QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Thursday JuLY 23, 2020 Dhu Al-Hijjah 2, 1441 Vol.13 no. 5006 qR 2

Fajr: 3:30 am Dhuhr: 11:40 am fine Asr: 3:06 pm Maghrib: 6:26 pm High : 40°C LOW : 35°C Isha: 7:56 pm

Americas 8 Business 9 Sports 13 US govt to pay $1.95 bn for QIIB posts Al Duhail clear title favourites, COVID-19 vaccine as Trump QR512.6 mn net relegation fight promises issues pandemic warning profit in H1 thrilling end to season

Cabinet further relaxes COVID-19 restrictions 80% employees to return

Amir, Republic of to workplace from July 28 Congo president QNA epidemic after it was briefed about ditions of their ownership, and the Doha the latest developments by HE the ● Private healthcare benefits, incentives, and facilities review ties Minister of Public Health. facilities can operate granted to real estate owners and The Cabinet has further eased The Cabinet also amended its at 80 percent of their users. The Cabinet then took ap- QNA coronavirus (COVID-19) restric- decision regarding stopping medi- capacity propriate decision. Doha tions by allowing up to 80 percent cal services in health facilities. Similarly, the Cabinet reviewed of employees in both the govern- As per the decision, private ● They will continue to the fifth report on the work of the His Highness The Amir of State of Qatar ment and private sectors to return healthcare facilities can operate at provide emergency coordination committee between Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on to their places of work from July 80 percent of their capacity, while the agencies operating at Hamad Wednesday held a telephone conversa- 28. The rest 20 percent employ- continuing to provide emergency services International Airport during the tion with President of the Republic of ees can continue to work remotely services. ● period from October 1, 2019 to the Congo (Brazzaville) Denis Sassou from their homes or upon request However, previous exceptions Precautionary measures March 31, 2020. Nguesso. depending on conditions until fur- decided by the Cabinet in this re- Prime Minister and Minister of Interior to combat COVID-19 will Among the powers of the During the phone call, they dis- ther notice. gard will continue. HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin continue committee is to coordinate work cussed bilateral relations and the ways The move is part of the plan All are required to adhere to Abdulaziz Al Thani. between all operating bodies at of supporting and strengthening them in to gradually lift the COVID-19 re- health requirements, precaution- Hamad International Airport, to all fields. They also agreed to cooperate strictions in Qatar. ary measures and controls deter- proved a draft decision of HE the from October 20, 2019, to April 20, facilitate the operations and activi- in the fight against the novel coronavirus The Cabinet, chaired by Prime mined by the Ministry of Public Minister of Commerce and Indus- 2020, for the Committee for the ties of air transportation, aircraft, (COVID-19) pandemic. Minister and Minister of Interior Health. try to amend some provisions of Regulation of Ownership and Use passengers and cargo and mail to HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin The competent authorities — Decision No (70) for the year 2006 of Non-Qatari Property. and from the country, in accord- Abdulaziz Al Thani on Wednesday each in their jurisdictions — will regarding commercial stores locat- One of the committee’s powers ance with the laws and regulations via video conference, affirmed the take the necessary measures in this ed in residential areas. is to propose areas in which non- in force, and to provide the neces- continuation of the COVID-19 pre- regard. The Cabinet reviewed the Qataris are permitted to own and sary requirements to facilitate the cautionary measures to combat the Afterwards, the Cabinet ap- semi-annual report for the period use real estate, the terms and con- work of the airport activities.

Attiyah, US AFCENT commander review bilateral military cooperation QA seeks $5 billion compensation from blockading states QNA Doha

450 more recover Qatar Airways (QA) has launched in- ternational arbitrations seeking at least from COVID-19 $5 billion from the blockading coun- Qatar on Wednesday recorded 441 new tries — Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain COVID-19 cases and 450 recoveries, the and Egypt — as compensation for clos- Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) said in ing their airspace and removing it from its daily report. With this, the active cases their markets. in Qatar fell to 3,067 and the number of Since 2017, the four countries have ● The arbitrations seek redress total recoveries rose to 104,641. In the imposed an illegal air, sea and land for the blockading states’ last 24 hours, the virus claimed three blockade against Qatar. actions to remove Qatar more lives — aged 46, 59 and 77 – The arbitrations seek redress for the Airways from their markets years, raising the death toll in the country blockading states’ actions to remove and to forbid the airline from to 163. On Wednesday, four COVID-19 Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs HE Dr Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah Qatar Airways from their markets and flying over their airspace patients were shifted to the intensive care met Commander of the US Air Forces Central Command (AFCENT) Lieutenant General Gregory Guillot to forbid the airline from flying over unit, bringing the total number of cases in on Wednesday. They reviewed bilateral military cooperation. A number of ranking officers of the Armed their airspace. Qatar Airways is seek- ● The blockading states must the ICUs to 113. (TNN) Forces attended the meeting. (QNA) ing a total of at least $5 billion from the be held accountable for their blockading states as compensation for illegal actions their unlawful actions. Qatar Airways is seeking full com- pensation for these damages in four Commenting on the launch of the investment arbitrations, brought un- investment arbitrations, Qatar Airways der three separate treaties, namely: Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker Beware of scam calls promising Qatar embassy delivers the OIC Investment Agreement; the said, “The decision by the blockading Arab Investment Agreement; and the states to prevent Qatar Airways from fake scholarships: US embassy bilateral investment treaty between the operating in their countries and flying medical aid to Mexico State of Qatar and Egypt. over their airspace is a clear breach of Tribune News Network payment for educational or legal ser- The Embassy of Qatar in the United Mexican States provided The Notices of Arbitration make civil aviation conventions and several Doha vices. The embassy also said that a shipment of medical aid to Mexico, including medical and clear that by imposing the measures binding agreements they are signato- EducationUSA Doha (doha@educa- protective equipment and supplies worth $200,000 spon- against Qatar Airways, the blockading ries to. After more than three years of The US Embassy in Doha has tionusa.org) provides free US higher sored by Qatar Charity. The aid shipment was delivered to states have violated their obligations efforts to resolve the crisis amicably warned the public against scam calls education guidance to all residents the Mexican Secretariat of Foreign Affairs in the presence under the agreements, including by through dialogue yielded no results, we promising fake scholarships. of Qatar. of Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Marcelo Ebrard, HE expropriating and failing to adequately have taken the decision to issue Notices In a statement posted on In this regard, the em- Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and Human Rights protect and secure Qatar Airways in- of Arbitration and pursue all legal rem- Twitter, the US embassy bassy urged the country’s Martha Delgado and HE the Ambassador of Qatar to Mexico vestments, discriminating against Qa- edies to protect our rights and secure said it has been made citizens and residents Mohammed bin Jassim Al Kuwari. The Mexican Secretary of tar Airways, and failing to provide fair full compensation for the violations.” aware of a recurring to be vigilant against Foreign Affairs thanked Qatar for standing with Mexico during and equitable treatment to the airline fraud scheme of these scams. the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and spoke about the and its investments. Continued on page 2  scammers, claiming “If you have re- depth of bilateral relations between the two countries. (QNA) to be working with US ceived calls or emails embassies and Qatari requesting for payment embassies worldwide, and stating that you are soliciting payment for US under an FBI investigation educational opportunities or other authority, the embassy PHCC continues Scattered rain hits parts of Qatar or legal assistance with problems urges you to inform the Ministry of Scattered rain accompanied by thunderstorms was reported from southern and related to one’s previous educational Interior or call the Cybercrime Com- to offer premarital western parts of the country on Wednesday, according to Qatar Meteorology De- programmes in the US. bating Centre hotline: 6681 5757 screening service partment (QMD). “Latest satellite images show the continued building of cumulus According to the embassy, no US or email [email protected] and notify clouds on the western coast of the country, with thunderstorms and hail falling government entity, including the US the embassy at DohaSecurity@State. amidst COVID-19 towards Dukhan,” the QMD said in a tweet. QMD urged people to be extra careful Embassy in Qatar, will ever request gov,” the statement said. pandemic (PG 2) and attentive during this weather. (TNN) 02 Thursday, July 23, 2020

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

Quick read Commander of Amiri Guard meets Pakistan Defence Attache Katara to present reading FM, Hungarian minister of ‘At Sea’ play as remote review relations summer activities continue Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed QNA after being filmed in a work- bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on Wednesday Doha ing mechanism that follows the received a video call from Minister of precautionary procedures where Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary Katara Drama Theatre will each actor is filmed separately, Peter Szijjarto. During the call, they present a reading of the play before the recordings are put reviewed bilateral relations and other ‘At Sea’ by Polish dramatist Sla- together as well as the dialogue issues of mutual concern. (QNA) womir Mrozek on Friday, July according to the montage. The 24, as part of presentation of filming is carried out on a stage Qatar ambassador meets international and Arabic plays so as to give the play a theatrical WTO General Council chair throughout the summer season. nature. The theatre will be present- The 12 theatrical works are Permanent Representative of Qatar to ing a theatrical work every Fri- being read by a distinguished the UN Office in Geneva HE Ambassador day throughout the summer. elite of actors, including Faisal Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri met with Chair of This is part of Katara’s events Rashid, Abdullah Al Asem, the World Trade Organization (WTO) Gen- and activities package of Sum- Nada Ahmed, Khalid Khamis, eral Council Ambassador David Walker. mer 2020, which was launched Heba Lutfi, Muhammad Adel, During the meeting, they reviewed ways by the Cultural Village Founda- Ali Al Sharshani, Amina Al of enhancing relations between Qatar tion (Katara) via its social media Wakili, Asrar and Fatima Al and WTO, and the role of Qatar in the platforms, in line with the coun- Shorouqi. ongoing consultations to select the WTO try’s precautionary measures to Many artists have expressed Director-General. (QNA) Commander of the Amiri Guard Major-General Hazza bin Khalil Al Shahwani met with the Defence Attache at the Embassy prevent the spread of coronavi- interest to participate the events, of Pakistan in Qatar Commodore Saqib Ilyas on Wednesday. During the meeting, they reviewed aspects of cooperation in rus (COVID-19). as it is a unique and distinctive the military field and the means of enhancing them.(QNA) The play will be presented experience.

HMC’s Ambulance Services well-prepared PHCC continues to assist in any disaster situation: Darwish to offer premarital Ashraf Siddiqui screening service Doha The whole staff of ambu- amidst pandemic lance service in Qatar are well-trained, well-prepared QNA vide the service now, since it and well-equipped to assist Doha is a temporary isolation cen- in any kind of unforeseen tre for COVID-19 cases. national disaster, including The Primary Health Care The premarital screen- coronavirus (COVID-19), As- Corporation (PHCC) has ing service is available for sistant Executive Director confirmed that its premarital Qatari citizens as well as the of Ambulance Services De- screening service is available citizens of the Gulf Coopera- partment at Hamad Medical at the designated health cen- tion Council (GCC) countries Corporation Ali Darwish has tres, despite the coronavirus at the designated health cen- said. (COVID-19) pandemic. tres, while residents can do Talking to Qatar Trib- The PHCC said premari- the examination at private une, Darwish said, “Each and tal screenings are going on health institutions. every member of Ambulance amid the pandemic, as the Applying for the screen- Service Department believes corporation has put in place ing requires booking an in, and always act as per the all precautionary measures appointment via personal department’s mission and vi- to prevent COVID-19 infec- attendance or phone call, sion.” tion, along with following where the appointment shall He expressed his grati- Ali Darwish, assistant executive director of Ambulance Services at Hamad Medical Corporation. the highest possible safety be booked within a week, Dr tude to the Qatari leadership standards. The applicants are Jaber explained, stressing and the government for their society.” These arrangements helped screening of large number of navirus challenges, there was instructed by trained medical that both applicants (pro- concern, keen interest and Talking on Ambulance the Ambulance Services in as- incoming passengers, trans- no single severely affected staff and nurses on methods spective spouses) must be generous financial support Services role during the sisting during pandemic until ferring affected persons to member of the team. of prevention in order to en- present at the same centre for to the Ambulance Services COVID-19 pandemic, he said, today as well as preventing health centres and quaran- He said, “However, pro- sure continued provision of the screening, as the test re- Department in achieving its upon directives of the Steer- the spread of diseases. tines facilities, and providing viding assistance, social and the service at health centres, sults come out within a week position as one of the world’s ing Committee, within 24 “On the instructions of ambulance stations at various psychological support is very it said. and medical examination top class and highly profes- hours of the virus outbreak the Steering Committee, we locations for swabbing and important at this stage to keep Director of Airport Health certificates are issued to both sional and diversified servic- the department was ready played a strategic role as screening of general public. the staff stand and charged so Center Dr Maryam Al Jaber applicants if the results are es provider. along with required equip- frontline para-medic force. “Side by side the COV- that they are available to pro- said the service is available at positive. In case of negative Darwish, who opted for ment, precautionary meas- In the beginning, Ambu- ID-19 emergency, our main vide their services at this cru- Al Khor, West Bay, Al Rayy- results, the two applicants are professional career as para- ures, in-house swabbing and lance Services deployed 30 routine operation was not cial stage of pandemic. Some an, Leabaib, Al Wajba and referred to relevant clinics at medic with Ambulance Ser- screening, sanitising and ambulances across Qatar, disturbed at any time, includ- self-motivated re-scheduled Omar Bin Al Khattab health the Hamad Medical Corpora- vices and has deep passion in disinfection of equipment, supervised and sanitised ing Schedule Ambulance Ser- their vacations to keep them centres, in addition to the tion in order to be provided maintaining his para-medic vehicles, as well as simplified quarantine areas, transferred vice (SAS) and permanent pa- available in pandemic emer- Airport Health Center, where with the necessary treatment licence, said, “We get full rules to handle the situation. COVID-19 patients from air- tients transferring for routine gency situation. visitors can book appoint- and advice, Dr Jaber added. support and cooperation for He added, “Due to the port or homes to quarantine procedures, including dialy- “We are statistic driven ments with any of the centres, She also called on pro- training, uniform of para- regular Key Performance In- centres, and health centres or sis patients,” Darwish said. organisation. We don’t dream regardless of whether they spective spouses to do the medical staff, world-class dicators (KPI) monitoring, from health centres to quar- He said since the restric- at night and wake up in morn- are registered at the chosen premarital screening suffi- equipment, vehicles equipped we divided para-medic staff antine facilities.” tion relaxation phases start- ing and deploy our resources. centre or not, provided both ciently before planning their with latest integrated tech- into various groups like those He also lauded doctors ed, however, around five per- We rely on statistics, we rely the prospective spouses must marriage, as the certificate nology like OPTIMA, EVPS, handling physical contact and nurses of Mobile Health cent of ambulances and staff on KPI and on computerised appear for examination at the is only valid for six months etc. and adequate supply of and those in charge of office Service (MHS), a section have been reallocated to pub- evidence. Our operation dis- same centre on the same day. and only the examination medication for patients, with support. We also had some within Ambulance Service lic areas like beaches, hotels tribution model depends on Gharrafat Al Rayyan of infectious diseases can be the objective of providing people staying at home to fol- Department deployed at and museums. statistics combined with pro- Health Center does not pro- redone. second to none services to the low up the government rules. airport for swabbing and He said despite the coro- fessional input.”

‘Blockading states must be accountable Diversion on Museum Street and Ali Bin Amur Al Attiya Street for illegal actions in the aviation sector’ Tribune News Network tion works on Ali Bin Omar Al Doha Continued from page 1  Attiya Street and Al Muthaf warning, the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia Street, within the Doha Central and Egypt took collective measures target- The Public Works Authority Development and Beautification He said the blockading states must be held ing Qatar Airways and its operations. (Ashghal) has announced traffic - Package Two project. accountable for their illegal actions in the These measures specifically targeted closure on a lane of Ali Bin Amur During the closure, traffic aviation sector, which includes a failure to Qatar Airways, with the objective of shutter- Al Attiya Street, beginning from will be diverted to the other comply with their obligations under bilater- ing Qatar Airways local operations, destroy- Al Rufaa Intersection until Al side of the streets, which will al agreements, multilateral agreements and ing the value of the airline’s investments Meena Intersection, and a lane be divided into dual carriage- international law. “Qatar Airways is one of and causing widespread damage to Qatar on Museum Street, beginning way two lanes, with provision the world’s leading airlines, providing mil- Airways global network of operations. from Museum Roundabout until of accesses to residential areas lions of customers around the world with In particular, these measures included, Slata Intersection (Al Muthaf), and commercial facilities. the highest level of passenger and cargo ser- but were not limited to, closing their air- from July 25 for six months. Ashghal said it will instal sig- vices. Despite the efforts of the blockading space and airports to QA aircraft and re- The traffic diversion, to be nage to alert commuters about states, we have maintained our global posi- voking Qatar Airways licences and permits implemented in coordination the traffic diversion, and called tion and will continue to promote air travel to operate in the blockading states. These with the Traffic Department, on road users to adhere to the as a right for all,” he added. measures persist to date and continue to aims to facilitate infrastructure speed limits to ensure the safety Starting on June 5, 2017 without prior disrupt Qatar Airways’ global operations. development and beautifica- of all. Nation Thursday, July 23, 2020 03 New report highlights commitment to sharing WC sustainability knowledge World Cup construction takes dust suppression measures Tribune News Network Doha

Delivering a sustainable legacy is a core goal of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. New infrastructure and facili- ties are one part, but another is Engineer Bodour Al Meer, Sustainability & Environment Senior Manager changing mindsets and sharing and creating new facilities is “We have also prioritised for Research and Develop- that the best practices outlined knowledge. “Our new report, Global Sustainability Assess- challenges presented by the an example of the physical leg- knowledge sharing on all our ment (GORD). Together with in this report can be applied ‘Dust Management Best Prac- ment System (GSAS) – a FIFA- project. acy Qatar 2022 will leave – but project sites. Our Sustainabil- GORD, the local GSAS award- on future projects. Air quality tices for Construction’, is avail- compliant body which rates the “Education City Stadium is there is also a very important ity and Environment Knowl- ing body, we are creating a is a pressing environmental able now and showcases our sustainability features of Qatar one of our modular tournament softer side to legacy; and that’s edge Exchange Programme series of reports on environ- concern and construction dust commitment to sharing best 2022 infrastructure. All our venues. About half of its 40,000 knowledge transfer. brings staff together from all mental practices at construc- and emissions are a key con- practices and lessons learned stadiums are being assessed seats will be removed after Qa- In March, the Supreme our project sites and invites tion sites. The first report tributor to this problem. This from Qatar’s hosting of the first under the GSAS method, in- tar 2022 and donated to create Committee for Delivery & them to share solutions and ‘Dust Management Best Prac- report shows that the impacts FIFA World Cup in the Mid- cluding the recently completed new facilities both in Qatar and Legacy held the first Annual lessons learned with a view tices for Construction’ is avail- can be managed and mitigated dle East and Arab world,” said Education City Stadium, which overseas. This innovative solu- Knowledge Sharing Confer- to optimising sustainability able now and contains a host through simple and effective Engineer Bodour Al Meer, Sus- was awarded a five-star rating – tion ensures there will be no ence for national stakeholders. throughout our infrastructure of useful details which can be measures. We look forward to tainability & Environment Sen- the highest ever awarded under ‘white elephants’ after the tour- During the event, colleagues programme,” Meer said. used to support projects in sharing further reports in the ior Manager. the GSAS scheme. Achieving nament and means the benefits from across the SC delivered “Our latest knowledge Qatar and around the world. near future as we work hard to She said, “Our commit- this milestone took collabora- of hosting the World Cup will key learnings from a range of transfer project has been “Dust management is an deliver the sustainable legacy ment to sustainability is illus- tion and innovation in order be felt far and wide.” projects, including those re- managed in collaboration important topic, particularly in this groundbreaking tourna- trated by our adherence to the to tackle all the environmental Removing modular seats lated to sustainability. with the Gulf Organisation Qatar and the region. We hope ment deserves.” CRA shares insights on growing digital economy at WSIS Forum The high-level session discussed the importance of cybersecurity to digital systems and access to connectivity Tribune News Network the needs of customers and the Doha public.” This year, all WSIS Fo- PSG’s home-away jersey The Communications Regu- rum related activities will be latory Authority (CRA), rep- conducted in virtual format, resented by its President Mo- such as workshops, high-level 20/21 now available at hammed Ali Al Mannai, on policy sessions, a ministerial Wednesday participated in a round table, as well as a series PSG store at Villaggio high-level interactive policy of WSIS Action Line facilita- session within the World Sum- tion meetings in addition to a Tribune News Network jor European title in 1995-1996: mit on the Information Society Hackathon, an exhibition and Doha a reference the new 2020-21 (WSIS) Forum 2020, which is WSIS prizes ceremony, which away shirt has drawn its roots being conducted this year in aims to provide recognition to The new Paris Saint-Germain from. It’s also a nod to the jer- virtual format from June 22 the projects that succeeded in 2020-21 home shirt, celebrat- sey culture which developed at a to September 10, featuring a implementing development- ing the club’s 50th anniversary, fast pace in the 1990s. weekly programme under the oriented strategies that lever- is now available exclusively at “There is perhaps no more theme ‘Fostering digital trans- age the power of ICTs as an the PSG store at Villaggio mall. fittingway to celebrate 50 years formation and global partner- enabler of the development. In the 1970s the famous of Paris Saint-Germain than ships: WSIS Action Lines for WSIS Forum is marking 15 Parisian designer Daniel Hech- through the return of this iconic achieving Sustainable Devel- years of cooperation between ter took the reins of the club as design”, said PSG Chairman opment Goals’. all WSIS stakeholders to lever- chairman, creating the club’s and CEO Nasser Al Khelaïfi. WSIS is a multi-stakehold- age ICTs as critical drivers of iconic jersey. His vision gave the “As a young institution, ties er platform to discuss, share global development. It repre- club a new lease of life and laid to our origins serve to remind experiences, showcase innova- sents the world’s largest annual the foundations for what was us of our heritage - how far the tion, and foster partnerships ences and forums to foster part- gathering of the ‘ICT for de- to become, from the 1990s on- Club has come on our journey in strengthening the impact of nerships, exchange information velopment’ community and is wards, a major European foot- so far, and of our exciting future information and communica- and experiences with stakehold- organised by the International ball club. The original design ahead. It is with great pride we tions technologies (ICTs) for ers and experts, and to check the Telecommunication Union first appeared in 1973 with its that we wear these colors and sustainable development. current international best prac- (ITU), the United Nations Edu- central red stripe symbolizing represent the city of Paris. Style, Held under the title ‘Build- tices followed in the field. CRA’s cational, Scientific and Cultural the bold, daring and stylish city passion, ambition and energy, ing Confidence and Security in participation in WSIS Forum Organization (UNESCO), the of fashion, embodying the spirit embodied perfectly by this his- the use of ICTs’, the high-level that is conducted in virtual for- United Nations Conference on and the image of the French toric jersey.” session discussed the impor- mat this year is a sign of the key Trade and Development (UNC- capital city. And performance, This new Nike collection tance of cybersecurity to digital role that the ICT plays in terms TAD) and the United Nations excellence and style are part of embodies the spirit of Paris systems, access to connectivity of business continuity during Development Programme the Paris club’s DNA as it looks Saint-Germain: respecting its and to the availability, integrity crises, like the exceptional cir- (UNDP), in partnership with to the future. culture and roots, but at the and confidentiality of informa- cumstances related to coronavi- more than 30 UN sister or- 50 years on, the new 2020- same time pushing bounda- tion transiting on networks, in rus (COVID-19) pandemic. ganisations. WSIS provides 21 PSG home shirt with our ries and establishing new addition to the operations and “The CRA ensures to im- the multi-stakeholders, includ- partner Nike celebrates this goals ahead. functioning of critical infra- CRA President Mohamed Ali Al Mannai plement its mandate related to ing government, civil society, unmistakable red stripe and The 2020-21 PSG home and structure, digital and physical. developing the needed regula- private sector, academia and pays tribute to the founders of away kits are available online Besides, it discussed the CRA President Moham- trust as a key principle of sus- tory instruments to regulate international organisations, the club, featuring references via store.psg.fr and nike.com. importance of enhancing cy- med Ali Al Mannai discussed tainable ICT sector and grow- the ICT sector in Qatar, by with an opportunity to foster to these early designs. The club For Qatar residents it’s avail- bersecurity and protecting the importance of developing ing digital economy. ensuring sector development partnerships, as well as ex- founders had high sporting am- able exclusively in PSG store at critical information infrastruc- and implementing policy and He said, “The CRA partici- and encouraging the introduc- changing information, experi- bitions which led to the first ma- Villaggio Mall from July 22nd. tures. regulatory measures to build pates in international confer- tion of advanced ICT to meet ences and best practices. QU’s ESC discovers ‘Leucistic’ hawksbill hatchlings in Qatar for the first time

