastest-growing with fi nal bids due on April 30. and Vistara, a joint venture between stake in the Indian airline. their campaign for political change, the government had air travel markets, to cancel hundreds But lessors remain concerned, and Singapore Airlines and Tata Sons, have As part of the deal, Etihad also only a few years worth of foreign currency reserves left. of fl ights. some, such as Avolon, SMBC Aviation over 1,000 planes on order from Boeing bought three pairs of Jet’s landing slots Algeria has for long been struggling to sustain a Saddled with more than $1.2bn in Capital, Aircastle and a subsidiary of Co and Airbus SA. at London’s Heathrow airport and 51% debt, and with dwindling revenue, the Mitsubishi Corporation, have asked “India’s aviation market is cut-throat stake in its frequent fl yer programme. generous subsidy system that ensured short-term airline has said it also owes money to India’s aviation regulator to de-register and it is survival of the fi ttest. One To compete with low-cost carriers, peace and social stability at the expense of long-term banks, pilots and suppliers. a combined 18 planes, according to the needs not only deep pockets but a deep Jet has lowered prices without reducing economic growth. It was not immediately clear how regulator’s website. threshold for pain,” said Yusof, adding its expensive services. The oil price crash blew the budget deficit to near 16% much money Jet owes. “Despite Goyal’s departure from Jet, that lessors will still seek business in High fuel prices and hefty taxes Jet did not respond to multiple lessors don’t seem to think the carrier the country despite the inherent risks. have compounded the spending issues, of gross domestic product in 2015; Algeria had planned requests for comment but has said it is can be rescued, judging by the urgency When India’s Kingfi sher Airlines industry executives said. to bring it closer to 10% in 2019. Its current-account “actively engaged” with all its lessors. in repossessing aircraft,” said Shukor went bankrupt in 2012, lessors were Goyal, however, said in a gap, in double digits for three years, was still expected Goyal did not respond to requests for Yusof, the head of aviation consultancy forced to write off millions of dollars statement last week after stepping at 9% of GDP in 2018, according to the International comment. Endau Analytics. in losses and thousands of people lost down that the airline will “regain “Aircraft lessors have been That adds complications for any their jobs. its rightful place in the company of Monetary Fund. supportive of the company’s eff orts potential new investor, two industry When Goyal and his wife, Anita, global greats.” International reserves have fallen by more than half in this regard,” Jet said in its most sources said. started Jet in 1993, state-run Air India Goyal’s penchant for control, which since peaking in 2014; the stockpile is seen dropping recent statement to the Mumbai stock “How we do business with Jet in the was the only formidable opponent, and helped him build the airline, has been a further to $68bn in 2019, based on a conservative budget exchange on April 2. future will depend a lot on the new the country’s aviation market was just stumbling block for potential investors. The loss of aircraft and friction with investor and how they manage the taking off . Tata Sons was in talks with Jet estimate of oil prices at $50 per barrel. lessors is just the latest major setback relationship,” said one of the executives Goyal’s pitch was ensuring the in November for a deal that never As it relies almost entirely for Jet, which has been struggling for who was at the January meeting. country’s biggest private carrier materialised, sources have said. on oil and gas exports for its years, beset by an insurgent group of Aercap Holdings, GE Capital Aviation had impeccable service — a world- Etihad has also been reluctant to Algeria foreign currency earnings, low-cost Indian competitors. Services, Avolon and BOC Aviation are class product built in India, industry increase its stake in the carrier for Purchases of wide-body aircraft among the big lessors grounding Jet’s executives said. similar reasons, sources have said. supplies more the government would need 13 years ago and ambitions for the aircraft, leasing and industry sources say. Jet’s problems began when If no suitable investors turn up at the crude prices nearer $100 to international market may have set Jet on Aercap, Avolon and BOC Aviation it embarked on an aggressive auction, lenders will pursue alternative than 10% balance its budget in 2019. its current course, industry insiders say. declined to comment. international expansion plan, said plans, they said, without specifying The IMF has advised The 26-year-old airline has posted GE Capital Aviation Services said an industry executive who has been what those might be. of Europe’s losses in eight of the past 10 years and Jet was a long-standing customer and associated with the airline. SpiceJet has been in talks with lessors Algeria to gradually its share of the domestic passenger it remains in regular contact with the The carrier ordered 22 wide-body to take some of Jet’s aircraft, a source natural gas depreciate its currency, market has fallen to about 15.5% in 2018 airline. aircraft for delivery over about 18 has said. borrow externally and open from 22.5% in 2015. The humbling of one of India’s months, starting in 2006, depleting Indian rules cap foreign airline up its economy to more international investments to About 60%, or more than $600mn, most successful international brands cash, the executive said. investment in domestic carriers at has been wiped off Jet’s market value illustrates the challenge of making Then Jet bought a struggling Indian 49%, and the government is eager to help ease the imbalances. over the past year. money in the country’s aviation airline called Sahara for Rs14.5bn rupees see Jet remain with an Indian entity, However, a political class composed of ageing veterans Now, with the airline’s running out of sector, dominated by low-cost ($209mn) in 2007 that had an ageing sources have said. from Algeria’s war of independence is reluctant to take ways to make money, state-run banks, carriers such as IndiGo and SpiceJet fl eet and did not fi t Jet’s corporate That narrows the list of potential on much external debt after being forced to restructure led by SBI, took a temporary stake in Ltd. The Indian market is also highly culture, the industry executives said. investors, aviation fi nanciers and Jet, promised a new loan of Rs15bn price-sensitive, and airlines compete Meanwhile, a newcomer, low-cost leasing executives said. billions of dollars worth of loans from foreign banks in ($216mn) and forced 69-year-old Goyal to keep fares low, even at a loss, to carrier IndiGo, had begun chipping “It will be a humongous task for the 1990s. to resign as chairman. continue expanding. away at Jet’s market share with cheap whoever comes in,” one of the industry In 2014, Bouteflika used a mix of water cannons, food On Monday, Jet’s lenders laid out The domestic market has seen fares, one of the executives said. executives said. subsidies and wage increases to contain smaller protests against his re-election. That increased state spending by 16%. Handouts, however, would be more difficult this time around because Algeria’s economy is still struggling to cope after four years of lower crude prices. Algeria supplies more than 10% of Europe’s natural gas, making it the third-largest supplier after Russia and Mobilising young people against anti-vaxxers Norway. Except for a few protests at energy facilities, demonstrations have largely been held far from oil and By Michel Goldman despite strict rules on the subject. was introduced) to March 2017, the HPV vaccination for themselves, their Brussels The gaps in vaccine coverage that immunisation rate for one-year-olds sexual partners, and their community. gas installations located in remote areas. have resulted are taking a serious toll. increased by around one percentage In fact, this is the period of a person’s The country has ambitious plans to develop its onshore Vaccine coverage is now insuffi cient in point. life when beliefs and attitudes toward and offshore gas fields, start a trading business, revamp easles is back. Reported the US and many European countries But with thousands of children health issues are formed. They just and build refineries and boost output of petrochemicals. cases of the disease to support so-called herd immunity, remaining unvaccinated, even as their need accurate information delivered – which had virtually which is achieved when a large enough parents have had their government eff ectively, through educational But the expansion hinges on stable political leadership disappeared for decades – share of the population is vaccinated benefi ts reduced, it seems clear that programmes that go beyond school- and new laws that would attract foreign investors. M have spiked in Europe and the United – over 90% in the case of the measles mandatory vaccination will not be based teaching methods to take For the optimists, Algeria has a loft of valuable assets States, with 110,000 deaths worldwide virus – to disrupt the chain of enough to restore and maintain vaccine advantage of comics, game-based left: A well-educated population, recently modernised in 2017. Deliberately unvaccinated transmission. Herd immunity protects coverage in the long term. The key lies in learning tools, social media, and other children are the main victims of this those who are not yet vaccinated education, particularly of young people. digital technologies. In order to be infrastructure networks, a dedicated bureaucracy, oil epidemic – and the primary cause. or cannot be immunised for sound Education programmes on the credible and effi cient, these initiatives revenues of around $35bn a year, hard-currency reserves Anti-vaccine activism has been medical reasons – say, because they are benefi ts of immunisation typically must be kept independent from vaccine of