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK are rare not only on the oped the right amount of pig- will be compared to the data DOHA beaches of Qatar, but across mentation to harmonise with from previous years to investi- the Arabian Gulf and the their habitats and surround- gate important and emerging THE Environmental Science world. So, the ESC’s scientific ings. But, sudden pigmenta- phenomena regarding marine Center (ESC) at Qatar Uni- team began to study the phe- tion disorders cause them to turtles in Qatari waters.” versity (QU), in cooperation nomenon and its causes. The stand out very clearly in the Hawksbill turtles nest an- with the Ministry of Munici- team found that the underly- wild, making them easier tar- nually in Qatar mainly be- palities and Environment, has ing cause of this phenomenon gets for predators. We hope tween April and May; howev- been monitoring and studying was lack of pigment cells these turtles can survive and er, the nesting period extends hawksbill turtle nesting sites known as ‘melanin’. The sub- thrive in the wild.” until mid-June. Northern for the past 18 years. On May stance plays an essential role Prof Hamad Al Kuwari, di- beaches, including Ras Laffan, 9, 2020, during the monitor- in the colour of skin, eyes and rector of ESC and Turtle Pro- are one of the most preferred ing of hawksbill turtle nests shell. ject leader, said: “The study of and prime nesting sites for on the beaches of Ras Laf- These hatchlings found turtles and are different from these parents mate, the dis- ample stress from sunlight or marine turtles by the centre this species of turtle. fan City, researchers of ESC on the beaches of Ras Laffan Albino turtles whose body ease is present in a quarter of industrial chemical exposure. does not stop in August despite This year, the ESC created were surprised to find that were pale yellow in colour un- and eyes appear white due to their offspring, and the rest Project Manager Dr Jas- it being the end of the annual a new hatchery for turtle nests 14 pale yellow hatchlings had like the green hatchlings that the total loss of pigment cells. carry the recessive gene. sim Al Khayat said: “The pres- nesting season. A new phase in Ras Laffan Industrial City. emerged from a nest contain- are normally seen. However, Albino turtles have genetic Scientists do not know the ence of white skin will inhibit begins after the fieldwork The primary reason for mov- ing 63 eggs, a rate of 22.2 per- they all retained black eyes, disorders, or a genetic muta- fundamental reason for cessa- sea turtle hatchlings’ ability to stage. ESC researchers will ing nests to the hatchery was cent. Also, on July 9, the team indicating partial loss of pig- tion that leads to the inhibi- tion of pigment cell produc- camouflage and avoid preda- analyse all samples and data that the nesting area is sub- found another nest in which ment cells. This has multiple tion of melanin production, tion; some scientists attribute tion, this is a critical factor de- collected relating to turtle, egg ject to considerable predation another four pale yellow causes, including the occur- resulting in complete absence this to an autoimmune dis- termining their survival, par- and hatchling morphomet- from foxes digging up nests (creamy) hatchlings emerged rence of an imbalance, dis- of pigment cells. Albinism is order in which the immune ticularly in the first few years rics, as well as various nesting and eating eggs. The project from a total of 85 eggs, a rate ruption, or interruption of a genetic disease due to the system destroys pigment cells, of life. Over millions of years frequencies and environmen- took place last year and this of 6 percent. cells producing melanin. presence of a rare recessive while others cite genetic or en- of evolution, living organisms, tal parameters observed dur- year with the support of Qatar These two observations These are called ‘Leucistic’ gene in both parents. When vironmental reasons, for ex- including turtles, have devel- ing the season. These results Petroleum (2019-2020). 04 Thursday, July 23, 2020 Nation HBKU Press children’s books win prizes at 2020 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards other one of HBKU Press’ ‘Spring Bloom’,” said the au- award-winning books ‘The thors in a joint statement. The awards, conceived in 2009, Firefly’, which was recently This is the second time honour authors and illustrators named a finalist in the 2020 that the illustrator of ‘Spring Next Generation Indie Book Bloom’, Inna Ogando, has in the field of children’s literature Awards. been recognised for her Tribune News Network accomplished authors and “Dalal wrote a truly amaz- creative work by the Pur- Doha illustrators in the field of ing story,” said Yanopulos. ple Dragonfly Book Awards children’s literature. Recog- “Humorous, vivid and full of team. In 2018, her work was Two best-selling books for nition is awarded to exem- clever rhymes. I put my heart recognised when ‘A Recipe children published by Ham- plary books that fall under and soul into making the il- for Home’ won multiple ad Bin Khalifa University 56 distinct subject categories lustrations complement the awards from the organisa- Press (HBKU Press) have ranging from environment to text and to know that it has tion as well. been announced the winners cooking and from sports to been rewarded truly means “A very big congratula- at the 2020 Purple Dragonfly family issues. Books that re- the world to me. It’s a great tions to all of our winners Book Awards. ceive the awards are original, honour to have this book rec- who deserve all the recogni- ‘Where is My Teacher?’, innovative and creative in ognided as the best among so tion for their contributions written by 14-year-old Qatari both content and design, and many other worthy books.” to children’s literature,” said author Dalal Ghanim Al Ro- provide children the very For co-authors Mir and Linda F Radke, president of maihi and illustrated by Nico best in reading excellence. Bateiha, the win came as a Story Monsters LLC, the or- Yanopolous, won second “International recogni- welcome surprise. Mir, an ganisers of the Purple Drag- place in the ‘Best Illustra- tion for our authors and il- assistant professor of Eng- onfly Book Awards. tions’ category, while ‘Spring lustrators at the 2020 Purple lish, and Bateiha, an associ- ‘Where Is My Teacher?’ Bloom’, jointly authored by Dragonfly Book Awards re- ate professor of Mathemat- and ‘Spring Bloom’ can be two professors of Virginia affirms that HBKU Press is ics, were inspired to write found online as eBooks on Commonwealth University producing quality literature the book when they recog- Amazon Kindle. Hard cop- School of the Arts in Qa- that engages, teaches and fully inventive tale, inspired every page. Nico did a great job and the nised a lack of reading ma- ies of the books, and other tar (VCUarts Qatar), Sadia entertains children,” said by Al Romaihi’s own love “I’m speechless!” ex- entire team at HBKU Press terial regarding children’s HBKU Press publications, Mir and Summer Al-Jarrah Bachar Chebaro, executive of reading, follows Dalal’s claimed Romaihi when she that supported this book math stories set in the region can now be purchased and Bateiha, won first place in director of HBKU Press. missing teacher on a wildly was informed about the win. from the very beginning and based on local culture delivered in Qatar from the the ‘General’ category. ‘Where Is My Teacher?’ imaginative journey that “I wasn’t expecting my book should be very proud.” and characters. Rafeeq and Snoonu applica- The Purple Dragonfly was named as HBKU Press’ takes readers on a literary to win an award. But the il- The book’s illustrator, “We are honoured to be tions, available for download Book Awards, conceived in 2020 World Book Day of- adventure where they are lustrations perfectly depict Nico Yanopulos, is also the recognised by the Purple from the Apple Store and 2009, recognise and honour ficial selection. The delight- immersed in a new world on the text so it’s no surprise. creative talent behind an- Dragonfly Book Awards for Google Play. A Flower Each Spring & Holiday Villa to offer an array of Nutree Holistic Center event message to kids: mouthwatering Malaysian and Stay active, eat healthy Asian dishes during Eid Al-Adha Tribune News Network the EcoKids english sessions and Doha Event/School coordinator for A Takeaway is available from the eve Flower Each Spring programme. The menu allows until third day of Eid from 3pm to ECOKIDS, a free international The episode on exercising and customers to choose 5pm. Preorder is open from now un- summer programme based in Qatar eating healthy tackled critical ques- til the eve of Eid for delivery which for children, teamed up with Nutree tions on food, such as the difference from specialities of will start on the first day and con- Holistic Center recently to educate between healthy and harmful food the South East Asian tinue until the third day of Eid. children on the importance of exer- and why they should have healthy “As we are now in the second cising and eating healthy. The epi- food habits. countries phase of the precautionary meas- sode aimed at encouraging children It also discussed the harmful ef- ures announced by Qatar, Holiday to stay active and eat healthy. fects of not having adequate sleep Villa Hotel & Residence Doha is Nutree Holistic Center is a re- for children who spend most of Tribune News Network committed to ensure all aspects of habilitation centre designed to up- their time glued to watching TV and Doha safety as required by the authori- lift clients through wellness treat- playing video games. ties. We are also following the Qa- ments and promote well-being as “Physical activity is important AS Eid Al-Adha is around the cor- tar Clean Programme stringently. a way of life. The state-of-the-art as it helps them grow. Encourage ner, Holiday Villa Hotel & Resi- There will be no compromise when centre consists of qualified experts them to engage in sports, or sim- dence Doha is all set to entice it comes to safety for our guests and and doctors and boasts of Quantum ply remain physically active walk- its guests and customers with a customers during this pandemic”, Wellness, a novel technology to be ing, running and Jumping around. scrumptious menu set for the occa- said Joey Chen, the regional general used in the GCC. It helps their hearts beat faster, sion, and catering especially to the manager. Fitness instructor Ms Sabra which is beneficial for their health Asian foodies. He added, “During this second Ben Said, and Head Chef of Nutree and development”, Fatma Hassan The menu allows customers to phase, D’Chopstix Chinese & Japa- Holistic Center Chef Nicolai Pang- added. choose items they like the most from nese Restaurant is already open for ilinan demonstrated healthy food “We also discussed topics in- salad, main course and dessert, in- dine-in with prior booking and strict preparation during the event, such cluding: ‘Staying at Home, Animals cluding the delicious rendang (slow procedures. Guests and custom- as how to make icecream using (Mammals), the Ocean, and oth- cooked beef or chicken with spices ers may expect to be asked to wear healthy ingredients from the com- ers, and the kids surprised me with and coconut milk), lemang (slow mask when entering hotel premise, fort of one’s home. their knowledge on these subjects”, cooked glutinous rice in coconut showing their Ehteraz App status, “It was an opportunity for them she pointed out. milk), nasi impit (pressed rice) and getting their temperature checked to learn about the importance of In partnership with Kuwait kuah kacang (sweet and spicy pea- and to practice social distancing physical movement and healthy Environmental Protection Society, nut sauce). These are specialties of while dining”. food. The response of children A Flower Each Spring programme the South East Asian countries like For inquiries on dining and Eid was overwhelming. I am happy to (FES) seeks to raise awareness of Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Al-Adha promotion, orders and in- collaborate with Nutree Holistic children about the environment Brunei. Now one can have a taste of The Eid Al-Adha Specials pre- set of 6-8 persons with options of quiries can be made via call at +974 Center and their organising team”, and the importance of protecting these mouthwatering delicacies in sent a choice of menus at QR130 per side orders like lemang, nasi impit, 4408 4230, or Whatsapp +974 said Ms Fatma Hassan, host of it. Doha. set of 2-4 persons and QR260 per kuah kacang, desserts and more. 3389 4565 (Lina).

Hilton The Pearl offers 4-night staycation at the price of three nights The package is valid for bookings from July 30 to August 9

Tribune News Network Doha

The stunning Hilton The Pearl Residences, part of the Pearl Qatar ‘s fashionable Qanat Quartier, offers resi- dents an amazing staycation package that will see guests staying for four nights at a contemporary hotel paying only for three nights. The amazing accom- modation package, which is The amazing accommodation offer gives guests the chance to receive significant discounts on three of the top Turkish properties of the Hilton Group. valid for bookings from 30 July to 9 August, also gives the best available rate and all The Pearl will have a vari- The Kitchen Restaurant, The Pearl ‘s new virtual room but with a family gathering guests can be assured that guests the chance to receive F&Bs spent at Conrad Istan- ety of facilities to entertain renowned for using fresh, category, which provides a the benefits of two kitchens the property is subject to all significant discounts on three bul Bosphorus, Hilton Istan- with the property having locally sourced ingredients, convenient interconnecting and two living areas where preventive measures by the of the top Turkish properties bul Bomontio and Hilton Is- recently re-opened its tem- and its Mulberry Tavern family room option with one- youngsters can enjoy them- Ministry of Public Health, in the Hilton Group. Guests tanbul Bosphorus by the end perature-controlled outdoor gastro pub, which features bedroom suites and studio selves close to their parents, COVID, and is committed staying at Hilton The Pearl of next year. pool as well as its 5th-floor an outdoor terrace. rooms connected through a yet somehow apart. to giving priority to guests’ for two nights can get 25% off Guests staying at Hilton all-day dining, open plan Families will love Hilton door, giving parents privacy - Hilton The Pearl health and safety. Middle East / Africa Thursday, July 23, 2020 05 Nigeria gunmen abduct 4 Chinese workers, kill policeman US says airstrike killed jihadists in Somalia Lagos Gunmen have kidnapped four Chinese workers from a quarry site in southern Nigeria Washington A US airstrike targeting the Islamic State group in Somalia killed seven jihadists, the and shot dead their police guard, police said Wednesday. American military said Wednesday. News Abductions for ransom are common in southern Nigeria where foreigners and prominent The strike came after IS gunmen attacked US-allied troops in a remote area southeast of the citizens are regularly targeted. port city of Bosaso in the semi-autonomous Puntland region. A statement from the US Africa Com- in brief “I can confirm to you that four Chinese workers were abducted last night by unknown gun- mand (AFRICOM) said US forces were in the area at the time of the bombardment to “advise and men,” Cross River state police spokeswoman Irene Ugbo told AFP. assist” Somali troops. The AFRICOM statement also said “we assess no civilians were injured or She added that a police sergeant guarding the foreigners was shot dead by the attackers killed.” IS has a relatively small footprint in Somalia, where Al Qaeda-affiliated Al-Shabaab jihadists and that officers were searching for the kidnappers.(AFP) regularly carry out attacks against government and international targets. (AFP) Israel arrests Palestinian cultural leaders, raids centres AFP tory of Music, were detained at yer Nasir Odeh, the couple suspects... in connection with presented by police at the time Jerusalem their home in Jerusalem’s Beit was “detained on charges of tax evasion and fraud”, with- of the search, reference “sus- Hanina neighbourhood. financing terrorist organisa- out mentioning the individu- picion of money laundering Israeli police arrested two The Yabous centre and the tions”. als by name. (and) funding terror”. prominent Palestinian cul- conservatory were also raided But he stressed that Isra- It confirmed the searches The Yabous Cultural tural leaders on Wednesday at by police and Israeli tax inves- el’s broad anti-terrorism laws “at two organisations that Center in east Jerusalem was their home in east Jerusalem tigators, with documents con- include a wide range of offenc- were run in east Jerusalem established in the mid 1990s on a suspicion of “funding ter- fiscated. es, including accepting money claiming that they were in- with a mandate to celerate rorism”, police and a defence The Palestine Liberation from organisations that the volved in Palestinian culture.” Palestinian culture and Arab lawyer said. Organization condemned the Jewish state has labelled as Rosenfeld said the indi- heritage in the city. Rania Elias, who heads the arrests and raids as part of “Is- “terrorist”. viduals were being questioned The conservatory, named Yabous Cultural Centre and rael’s violent and systematic Israeli police spokesman and the investigation was on- after the late Palestinian intel- her husband Suhail Khoury, campaign against Palestinians Micky Rosenfeld said in a going. lectual Said, has branches in A picture shows the Palestinian National Conservatory of Music that Director General of the Ed- in occupied Jerusalem”. statement that police, with tax But documents sent to Jerusalem and across the oc- was raided by Israeli police and tax investigators, in east Jerusalem on ward Said National Conserva- According to Elias’s law- authorities, detained “three AFP by a conservatory official, cupied West Bank. Wednesday. (AFP)

Turkey vows to stand Ethiopia’s PM Abiy praises by Libya’s unity govt against ‘putschists’ AFP It has stepped up mili- ‘historic’ start to dam filling Istanbul tary support to Tripoli against Haftar in the east, AFP the three countries said they Turkey’s top security coun- who launched an offensive in Addis Ababa had agreed to continue with cil reaffirmed its determina- 2019 to take the capital. the negotiations, though it was tion to back the Government Haftar is backed by Egypt Ethiopian Prime Minister unclear what concrete pro- of National Accord in Trip- and the United Arab Emir- Abiy Ahmed on Wednesday gress had been made. oli, against the rival eastern ates -- with which Turkey has lauded the “historic” early fill- In a statement Wednesday based commander Khalifa strained ties -- as well as by ing of a massive dam on the morning, Egypt’s foreign min- Haftar, in a strongly worded Russia. Blue Nile River that has stoked istry stressed “the necessity of statement Wednesday. tensions with downstream reaching a binding legal agree- The National Security Libya has been mired in neighbours Egypt and Sudan. ment on the rules for filling Council (MGK) vowed to chaos since the 2011 “The completion of the first and operating the Renaissance “stand by the people of Lib- round of filling is a historic Dam” that would “include a ya against any tyranny”, in overthrow of longtime moment that showcases Ethi- legally binding instrument to a statement issued after a dictator Moamer Kadhafi, opians’ commitment to the resolve conflicts”. meeting chaired by President with rival political and renaissance of our country,” But Ethiopia has resisted a Recep Tayyip Erdogan. armed groups battling for Abiy, the 2019 Nobel Peace legally binding dispute resolu- Turkey “will not hesitate control. laureate, said in a statement tion process. to take necessary steps”, it read on state television. Ethiopian officialssaid added. Tensions have mounted “The fact that we reached the dam will not harm down- The MGK also discussed in recent weeks, with Egypt this milestone by our own ef- stream countries. the involvement of third threatening to intervene mil- forts when no one else believed They have also said this parties in Libya “who have itarily if the Ankara-backed in our capabilities to accom- year’s filling was a natural and dreams of making grounds GNA forces advanced to- plish such initiatives makes inevitable part of construction. by acting together with the wards the strategic city of the moment even more his- By filling the reservoir with putschists”, describing them Sirte. toric,” he added. 4.9 billion cubic metres (173 as “doomed initiatives”. The MGK also discussed The Grand Ethiopian Re- A satellite image obtained courtesy of Maxar Technologies shows a view of northwestern Ethiopia that billion cubic feet) of water, Libya has been mired in the energy activities off the naissance Dam (GERD) has focuses on the status of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the Blue Nile River. (AFP) Ethiopia is now in a position chaos since the 2011 over- eastern Mediterranean -- an been a source of tension in to test its first two turbines -- throw of longtime dictator area of tensions especially the Nile River basin ever since cation and development. the middle of its rainy season, that it had hit its first-year an important step on the way Moamer Kadhafi, with rival with Greece. Ethiopia broke ground on it in “We conducted the filling drawing objections from Cairo target for filling the dam came toward actually producing en- political and armed groups It stressed “Turkey’s firm 2011. of the dam without causing and Khartoum who wanted to Tuesday as the three countries ergy. battling for control. determination to protect its Egypt and Sudan view the harm to anyone,” said Abiy. first reach a trilateral agree- were participating in talks Abiy noted Wednesday Turkey supports Libya’s rights and interests arising dam as a threat to vital water Addis Ababa had long said ment on how the dam would overseen by the African Union that Ethiopia wanted the dam UN-recognised Government from international law in the supplies, while Ethiopia con- it planned to begin filling the be operated. to try to resolve the dispute. to be fully operational by early of National Accord (GNA). eastern Mediterranean”. siders it crucial for its electrifi- dam’s reservoir this month, in Ethiopia’s announcement After the call, leaders from 2023.