about $80bn, and little debt. around as long as vaccination itself. immunocompromised. target parents and health professionals. manufacturers and lobbies. For sure, Algeria still has valuable assets that would But it has surged since 1998, when, in a In this sense, vaccination is about But young people can play a pivotal Giving young people incentives to landmark case of medical “fake news,” more than individual welfare; it is an role in reversing the shift away from make informed decisions and discuss support the slow, but painful, transition to a more Andrew Wakefi eld and his co-authors act of social solidarity. That is why vaccination. Discussions about the the HPV vaccine with their parents sustainable, democratic and transparent system of published a paper in The Lancet, a a growing number of governments uptake of the vaccine for human could lead to broader acceptance of economic decision making. But its success will depend leading medical journal, asserting are devising ways to induce parents papillomavirus (HPV) – the most other life-saving immunisations. how the shallow, short-term economic thinking would that they had found a link between the to vaccinate their children. Already, prevalent sexually transmitted disease – Because the eff ectiveness of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) several US states and European may provide an important opportunity. immunisation programmes is a key give way to a sustainable, futuristic growth vision. vaccine and autism. countries – including, most recently, Usually acquired during adolescence determinant of health, such a shift A thorough investigation Italy and France – have enacted laws or early adulthood, HPV is responsible would be a public-health coup. subsequently revealed that the paper making several vaccines compulsory for most cervical tumours in women In the fi ght for climate action or, in was entirely bogus. Unfortunately, by and prohibiting unvaccinated children and many oropharyngeal tumours in the US, gun control, youth movements To Advertise the time The Lancet retracted the paper from being enrolled in preschool and men. But, since 2006, there has been are already changing mindsets and in 2010, it had breathed new life into childcare centres. safe and effi cient HPV vaccines that shaping political agendas. Now is the [email protected] the anti-vaccine movement, fuelling Australia has taken this a step could avert more than 300,000 cancer time to mobilise youth to overcome Display rising mistrust of the MMR vaccine and further. On top of its “no jab, no play” deaths each year. resistance to vaccination as well, so that declining vaccine uptake. policy of keeping unvaccinated kids HPV vaccines are currently we can leave diseases like measles in 44466621 44418811 The backlash was not limited to the out of preschool and childcare, it has recommended for administration the past, where they belong. - Project MMR vaccine. Unsubstantiated claims implemented a “no jab, no pay” policy in preadolescent girls and boys. But Syndicate Classified about the supposedly malign eff ects of withholding child benefi ts from the global HPV immunisation rate is 44466609 44418811 of other vaccines began to circulate on parents who do not vaccinate their kids. insuffi cient to ensure herd immunity, zMichel Goldman, the founder websites, blogs, and social networks. The policy is strictly enforced; there are owing to resistance among parents. and co-director of the Institute Subscription For many, those claims carried more no exemptions for families who object That is why education should also for Interdisciplinary Innovation in weight than scientifi c evidence, to vaccination on philosophical or target young adolescents, who can Healthcare (I3h) and Professor of [email protected] medical experts’ advice, or public- religious grounds. thus be empowered to become vaccine Immunology at the Université Libre de health authorities’ recommendations, The fi nancial incentive has boosted advocates. Bruxelles, served as Executive Director of which anti-vaccine activists insist vaccination rates but only modestly. Young adolescents are well able the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI) © 2019 Gulf Times. All rights reserved are distorted by confl icts of interest, From December 2015 (after the policy to understand the importance of the from 2009 to 2014. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 10, 2019 23 QATAR

Katara hosts cultural event for IPU officials and delegates

A grand cultural event was hosted by Katara – the Cultural Village Foundation yesterday for the off icials and delegates to the ongoing 140th General Assembly of theInter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). Performances featuring Qatari heritage and traditions were among the highlights of the evening. HE the Speaker of the Advisory Council Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud and President of the 140th General Assembly of the IPU and IPU President Gabriela Cuevas Barron were among the dignitaries present.

Korean parliament delegation QRCS to open regional offi ce in Mali atar Red Crescent Soci- ety (QRCS) met with a Qhigh-profi le delegation head praises ties with Qatar from Mali, who is in Doha to at- tend the 140th General Assem- bly of the Inter-Parliamentary QNA He added that in a world tarians’ contribution to achiev- sectors. He added that he was Union (IPU). Doha where everyone has become one ing these goals. met with the nobility, generos- The guests appreciated the family, everyone must look be- He expressed satisfaction with ity, goodness, and well-being of humanitarian eff orts by Qatar yond national borders and think the progress of the discussions, the friendly Qatari people. and QRCS over the years. They ead of the Delegation of about others for the prosperity ideas, and experiences that have He expressed his belief that gave an overview of the hu- the National Assembly and well-being of humanity. been put forward and that have the future will be bright for manitarian situation in Mali, as Hof the Republic of Ko- He said that Qatar’s economic been exchanged in the fi eld of the Qatari-Korean relations well as the multiple needs of the rea, participating at the 140th growth and positive roles have education. and partnership, pointing out northern and central parts of the General Assembly of the Inter- enabled it to host this impor- Jungbae, who is also served in a related context to the co- country, particularly during the Parliamentary Union (IPU) cur- tant international parliamentary as the minister of justice, said operation, trade and economic coming holy month of Ramadan. Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) off icials with the delegation from rently being held here, Chun event, where heads of parlia- that Qatar is moving strongly in exchange between them in the “We at QRCS hold a great re- Mali in Doha yesterday. Jungbae, praised the strong re- ments and their delegations are areas such as politics, economy, sectors of food, gas, oil and other sponsibility for serving human- lations between his country and meeting to discuss many topics rule of law and issues of security joint ventures, in addition to the ity everywhere. This is our duty Naglaa al-Haj, Head of Re- President of the National As- Qatar. of interest to the world, such as and peace, so it is not surprising many Korean companies operat- towards the needy in Mali and habilitation and International sembly of Mali, Issaka Sidibe, Speaking to Qatar News Agen- good governance, rule of law, de- that it is hosting this global par- ing in Qatar. worldwide”, said Ibrahim Abdul- Development, revealed plans to welcomed this initiative by cy (QNA), he said there is much mocracy and human rights. liamentary event that discusses He also said the parliamentary lah al-Maliki, Chief Executive establish a regional representa- QRCS and promised to off er eve- commonality between Qatar and He praised the good choice of these issues. relations between the Advisory Director of QRCS. tion offi ce for QRCS in Bamako, ry possible support. “All QRCS the Republic of Korea in terms of the 140th IPU theme “Parlia- He added that it is his fi rst Council and the National As- “Africa is a main focus for us, to supervise operations in Mali, leaders are invited to attend the the rule of law, democratic ori- ments as platforms to enhance time in Qatar and attending this sembly of the Republic of Korea as it needs huge interventions to Mauritania, Chad, and the Cen- opening ceremony. It is a good entation and economic growth, education for peace, security important parliamentary event will witness enhancement espe- address its humanitarian prob- tral African Republic. opportunity to strengthen bilat- which enhances their role with and the rule of law” as education has allowed him to take a closer cially through the parliamentary lems. We work in several African “We are working closely with eral ties, inspired by the good re- regards to international peace plays a vital role in the advance- look at the progress achieved by friendship groups in both coun- countries, based on real needs and Mali Red Cross and Mali’s Minis- lations between Qatar and Mali,” and security issues. ment of nations and parliamen- the country in various fi elds and tries. available resources,” he added. try of Social Aff airs,” she added. he stated. -QNA

Qatar sees big fall in crime rates in 2018