UN experts urge Iran to release jailed DR Congo ends South African anti-apartheid virus health activist with COVID-19 symptoms icon Andrew Mlangeni dies emergency, AFP ed by lawyer and Nobel Peace rus on July 8, but had not borders to reopen Geneva Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi -- yet received the results, they AFP end of a generational history when she was arrested in May added. Johannesburg and places our future squarely AFP A group of UN rights experts 2015. “We are extremely con- in our hands,” he declared. Kinshasa called Wednesday on Iran to The mother-of-two is serv- cerned for Ms. Mohammadi’s South African anti-apart- Mlangeni was admitted to immediately release jailed ing a 10-year prison sentence well-being,” the experts said, heid figureA ndrew Mlangeni, a military hospital in the capi- DR Congo President Felix activist and journalist Narges for “forming and managing an pointing to previously-raised who stood trial alongside Nel- tal Pretoria on Tuesday with Tshisekedi has lifted a health Mohammadi, reportedly ill illegal group”, among other concerns “that she and other son Mandela in the 1963-64 an abdominal complaint, the emergency over the corona- with the novel coronavirus, charges. individuals in Iranian prisons Rivonia Trial, has died at the presidency said. virus outbreak and ordered a warning her life was at stake. The rights activist, who are at great risk if they con- age of 95, the presidency an- Hailing Mlangeni as a reopening in three stages of “The Iranian authorities suffers from a lung condition, tract COVID-19.” nounced on Wednesday. “principled and modest” man, business activities, schools must act now before it is too already requested temporary “For those with underlying Mlangeni, 95, was the the Desmond & Leah Tutu and borders. late,” the 16 independent ex- release from prison for medi- health conditions, such as Ms. last surviving Rivonia trialist, Legacy Foundation said his The vast country of more perts said in a statement, ex- cal treatment last month. Mohammadi, it may have life- spending more than quarter of passing “sounds the last post than 80 million people has pressing grave concern that The UN experts, who are or-death consequences.” a century imprisoned on Cape on a courageous generation of recorded 8,534 infections Mohammadi appeared to appointed by the UN but who The UN experts lamented Town’s notorious Robben is- South Africans.” including 196 deaths since have contracted COVID-19 in do not speak on behalf of the that Mohammadi and other land before his release in 1989. “He is deeply mourned,” March 10. Zanjan Prison in north-west- world body, said Mohammadi “prisoners of conscience” had Former apartheid struggle “President Cyril Ramapho- the foundation said in a state- Tshisekedi said the figures ern Iran. had first shown symptoms of not been included. stalwart Andrew Mlangeni looks sa has learnt with deep sadness ment. place the Democratic Republic Mohammadi, 48, is a cam- COVID-19 in late June, and Iran has been hard-hit in on at the inaugural George Bizos of the passing away overnight Born in the Johannesburg of Congo as ninth worst-hit paigner against the death pen- that her situation later dete- the global pandemic, with the Human Rights Award in Johan- of the last remaining Rivonia township of Soweto, he joined country in Africa in terms of alty and was spokeswoman riorated, with her losing con- government’s figures show- nesburg. - Andrew Mlangeni, a Trialist,” the presidency said the youth wing of the African the number of cases and 12th for the Defenders of Human sciousness on July 5. ing nearly 15,000 deaths and former apartheid struggle stal- in a tweet. National Congress (ANC) in in terms of deaths, “putting Rights Center in Iran -- found- She was tested for the vi- 280,000 infections. wart, died at the age of 95. (AFP) His death “signifies the the early 1950s. paid to all catastrophic fore- casts for our country at the start of the epidemic.” In a televised speech late on Tuesday, the president an- Afghan girl who killed Taliban gunmen ‘ready to fight again’ nounced an end to the emer- gency. AFP a relative’s home. took over”, she said. The New York Times re- for me and my little brother.” He said that from Wednes- Ghazni It was about midnight “I picked up the gun we had ported Wednesday that the kill- Gul regrets she was unable day all shops, banks, res- when the Taliban arrived, Gul at home, went to the door and ings at Gul’s home also involved to say goodbye to her mother taurants and bars would be An Afghan girl who shot dead said, recounting the events of shot them”. a family feud -- and that one and father. allowed to reopen, public two Taliban fighters after they that night. She was asleep in Gul said her brother helped of the attackers was Gul’s own “After I killed the two Tali- transport can resume and gunned down her parents said her room with her 12-year-old when one of the insurgents, husband. Officials toldA FP the ban, I went to talk to my par- large gatherings are permitted. Wednesday she was ready to brother when she heard the who appeared to be the group’s Taliban had come to kill Gul’s ents, but they were not breath- Schools and universities confront any other insurgents sound of men pushing at the leader, tried to return fire. father, who was the village ing,” she said. can reopen on August 3, and who might try to attack her. door of their home. “My brother took the gun chief, because he supported the “I feel sad, I could not talk to airports, ports, borders and Qamar Gul, 15, killed the “My mother ran to stop from me and hit (shot) him. The government. Gul said her father them one last time.” places of worship on August 15. militants when they stormed them but by then they had al- fighter ran away injured, only to had taught her how to shoot an “I demand that the presi- But he warned that “the Photo shows Qamar Gul, 15, her home last week in a village ready broken the door,” Gul return later,” Gul said. AK-47 assault rifle. dent help transfer her to a safe end of the state of emergency who shot with an AK-47 gun in the Taywara district of the said. By then, several villagers “I am proud I killed my par- place as her and her family’s does not mean the end of the two Taliban fighters after they central province of Ghor. “They took my father and and pro-government militia- ents’ murderers,” she said. security is at risk,” prominent COVID-19 epidemic in our attacked her home as she sits “I no longer fear them and mother outside and shot them men had arrived at the house. “I killed them because they women’s rights activist and country,” reminding citizens at the Governor’s office in Feroz I’m ready to fight them again,” several times. I was terrified”. The Taliban eventually fled fol- killed my parents, and also be- former lawmaker Fawzia Koofi to wear masks in public and Koh in Ghor province. (AFP) Gul told AFP by telephone from But moments later, “anger lowing a lengthy firefight. cause I knew they would come wrote on Facebook. wash their hands frequently. 06 Thursday, July 23, 2020

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

The Many Obstacles To Opening US Schools China’s Self-Inflicted School officials are doing their best but there is no point in rushing to open the schools without winning Wounds In The the confidence and trust of parents and stakeholders

PENING public schools in the Unit- tablished early on. ed States this fall requires more Schools (more or less) were shut- South China Sea Othan throwing wide the doors, ush- tered in 50 states, you will recall, in ering in the kids and ringing the bells. March and April — and were kept closed, That may come as news to a particu- even when it was known that it would larly loud voice in the Oval Office, but profoundly throw life out of kilter. Beijing’s increased aggression over its maritime claims has sparked more robust every state and local official working on After all, people were getting sick, responses from Washington and the regional claimant states the problem knows it all too well. lives were at risk, the death toll was So even as everyone wants to see mounting. students return as scheduled, there After that, the schools (more or less) needs to be a plan for doing so. One that took a stab at on-line instruction and, boy, Rahul Mishra ensures safety, protects everyone — stu- was that ever uneven and often unfair. Tribune News Service dents, teachers, administrators, staff Not every family has a snazzy wire- and families — and inspires confidence. less and a faultless computer setup. We’re not there yet. Not even close. Children who relied upon school lunch Plans are all over, everywhere. Dis- for nutritional support faced additional jointed. Inconsistent. “In the works.” hurdles. Previous social and economic We do have a few common denomi- inequities were amplified. nators: Confusion. Apprehension. Fear. Early summer yielded to optimism. Once the virus was loose in the We’re going to get through this. The fall country, it was destined to be chaotic — will be better. and for one broad, universal, perfectly Now doubt rules again. Indecision obvious reason: is rampant. Of- a lack of prepa- ficials face two ration. competing points America was of views. Fami- not prepared. lies want the HINA’S South China Sea gambit is would not want to pursue the 2016 Perma- The South China Sea is an ever-conten- Virginia was not schools to reopen heading toward a rocky phase, the nent Court of Arbitration’s ruling with Chi- tious zone, and becoming more so thanks prepared. No- in the fall while warning signs of which were wit- na. The arbitration ruling was rejected as to China’s aggressive actions. In addition body was pre- teachers remain nessed on July 13 when US Secre- invalid by China, which had refused to take to frequently harassing Vietnamese ships, pared. wary and resist- tary of State Mike Pompeo formally part in the proceedings or recognise the tri- China has been trespassing into Malaysian The response ant. Everyone Crejected China’s “historical rights” claims in bunal’s jurisdiction. Seemingly, the US sup- waters. As per the third series of the Audi- suffered its own is watching, the South China Sea. Terming the Chinese port to the Philippines is making a headway tor-General’s Report 2018, between 2016 set of difficul- thinking, taking policy completely unlawful, he added that in Manila’s corridors of power, leading to a and 2019, the Chinese military encroached ties, too. Amer- soundings, try- the international community will not allow rejuvenation of ties. The recent Philippine as many as 89 times into Malaysia’s Sabah ica is a working ing to do the best Beijing “to treat the South China Sea as its decision to defer a threatened suspension of and Sarawak waters in the South China democracy, with thing. maritime empire.” its defense pact with the United States testi- Sea. China is also enraging Indonesia by many players, The uncer- Pompeo touched the right chord with fies to a growing sense in Manila that Wash- intruding in the waters around the Natuna competing cent- tainty may not Southeast Asian claimant countries in stat- ington may be their best bet after all when it Islands. So far, Indonesia’s Joko Widodo ers of authority and countless voices. soon change. History says so. The last, ing that China has failed to provide any comes to national security. administration has firmly responded to All these participants have chimed in, great influenza epidemic struck Amer- credible legal basis for its expansive South To a certain extent, Pompeo’s and Loc- China’s misadventures; how long it will mostly in reaction to events and the ef- ica in the fall of 1918, took a heavy toll China Sea claims, manifested in the nine- sin’s statements also echo the emerging col- remain guarded remains to be seen. fect too much resembles a cacophony and subsided. dash line. This is also one of the rare oc- lective voice of key Association of Southeast Speculations are rife that China is intent of noise. But it did not stop flaring: Ten casions when the United States explicitly Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries. on setting up an Air Defence Identification Our most prominent, visible po- years later, “Influenza Deaths Increas- called for respecting the 2016 ruling of the During the 36th ASEAN summit in June Zone over these waters, replicating its East litical leadership — the White House, ing,” read the Danville Bee headline on Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitra- 2020, the ASEAN member countries raised China Sea model. the state governors — get to wear logo Dec 27, 1928, and, over the next three tion, which found in the Philippines’ favour their concerns on the South China Sea dis- With the renewed US support to the jackets, fly in helicopters, hold press weeks, between 100,000 and 125,000 in its filing against China’s claims. pute and presented a cohesive diplomatic Philippines on the South China Sea dispute, conferences, issue edicts, orders and new cases were reported. Pompeo’s statement supporting the front against China’s aggressive postures in it is clear that China’s South China Sea gam- guidelines. This business does not quit — Philippines and highlighting the salience of the South China Sea. While China did prom- bit is likely to face more challenges in times But you know what? By American not until a vaccine emerges. To open international laws is rather intriguing as the ise to restart the negotiation process, weeks to come. Its persistently aggressive policy tradition, habit and law, public schools schools without it means tackling a host United States itself is not a signatory to the later the Peoples’ Liberation Army was is unlikely to yield any tactical or strategic remain a locally controlled enterprise. of issues — logistics, location, transpor- 1982 UNCLOS (United Nations Convention spotted in the South China Sea conducting outcomes. However, Beijing would still try Every authoritative pronouncement tation, social distancing and cleanli- on the Law of the Seas) agreement. a military drill instead. The United States to play its age-old “divide and rule” policy you hear about K-12 public education ness, among many others — to the com- The US move did not come in a vacuum. criticised China’s actions, terming it a viola- with the Southeast Asian countries, offering — no matter how confident and brave, munity’s satisfaction, and doing so in a Just a day before Pompeo’s statement, the tion of the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct sweet deals to some while fiercely counter- no matter whether governmental or matter of weeks, not months. Philippines’ Foreign Affairs Secretary Teo- of Parties in the South China Sea, as a part ing those who stand up to it. How far China journalistic — has to be understood in School officials are doing their best doro Locsin said Manila believes that the of which the signatories had promised to succeeds in such attempts would be largely the context of who is running the show, but it’s hard to believe they will be 2016 arbitral tribunal’s ruling on the South avoid activities that could escalate disputes. shaped by the quality and extent of reassur- meaning local cities and counties. able to clear those hurdles in so fluid China Sea dispute is non-negotiable, and In response, the United States also con- ance the United States and its friends and Understand that fact and you un- a situation. And if we cannot open the Manila will make no compromises on its ducted a competing naval exercise involving allies provide to the region in keeping the derstand why things have been so frag- schools safely, with the public’s trust claims in those disputed waters. two of its nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, flock together. mented and often inconsistent. The and confidence, it would be better to Locsin’s statement appears to be in the USS Nimitz and USS Ronald Reagan, patterns — or lack thereof — were es- not rush things. contradiction with President Rodrigo Du- which demonstrates how serious Washing- (Rahul Mishra is a senior lecturer at terte’s pro-China stance. Duterte himself ton is getting about its stand against China the Asia-Europe Institute, University (Tribune News Service) had indicted in the past that his government in the South China Sea. of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

Electric Cars Got Crushed In 2020, But Next Year Could Be Their Best

Automakers have publicly reaffirmed their faith in an electric future, leaving EV investment plans largely unchanged

Michael J Coren Most of the variables driving this year’s ference this May. “I think it would be naive sulting Group’s mobility practice. “Over Tribune News Service hit to EV sales should be short-term. Lost to believe after some months, everything the next two to five years, if you have cash income, nervousness about the economy, will return to normal, and our customers and funding for for R&D, those are the LECTRIC vehicles have long defied the falling gas prices, and a lack of alluring will come back into a showroom asking companies that are going to come out win- slumping global auto market. As vehi- choices (at least below the $45,000 Tesla for diesel cars. They will ask even more for ners,” says Wegscheider. Ecle sales cooled over in recent years, price point) have taken a toll. In the US, electric cars.” The Chinese-owned brand The pandemic has ratcheted up the EVs have resisted the pull of gravity, sell- buyers are flocking to pick-up trucks, at- (which has committed to an all-electric pressure on EVs’ sales performance. Au- ing roughly a million new units every six tracted by generous financing terms, and lineup) says it is now cutting R&D spend- tomotive research firm AlixPartners es- months since 2018. This year, the Chinese used cars sales have risen 17 percent above ing while leaving its electrification pro- timates the industry will sell 36 million government was hoping to see the sector’s pre-pandemic forecasts. China is reducing gramme untouched. fewer vehicles through 2022 due to the sales double. EV subsidies. lon of gasoline this year. Outside of Europe, policy pressure is pandemic, and has already taken on $72 Not anymore. In Asia and the US, a But the story in Europe is different- Equally important, next year will mark less immediate, but moving in the same billion in new debt to see it through. Any long-term trend is reversing: Electric ve- and the continent may prove to be a lead- the arrival of more than 30 new EV mod- direction. China has extended its own EV return to pre-pandemic levels is unlikely hicles are now underperforming their con- ing indicator for the electric car market. In els from major carmakers, giving potential subsidies through 2022, and has raised its until 2025: After the 2008 financial crisis, ventional counterparts. 2020, the continent has seen a 31 percent buyers their most comprehensive set of target for EVs from 20 percent of all sales it took the auto market seven years to re- For the first time, electric and “new en- jump in EV sales compared to the same pe- choices yet. Besides price and range anxi- within five years to 25 percent. In the US, cover. ergy” vehicle sales dropped in China this riod last year, according to data from LMC, ety, the lack of options has long held back despite attempts by the Trump adminis- This was echoed by Adam Kwiat- April even as the broader market grew. an automotive industry forecaster. Behind an EV market dominated by unpopular tration to roll back emission standards, kowski, head of General Motors’ electric Energy research firm Wood Mackenzie is the rise is a concerted effort by govern- sedans. The new wave of EVs are squarely California has committed to zeroing out drivetrain technology. On May 19, he told predicting a 40 percent drop in global EV ments to retire the internal combustion in the market’s sweet spot of SUVs and emissions from cars and trucks (13 other investors that the company was “very pro- sales in 2020 from 2.2 million units last engine by using carbon policy, vehicle sub- crossovers, now more than half the global US states already follow California’s strict- tective” of its EV research, despite the pan- year. And while that may be too bleak- sidies, and competition. market. er air quality standards). demic and faltering sales. global sales are only down 22 percent so Germany strengthened EV subsidies in Herbert Diess, Volkswagen’s CEO, Global automakers have little choice “The most important thing at General far this year-sales are still likely to be flat February. France followed suit with some said the strict new CO2 targets in the Eu- but to go along. At least $200 billion of Motors is that there’s really no change in by the end of 2020. of Europe’s richest incentives. The Euro- ropean Union made 2020 a “watershed investments in EVs are on the books, and our conviction or commitment to an all- Despite the flop, 2021 may prove to pean Union (EU) is sticking to new CO2 year.” VW will rely on the company’s 33 policy deadlines are looming. Companies electric future,” he said, according to tran- be electric vehicles’ comeback. Automak- emissions standards rather than cut back, new electric and plug-in hybrids to meet must figure out how to become profitable script from Sentieo. “In terms of overall ers have publicly reaffirmed their faith in as once predicted. The 27-nation bloc is those standards. selling the new technology before balance electric vehicle adoption, we haven’t seen an electric future, leaving EV investment phasing in average fleet fuel efficiency “Electrification will go faster,” argued sheets begin bleeding cash, says Augustin anything that changes our view on EVs. plans largely unchanged. standards equivalent to 57.4 miles per gal- Volvo’s CEO Håkan Samuelsson at a con- Wegscheider, who leads the Boston Con- Full steam ahead.”