From Page 1 patriate workers benefi ting from the ministry’s awareness initia- The emergency service (999) tives went up by 10%. registered 2,447,015 calls, while Meanwhile, the ministry said applications for visas and trans- it enhanced its performance lev- fer of sponsorship amounted to el through the development of 767,069. Also, building permits human resources with training were issued to 89,755 applicants, programmes. The data showed while 71,497 new vehicles were capacity building and upgrading registered and 53,780 certifi cates of the skills of 30,000 employees of good conduct were issued. in the workplace and the enrol- In 2018, the Medical Services ment of 2,000 employees an- Department at the MoI provided nually in internal and external medical services to 701,654 pa- courses. This resulted in raising tients. the level of their skills and prac- Also in 2018, the Civil Defence complaints were resolved within awareness programmes went up tical experience, the MoI said. Department at the ministry ex- fi ve days. by 10%. The ministry increased the tinguished 1,922 fi res and car- As for awareness, the number The number of benefi ciar- number of women employees an- ried out 1,203 rescue and relief of awareness programmes, ac- ies increased by 5% in 2018, nually by 5% and the indicators also operations. tivities and initiatives imple- compared to the previous year, pointed to a rise in job satisfaction The percentage of public sat- mented by the MoI increased and there was also a 5% rise in among female staff members to isfaction over the services of by 5%. The number of students the number of awareness pro- 90%. In addition, the MoI reserves the ministry’s departments was from schools and universi- grammes provided to communi- a large number of offi ce posts for 90%, while 90% of the public ties benefi ting from the MoI’s ties. Besides, the number of ex- people with special needs. Three-day Community College of Qatar book fair concludes

xhibition, seminars and technology plays an increasingly The fi rst day featured a panel fair’s fi nal discussion session on discussions marked the important role in daily life. discussion on the book, Qatar: ‘The Covered Subjects in the Efi rst annual book fair by “Books reveal wisdom of life Establishment Journey and it Reality of Arab Women’ which Community College of Qatar and stimulate our thinking,” Dr was attended by Dr Omar El-Aj- was led by Dr Oraieb Eid and Dr (CCQ) Library. al-Naemi said adding the fi rst li, Dr Ali Afi fi , and Dr Mohamed Omar El-Ajli. The three-day event was held annual book fair by CCQ en- Hammam. The function also The fair witnessed participa- under the theme ‘Reading is a couraged students and learners marked a book-signing ceremo- tion of 32 aspiring Qatari pub- Way of Life’ as part of CCQ’s ef- to pursue meaningful endeav- ny by CCQ instructor Dr Ahmed lishing houses that ensured role forts to enrich students’ knowl- ours that help them attain intel- Abdul Malik who delivered a lec- of local publishers in extending edge through co-curricular ac- lectual development. ture on ‘How to be a Writer’. and disseminating knowledge of tivities. “Books help them become more The second day focused on students to stakeholders. Pub- CCQ president Dr Mohamed well-rounded individuals. Read- broadening the awareness of lishers included Arab Center al-Naemi, vice-president Dr ing is essential to our students and students through two sessions for Research and Policy Stud- Khalid al-Abdulqader and col- it works as a tool that encourages titled ‘Your Student, His Move- ies, Hamad Bin Khalifa Uni- lege dean Dr Abdallah Hazaimeh analytical thinking and creative ment Before Talking’ and ‘Intro- versity Press, Jarir Bookstore, visited the fair and attended dis- problem-solving,” he said. duction to Multimedia’. The ses- Qatar Charity, Qatar University, cussions with guest publishers, Dr al-Naemi who thanked all sions were attended by Dr Oraieb Children’s Literature Center, students and visitors. the publishers and community Eid and by Dr Rami Rajab. Bait Al-Maarifa, Dar Lusail, Dar Pointing out the vital role of partners in the event said such A documentary fi lm was Al-Thaqafa, Samarkand, Joud, books in intellectual, personal concerted eff orts will help CCQ screened on the third day after Crescent Bookshop, Chapter and social development of learn- continue to play an impactful which students attended a pres- One Bookstore, Dar Roza Pub- ers, Dr al-Naemi said books re- role in the development of the entation by Hakima Mohamed lishing House, Al-Resala Book- main one of the major informa- nation by developing the bright of Nama - Social Development shop and Ibn Al-Qayyim Book- tion sources even while digital minds of its youth. Center. The day also marked the store. CCQ president Dr Mohamed al-Naemi and instructor Dr Ahmed Abdul Malik visiting the book fair. Gulf Times 24 Wednesday, April 10, 2019 QATAR