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. Asia / World Thursday, July 23, 2020 07 Almost a quarter of Delhi has had coronavirus AFP could be much higher. the official tally of 125,000. a news conference. ing economic impact. New Delhi Blood tests on 21,387 ran- While praising government On Wednesday, India’s But, independently from domly selected people across restrictions that have limited health ministry reported a to- the federal government, states Almost a quarter of people in Delhi conducted by the Na- the spread of the virus, the tal of 1.19 million coronavirus have been tightening restric- New Delhi have had the coro- tional Center for Disease Con- ministry said the study “indi- cases so far with almost 29,000 tions as case numbers have navirus, according to a study trol found that 23.48 percent cates that a large number of in- deaths. soared -- including in Banga- that cast serious doubt on the of them had IgG antibodies fected persons remain asymp- Maharashtra, Delhi and Ta- lore, Bihar, West Bengal and official numbers both in the -- indicating past exposure to tomatic”. mil Nadu states are the worst parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. megacity and across India. the virus. The survey was conducted affected. Daily new cases have been India last week became the With Delhi’s population of between June 27 and July 10. Prime Minister Narendra steadily falling in recent weeks, third country after the United more than 20 million, the find- And more than 75 percent Modi’s government imposed with fewer than 1,000 new in- States and Brazil to hit one mil- ings published Tuesday by the are still vulnerable, including one of the world’s strictest lock- fections recorded on Tuesday -- lion cases but many experts federal health ministry suggest those at higher risk, Sujeet Ku- downs in late March, but it has the first time in 49 days -- down Health workers wearing PPE suits take a swab sample from a man have long said that with test- that 4.7 million people have mar Singh, head of the National been steadily eased in recent from a peak of almost 4,000 in during a screening for the COVID-19 coronavirus, in Ahmedabad, India ing rates low, the true number had the virus, almost 40 times Centre for Disease Control, told months to lessen the devastat- late June. on Wednesday. (AFP)

China says French claims Thailand set to extend on Uighur rights are ‘lies’ Australia posts record coronavirus AFP He added that Xinjiang emergency Beijing issues were not about human rights, religion or ethnicity but until end of French claims about the about “countering violent ter- imprisonment of ethnic and rorism and separatism”. number of new August religious minorities in China’s “About so-called lies that Xinjiang region were unaccep- Xinjiang restricts religious DPA table, Beijing said Wednesday, freedom and suppresses Mus- Bangkok criticising the accusations as lims... the truth is that recent- “false”. ly, some politicians and media coronavirus infections Thailand is set to ex- China’s response came a in the US and the west have tend a state of emergency day after Paris demanded it let stigmatised Xinjiang’s lawful AFP prompted by the corona- independent human rights ob- fight against terrorism and ex- Melbourne virus pandemic to the end servers visit the northwestern tremism,” Wang said. of August, officials said, region, where rights groups “We firmly oppose the po- Australia reported a record even as it prepares to start and experts estimate over one liticisation of religious issues 502 new coronavirus infec- allowing more foreigners million Uighurs and other and the use of religious issues tions Wednesday, nearly four into the country. Turkic-speaking minorities to interfere in China’s internal months after the epidemic General Somsak have been rounded up into a affairs,” he added. initially peaked, with authori- Roongsita, secretary gen- network of internment camps. Asked if the training pro- ties warning the country was eral of the National Se- France’s foreign affairs grammes he referred to were entering a critical new phase. curity Council, said on minister Jean-Yves le Drian still ongoing in Xinjiang, Most of the new cases were Wednesday that the emer- said China’s actions were Wang said that those in the reported in the southeastern gency decree is still neces- “unacceptable” and said they centres had “completed their state of Victoria, where author- sary to contain the coro- “condemn them firmly”. courses” -- in line with offi- ities have struggled to bring an navirus and to make sure Beijing has defended its cials’ announcement late last outbreak in Melbourne under foreigners entering the strategy in Xinjiang as neces- year. control despite an almost two- country are subject to 14- sary to avoid extremism. The latest exchange comes week lockdown in Australia’s day quarantines. Chinese foreign ministry as tensions have been rising second-biggest city. The emergency de- spokesman Wang Wenbin between the West and China Australia’s new corona- cree was first imposed on told a regular press briefing on multiple fronts, including virus infections previously March 26 to fight the pan- on Wednesday that “China has over a new draconian security peaked on March 28 when 459 demic. It gives the prime repeatedly responded to and law in Hong Kong and mount- cases were reported, according minister sweeping powers clarified false reports and ac- ing opposition to the use of to data compiled by AFP. Victoria’s state premier Daniel Andrews speaks during a press conference in Melbourne on Wednesday. to introduce and enforce cusations on Xinjiang-related products made by Chinese tel- Australia had since ap- Australia reported a record 501 new COVID-19 coronavirus infections on Wednesday. (AFP) regulations. issues”. ecom giant Huawei. peared to bring the virus under There has been strong control and had eased restric- But Andrews said “fur- at six prisons have been con- Melbourne visited a popular opposition against the de- tions. Like neighbouring New ther behaviour change” would fined to their cells after a guard pub. cree by activists and politi- Zealand, it had won plaudits still be required after analysis tested positive. “We are not out of the cians, who accuse the gov- for its pandemic response. showed almost nine in 10 peo- An inquiry into how the vi- woods by any stretch, quite the ernment of using it to crack Victoria Premier Daniel ple recently diagnosed with rus spread in Melbourne heard opposite,” Berejiklian told a down on political dissent. Hong Kong sets Andrews announced 484 new coronavirus did not self-isolate this week that many cases were press conference. Somsak said emer- cases and two more deaths in between feeling sick and get- likely linked to infection con- “We remain on high alert gency laws will no longer the state Wednesday, bringing ting tested. trol breaches at hotels used to and we have some level of anx- be used to charge political new virus record its total of active cases to just Andrews said casual work- quarantine residents returning iety as to the extent of commu- activists. over 3,400. ers across a range of indus- from overseas. nity transmission.” Taweesilp Visanuyoth- AFP businesses and reducing dine- Australia has now recorded tries, who do not get sick-leave New South Wales Premier Berejiklian said new re- in, spokesperson for the Hong Kong in hours. almost 13,000 cases of the vi- provisions, were worried about Gladys Berejiklian described strictions would come into government’s coronavirus Health officials have also rus and 128 fatalities in a coun- “feeding their kids, paying the coming weeks as “the most force Friday to tighten rules task force, said on Wednes- Hong Kong reported 113 ordered people to wear masks try of about 25 million. their bills”, but could apply for critical” since the height of the for bars, cafes, weddings and day that the task force had new coronavirus infections on on transport and, from Thurs- Melbourne residents will a $1,070 hardship payment if last lockdown, when the state funerals, warning they could agreed in principle to al- Wednesday, a new daily re- day, in all public indoor venues. be required to wear masks out- they contract the virus. held the mantle of Australia’s still be extended further. low more foreigners into cord as a sudden surge in cases More than 800 infections side from midnight -- making There are growing fears hardest-hit region. New South Wales report- the country, including: shows no signs of slowing de- had been confirmed in the last the city the first place in Aus- about the virus spreading Several clusters have ed 16 new cases Wednesday, those travelling for prod- spite ramped up social distanc- fortnight alone, more than a tralia to mandate face cover- through vulnerable popula- emerged in Sydney, which with one each also detected in uct exhibitions; film crews; ing rules. third since the virus hit the city. ings in public -- in a new effort tions after outbreaks at several health officials believe sprung Queensland and South Aus- medical tourists; and The finance hub was one of Only eight of the 113 new to slow the virus spread. nursing homes, while inmates up after an infected man from tralia states. holders of Thailand Elite the first places to be struck by cases reported on Wednesday Cards, a membership card the virus when it emerged from were imported, meaning the rest costing between 15,800 central China. have been contracted locally. and 63,000 dollars, which But the city had impressive Officials were unable includes renewable visas. success in tackling the disease, to identify the transmis- Abducted Pakistani journalist free again day after presumed abduction Taweesilp said the task all but ending local transmis- sion source in 60 percent of force also agreed to allow sions by late June. cases meaning the disease is DPA and demanded his immediate sponse” of those who raised Earlier this month, the entry for foreign migrant However, infections have spreading. Islamabad release. their voice upon hearing about Supreme Court handed him workers from neighbour- spiked again this month and The city has had 2,132 in- Jan was released late on his abduction had led to his a contempt of court notice for ing countries such as My- doctors say a new outbreak is fections with 14 deaths in total. A Pakistani journalist who Tuesday, around 12 hours after safe return. “He [Jan] was re- tweeting about a recent ruling. anmar, Laos, and Cambo- spreading out of control in the As hospital wards fill, offi- gained prominence for his his abduction. No group has leased around midnight and is The court is scheduled to take dia. densely packed territory of 7.5 cials are scrambling to build a criticism of the military is free claimed responsibility for the in high spirits,” his friend, Asad up the matter again later on He said the virus task million people. further 2,000 isolation rooms once more following his alleged incident and no details about Toor, said. Wednesday. force’s decision on allow- “Hong Kong is at the most on barren land near the city’s Tuesday abduction in Islama- his disappearance have been Jan’s critique of the mili- Jan worked as a print and ing foreigners to enter still critical moment,” health minis- Disneyland resort to monitor bad. A video of the purported released. tary - which wields most of the broadcast journalist for three has to be processed by the ter Sophia Chan said as she ap- and treat those who test posi- kidnapping of Matiullah Jan “I am back home safe political power in Pakistan - decades before losing his job. relevant authorities. pealed for people to “cancel all tive. from a street on the nation’s [and] sound,” Jan tweeted on has landed him in trouble more He has been intimidated, har- Thailand has not re- the unnecessary outings”. City leaders are keen to capital sparked an outcry on Wednesday, thanking all those than once. He lost his job, al- assed and attacked in the past. ported any domestic trans- Earlier this month officials avoid an economically painful social media. International who spoke out after his abduc- legedly due to pressure from Pakistan’s military controls mission of the virus for al- reimposed social distancing lockdown but have not ruled it rights groups, politicians and tion. the military, but continued to the mainstream media with a most two months. measures, shuttering some out if the outbreak worsens. diplomats expressed concerns He said the “quick re- voice his opinions online. tight censorship policy.

Philippines warns of more arrests for failing to follow mask rules New Zealand minister sacked after allegations of affair with staffer DPA Manila Filipino journalist Maria Ressa DPA his agencies. pleads not guilty to tax evasion Wellington The relationship had since Philippine authorities on ended. Wednesday warned more peo- Manila Filipino journalist Maria Ressa on Wednesday pleaded New Zealand Prime Minister “The minister has shown a ple would be arrested for fail- not guilty to a tax evasion charge, one of several criminal cases Jacinda Ardern on Wednes- lack of judgement over a period ing to wear masks in public filed against her in what she and press freedom groups have day dismissed the minister for of 12 months. In undertaking and could face up to 30 days denounced as a harassment and intimidation campaign. workplace relations and safety this relationship he has opened in prison, as the government Ressa, 56, heads the news website Rappler, which has been following allegations he had himself up to accusations of stepped up enforcement of the subject of attacks by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte for an inappropriate relationship improperly using his office.” anti-coronavirus restrictions. its critical reporting on his government’s war on illegal drugs and with a staff member. Lees-Galloway had “not mod- “We will apprehend more other controversial policies. She pleaded not guilty at the Pasig Labour Party member of elled the behaviour” expected people now,” Interior Under- City Regional Trial Court to the tax charge, which relates to more parliament Iain Lees-Galloway, of a minister, Ardern said. secretary Jonathan Malaya than 294,000 pesos (6,000 dollars). 41, was stripped of his portfo- “It became clear to me his said. “Let this be a warning to Four other counts of tax evasion have been filed with the lios and would not stand for position as a minister had be- all, please listen and follow the Court of Tax Appeals. Ressa pleaded not guilty to those charges re-election come September, come untenable.” protocols.” Members of a police special action force walk with local officials as in April 2019. (DPA) Ardern told a press conference. In a written statement Violators of quarantine they patrol a street in Navotas in suburban Manila, recently. (AFP) Ardern said Lees-Gallo- Lees-Galloway said he accept- protocols will also face a fine way, who was also minister ed the prime minister’s deci- of up to 5,000 pesos (100 dol- “There will be a uniform wear a mask,” he said. called on police and local gov- additional Covid-19 cases, for immigration and the Acci- sion and apologized. lars), Interior Secretary Ed- implementation of health “We suggest 10 to 30 days, ernment officials to be more bringing the national tally to dent Compensation Corpora- “I have acted completely uardo Ano said after meeting standards ... for physical distancing also 10 strict in enforcing regulations. 72,269. The death toll was tion, confirmed to her that he inappropriately in my posi- with local government officials [and] number of days in to 30 days imprisonment.” The Department of Health 1,843, with six more deaths had a consensual relationship tion and can not continue as a to discuss standard penalties. prison if you violate and don’t On Tuesday, Duterte reported on Wednesday 1,594 reported, the department said. with a staff member in one of minister.” 08 Thursday, July 23, 2020 Europe / Americas WHO’s handling of pandemic US-Chinese tensions soar as consulate ordered to shut AFP pectations for how the Chinese Communist Party’s vast net- woman Morgan Ortagus said led to ‘dead Britons’: Pompeo Houston Communist Party is going to work of spies & influence op- the consulate was ordered shut behave,” US Secretary of State erations in the United States.” “in order to protect Ameri- AFP by a deal struck between chief a private morning event. US-Chinese tensions, al- Mike Pompeo said during a “Now that building must close can intellectual property and London Tedros Adhanom Ghebreye- The WHO said it rejected ready rising because of the visit to Denmark. & the spies have 72 hours to Americans’ private informa- sus and China that helped him “ad hominem attacks and un- coronavirus pandemic and “And when they don’t, tion.” Under the Vienna Con- The World Health Organiza- become its head, according to founded allegations”. crackdown in Hong Kong, we’re going to take actions that Chinese Foreign Ministry vention, states “have a duty tion’s actions during the coro- quotes in the Times and Daily “WHO urges countries to ratcheted up another notch protect American people, pro- spokesman Wang Wenbin not to interfere in the internal navirus pandemic led to “dead Telegraph. remain focused on tackling the on Wednesday as the United tect our security, our national said the order to close the affairs” of the receiving state, Britons”, US Secretary of State “When push came to shove, pandemic that is causing tragic States ordered the closure of security, and also protect our consulate was an “outra- Ortagus said. Mike Pompeo told lawmak- when it really mattered most”, loss of life and suffering,” a the Chinese consulate in Hou- economy and jobs,” Pompeo geous and unjustified move The State Department said ers during a trip to London, people died “because of the spokesperson for the organisa- ston within 72 hours. told reporters. China has engaged in mas- British media reported on deal that was made”, he said. tion said on Tuesday, accord- China reacted angrily to the “President (Donald) Trump which will sabotage China- sive spying and influence op- Wednesday. Pompeo was in Britain for ing to the Telegraph. US move, which came a day af- has said ‘enough,’” Pompeo US relations” erations throughout the United Pompeo told a private meetings with Prime Minister The US announced ear- ter the unveiling of a US indict- said. “We’re not going to allow States for years. meeting of MPs on Tuesday Boris Johnson and Foreign lier this month that it would be ment of two Chinese nationals this to continue to happen.” leave or face arrest,” tweeted “These activities have in- that the WHO had become a Secretary Dominic Raab fo- withdrawing from the WHO, for allegedly hacking hundreds Republican Senator Marco Rubio, acting chairman of the creased markedly in scale and “political” body, alleging that cused on China, and met some accusing it of being controlled of companies worldwide. Rubio said the Houston consu- Senate Intelligence Committee. scope over the past few years,” its decisions were influenced Conservative party MPs during by China. “We’re setting our clear ex- late was the “central node of the State Department spokes- it said.

News in brief US govt to pay $1.95 bn for Britain’s Prince Philip, 99, hands over military role to Camilla LONDON: Britain’s Prince Philip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, handed over a ceremonial military role on Wednesday to his daughter-in-law, Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall. Philip, 99, also known as the Duke of Edinburgh, has at- COVID-19 vaccine as Trump tended few engagements since announcing his retirement from most public duties in May 2017. His rare appearance on Wednesday was to pass his role as colonel-in-chief of the rifles regiment, which he has held for nearly 70 years, to Camilla, the wife of Prince Charles. issues pandemic warning Philip completed his part of the handover ceremony in the grounds of Windsor Castle, the queen’s main residence outside Americans to follow doctors’ London, while Camilla was at her home in Highgrove House, ● The US signs a deal recommendations in using about 160 kilometres away. (DPA) with Pfizer-BioNTech face coverings as a vital barrier to the virus’ spread. Trump Russian court sentences Gulag historian to buy 100 mn doses urged Americans to wear to 3.5 years in prison of potential vaccine facemasks to help prevent the spread of the highly contagious MOSCOW: A Russian court on Wednesday sentenced respected virus which has left more than Gulag historian Yury Dmitriyev to more than three years in ● American people 141,000 people dead in the prison in a controversial sexual abuse case, his lawyer said. would receive the United States. “We are asking Dmitriyev, head of the prominent rights group Memorial in everybody that when you are Karelia in northwestern Russia, spent decades locating and vaccine free of charge not able to socially distance, exhuming mass graves of people killed under Soviet dictator wear a mask,” he said. Joseph Stalin’s rule. AFP “Whether you like the mask Memorial said the prosecution of the researcher, who was Washington or not, they have an impact. tried behind closed doors, is part of a growing crackdown on They will have an effect and we dissenters. (AFP) The United States on Tuesday need everything we can get.” signed a $1.95 billion agree- Trump said the goal is “not Biden teams back Brazil’s Bolsonaro ment with US pharma giant merely to manage the pandem- up with Obama in again tests positive Pfizerand Germany’s BioN- ic but to end it.” “The vaccines Tech for 100 million doses of are coming and they’re com- new election push for COVID-19 their experimental COVID-19 ing a lot sooner than anyone WASHINGTON: Joe Biden’s RIO DE JANEIRO: Brazilian vaccine, part of an aggres- US President Donald Trump speaks during a briefing of the Coronavirus Task Force in the Brady Briefing thought possible,” he said. getting a big new assist from President Jair Bolsonaro sive push to start immunising Room of the White House, in Washington, on Tuesday. (AFP) Trump also repeated his his old boss Barack Obama has again tested positive for Americans early next year. assertion that the virus “will this week in the push to de- COVID-19, the country’s Com- It is the biggest deal to date has an option to purchase as levels observed in recovered Meanwhile, a somber disappear.” “It will disappear,” feat President Donald Trump munications Ministry said on under Operation Warp Speed, many as 500 million additional COVID-19 patients. Trump warned on Tuesday he said. in just over 100 days. Wednesday. intended to accelerate the de- doses from the two firms. This was accomplished that the coronavirus crisis in Labs around the world are A preview of a sleekly The 65-year-old is in good velopment, manufacturing, BioNTech and Pfizer have with relatively low doses and the United States is likely to racing to produce a vaccine to produced discussion between health, the ministry said by and distribution of coronavirus narrowed their vaccine candi- caused side effects that were “get worse before it gets bet- help end the worst health crisis the former president and vice email. Bolsonaro has no fever vaccines, therapeutics, and di- dates down to two frontrun- mild to moderate but transient, ter.” “Some areas of our coun- in over a century. More than president that will air today and his breathing, heartbeat agnostics. ners and are waiting for the which is considered normal. try are doing very well,” Trump 200 candidate vaccines are features Biden questioning and blood pressure are nor- Pfizer and BioNTech, which green light to begin a mass “We are assembling a port- said at his first formal White currently being developed with Trump’s empathy for Ameri- mal, CNN Brazil reported. are developing the drug togeth- trial involving 30,000 healthy folio of vaccines to increase the House virus briefing since the roughly two dozen at the stage cans during the coronavirus The positive test result er, said in statements that the volunteers, which may happen odds that the American people end of April. of clinical trials with human crisis. was at least the third for the American people would receive later this month. will have at least one safe, ef- “Others are doing less volunteers. “He can’t relate in any far-right populist president, the future vaccine “for free” in If the studies are success- fective vaccine as soon as the well,” the president said. “It Earlier this month, the US way,” Biden says. who for months downplayed line with the Trump adminis- ful, they expect to receive some end of this year,” said health will probably unfortunately get signed a $1.6 billion deal with Obama replies that the severity of the pandemic tration’s pledge. form of emergency approval as secretary Alex Azar of the deal. worse before it gets better.” He Novavax for 100 million doses. Biden’s ability to relate to and still advocates keeping Under the agreement, the early as October 2020. “We are honored to be a said there had been a “a con- In May, the government ordinary people was “the the economy open. He is US government has placed an Earlier this month, they part of this effort to provide cerning rise in (virus) cases in announced up to $1.2 billion reason I wanted you to be currently working from his initial order for 100 million announced that early results Americans access to protection many parts of our South.” for AstraZeneca’s candidate my vice president, and the residence. Several of his doses to be delivered if regula- showed their lead candidate from this deadly virus,” added Despite refusing for vaccine, developed in con- reason why you were so effec- ministers have also been diag- tory approval is granted. produced neutralising antibod- Albert Bourla, chairman and months to be photographed junction with the University tive.” (AFP) nosed with COVID-19. (DPA) The US government also ies in humans at or above the CEO of Pfizer. wearing a mask, he now urged of Oxford. Female leaders doing ‘better job’ in virus crisis, says Lagarde US offers $2 million bounty AFP ment but I would say that for had also “carried the water of Frankfurt am Main myself, I’ve learned that women ECB’s first female president bad news as well as the water tend to do a better job,” she said. cited German Chancellor of clear explanation and strong for Ukrainian SEC hackers Female leaders are doing a bet- Lagarde, who is the ECB’s Angela Merkel’s science- recommendations”, she added. AFP acheslavovich Radchenko and The two were charged in a ter job handling the coronavirus first female president, singled based approach on tackling Germany has weathered the Washington Oleksandr Vitalyevich Ieremen- 16-count indictment with se- crisis, European Central Bank out German Chancellor Angela coronavirus crisis better than ko on charges of international curities fraud conspiracy, wire chief Christine Lagarde said on Merkel for praise. COVID-19. The female lead- many of its European neigh- The US State Department cybercrime. fraud conspiracy, computer Wednesday, praising them for She cited Merkel’s science- ers of Taiwan, Belgium and bours, while Taiwan and New and Secret Service offered $2 The two were charged in fraud conspiracy, wire fraud, their honest communication and based approach as an example New Zealand had also “car- Zealand are considered success million in reward money on a January 2019 indictment in and computer fraud. for showing they cared. of how “very honest, transpar- ried the water of bad news stories in the fight against the Wednesday for help capturing New Jersey with breaking into But both remain at large. It The differences in policies ent” explanations on corona- as well as the water of clear pandemic. two Ukrainians charged with SEC computers to steal thou- was the first time the Secret Ser- and communication were “quite virus data and infection rates By contrast, observers have hacking and selling valuable sands of corporate files, includ- vice offered a reward interna- stunning” in countries led by helped members of the public explanation and strong rec- noted that male, populist lead- insider corporate information ing unreleased quarterly and tionally toward apprehending women, she said in an online appreciate why masks, social ommendations” ers like US President Donald from the Securities and Ex- annual earnings reports. a target of US law enforcement. interview with The Washington distancing and confinement Trump, Brazilian President Jair change Commission. The Justice Department “Cyber criminals do not Post. measures were necessary. ple would understand those sci- Bolsonaro and British Prime The agencies offered a said they both sold the hacked observe nor respect the rule of “I am going to be extremely “It became very quickly sort entific elements,” Lagarde said. Minister Boris Johnson have bounty of $1 million each for in- information and traded securi- law in any country,” Secretary biased. I’m not going to be a of a common lingua franca, The female leaders of Tai- struggled to contain the out- formation leading to the arrest ties before the information was of State Mike Pompeo said in a central banker at this very mo- common knowledge that peo- wan, Belgium and New Zealand breaks in their countries. and/or conviction of Artem Vi- made public. statement. Ukraine president defends movie post to end hostage crisis

AFP capital Kiev. hostage-taker had earlier fired the documentary. Kiev The tense stand-off ended shots and thrown an explosive Kryvosh agreed to release after the president agreed to package. all his captives half an hour Ukrainian President Volo- post a video of himself recom- Zelensky said he agreed later, Zelensky said. dymyr Zelensky on Wednes- mending a 2005 US documen- in a phone-call with the man, Interior Minister Arsen day defended his decision to tary narrated by actor Joaquin identified as 44-year-old Mak- Avakov said Kryvosh, who was agree to a hostage-taker’s bi- Phoenix called ‘Earthlings’, sym Kryvosh, that “he would armed with a pistol, a rifle and zarre demand that he post a which condemns humans’ release three people, and after a hand grenade, came out of movie recommendation to end mistreatment of animals. that I would record a video.” the bus following the negotia- a 12-hour stand-off. “We have a result -- every- The armed man complied tions. Zelensky described how he one is alive. We are not fight- Ukrainian President and freed three hostages: a Footage published by negotiated personally on Tues- ing for (approval) ratings -- we Volodymyr Zelensky man, a pregnant woman and Ukrainian officials showed po- day evening with a gunman are fighting for life,” Zelensky a child. lice escorting hostages away A suspected hostage-taker lies on the ground after being detained by who was holding 13 hostages said in a statement, after some The SBU security service In response, the president while armed special forces law enforcement officers in the city of Lutsk, some 400 kms from the on a bus in Lutsk, around 400 criticised him for giving in to said all the bus passengers posted a video message on Fa- detained Kryvosh, lying face- capital Kiev, on Wednesday. (AFP) kilometres (250 miles) west of the gunman’s demands. were released unharmed. The cebook urging people to watch down on the pavement. Financial closure for Qatar’s 1st solar project page 10

Thursday, July 23, 2020

26,852.67 9,386.16 37,871.52 1,864.47 +12.27 pts -10.24 pts −58.81 pts Gold +1.22% Singapore important hub for Qatar’s Dow QE sensex LNG exports: Seetharaman page 11 Price percentage Price percentage 22.96 Brent 44.26 -0.14% WTI 41.91 -0.02% Silver +6.49% QIIB posts net profit of Kaabi discusses energy ties with Hungarian Minister QR512.6 million in H1 Bank’s revenue grows 5.7 percent to QR1.212 billion in the first half of 2020

Tribune News Network pected risks,” Sheikh Khalid DOHA said. He said, “The numbers QIIB on Wednesday an- that we have disclosed today nounced that the bank reg- confirm that the bank can istered net profit of QR512.6 adapt to the various market million in the first half of factors. QIIB continued to 2020, a growth of 0.4 per- work closely with the do- cent compared to QR510.6 mestic business sector to fi- million in the same period of nance various large, medium the previous year. and small scale projects. The The bank’s total revenue bank participated in various grew 5.7 percent to QR1.212 initiatives launched by the billion in the first half of QIIB Chairman Sheikh Khalid bin QIIB Chief Executive Officer government and supervisory 2020 compared to QR1.146 Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani Abdulbasit Ahmad Al Shaibei authorities to enhance the billion in the same period resilience of the business last year. sector, which started to bear Minister of State for Energy Affairs HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi held talks with Hungarian Minister of The bank’s total assets its outcome through the im- Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto on Wednesday. Discussions during the meeting, which was held increased 9.5 percent to provement of companies and virtually, dealt with various aspects of bilateral relations between the two countries, and cooperation in QR59.3 billion at the end of businesses. We are all confi- the field of energy. the first half of the year. dent that we will continue Financing portfolio of on this path, God willing, QIIB reached QR35 billion thanks to the sincere efforts at the end of the first half, of all parties concerned.” compared to QR31.4 billion QIIB Chief Executive Of- in the first half of 2019, an ficer Abdulbasit Ahmad Al increase of 11.5 percent. Shaibei said, “QIIB’s results Apartment rents stabilise Total customers deposits during the first half were in amounted to QR34.8 billion line with the directives of in the first half, up by 4.6 the board of directors. What in May: Al Asmakh report percent from the same pe- really helped us was the riod last year. Qatari economy’s inherent Satyendra Pathak fluctuations.T he major down- “With compared to the The bank’s earnings per strengths, long-term strat- Doha ward trend is noticed under the last year, ADR outlook is sta- share (EPS) reached QR0.34 egy, creative initiatives and apartments and single family ble. Overall, occupancy and at the end of the first half. opportunities that allow the Apartment rents in better houses where the individuals revenue per available room Clearly reflecting QIIB’s various sectors to face dif- managed properties have sta- and small investors are in- (RevPAR) have weakened a strong financial position, ferent circumstances and bilised in May, Al Asmakh Real volved,” it said. bit although firm. Hotels in the the bank’s capital adequa- challenges.” Estate has said in its May report. The investor inclinations is 5-star segment experienced cy under Basel III stood at “During the first half, “Most sought after units observed for those lands which challenges in the occupancy 17.3 percent. QIIB started to actively im- are 2BR and 3BR apartments, are in and around Doha with and RevPAR,” it said. In a clear demonstra- plement its plans to enhance and 4BR villas in the com- an approval of G+5 to G+10 “Many hotel apartments tion of the QIIB’s success in the quality of its operations. pounds. Rental rates are firm storied residential apartment extended their booking policy developing a strategy that In line with that, we have for such units in the better buildings, and low-rise com- from daily to monthly that focuses on enhancing the invested extensively in our managed properties with high mercial with retail strip on counter steady ADR in last one efficiency of its operations technological infrastruc- standards of hygiene and secu- ground floor. year. An average of 10 percent during the first half of 2020, Financing portfolio of QIIB reached QR35 billion at the end of the first ture, especially alternative rity,” the report said. The report, however, said decline is noticed in occupancy the bank witnessed decrease half, compared to QR31.4 billion in the first half of 2019, an increase channels that represent the Commenting on the trends that transaction count and value that compresses RevPAR,” in the cost-to-income ratio of 11.5 percent. future for various banking in real estate transactions hap- decreased by 45 percent in May it said. to 21.4 percent, considered services,” he said. pening in the country, the when compared with the same The report has cited in- one of the best in the Qatari rity that the Qatari economy to review our strategy and Regarding the bank’s fi- report said, “The control in is- month of the previous year. creasing popularity of Qatar banking sector. provides to all sectors in emphasis on its strengths, nancing portfolio during the suance of the building permit The real estate firm has cit- Airways in making Qatar as an Commenting on the first general and the banking sec- which focused on the lo- first half of the year 2020, he signs stability in supply that ed COVID-19 pandemic as the emerging transit hub between half results, QIIB Chairman tor in particular.” cal market, and addressed said, “The bank will contin- eventually reciprocates into main reason for the reduction east and west. Sheikh Khalid bin Thani “This was reflected on numerous operational chal- ue to focus on the local mar- increase in absorption of the in transaction value. “Around 73 percent visi- bin Abdullah al Thani said, the positive indicators reg- lenges, competition and ket and on its partnerships ready-to-move-in properties.” Commenting on the hospi- tors are from Asia and Europe. “QIIB was able to respond istered at various levels and other emerging factors that with the various vital sectors “Investor sentiments are tality sector, the report said the Increase in the number of such to various challenges dur- the possibilities of further required a closer observing in Qatar. The most effective holding up as the YoY trans- average daily rate (ADR) out- visitors will be vital for hospi- ing the period, benefitting improvement. The first half and deeper analysis of the investment is the one made actions under the vacant land look for hotels in the country tality sector in the country,” from the strength and secu- gave us the opportunity existing, expected and unex- in the domestic market.” segment are within marginal is stable. it said. Qatari, Turkish firms strengthen ties amid COVID-19 Tribune News Network Doha

Representatives of nearly 40 Qatari companies have participated in 55 specialised sectoral meetings with Turkish entities in the last few months to discuss ways to counter the financial impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on the private sectors of Qatar and Turkey, Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) Chairman Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani has said. Speaking at a virtual meeting of officials from QBA and Foreign Economic Relations Association of Turkey (DEIK) on Wednesday, QBA Chairman Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani QFZA Chairman HE Ahmad bin Mohammed Al Sayed QBA First Deputy Hussein Al Fardan QBA 2nd Deputy Sheikh Khalid bin Thani Al Thani Sheikh Faisal said, “Qatar’s private sector gives special importance to health, medicine and its effects have paved way for different tablish a unique and integrated investment discussing targeted and specific cooperation groups looking and exploring new opportuni- and food sectors in light of the current crisis. and new economic, trade and political rela- ecosystem. The free zones in Qatar will form opportunities between the Qatari and Turk- ties,” he said. The efforts made through these meetings to tions. We must work together to develop an advanced platform to link Turkish prod- ish companies in the health and food indus- Sheikh Khalid pointed out the importance build bridges of cooperation have opened partnerships.” ucts to global markets, especially Asian and tries sectors.” of continuing to hold this series of specialised new horizons and opportunities for business- Minister of State and Qatar Free Zones South African, better than anywhere else in From QBA, the meeting was also attend- sectoral meetings between the private sector men and companies in the two countries.” Authority (QFZA) Chairman HE Ahmad bin the region.” ed by QBA First Deputy Hussein Al Fardan, companies in the two countries and include Highlighting opportunities for investors Mohammed Al Sayed and Consul General Sayed said, “We are particularly focused QBA Second Deputy Sheikh Khalid bin Thani all vital economic sectors such as banking, in Qatar, the QBA chairman said, “Entities of Qatar in Istanbul HE Mansour Al Sulaitin on strengthening key strategic industries and Al Thani and QBA Board Members Saud Al construction, contracting sectors and other from the two countries can jointly launch suc- also attended the meeting. we are keen to bring in Turkish companies Mana. QBA members Khaled al Mannai, Na- sectors. cessful projects and partnerships that are not Speaking on the occasion, the QFZA from the agri-tech and pharmaceutical sec- bil Abu Issa, Sheikh Faisal Bin Fahad, Abdul- Mansour Al Sulaitin talked about the limited to the common concept of import and chairman said, “The meeting allows us to tors to work with Qatari partners.” salam Abu Issa, Abdullah Al Kubaisi, Ihsan broad economic cooperation framework that export, but also to deeper and more impor- engage with our brothers from Turkey, and “The bilateral agreements signed between Al Khiyami QBA Deputy GM Sarah Abdallah Qatar is witnessing with Turkey with a con- tant prospects, such as major investment and to identify opportunities available through the two countries will help facilitate the work also participated in the meeting. stant aspiration to raise the level of commer- industrial projects.” the comprehensive strategic partnership be- of Turkish companies in all sectors in Qatar. Al Fardan expressed the interest of Qatari cial relations between the two countries so While Sheikh Faisal led the Qatari side, tween our two countries.” Qatar and Turkey are tied to a set of trade businessmen in the Turkish market and the that it includes more sectors such as tourism, the Turkish side was led by Turkey Qatar Talking about the quality of the infra- agreements that ensure smooth trade traffic great opportunities that exist in it and the dis- industry, health and education. Business Council President Bashar Orglu and structure of Qatar Free Zones, he said, “Some between the two countries.” tinction of Turkish companies and the quality At the end of the general session, the at- Foreign Economic Relations Association of of the world’s leading companies like Google, Turkish Qatari Business Council Head of their products regionally and globally. tendees and representatives of the Qatari and Turkey DEIK Chairman Nael Olbak. Thales, DHL, and Microsoft have set up units Bashar Uroglu said, “One of the things that “Qatari private sector has begun to invest Turkish companies also held bilateral meet- Olbak said, “The outbreak of COVID-19 here as the free zones have succeeded to es- distinguish this meeting is identifying and in some areas in Turkey and has working ings that lasted for about five hours. 10 Thursday, July 23, 2020 Economy & Business Financial closure for Qatar’s 1st solar project When it becomes fully operational in 2022, the 800 MW Al Kharsaah solar park will meet 10 percent of Qatar’s peak power demand

Tribune News Network Doha

Qatar’s first large-scale solar power project in Al Kharsaah has reached “financial close”, the Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kah- ramaa) announced on Wednes- day. Financial close occurs when all project and financing docu- ments are signed and the prior conditions for the availability of financing have been fulfilled. The project company, Siraj-1 Company, has obtained the senior loans, which had been provided by Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and Mizuho Corporate Bank to finance the plant. After the project’s financial encourage foreign investments represented in reducing at close, the Levelized Electric- in major projects. least one million tons of emis- the world, says Kahramaa ity Cost (LEC) was set at 5.281 The project will be con- sions annually until 2022. Al Kharsaah: Ready-reckoner dirham (1.449 US cents) per structed with a total cost of It is worth mentioning ● Slated to be fully commissioned in 2022, the 800 KW/h, which is the lowest price QR1.7 billion over a 10 square that Kahramaa announced ● The 800MW Al Kharsaah photovoltaic (PV) power MW project is expected to meet 10 percent of in the world for these types of kilometre plot in Al Kharsaah the public bid to establish the project is the first large-scale solar power plant being projects. area west of Doha. The plot first large solar energy plant Qatar’s peak power demand Achieving this competitive that has been allocated for for electricity production using developed in Qatar price is evidence for the trust of Kahramaa, in accordance to the photovoltaic technology in ● It will be developed in multiple phases. The ● It is owned by Siraj Energy, Marubeni and Total, the investors and developers in the Amiri Decree no. 19 for the the State of Qatarin early 2019. 350MW first phase will be completed in the first Qatari market as well as imple- year 2018. The project attracted compa- under the build, own, operate and transfer (BOOT) quarter of 2021. menting the latest and most in- The plant will have a to- nies that have experience in the model for a period of 25 years novative engineering solutions tal capacity of 800MW which field of developing solar energy ● The solar power plant located on a 10 km² plot in to build and operate the solar equals about 10 percent of Qa- plants, and Kahramaa had- ● The licence to own and operate the project will plant. tar’s current peak electricity de- prequalified 16 international Al-Kharsaah, located 80 km west of Doha Last January, Kahramaa mand. 350 MW will be linked leading companies in the field expire after the 25-year term and the ownership of signed the agreements of to the grid as a first phase in of constructing and developing the power plant will be transferred to Kahramaa Siraj-1 large-scale solar power the second quarter of 2021. solar energy plants. It received plant to produce electricity us- The commercial commission- five competitive offers from al- ● The loans for the QR1.7 bn project is provided by ing photovoltaic technology. ing for the total capacity will be liances and global companies, Japan Bank for International Cooperation and Mizuho According to the agreements, in first quarter of 2022 in order and this level of participation is Kahramaa, which is the owner to achieve the announced stra- evidence of the strength and at- Corporate Bank. and operator of the transmis- tegic objective of National Stra- tractiveness of the Qatari mar- ● The financial close of the project is reached sion and distribution system of tegic Development 2018-2022. ket. Kahramaa was advised by electricity and water in Qatar, Kahramaa, through this a consortium of consultants led with an LEC set at the lowest price in will purchase the electrical en- project, has succeeded in ob- by Ernst & Young as a financial ergy produced from the plant, taining a competitive price of consultant, DLA Piper as a legal while Siraj-1 must construct the produced electricity. It had consultant and Poyryas a and operate the project. also succeeded in reducing reli- technical consult- Siraj-1 Company is owned ance on natural gas, saving the ant. by Siraj Energy (60 percent) natural gas used in traditional and a consortium of Japan’s production, reducing emis- Marubeni Corporation and sions and enhancing the sur- France’s Total Solar Interna- rounding environment. The tional (40 percent). The project plant contributes in reduc- will be constructed, owned and ing around 26 million tons of operated for 25 years. Then, emissions during the project the assets will be transferred period and will support Qatar’s to Kahramaa according to the commitment to host a carbon- system of Build, Own, Operate, neutral FIFA World Cup. This and Transfer (BOOT) that is also comes in line with one of known globally, committed to the objectives of National Pro- the principle of public and pri- gram for Conservation and vate partnerships as well as to Energy Efficiency “Tarsheed”, Stocks mostly slide on US-China tensions, virus warning PEZA to host webinar on AFP rus which has left more than lied Tuesday after EU lead- city -- which has fanned fears London 141,000 people dead in the US. ers sealed a 750-billion-euro of tighter restrictions. Islamic “Abandoning an initially ($858-billion) coronavirus Tokyo shed 0.6 percent Global Stocks sank Wednes- placid start, the European rescue package for the bloc. and Sydney lost 1.3 percent, day after US President Donald markets (are) scared by Don- China-US frictions re- but Shanghai rose 0.4 percent. finance today Trump warned that the coro- ald Trump’s claim,” said turned Wednesday after Bei- - Gold sparkles -The in- navirus crisis in the US was Spreadex analyst Connor jing said it had been ordered crease in China-US tensions, Tribune News Network likely to “get worse before it Campbell. to close its Houston consulate, expectations that interest Doha gets better”. “After all, if Trump has escalating a standoff between rates will remain low for some Trump issued the gloomy now dropped his long-held the superpowers. time, and ongoing COVID-19 The Philippine Economic warning in his first formal stance that everything is okay, The move comes with the uncertainty have also led trad- Zone Authority will host its White House virus briefing then it is probably time to re- two at loggerheads on a laun- ers into gold. third Business Continuity Fo- since the end of April -- and ally be concerned.” dry list of issues, from trade to The previous metal -- rum on Thursday through a sent Asian and European In afternoon trading, Lon- Beijing’s handling of the coro- which is considered a safe webinar. The webinar will dis- Stocks sliding on Wednesday. don Stocks shed 0.9 percent, Gold sparkles: The precious metal sat just below $1,854 an ounce navirus pandemic and its poli- bet in times of economic and cuss Islamic Finance as Vehi- “It will probably, unfortu- Paris dived 1.2 percent and on Wednesday and is approaching its record high above $1,900. cies in Hong Kong, Xinjiang geopolitical turmoil -- sat just cle to Economic Recovery. nately get worse before it gets Frankfurt shed 0.6 percent. and the South China Sea. below $1,854 an ounce on Doha-based PEZA Invest- better,” Trump told reporters The stock exchange in New again, biting into the previous ise provided a much-needed The news emerged towards Wednesday and is approach- ment Promotions Partner during his first formal pan- York was slightly higher in ini- day’s strong rally, with opti- boost to equities, particularly the end of the Asian trading ing its record high above (KaPIPPS) Joseph Timothy demic briefing for nearly three tial trading however, with the mism over a possible corona- as a spike in new infections day and contributed towards $1,900. Rivera said the virtual con- months. Dow Jones index adding 0.2 virus vaccine also tempered by around the world has caused the sell-off. The rally in gold, which is ference would attract a bigger The president also urged percent. concerns about the slow pro- some governments to reim- Hong Kong led losses, up almost a quarter this year, audience as the coverage will Americans to wear facemasks Equities were also pres- gress of new US stimulus talks. pose economy-strangling con- tumbling 2.3 percent also after also helped drive silver briefly now span across all GCC coun- to help prevent the spread sured as tensions between News that trials on a vac- tainment measurements. figures showed another record to a seven-year pinnacle at tries to include most Middle of the highly contagious vi- China and the US flared up cine had shown early prom- Markets had also ral- rise in new infections in the $22.84 per ounce. Eastern and Asian countries. This would be the first time an in-depth discussion on the potentials of Sharia-compliant Islamic Banks in the Philip- Nike to slash jobs, boost pines would be presented in a Slack files antitrust complaint against Microsoft global setting. direct-to-consumer venture Central Bank of the Phil- AFP cording to the complaint. Microsoft, responding to a ippines (Bangko Sentral ng San Francisco “Slack simply wants fair request for comment, said its AFP position,” said Chief Executive Pilipinas -BSP) Managing Di- competition and a level play- Teams service has grown be- New York John Donahoe. rector Atty Arifa A. Ala and The workplace messaging ing field,” said David Schell- cause of its features, includ- “Now is the right time to PEZA Director General BGen platform Slack said Wednes- hase, general counsel at ing video. Nike said Wednesday it ex- build on Nike’s strengths and Charito B. Plaza will address day it has filed an antitrust Slack. “We created Teams to pects to cut jobs as it announced elevate a group of experienced, the webinar. complaint with the European Schellhase said the move combine the ability to collab- a slew of new executive ap- talented leaders who can help The focus of the discussion Commission alleging that is similar to Microsoft’s ef- orate with the ability to con- pointments to accelerate direct- drive the next phase of our would be the guidelines on Microsoft is illegally tying its forts in the 1990s to tie its nect via video, because that’s to-consumer initiatives amid growth.” the establishment of Islamic own product to its dominant browser to the Windows op- what people want,” a Micro- the coronavirus pandemic. Before COVID-19, Nike banks and Islamic banking Office software suite. erating system which led to a Slack accuses Microsoft of soft spokesperson said. The sports giant did not had invested heavily in recent units and shariah-governance San Francisco-based Slack massive antitrust case. illegally crushing competition. “With COVID-19, the mar- estimate the headcount hit, years in upgrading smart- framework for Islamic banks said the tech giant is abusing “Microsoft is reverting to ket has embraced Teams in but said it expects “a net loss phone applications and other (IB) and Islamic banking its market dominance and past behavior,” he said. wars.’ record numbers while Slack of jobs across the company,” tech-focused programs amid units. harming competition by pro- “They created a weak, “Slack is asking the Eu- suffered from its absence of resulting in one-time expenses the decline in brick-and-mor- The Philippine Economic moting its own messaging copycat product and tied ropean Commission to take video-conferencing. We’re of $250-$300 million. tar retail and surging activity in Zone Authority has invited service, Teams, as part of Mi- it to their dominant Office swift action to ensure Micro- committed to offering custom- “We are announcing e-commerce channels. But the panellists from distinguished crosoft Office. product, force installing it soft cannot continue to ille- ers not only the best of new in- changes today to transform upheaval of the coronavirus institutions from the Philip- The integration of Teams and blocking its removal, a gally leverage its power from novation, but a wide variety of Nike faster, accelerate against has sped up those trends. Nike pines, Singapore, Dubai and with Office hides its true cost carbon copy of their illegal one market to another by choice in how they purchase our biggest growth opportuni- said the new structure would Qatar to provide a holistic dis- to business customers, ac- behavior during the ‘browser bundling or tying products.” and use the product.” ties and extend our leadership be “nimbler” and “flatter”. cussion. Economy & Business Thursday, July 23, 2020 11