‘Govt support to PPPs, private sector to attract billions in investments’ From Page 1 tinations via Qatar Airways. Qa- tar also expanded its international “Qatar is developing a holistic trade and investment relations by public-private partnership (PPP) concluding bilateral agreements framework. We are also in the with strategic partners around process of drafting a PPP law in the globe. Asked how regulations line with international best prac- for full foreign ownership in most tices. This will help the private economic sectors improve Qatar’s sector to participate in profi table competitiveness as a destination projects while ensuring their de- for investment, al-Kuwari said livery at a considerably reduced the government has enacted laws cost to the government through and regulations that have con- a set of risk-sharing and cost- tributed to the promotion of an containment arrangements.” “attractive investment environ- Along similar lines, the Ministry ment” to host various innovative of Commerce and Industry is and technology-driven economic also spearheading the develop- and commercial projects. ment of manufacturing-related These laws off er foreign in- government policies and the vestors the opportunity to im- promotion of national industries plement and own up to 100% through the development and of investment projects in vari- expansion of industrial zones. ous sectors. Qatar, the minis- To what extent is the govern- ter noted, has introduced major ment’s focus on strengthening amendments to a range of exist- trade relations and bilateral ties ing legislation, including its law impacting local industry and in- on investment free zones. bound investment, the minister The law provides many advan- said, “Over the past few years, tages and incentives for investors, Qatar has sought to cement its particularly in terms of easing re- position as an open economy, strictions on foreign capital and expand its international trade the freedom to choose the legal and investment relations, and entity of a project, as well as ex- conclude bilateral agreements empting capital assets, exports with numerous strategic partners and imports from taxes and fees. around the world. To this end, Qatar has issued a law regulat- Qatar has inaugurated Hamad ing the investment of non-Qa- Members of the IPU’s executive committee on the open-air viewing platform at the 2015 building (QF Headquarters) yesterday during their visit to Education City. Port, which can accommodate up tari capital in economic activity, to 7.5mn containers annually, and which allows up to 100% foreign fast-tracked the development of investment in all economic and Hamad International Airport. trade activities. The law will in- Currently, Hamad Port, which crease the fl ow of foreign capital accounts for 27% of regional and bolster the level of confi dence trade, is playing a key role in and investment security in Qatar, connecting Qatar to major com- in addition to protecting local and mercial centres across the world, foreign investors from the risks of IPU delegates visit QF including Pakistan, Kuwait, Iraq, side agreements, and advancing Iran, Oman, Turkey, India, Az- Qatar’s ranking on various global eading figures in the In- Members of the IPU’s execu- and entities from the open-air Strategic Initiatives and Part- Committee of the Chamber of erbaijan and other countries in economic indicators. ter-Parliamentary Union tive committee were yesterday viewing platform at the 2015 nerships Development, QF. Deputies of the Italian Parlia- Central Asia. Taken together, these laws will L(IPU) and delegates at- given an overview of QF’s mis- building (QF Headquarters). During the 140th Assembly of ment; Pier Ferdinando Casini, Meanwhile, Hamad Interna- attract foreign investors and en- tending the global organisa- sion during their visit to Edu- They were accompanied by the IPU, which concludes to- honorary president of the IPU; tional Airport, one of the largest courage them to invest in non-oil tion’s 140th Assembly – which cation City, and learned about Dr Richard O’Kennedy, QF vice day, numerous delegates have and members of the Associa- regional airports with a projected and gas sectors, particularly the is currently taking place in the organisation’s education, president for Research, Devel- visited QF, including Marta tion of Secretaries General of annual capacity of 50mn visitors, fi elds of food security, sports, Doha – have visited Qatar science and research, and com- opment, and Innovation, and Grande, president of the For- Parliaments, a consultative provides passenger and cargo education, health and tourism, Foundation (QF). munity development initiatives Aysha al-Mudahka, director, eign and European Affairs body of the IPU. movement to more than 160 des- among others.