DOHA BANK HOSTS WEBINAR Singapore has emerged as important hub for Qatar’s LNG exports: Seetharaman Synergistic opportunities prevail between Qatar, S’pore on trade, other bilateral relationships Tribune news network workers and business tide over the Doha COVID-19 crisis.” The Doha Bank CEO Doha Bank hosted a webinar on also gave insight on Qatar – Wednesday on the topic titled “Bi- Singapore trade relationships. lateral and Synergistic Opportuni- He said, “Qatar-Singapore trade ties between Qatar and Singapore”, is close to $6.4 billion in 2019. the bank said in a statement. In Oct 2017 MoU between Qatar During the webinar, HE Jai So- Chamber and the Singapore Busi- han, Singapore’s Ambassador to ness Federation aimed at enhanc- Qatar said Singapore believes in ing trade and investment between being resourceful and nimble in re- the business communities of both sponse to a rapidly changing world. countries. He said, “The competitive- “Singapore has emerged as a ness of the Singapore workforce, strategically important hub for and Singapore’s reputation for a Qatar’s LNG exports to the region. corruption-free, transparent and The Gulf Cooperation Council – clean government has played an Singapore Free Trade Agreement important role in convincing many (GSFTA) enabled Singapore to gain international companies and inves- access in Qatar for construction, tors to engage with the Singapore computer and enabled services and market. environmental services. “Singapore has always re- “The free trade agreement pro- mained open to, and welcoming vide more investment opportunities of international trade, and in line in Singapore for mutual benefits. In with this, has built up an extensive April 2018, Qatar Chamber of Com- network of free trade agreements merce arranged a business meet (FTAs) with many countries/re- with Singaporean companies.” gions, including the Gulf Coopera- Seetharaman highlighted the tion Council (GCC). opportunities in various segments. “Singapore is also a strong ad- He said, “Issuance of performance vocate of the ASEAN Economic bonds, tender bonds for participa- Community (AEC) through which tion of Singapore companies in the businesses in Singapore can gain infrastructure projects in Qatar; access to the combined Southeast letters of credit for exports of crude Asian market of 660 million peo- oil and LNG shipments from Qatar ple.” to Singapore; incoming remittanc- Sohan also highlighted the es and payments for Qatar exports warm diplomatic relations be- to Singapore; LC opening in Qatar tween Qatar and Singapore, and for imports of Qatar from Singa- the various bilateral agreements pore; collaboration for global trade signed between the two countries Doha Bank CEO R Seetharaman, other officials participate in a webinar hosted by Doha Bank on Wednesday. under risk participation: Singapore in recent times, including a Bilat- banks with Qatari banks. eral Investment treaty (BIT) which could explore. Imran Hamsa of Enterprise national Monetary Fund (IMF)’s Singapore economy is expected to “Singapore being hub of inter- will provide companies with better “In the case of Singapore com- Singapore spoke on the role of June 2020 report, global economy contract by 3.5% in 2020. In March national trade, we can collaborate protections and help boost investor panies, these included strengths in his organisation in partnering for growth is projected at –4.9 percent 2020, the Monetary Authority for trade finance solutions like LC confidence in the two economies. areas such as urban planning, envi- growth. in 2020, Growth in the advanced of Singapore, which uses the ex- confirmation, discounting through The ambassador also high- ronmental and water management, Adrian Tan, Secretary General economy group is projected at –8 change rate as its main policy tool Doha Bank branch network. lighted the role of the Singapore e-government and digitization. of Singapore Business Council, Qa- percent in 2020, growth in the rather than a benchmark interest “Potential interest from Singa- Business Council Qatar (SBCQ), Given that Qatar and Singapore tar and General Manager of CBM group of emerging market and de- rate, re-entered the currency band pore companies in the vessel main- which aims to deepen connections serve as regional hubs, companies Qatar gave practical tips for New veloping economies is forecast at downwards and reduced the slope tenance, North field gas expansion between the business communities in the two countries could leverage Singapore Business in Qatar. –3 percent in 2020.” to zero. In May 2020 Singapore an- project. Synergistic opportunities of the two countries, adding that this to expand their operations in R Seetharaman, CEO of Doha Speaking about Singapore nounced another SGD 33 billion prevail between Qatar and Singa- there were many synergies between the Middle East and the Asia-Pacif- Bank gave insight on global econ- economy Seetharaman said, “Ac- (USD 23.2 billion) supplementary pore on trade and other bilateral the two countries that businesses ic respectively,” Sohan noted. omy. He said, “According to Inter- cording to IMF’s April 2020 report, budget, aimed primarily at helping relationships.” GECF, Algeria hold high-level Huawei Nova 7 5G wins as the talks on strategic issues 5G trendy flagship smartphone Tribune news network Thanks to the world-lead- Doha Available in space ing 5G SoCs, the Huawei nova silver, midsummer 7 5G is more energy efficient A meeting was held between as it doesn’t require an exter- the Gas Exporting Countries purple and black, nal 5G baseband. It also has Forum (GECF) and the newly- the trendy flag- a slimmer and lighter design appointed Algerian Minister as there is more space for the of Energy Abdelmadjid Attar ship smartphone is CPU in the motherboard. For and the President of the GECF example, the Huawei nova 7 Ministerial Meeting on the fo- priced at QR1,699 5G is equipped with the Ki- rum’s development and other rin 985 5G flagship SoC. It strategic matters, a statement Tribune news network is 7.96mm thick, and weighs said on Wednesday. Doha only 180g, including the large Attar was appointed as Al- 4000mAh battery, equiva- geria’s Minister of Energy on Huawei recently launched lent to the standard main- June 23. He boasts a distin- community requires in these tar stated that the meeting was the new Huawei Nova 7 5G, stream 4G mobile phones guished ministerial and indus- testing times of economic a great opportunity for him to which is powered by Kirin released last year. Compared trial background, including as downturn, volatility, and un- discuss matters of paramount 985 5G SoC integrated with to most 5G phones this year, a former CEO of state-owned certainty. significance, made all the a 5G baseband to provide a the Huawei nova 7 is slim- Sonatrach. Throughout 2020, The president of the Min- more important, given that faster, more stable 5G experi- mer, lighter, and provides Algeria is fulfilling the respon- isterial Meeting received a de- Algeria is entrusted with the ence. The addition of a pow- a more comfortable grip so sibility of the rotating Presi- tailed overview on the forum’s presidency of the GECF Minis- erful 64MP Hi-res AI Quad HUAWEI nova 7 5G Space Sliver gamers don’t need to worry dency of the GECF Ministerial work, including its insights terial Meeting this year. Camera and 40W Huawei Su- about having sore wrists af- Meeting. and findings, current mem- “The current pandemic has perCharge is sure to deliver zoom, 5x hybrid zoom up to network would take about ter a long gaming session. In his opening address, the bership expansion drive, regu- had a dramatic effect on lives, the ultimate entertainment 20x digital zoom photogra- ten minutes. With 5G, it only Huawei nova 7 5G is GECF Secretary General Yury lar and special events, and its the economy, and energy mar- experience in the 5G era. phy enthusiasts can enjoy the takes about one minute. also pre-installed with Ap- Sentyurin thanked Attar for deliverables in light of the De- kets. For gas, difficulties have Available in space sil- premium camera features of When waiting around or pGallery, Huawei’s official inviting the Secretariat to the cisions on Statements adopted accumulated since more than ver, midsummer purple the Huawei nova 7 5G. Ad- having some free time on app marketplace. Users can meeting within the first month at the GECF Summits, Min- two years with over-invest- and black, the trendy flag- ditional features also include your hands, you can use the download from a wide range of assuming office, an act he isterial Meeting Resolutions, ment in LNG facilities. The ship smartphone is avail- 4K videos, 4K time-lapse and Huawei nova 7 5G to pass of global and local apps and termed “another evidence of Executive Board Summary of pandemic has exacerbated able for purchase at Hua- a DUAL-VIEW Video Mode, time by playing games which also enjoy a rich library of Algeria’s unwavering support Decisions, Long-Term Strat- the crisis and the prices are wei official stores, Huawei which allows users to use require a strong network quality entertainment media and high priority given to the egy, and the 5-Year Working now at a level that is no longer authorised distributors and two different cameras at the connection. With its ad- on Huawei Video, Huawei GECF.” Plan. Comprehensive discus- sustainable. I believe that the Huawei’s website https:// same time to capture videos vanced 5G network search- Music and Huawei Reader, Addressing Attar, Senty- sions also took place on the GECF should take this crisis bit.ly/2C5WSQ7 priced at from both sides. ing technology, the Huawei which are regularly updated urin said, “Algeria is one of the action plan as regards to the as an opportunity to change QR1,699. Huawei nova 7 5G is nova 7 5G quickly searches with new content from top founding member countries implementation of the Gas Re- and to become more useful for Thanks to the 64MP Hi- equipped with the Kirin 985 for 5G networks so you can providers. Users can also use and a pillar of the GECF fam- search Institute, which is set to the interest of its members,” res AI Quad Camera packed 5G SoC. Manufactured with get online as soon possible Petal Search, a new search ily. It’s a tall order to name the be located in Algeria. urged Attar. into the Huawei nova 7 5G, the leading 7nm process, the For ordinary dual-SIM tool which acts as an open ways and means Algeria has Further, the GECF Head of “I remember when I was photography and videogra- chipset integrates a 5G base- mobile phones, the second- gateway to more than a mil- contributed to the Forum’s Gas Market Analysis Depart- the CEO of Sonatrach, the phy in all scenarios is eas- band and high-performance ary SIM card doesn’t display lion apps to download their development. Now, we are ment Mahdjouba Belaifa and same question kept coming ily taken care of. The setup processor into the chip itself, call notifications if the user favorite apps and even use looking forward to navigating Head of Energy Economics back: why are gas exporting comes with a 64MP main making it a 5G trendy flag- is on a call using the other the search widget for easy the changes in market reali- and Forecasting Department countries not cooperating like camera, 8MP ultra-wide ship like no other. When us- SIM card. The Huawei nova searching from the home ties, and look beyond current Dmitry Sokolov presented a oil exporting countries. Well, camera, 8MP telephoto cam- ers play games on the Huawei 7 5G supports 5G Dual SIM screen. Apps can be eas- moment under your able lead- concise introduction to the part of the answer then was era and a 2MP macro camera, nova 7 5G in a 5G network Dual Standby. When taking ily updated and download- ership as the GECF Ministe- Algerian delegation of short- that most of the gas outside of which work together to sup- area, they can enjoy the dual a call on one SIM card, users ed from secure and listed rial Meeting president,” while term and long-term gas mar- the US was sold under long- port a wide range of shooting advantages of having a fast can also receive notifications sources, giving users access adding that Attar’s prudence ket reviews, respectively. term contracts with price in- scenarios. Paired with Super download speed and low la- for incoming calls from the to wide range of apps and guidance is what Algeria and Thanking Sentyurin and dexed to oil, and destination Night Mode 3.0 and zooming tency. In the past, download- other SIM to avoid missing games that enhance their all the natural gas producing the staff of his Secretariat, At- clauses, and take-or-pay pro- capabilities from 3x Optical ing a 2GB game with a 4G any important calls. smartphone experience. 12 Thursday, July 23, 2020 Economy & Business

Pilots pay SILICON VALLEY FINANCIAL RESULTS US existing cut: Ryanair home sales to shut jump record Frankfurt hub 20.7% in AFP June: Survey London AFP Irish no-frills airline Washington Ryanair plans to close its Frankfurt-Hahn base in Sales of existing homes Germany -- and other hubs jumped a record 20.7 percent could follow after Ger- in June, ending three months man pilots voted against of coronavirus-driven declines pay cuts, it emerged on as buyers returned to the mar- Wednesday. ket, the National Association Ryanair, which is of Realtors (NAR) said on seeking to axe 3,000 jobs Wednesday. due to a coronavirus-in- Sales were at a season- duced collapse in travel ally adjusted annualised rate demand, revealed its plan of 4.72 million last month, in a memo sent on Tues- slightly better than expected, day to Germany-based though were down 11.3 per- pilots. cent from June 2019. The Dublin-based car- NAR Chief Economist rier blamed their trade un- Lawrence Yun credited the ion VC, whose members month-on-month rebound to voted in favour of rejecting “buyers... eager to purchase its proposed 20-percent homes and properties that pay cut over four years. they had been eyeing during “VC wrote to us... the shutdown.” (on Monday) confirming “This revitalisation looks that, following a ballot of to be sustainable for many members, this emergency months ahead as long as mort- agreement on cost sav- gage rates remain low and job ings and job protection gains continue.” was rejected since only Big Tech, its hands full with antitrust probes and complaints growing from activists and politicians, turns its attention to quarterly earnings in the coming days expected to show the Sales rose in all regions 49.4 percent voted in fa- growing power of Silicon Valley giants. (AFP) with the nation’s west seeing vour,” Ryanair said in the the biggest jump, while prices memo obtained by AFP on Wednesday. It added: “The VC (has) voted for job cuts NAR Chief Economist and base closures when Resurgent ‘Techlash’ may Lawrence Yun credited the month-on-month rebound to ‘buyers... eager to pur- chase homes and proper- ties that they had been overshadow Big Tech earnings eyeing during the shut- down’ Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Big Tech has offered a lifeline to consumers to stay connected were up 3.5 percent from a AFP A Brunswick Group survey caused by the (pandemic) and Google. misinformation, including year ago. Washington of consumers in seven coun- are likely to continue to benefit Also looming are the out- from Trump, and 1,000 ad- However inventory tight- they could have preserved tries in May found 70 percent from its aftershocks well after comes of federal and state an- vertisers have joined a “Stop ened, with unsold units drop- all jobs. Big Tech, its hands full with of Americans and 65 percent the crisis is over,” Yardeni said titrust investigations into ma- Hate for Profit” boycott of Fa- ping to a 4.0-month supply “We must move on antitrust probes and com- of Europeans agree that “tech- in a research note. jor tech platforms which could cebook. from 4.8 months in May, and with alternative measures plaints growing from activists nology companies have used “That’s because their busi- mean fresh legal battles. Meserole said that because total inventory at 1.57 million to deliver cost savings, and politicians, turns its at- their size and influence for nesses are internet-based, so Daniel Ives of Wedbush of its failure to take action on units -- down 18.2 percent which regrettably will tention to quarterly earnings good in the fight against COV- the more that people’s work, Securities sees “a potentially hateful content, “all the good- from June 2019 even if it’s 1.3 mean base closures and in the coming days expected ID-19.” But at the same time, education, and entertainment rocky road ahead” and that will Facebook had built up in percent above last month. dismissals.” to show the growing power of three in four of those surveyed are home-based, the more “the overhang of regulatory the immediate aftermath of “Home prices rose dur- Ryanair added that Silicon Valley giants. said governments “should be these businesses thrive.” scrutiny remains a lingering the pandemic went out the ing the lockdown and could its Frankfurt-Hahn hub, The results may be over- more active in regulating tech- Quarterly results this week worry” for Amazon, Google, window.” He said firms such rise even further due to heavy some 120 kilometres (75 shadowed by the array of po- nology companies.” This is up from Microsoft and next week Apple, and Facebook. as Apple and Google have re- buyer competition and a sig- miles) west of Germany’s litical and policy issues over 14 points in the US since 2018, from Amazon, Apple, Alphabet “Momentum is building in mained “good corporate citi- nificantshortage of supply,” financial capital, would privacy, data protection, li- and largely unchanged among and Facebook will offer more the Beltway on this hot button zens” during the crisis, noting Yun said. close with effect from ability and the dominant role Europeans. clues on how the sector is far- antitrust issue,” Ives said in a efforts to improve technology The relatively healthy November 1, but did not of these companies in the Big Tech has helped lift ing in the pandemic. Amid a note to clients. Tech firms face for contact tracing. data comes despite otherwise specify the number of job economy. stock values, with the Nasdaq struggling economy, Amazon additional pressure including Lawmakers from both par- gloomy projections for the losses. The carrier also Amid the coronavirus pan- hitting several record highs; appears to have boosted its the Trump administration’s ties have called for changes to US economy, where business warned its bases in Ber- demic, Big Tech has offered a Amazon shares have nearly position in e-commerce while effort to enable law enforce- a law known as Section 230 shutdowns to stop COVID-19 lin Tegel and Duesseldorf lifeline to consumers to stay doubled from March lows expanding cloud computing ment access to encrypted con- which shields online services sent the unemployment rate were likely to be closed be- connected and get needed while Apple and Alphabet while Apple has been growing tent and devices. from liability from content to 11.1 percent in June and a fore winter. goods and services. have gains some 50 percent. its range of services. Officials say better access posted by others -- which surge in cases has forced some In reaction, the VC un- Tech firms “have built up Economist Ed Yardeni Other tech giants appear is needed to fight crime and some analysts say could have a areas to roll back steps to reo- ion said the proposed cut- some goodwill and people are noted that six leading tech to be largely weathering the exploitation, but the com- devastating impact. pen. backs would harm mem- thankful for these services,” firms -- Apple, Microsoft, Am- crisis, and growing in some panies argue that proposed O’Donnell said recent “This might seem hard to bers and offer inadequate said Bob O’Donnell of Tech- azon, Google parent Alphabet, cases, even if Facebook is the measures could weaken online events have shown the power square with the surge in unem- job security -- and it urged nalysis Research. Facebook and Netflix -- had a target of a growing advertiser security for everyone. and influence of the Big Tech ployment,” Ian Shepherdson fresh talks. Big tech firms “were the collective market value of $6.5 boycott seeking more aggres- Trump and his allies have firms and that “there’s clearly of Pantheon Macroeconomics “We are not giving up only institutions that didn’t trillion in early July, or a re- sive action on hateful content. argued the big social platforms going to be more scrutiny, and said of the NAR survey, “but hope. The employer would seem to fail” during the pan- cord 25 percent of the Stand- - Focus on Congress -The are biased against conserva- deservedly so.” the wave of job losses among be well advised to quickly demic, said Chris Meserole, ard & Poor’s 500 largest com- spotlight is likely to be on an tives, despite his large follow- But Meserole said that de- the relatively young workforce get back to the negotiating deputy director of the Brook- panies. unprecedented antitrust hear- ing. At the same time activists spite the noise on antitrust, in the leisure and hospitality table now,” VC added in a ings Institution’s Artificial In- These Big Tech firms “are ing Monday in Congress fea- have pressed the companies to breakups are unlikely with- sector has mostly hit renters; statement. telligence and Emerging Tech- among the biggest beneficiar- turing the top executives of be more aggressive in remov- out legislative changes which the median age of a US home- nology Initiative. ies of the economic upheaval Apple, Amazon, Facebook and ing incendiary content and could take time. buyer is about 47.” Rich Russians fuel private jet demand to skirt virus lockdown

AFP essary work trip or is essential Russian reality TV star and the year. Moscow for health reasons, as part of one-time presidential hopeful “Clients think of helicop- a multi-layered approval pro- Ksenia Sobchak alluded to this ters as a sure method of trans- For high-flying Russians used cess with aviation authorities. workabout when she wrote port that avoids any risk of to spending summer holidays For unlucky Russians who on Instagram that her friends getting COVID-19,” he said. at Mediterranean resorts or in do not own a jet, a handful of were escaping Russia for for- Helicopters were already London penthouses, corona- companies that rent planes eign seaside destinations. popular among businessmen virus restrictions that closed also offer to cut through the “My friends have already eager to avoid rush-hour traf- borders and grounded flights red tape of getting permission left, some on foreign pass- fic during their morning com- have made international travel to fly from the nation’s avia- ports, some due to ‘medical mutes, he says. But new clients a distant dream. tion authority, Rosaviatsia. needs,’” she said. are also looking for safe ways Yet many of Russia’s At the Moscow branch Shalayev of LCT says the to travel for pleasure. super-rich who hold second of jet rental agency Leading private jet boom could contin- The company offers mod- passports or residence permits Charter Technologies (LTC), ue even after Russia reopens els ranging from $50,000 to abroad have discovered an el- director Lev Shalayev dressed its borders. $1.2 million. egant way of bypassing anti- from head to toe in Gucci, is “Lots of people say they Would-be international virus measures to reach sec- delighted at the increase in re- are thinking of using our ser- travellers can also fly to Minsk, ond homes in London, Cyprus, quests to “more than 50” per vices on a regular basis going the capital of neighbouring Monaco or Nice: private jets. day. forward since they can avoid Belarus, or Belgrade in Serbia, Privately-operated flights “Many people who used to coming into contact with a lot where they can venture on- from Moscow’s airports more fly business class are now our of people” and reduce the risk wards to countries that accept than doubled between April customers,” he told AFP. of getting infected, he said. Russian citizens. and mid-June, the RBK busi- He said popular destina- Fears of falling ill have also Yet most Russians are at ness news portal reported in tions include luxury spots like fuelled helicopter travel for home whether or not they own late June citing sources at two Nice, Malaga, Alicante and short trips. villas in Europe. of Moscow’s airports. Barcelona. Many clients are A helicopter takes off from Heli Club outside Moscow recently. (AFP) Twenty kilometres (12 Coronavirus restrictions Soaring from 400 to 850 flocking to Cyprus, a favourite miles) north of Moscow, the have kept amateur artist Lina per month, a majority of the among Russians for business the price of a ticket can start at irregular outbound flights re- tourism is developing,” said HeliTech company meets and Chaikovskaya from spending flights were bound for over- and leisure. 4,000 euros ($4,575), he said. turning stranded Russians Russian aviation columnist greets clients in a cozy lounge the summer at her holiday seas, RBK reported. “Right now, most of our With borders closed, the from abroad. Anastasiya Dagayeva. near helicopter hangars. home on the Spanish coast. Russians skirting the re- travellers are going on vaca- only way to fly out of Russia “Since June, Russians have “For example, you can Director Viktor Martinov Instead, she is “taking strictions have to provide evi- tion,” he said. is on board flagship carrier been allowed to fly for medical book a treatment at a Spanish says sales have jumped 30 walks and marvelling at the dence that the journey is a nec- In planes that seat up to 13, Aeroflot, which sells seats on reasons ... so some medical clinic and fly to Spain.” percent since the beginning of flowers in my garden”. England’s Fleetwood returns to golf after four months off THURSday, JULY 23, 2020 Page 14

QNB Stars League Al Duhail clear title favourites, relegation fight promises thrilling end to season

Ayeni Olusegun Doha

The QNB Stars League is set for a restart on Friday af- ter nearly four-and-a-half month’s hiatus due to the nov- Two-year-old filly Shrara (IRE), in the colours of Al Rabban Racing, broke el cornavirus (COVID-19) pan- her maiden in fine style winning at the EBF Stallions Maiden Stakes at demic. Before the suspension Chepstow racecourse in UK on Tuesday. (Pic: Stephen Davies) of sport not just in Qatar but all over the world, the QSL was approaching the business end Shrara, a new winner of the season with five matches left to play. Al Duhail lead the 12-team for Al Rabban Racing league with 42 points, but the Red Knights have struggled to QNA bay filly traveled easily before replicate their usual robust and London pulling clear of her rivals in the free-flowing style of football. final furlong to win by a length. Al Rayyan are second Two-year-old filly Shrara Ridden by Rob Hornby, with 32 points while defend- (IRE) (Dandy Man x Mitzi who just gave her gentle en- ing champions Al Sadd are Winks), in the colours of Al couragement, Shrara won the 10 points off the leaders in Rabban Racing, broke her race comfortably. Xavi Hernandez’s first year Al Duhail players during their training session, ahead of QNB Stars League resumption, on Wednesday. maiden on second time of Genuflex (GB) (HolyR o- as coach. asking in fine style winning man Emperor x Gravitation) Al Gharafa started the the fact that he is trying to ninth with 17 points and boast side is, however, four points Since Aziz Ben Askar’s ap- the Toalsbet Phone Betting was the runner-up. He is season brightly as Slavisa Jo- change the mentality of the the meanest defence among ahead of Al Shahania but face pointment in November, they Available 7 Days EBF Stallions trained by Richard Hannon kanovic seemed to have reju- club while building a team for the bottom teams. The Kings a tough run of fixtures begin- have gone five matches with- Maiden Stakes at Chepstow and was ridden by Rossa Ryan. venated the slumping giants the future. have conceded 22 goals so far ning with Al Sadd on Saturday. out defeat in the league, which racecourse in UK on Tuesday. Shobiz (GB) (Showcasing but the wheels soon fell off the However, for all the strug- and have taken valuable points They also face Al Wakrah, Al has them in the relegation Running over six furlongs x Royal Confidence) was fur- Cheetahs. Back-to-back defeats gles of the big teams, the rel- off some of the top teams in- Gharafa and Al Duhail before a playoff spot. for trainer Ralph Beckett, she ther one and three-quarters to Umm Salal and Al Khor in egation battle promises a cluding a shock 3-0 win over vital clash against Al Shahania Bottom-placed side Al raced quite keenly up near the lengths behind in third. He is November and a devastating thrilling end to the season as Al Sadd back in November but on the last day of the season. Shahania have a mountain to pace. Settling into her stride trained by Charles Hills and loss at Al Shahania in January four teams could potentially coach Wissam Rizk will hope Perhaps the biggest story climb if they are to pull off a after the first two furlongs, the was ridden by David Probert. ensured they failed to keep pace see themselves down in the for a more improved perfor- of the season is Umm Salal’s remarkable escape. with the struggling top three. second division. Only seven mance from his wards who alarming lack of form so far. The club which boasts for- Al Arabi on the other hand points separate ninth to 12th have managed just one point The Orange Fortress’ lost in- mer Dutch midfielder Nigel de has managed more draws than with Al Shahania languishing from their last possible nine. fluentialcaptain and striker Jong amongst their ranks have any other team in the top half. at the bottom – managing just Al Khor on the other hand Yannick Sagbo to Al Shamal just 10 points. They also have Al Shathri to be Mesaimeer Heimir Hallgrimsson all sea- 10 points so far. are no strangers to relegation and has changed coaches more the worst defence in the league son has been consistent with Qatar Sports Club are battles. The Omar Nadji-led than any club this season. having conceded 37 goals. SC president till 2024 Doha: Mesaimeer Sports Club confirmed on Wednesday that president Abdulrahman Saad Al Shathri will continue in the chair for the club till 2024. The decision was made at the club’s General Assembly meeting QSL discusses third stage of protocol with coaches on Wednesday. Club members also elected Yousuf Al Mana to continue in his role as vice-president for a further four years. The regular GA Tribune News Network part of continuous arrange- and second stages of the pro- meeting for the sport season 2020/2021 was held at the club’s Doha ments ahead of the resump- tocol, which helped all achieve headquarters, alkass digital twitter handle informed. (TNN) tion of 2019-20 QNB Stars the common goals before the The Qatar Stars League (QSL) League, as per the general plan safe return of league champi- held a co-ordination meeting, and protocol developed by the onship. The meeting discussed QFA appoints referees for QSL Week 18 via visual communication Qatar Stars League (QSL) and the third stage, regarding the technology with club coaches approved by Ministry of Public resumption of competitions, Doha: Qatar Football Association’s (QFA) Referee’s Department on Wednesday in the pres- Health and Aspetar. according to the precautionary announced appointments of referees for the 18th week matches of ence of Ahmed Khellil Ab- At the beginning of the measures stipulated for match- QNB Stars League for the season 2019-2020. The matches of the bassi, Executive Director of meeting, Abbassi thanked and day operations, after reviewing 18th week will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 24-25-26 Competition and Football De- appreciated the clubs, players, the recommendations, general July, with two matches each day, and in two fixed times, 4.45 pm, velopment, QSL, and Miguel administrative as well as tech- guidelines and instructions and 7.00 pm, at Al Janoub Stadium and Jassim bin Hamad Sta- Heitor, Director of Football nical staff and Aspetar for their related to the coronavirus dium. The department assigned all matches of Week 18. (QFA) Development Department, as co-operation during the first (COVID-19) protocol. Major league football set to restart in Africa after the break

Africa will restart. Egypt The ‘Blood and Gold’ are finish byA ugust 31, but the Morocco to lead AFP Sport reports on the Leading club Zamalek have chasing a fourth straight ti- national body said referees situation in five of the six changed their minds after tle and were outstanding be- would be available only from the way followed highest-ranked leagues -- the initially saying they would fore the lockdown, winning August 1. by Tunisia (Aug 2) Democratic Republic of Congo boycott the Egyptian Premier 14 matches and drawing the There is no love lost be- cancelled theirs in March rath- League when it restarted un- other two to amass 44 points. tween the organisations with and Egypt (Aug 6) er than play a waiting game. less “a cure for the coronavirus Their wins included a 7-1 officials trading almost daily is found”. drubbing of JS Kairouan -- the accusations in the media, and AFP Morocco Hazem Emam, who shares widest winning margin so far a restart date has yet to be Johannesburg Three-time African champi- the captaincy with Shikabala, this season -- and Anice Badri confirmed. ons Raja Casablanca will begin went so far as to say he would is a Golden Boot contender de- Major African league foot- ‘operation catch-up’ this Mon- raise the resumption issue spite scoring only six goals. Algeria ball will resume amid the day when they make a 100-kil- with state president Abdel Fat- CS Sfaxien lie second with Football officials say the situ- coronavirus pandemic on July ometre (62-mile) journey tah al-Sisi. 34 points, three more than ation is “difficult” with the 27 in Morocco, with Tunisia, south to face Difaa el Jadidi. But a change of heart saw US Monastir and seven ahead Maghreb country among the Egypt and South Africa set to Sixth-place Raja have Zamalek return to training of former African champions hardest hit in Africa by the follow soon after. played up to five matches less and thrash fellow Premier Club Africain. pandemic. Every national champion- than some Botola Pro 1 ri- League outfit Smouha 5-1 in No date has been set for a ship, apart from the one in vals due to commitments in warm-up match. South Africa resumption of the league, but tiny east African state Burun- the CAF Champions League, Al Ahly are the runaway Club father figure Khulu Sibi- there is hope that the Coupe di, shut down in mid-March where they have reached the league leaders on 49 points ya has pleaded with national d’Algerie can be completed. as the COVID-19 disease took semi-finals. halfway through the 34-match association and Absa Premier- The knockout competition hold in the continent. But of- Arch rivals and defending season, followed by Al Mokaw- ship officials to bury their would resume with the quar- ficials now believe that foot- champions Wydad Casablanca loon (33 points), Pyramids FC differences and resume the ter-final second legs, with five ball can resume behind closed top the table with 36 points, (32) and Zamalek (28). championship. top-flight and three second- doors provided stringent one more than FUS Rabat and “Our (Premiership) rela- tier clubs in contention. health protocols are observed. two above Mouloudia Oudja. Tunisia tionship with the association Algiers-based CR Belouiz- Morocco will lead the Reda Hajhouj from bot- Tunisia is another country is very fragile and the sooner dad top the Ligue Profession- way followed by Tunisia (Au- tom-half Olympique Khourib- where the league leaders com- it is resolved amicably the bet- nelle 1 table with 40 points gust 2) and Egypt (August ga leads the Golden Boot race mand a huge advantage with ter,” said the chairman of top- from 21 matches, three more Sassuolo’s Moroccon midfielder Mehdi Bourabia (left) holds the hand of 6) while South Africa have with 10 goals, one more than four-time African champions flight club SuperSport United. than twice African champions Juventus’ Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo during their Italian Serie yet to announce the date on Ivorian Joseph Guede Gnadou Esperance holding a 10-point League bosses wanted to Entente Setif, who have played A match in Turin played behind closed doors on July 15, 2020. (AFP) which the richest league in from fifth-placeA S FAR. lead with 10 rounds remaining. resume on July 18 in order to a game more. 14 Thursday, July 23, 2020 Sports Golf’s PGA Tour England need to Series-China England’s Fleetwood season talk to Archer after cancelled AFP returns to golf after online abuse, Beijing Golf’s PGA Tour Series-Chi- says Anderson na season has been cancelled because of the coronavirus four months off pandemic and related travel AFP restrictions, officials said on Manchester Wednesday. The professional golf James Anderson says England tour, which was a launch- captain Joe Root will need to pad for China’s top player Li talk to Jofra Archer to find out Haotong, in January held the if he is mentally ready to re- first of three qualifying tour- turn for Friday’s deciding Test naments. against the West Indies after But the pandemic struck the fast bowler revealed he had and began to spread, even- suffered racist abuse on social tually ending any hopes of media. getting the 2020 season off Archer is available for the the ground, along with sport third Test at Old Trafford after across the globe. the paceman missed England’s In May the Mackenzie series-levelling win at the same England’s Jofra Archer was ruled Tour, the PGA Tour-backed ground following a breach of out of the second Test for breaking developmental circuit in coronavirus protocols. coronavirus “protocols”. (AFP) Canada, also cancelled its In a Daily Mail column pub- season. lished Wednesday, Archer ad- is in the right place to play.” Both feeder tours attract mitted to an error of judgement Asked what advice he would up-and-coming players from but said he had not “committed give Archer, Anderson said: all over the world and provide a crime”. “It’s always something that can a pathway to the Korn Ferry He said some of the criti- be difficult for guys coming into Tour, which is one tier below cism he had faced on social me- the international set-up because the main US PGA Tour. dia following the incident had I think the scrutiny is very dif- “It’s a disappointment but SWINGING BACK INTO BUSINESS: Tommy Fleetwood of England during a practice round prior to the Honda Classic at PGA National Resort been racist and he had reported ferent, you do feel more under I know our players and fans and Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, in February, 2020. Fleetwood, a major runner-up in 2018 and 2019, makes his return to golf after the comments to the ECB (Eng- the spotlight. understand... that the health a four-month coronavirus pandemic layoff on July 23 at the US PGA 3M Open. (AFP) land and Wales Cricket Board). “I was fortunate when I and safety of everyone associ- “I need to be 100 percent came into the England team, ated with the series is of the AFP Brooks Koepka at Shinnecock different circumstances in the Foot on September 17-20. mentally right so that I can there was no social media back utmost importance,” said Greg Washington Hills. world at the moment, but for “Really happy to be here,” throw myself into my cricket then, but the way people can Carlson, executive director of This will be the first start us, the time we had together has Fleetwood said. “Nice to see this week,” Archer wrote. get their opinions out there, it’s the series. Britain’s Tommy Fleet- since March for Fleetwood, been something that probably so many familiar faces. That’s “If I play and don’t bowl 90 quite visible.” “And staging a tour based wood, a major runner-up in a five-time European Tour we’ll never get again.” kind of one of the great things miles an hour it’s going to be Anderson, who turns 38 in China with players from five 2018 and 2019, makes his re- winner who grabbed his first Fleetwood left his family about the tour is that no matter news. If I don’t bowl 90 miles later this month, said it was im- different continents is just not turn to golf after a four-month 54-hole lead on the US PGA behind when he flew toN ew how long you’ve kind of been per hour for long enough it’s go- portant to find methods to deal feasible at this time. coronavirus pandemic layoff Tour at the Honda Classic four York two weeks ago and spent away, you just kind of pick up ing to be news,” he added. with the pressure, whether it “We will continue to eval- on Thursday at the US PGA months ago. his mandatory 14-day quaran- where you left off and every- Anderson, England’s all- was turning to family, friends, uate what is happening with 3M Open. Needing a birdie at the tine in the Hamptons on east- body just kind of says ‘Hey’ like time leading Test wicket-taker, fellow players or coaches. the coronavirus and hope the The 29-year-old Eng- 72nd hole to force a playoff ern Long Island, returning to they saw you yesterday. told a press conference that the Even if Archer does not situation alleviates itself so lishman, second to Ireland’s with South Kore’s Im Sung- Shinnecock among other golf “It’s nice getting out and players had not seen much of play, England have a number of we can again resume tour- Shane Lowry by six strokes jae, Fleetwood went for the tuneup stops. seeing a tour setup again and their team-mate because he had options in the pace department. nament golf in this part of in the 2019 British Open at green in two at the par-5 hole He built a schedule for a preparing for that... Eventu- been in isolation. Second Test standout per- the world in 2021,” Carlson Portrush, tees off Thursday and found the water, closing nine-week run of US events ally it was always going to be “I’m sure he’ll want to play former Stuart Broad, Chris added. morning at TPC Twin Cities in with a bogey to finish third. that included next month’s my turn to come out.” in this game because it’s such a Woakes, Sam Curran, Mark The PGA Tour Series- Blaine, Minnesota. Since then, he has spent PGA Championship, the US With golf courses shut crucial game, the series resting Wood and Anderson, rested for China’s 2019 season finale in Fleetwood, who will play the tour hiatus at home in Open in September and the down for months at home on it,” said the veteran bowler. the second Test, are all avail- Hong Kong was also cancelled alongside fourth-ranked England with wife Clare and now-postponed Ryder Cup at and a late return to US events, “He’s said about his frame able, with the teams level at 1-1 last October, with officials on American Dustin Johnson his 2-year-old son Frankie. Whistling Straits. Fleetwood hopes to play his of mind and that’s something in the three-match series. that occasion citing “safety and rising US star Tony Finau “It has been beautiful family Fleetwood’s new plan in- way back into form quickly. that over the next two days he’s In his newspaper column concerns” because of a wave of in the first two rounds, also time,” Fleetwood said. “It would cludes making a deep run in “I’m going to work hard going to have to sit down with Archer, 25, said he needed to pro-democracy protests roil- finished second at the 2018 have been nice if sort of the time the US PGA playoffs and finish and play hard and see how the captain and coach (Chris be sure that he was in the right ing the city. US Open, one stroke behind we had would have come under with the US Open at Winged well we can do,” he said. Silverwood) and figure out if he frame of mind before he played. Tennis Davis-Santa Cruz, super-welter showdown top boxing slate

AFP vision with three world titles at stake, New York Leo Santa Cruz the first for Rosario since he stopped fights unbeaten American Julian Williams in the fifth Leo Santa Cruz fights unbeaten Gervonta Davis round in January for two crowns and Gervonta Davis for two world titles and the first for Charlo since he stopped Jermell Charlo faces a super welter- for two world compatriot Tony Harrison for the title weight unification showdown in nine titles in nine last December. Premier Boxing Champions cards un- Premier Boxing The card also sees Charlo’s brother veiled on Wednesday. Champions cards Jermall, 30-0 with 22 knockouts, de- The Showtime feature bouts fend the WBC middleweight crown mark the biggest collection of world unveiled on against Ukraine’s Sergiy Derevy- title fights announced since the COV- Wednesday. The anchenko, 13-2 with 10 knockouts. Simona Halep signs up for Prague, ID-19 pandemic shut down major Showtime feature The bouts begin August 1 with un- boxing cards. beaten US fightersA ngelo Leo (19-0 adding to US Open doubts All of them are set to be staged bouts mark the with nine knockouts) and Stephen Ful- PARIS: World number two Simona Halep said on Wednesday she without spectators at Mohegan Sun biggest collection ton Jr. (18-0 with eight knockouts) for will play the WTA Prague clay court tournament in August, adding Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. of world title fights the vacant World Boxing Organization further doubt to her participation in the US Open. “Hi everyone. I “We’re thrilled to return to live box- announced since junior featherweight crown. can’t wait to take part in the tournament in the magnificent city of ing with this star-studded schedule of On August 15, unbeaten American Prague. See you in August,” the reigning Wimbledon champion said exciting, meaningful fights,”S howtime the COVID-19 David Benavidez (22-0 with 19 knock- in a video message posted by the event organisers. The Prague Sports and Event Programming presi- pandemic shut outs) defends his WBC super middle- tournament runs from August 10-16. Halep will also play at the dent Stephen Espinoza said. down major weight throne against Roamer Alexis Palermo clay court event from August 3 in what will be the first WTA Mexico’s Santa Cruz, the World Angulo (26-1 with 22 knockouts). competition since professional tennis was suspended in mid-March Boxing Association’s super feather- boxing cards. The other top-level world title at due to the coronavirus. Halep has already hinted she will focus only weight champion at 37-1-1 with 19 stake in the bouts will be decided on on European events this year, wary of the health crisis in the United knockouts, will face US unbeaten Da- December 12 when unbeaten French- States which has left a question mark over the US Open in New York vis, 23-0 with 22 knockouts, on Octo- belt held by Davis, a lesser title to the welterweight champion Jeison Rosario man Nordine Oubaali (17-0 with 12 from August 31. Halep’s commitment to the back-to-back clay court ber 24 in a pay-per-view event. main WBA throne held by unbeaten (20-1-1 with 14 knockouts) of the Do- knockouts) defends his WBC bantam- tournaments would hint at her focussing on the rescheduled French The fight will be staged at the su- Vasyl Lomachenko of Ukraine. minican Republic against World Boxing weight crown for the third time, this Open which gets under way in Paris on September 27. The Roma- per-featherweight limit of 130 pounds A September 26 pay-per-view Council champion Jermell Charlo (33-1 ring visit against 37-year-old Filipino nian won her first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros in 2018. (AFP) (59kg) for Santa Cruz’s crown and the double-header features WBA and In- with 17 knockouts) of the United States. star Nonito Donaire (40-6 with 26 WBA regular lightweight (135-pound) ternational Boxing Federation super- It’s only the second fight in the di- knockouts). Sole in one! Players get a kick out of ‘footgolf’

AFP on a converted course with 2020 edition originally due to who balked at the idea of letting Golf has fallen out of favour Shah Alam (Malaysia) 21-inch (53-centimetre) holes take place in Japan has been footballers onto their greens. in many countries, with young outside the Malaysian capital postponed to next year due to But he finally managed to people largely uninterested and Her eyes fixed on the flag in Kuala Lumpur. the coronavirus. set up at Bukit Jelutong, and few having the time to spend the distance, Jamiatul Akmal The 38-year-old said she The sport’s origins aren’t the company now manages a whole day playing the sport, Abdul Jabar takes a run-up had considered golf “such a clear, but one of the earliest re- two footgolf courses in Ma- leading to many courses clos- past her cheering friends and boring game” but was rather corded tournaments was in the laysia – the second is in the ing. But footgolf is giving them kicks a football down a golf taken by footgolf. Netherlands in 2008. southern state of Johor – with some much-needed revenue -- course in Malaysia. “You feel that this is some- a third on the way. in the US, for instance, the sport This is “footgolf”, a novel thing new, something to experi- Boost for courses More than 2,000 people is now played on more than 500 fusion of two of the world’s ence,” Jamiatul, an avid futsal In Malaysia, people started play each month in Malaysia, courses, according to the Amer- most popular sports that is player, told AFP. “I’m planning playing footgolf in 2018 at the Cottam said. ican Footgolf Federation. growing fast and attracting to book another (session).” Bukit Jelutong course outside “Footgolf, like golf, isn’t Danny Chia, a Malaysian people to the fairways. Thousands of players are the capital Kuala Lumpur, about strength and how young professional golfer who plays It follows the rules of golf, now kicking balls on footgolf which had been abandoned you are,” he told AFP. “It’s more on the Asian Tour, also said but players leave their clubs at courses in about 36 countries, but was given a makeover by technical... It’s not about beat- footgolf might help courses. home and instead tee off with and the sport has been gov- Footgolf Malaysia. ing people. It’s about beating “There are a still a lot of golf their feet try to complete each erned by an international fed- Jeffrey Cottam, who co- the course.” courses out there that are not This picture taken on June 21, 2020 shows Noorain Shaharuddin hole in as few kicks as possible. eration since 2012. founded the organisation, said He also hoped the growing doing very well,” he told AFP. (right), 39, carrying the ball after her “foot putt” went into the hole on a Jamiatul was having a go Several World Cups have initial attempts to start the sport popularity of the sport could “This could be a new avenue footgolf course in Shah Alam, on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. (AFP) at the sport with her friends been staged, although the were resisted by course owners give some help to ailing courses. for them.” Sports Thursday, July 23, 2020 15 Portman, Williams celebrities behind new women’s pro soccer team AFP The founding investor Buehler, Tisha Venturini- such as the “Time’s Up” move- substantive impact on our Los Angeles Hoch and Abby Wambach; ment against sexual abuse in community, committing to group includes Williams’ actors Eva Longoria, Uzo the entertainment industry, extending access to sports for A group of celebrities led by young daughter Olympia, Aduba, Jennifer Garner and said that the franchise hopes young people in Los Angeles.” Hollywood star Natalie Port- and several former US Jessica Chastain; venture “to make a The NWSL, which had man has founded a women’s Women’s National capitalist Kara Nortman; its inaugural season in 2013, professional soccer team set and Reddit co-founder was the first US professional to debut in 2022, the wom- Team players including Alexis Ohanian. sports league to restart ac- en’s pro soccer league said Mia Hamm, Lauren “Today we take an excit- tivities amid the novel on Tuesday. Cheney Holiday and ing step by announcing the coronavirus pandemic. Big-names involved in first women majority-owned The league’s Chal- the effort include tennis Abby Wambach. and led ownership group,” lenge Cup tournament megastar Serena Williams, Gaming entrepreneur said Portman, who won an has been held since as well as Hollywood stars Julie Uhrman will be Oscar in 2011 for her role in June 27, with teams Jessica Chastain, Eva Lon- the franchise president. “Black Swan.” playing in two sta- goria, America Ferrera and “Sports are such a joyful diums in the state of Jennifer Garner. way to bring people togeth- Utah without specta- “A majority woman- “the group has formally er, and this has the power tors and without some founded group” led by coined itself ‘Angel City’ in Serena Williams and husband Alexis Ohanian – as well as their to make tangible change for of its biggest stars, Portman “has secured the honor of its planned home young daughter Olympia – are all part-owners of a new football club. female athletes both in our including Megan exclusive right to bring a in Los Angeles,” the state- community and in the pro- Rapinoe. professional women’s soc- ment said. The founding investor Abby Wambach. Gaming en- fessional sphere,” she said. The tournament’s cer team to Los Angeles to It would become the 11th group includes Williams’ trepreneur Julie Uhrman will Portman, who has final game is scheduled kick off in Spring 2022,” the team in the NWSL. Current- young daughter Olympia, be the franchise president. been active in causes for Sunday. National Women’s Soccer ly, there are nine teams in the and several former US Wom- Others included are for- The United States is a League said. league, but one other team – en’s National Team play- mer US women’s national Oscar-winning Hollywood powerhouse of women’s The team’s formal name the Louisville FC – is set to ers including Mia Hamm, team stars Mia Hamm, Julie actor Natalie Portman. soccer and the current is yet to be announced, but rejoin the league in 2021. Lauren Cheney Holiday and Foudy, Joy Fawcett, Rachel (AFP) world champions.

Man Utd hold Chinese West Ham 1-1, Super edge closer This is our moment: Liverpool League to to Champions kick-off after League captain Jordan Henderson six-months AFP Manchester in 2011, taking over from Roy delay While rejoicing on winning the first Premier Hodgson, and he was respon- Manchester United edged League title for Liverpool since 1990, sible for signing Henderson DPA closer to qualifying for the Jordan Henderson also reflected from Sunderland when he was Beijing Champions League as Ma- just 21-years-old. son Greenwood rescued a 1-1 on the past criticisms which he used as The England international, Germany, England, Italy and draw against West Ham on motivational fuel to lift two other trophies now 30, is sidelined for the Spain have completed or all Wednesday. season with a knee injury. He but completed their domestic Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side last year in the 2019 Champions League reflected on the past criticisms football season amid the coro- fell behind to Michail Antonio’s and the FIFA Club World Cup in Qatar. that he used as motivational navirus pandemic while China penalty in the first half atO ld fuel to lift two other trophies is only just about to start. Trafford. But teenage forward last year in the 2019 Cham- And the Chinese Super Greenwood struck after the in- DPA son who we all love,” Hender- pions League and the Club League will also not follow the terval to lift United into third London son told the BBC. World Cup in Qatar. Bundesliga, Premier League, place in the Premier League. “Waiting 30 years is a long “Ultimately, you will get Serie A and Primera Division United are ahead of fourth Liverpool captain Jordan time. They’ve had good man- criticised, whether that’s in the who used the traditional for- placed Chelsea on goal differ- Henderson says being award- agers and good teams in the past, now or in the future as a mat of home and away games ence, but the Blues would re- ed the Premier League trophy past and it just hasn’t hap- footballer,” said Henderson. for the remaining games. gain third if they avoid defeat by club legend Sir Kenny Dal- pened, so to be part of a team “People (were) telling me The only similarity is that against champions Liverpool glish later on Wednesday will that has been able to do it is a I was not good enough or not the matches in China from later on Wednesday. “make it more special.” really special feeling.” big enough for Sunderland, Saturday onwards will also be Regardless of the result The Reds played Chelsea Liverpool were the runa- Liverpool, England - I’ve al- held behind closed doors. at Anfield, United will finish in their final home game and way leaders from January, ways had questions marks. The cautious Chinese are in the top four if they draw or were then to be ceremonially with as much as a 25-point “As you get older, you just rather playimng in hubs, like win in their decisive showdown crowned as Premier League lead over second-placed Man- use it in a different way. Now I basketball’s NBA and ice-hock- with fifth placed Leicester on champions in a special pres- chester City. “I don’t normally look for the criticism because ey’s NHL in North America. Sunday. United are one point entation at Anfield. like referencing the length of it gives me the extra motiva- All 16 teams will be play- ahead of Leicester going into Juergen Klopp’s men have time Liverpool has endured tion to prove people wrong.” ing in two cities, Dalian and their last game of the season at had a record-breaking season before claiming this title,” said When Liverpool were Sozhou, in two groups of the King Power Stadium. Sol- by winning the title in June Klopp wrote in his matchday confirmed as champions last eight. The top four of the skjaer’s team were well below with seven games to spare – programme notes ahead of the Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson lifts the 2019 FIFA Club World month, there were some inju- round robin stage advance their best against West Ham, the earliest, in terms of fixtures Chelsea game. “So often when Cup trophy at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha in December. ries after a large gathering. into a championship round, but they are now unbeaten in 13 completed, that a team has working to clinch it my mes- Henderson urged fans to and the bottom four into a league matches and will com- ever claimed the richest league sage was to ignore the weight Wednesday’s presentation will title. They sacrificed, individu- stay at home and obey corona- relegation round. plete an impressive surge into in European football. It will of that gap.” be a moment to savour. ally and collectively, and they virus restrictions for “the health The league reported on the Champions League if they be Liverpool’s first league title However, their wait was “This achievement is their have their rewards. This is our and safety of the country.” Wednesday that all 1,870 Cov- emerge unscathed at Leicester. since 1990 when Dalglish was a prolonged with just two wins achievement. Their focus. moment. We have all earned it. “They might not be in id-90 tests conducted ahead Scoreline: Manchester player and manager of the club. from clinching the title in Their dedication. Their talent. So embrace it and cherish it.” Anfield tonight in person of the start have returned United 1 (Greenwood 51) West “He’s an iconic figure at March due to coronavirus. Their hunger,” Klopp added Dalglish had a second but their spirit can be felt,” negative, and teams will have Ham 1 (Antonio 45+2-pen). this football club, a huge per- Manager Klopp says “That’s what has delivered this spell as Liverpool’s manager added Klopp. to follow strict safety and hy- giene measures. Players and officials will be confined to their hotels, the training field and stadi- ums only, and harsh sanction beIN SPORTS viewers in for exhilarating sports offering would be imposed on those who breach the regulations. take place on Saturday 1 Au- until Sunday 13 September. “Our measures are very Coupe de France, gust at the famous Wembley The worlds most famous strict, and those who violate stadium as London rivals Ar- tennis players will be competing them could be kicked out of FA Cup final, senal and Chelsea go head to against each other in one of the the league for this season,” head for a chance to win the toughest tennis tournaments. Super League official Qi Jun UEFA Champions coveted trophy. Both Mikel beIN SPORTS’ studio has been quoted as telling Arteta and Frank Lampard coverage for all the world Chinese state media. League, NBA and will also want to lift their first class competitions will be China is taking no chanc- trophy in their managerial ca- across beIN SPORTS’ chan- es as it slowly starts domes- US Open to be reers. Arsenal head to their nels in English, Arabic and tic sports again. The Super broadcast live 21st FA Cup final having won French; as well as beIN League was originally to start a record 13. Chelsea head into SPORTS’ 4K channel – pro- in late February. and exclusive their 14th FA Cup final having viding viewers with incred- won 8. ible trilingual coverage. Tribune News Network beIN guests and talent will Doha UEFA Champions include Egyptian legends Mo- League hamed Aboutrika and Wael As fans await the final match- In a completely new format Gomaa; Algerian expert Lakh- es of the English Premier unlikely to ever be replicated, dar Berriche; Tunisian football League and Serie A – beIN viewers and fans will get to see legend Tariq Dhiab; former SPORTS, the global sports the best teams in Europe com- Moroccan football star Yousef channel, continues to host ex- peting against each other over Chippo; and many others. hilarating live sport for view- 90 minutes in just over two Commenting on an excit- ers to enjoy exclusively across weeks of football (7 August to ing summer of sports on beIN the Middle East and North Af- competition in the world, is the United States Open Ten- Champions League resumes. 23 August). SPORTS, Jonathan Whitehe- rica (MENA) – with the Coupe set to take place on Saturday nis Championship (US Open) A total of 11 thrilling ad, Head of Sports for beIN de France final, FA Cup final, 1 August at 20:00 Mecca Time kicks off featuring the best NBA matches will be played in just MENA, said: “This summer UEFA Champions League, (GMT +3) with special cover- tennis players in the world. The restart of the National 16 days – with the quarter- on beIN SPORTS is definitely NBA and US Open all set to be age and dedicated studios. Basketball Association is set finals, semi-finals and final one of the most exciting yet. broadcasted live throughout The UEFA Champions Coupe De France Final for Monday 31 July with 5 all played in Portugal and in beIN SPORTS will be show- this summer. League will also resume on In the 103rd season of the games set to be played on single-leg fixtures. casing some fantastic finals On Friday, 24 July, French Friday 7 August with the Coupe de France, French pow- that day. beIN SPORTS will Four matches remain in and world class tournaments Players and coaching staff from giants Paris Saint Germain round of 16 second leg. erhouse Paris Saint Germain be broadcasting all the games the round of 16 second leg of to viewers across MENA. the Wuhan Zall football team ar- will face Saint-Etienne in Also, on Friday 31 July, the meets Saint-Etienne in the live and exclusively to its view- the UEFA Champions League. Our world class content will rive in Suzhou, in China’s eastern the Coupe de France final at National Basketball Associa- final this Friday 24 July. The ers and fans across MENA as provide our viewers and Jiangsu province on July 18.Wuhan 22:00 Mecca Time (GMT +3) tion (NBA) will resume with French champions, led by Ky- well as on the dedicated NBA US Open subscribers with fascinating Zall, the club from the coronavirus live and exclusively on beIN the Los Angeles Lakers facing lian Mbappe and Neymar, will channel. The US Open, known as one of coverage including dedicated epicentre, will play on the opening SPORTS. their rivals the Los Angeles want to add another trophy to the oldest tennis championships studios and beIN guests and day of the Chinese Super League The FA Cup final, known Clippers. their name as they look to gain FA Cup Final in the world, is set to kick of on legends from across the re- in a symbolic start to the delayed as the oldest national football On Monday 31 August, confidence before the EU FA The 139th FA Cup final will Monday 31 August and will run gion and world.” season from Saturday. (AFP) 16 Thursday, July 23, 2020 The Last Word Qatar’s young debaters showcase skills at online global championship Team Qatar, trained by QF’s QatarDebate, is participating in a global tournament that brings debating into the virtual arena

Tribune News Network Doha

Young debating stars from Qatar have begun their bid to shine in a global contest being Team Qatar is among the debating squads from around the globe who are participating in the Online World Schools Debating Championships, which began this week and will continue until August 2. held completely online with a difference. sation, as months of intensive Speaking about how Team the national Qatar debating vour of the motion and the should receive additional wel- ico City, which was due to be Team Qatar, trained by preparation begin to be put to Qatar has been equipped to team has participated in a other to put the argument fare benefits with Team Hong held this month but has now Qatar Foundation member the test in the online debating represent the nation in global world debating championship, against it. The topics are only Kong, and whether criminal been postponed until Janu- QatarDebate, is among the de- arena. tournaments such as this, Ab- having begun its successful in announced close to the start sentencing should be based on ary, leading to the alternative bating squads from around the Following the restrictions dulrahman Al Subaie, head of these competitions in the US of each day, and in the first computer algorithms rather online tournament being or- globe who are participating in and preventative measures programmes, Communication in 2008, but it is different for preliminary round, Team Qa- than human judgment with ganised. the Online World Schools De- put in place around the world and Marketing at QatarDe- them this year with the cham- tar and Team Sudan debated Team Estonia. Their training has includ- bating Championships, which amid the coronavirus (COV- bate, said: “We annually seek pionship being held online.” the motion ‘Designate specific The team comprises Turk- ed over 120 hours of online began this week and will con- ID-19) pandemic, the deci- to attract Qatari students from The opening six rounds non-residential areas in which ia Al Thani, Alanoud Al Tha- preparation to familiarise tinue until August 2. sion was taken by the World all schools so that we can train of the Online World Schools drug users and dealers are le- ni, Moza Al Hajri and Reem them with the virtual debate The national English de- Schools Debating Champion- and qualify them to participate Debating Championships gally allowed to buy, use and Al Kubaisi, who have been setting and hone their skills, bating team got off to the per- ship’s tournament commit- in debating championships, see teams pitted against each sell drugs’. trained by QatarDebate coach and their build-up to the On- fect start on the opening day tee to arrange a 17-day on- and representing Qatar in in- other in competitive debates. Other rounds this week Mubarrat Wassey. They were line World Schools Debating of competition, winning their line event, which is seeing 72 ternational forums is the high- They are drawn against each have seen Team Qatar debate originally preparing to partici- Championship, they won the first round against Team Su- teams from 72 countries take est accolade for them. other at random, with one whether families whose chil- pate in the World Schools De- Helsinki Online Open Debat- dan in a debate on drug legali- part. “This is the 12th time that team selected to speak in fa- dren perform well in school bating Championship in Mex- ing Championship. Nurses working tirelessly QC receives ‘Black Cat’ to beat COVID-19: PHCC firm donation for people

Tribune News Network Doha affected by coronavirus Nursing staff act as a protective and preventive shield against the The contribution was part of the company’s CSR policy to give back to the community transmission of any infection, in- cluding coronavirus (COVID-19), said Primary Health Care Corpo- ration (PHCC) Head Nurse at the Leabaib Health Center, Ebtisam lic Health (MoPH), containing case is detected, first of all, a Abdullah. important guidelines from the doctor contacts the patient and “Our nurses help protect the ministry for the quarantine pe- informs him or her of the test re- medical staff and all health centre riod. sults. Then, a request for further visitors from possible contraction Once a suspected case is dis- tests is made using the patient’s of coronavirus on a daily basis. charged from the isolation room, database. Following this, the This is achieved through a set of the nursing staff supervises the nursing staff coordinate with the precautionary measures taken by disinfection process as part of four centres having COVID-19 the nursing staff before patients PHCC’s efforts to combat the quarantine facilities (Muaither, walk into any health centres,” spread of COVID-19. Rawdat Al Khail, Al Gharafah and said Ebtisam. Umm Slal) in order to carry out The measures in place include the required tests. Based on that, a quick desk test, checking of Visitors to all health centres the patient is transferred to a body temperatures, asking COV- will be treated as suspected suitable quarantine facility,” she ID-19-relevant questions, and COVID-19 cases. If any symp- explained. taking note of any respiratory toms are detected, the To cover the global shortage symptoms or symptoms similar patients will be treated as sus- of nurses and to meet the needs of to COVID-19, such as coughing, health sectors worldwide after the sore throat and fever. pected COVID-19 cases and COVID-19 outbreak, the World According to Ebtisam, visitors asked to sanitise their hands Health Organization (WHO) said to all health centres are treated and wear surgical masks. They there was an urgent need for an as suspected COVID-19 cases. will then be admitted to the estimated 5.9 million nurses to “If any of the above symptoms isolation room immediately help cope with the pandemic. are detected, the patient will be Like all other countries, Qatar The donation comes at a time when the entire world is going through a pandemic. treated as a suspected COVID-19 faced a shortage of medical staff case and asked to sanitise their According to Ebtisam, nurses and in particular, nurses. Many Tribune News Network Jassim Al Emadi, Director of the and it has never been more urgent hands and wear a surgical mask. also make sure to follow up with were unable to return to work Doha Local Development Department, to support those in need at this criti- They will then be admitted to the home-quarantined patients. She at the end of their annual leave thanked the management of the cal juncture; in pursuing its com- isolation room immediately,” she said: “Calls are made daily to of- due to the temporary suspension Qatar Charity (QC) received a company for the donation, express- mitment to social responsibility, explained. fer patients support and to moni- of flights. Additionally, PHCC’s donation from Black Cat Engineer- ing his delight at such a generous Black Cat is pleased to join forces Following admission, nurses tor their health condition, while health centres experienced short- ing & Construction to support their initiative that supports the humani- with Qatar Charity in alleviating the carry out further precautionary answering any queries they might age of nurses when 30 percent of efforts to combat the coronavirus tarian efforts of Qatar Charity with- impact of COVID-19 on the most measures by checking vital signs have with regards to their current its nursing staff were allocated (COVID-19) outbreak and help in and outside the country. vulnerable members of our society.” and performing the COVID-19 health status.” to MoPH in support of the COV- families and workers affected by the He also urged other organisa- During this year’s blessed swabbing test. After the test, the Another significant role ID-19 crisis plan. pandemic. tions and commercial establish- month of Ramadan, Black Cat nursing staff explains further played by nurses is that of cre- “In an effort to overcome The contribution comes as part ments to continue to support the ef- launched ‘Make a wish. Be a star, steps that the patient will need ating and spreading awareness these challenges, PHCC acquired of the Corporate Social Responsibil- forts of Qatar Charity to help reduce man. Inspire us – We ‘re going to to take, including the quarantine about COVID-19 among patients. skilled nurses on a temporary, ity (CSR) policy of the company to coronavirus spread and maximise get through this together’ initia- procedure. Nurses also ensure These include reminders on the urgent basis”, said Ebtisam, give back to the community where the number of beneficiaries. tive, in which every individual has that patients complete the Un- importance of practising social adding, “Our nurses had to put the company BoussainaKalo Borchetta, Sen- been able to make a wish through dertaking Form, based on which distancing, regular hand sanitisa- in long hours at the health cen- operates, especially at this chal- ior Corporate Social Responsibil- Black Cat ‘s website. Black Cat con- he, or she, is given a standard tion and wearing a mask. tres in an effort to battle this lenging time when the entire world ity Officer said, “The pandemic is tributed an amount to Qatar Char- booklet from the Ministry of Pub- “When a COVID-19 positive pandemic.” is going through a pandemic. affecting communities worldwide, ity for every wish posted.

QRCS launches 3rd annual meeting of its foreign offices

the world, especially with the The 5-day event will see online sessions extra burden of COVID-19. and workshops on a wide range of topics Over the 5-day event, there will be online sessions Tribune News Network ing Ali bin Hassan Al Ham- and workshops on a wide Doha madi, secretary-general; Eng range of topics, including Ibrahim Abdullah Al Ma- the Relief and International Qatar Red Crescent Society liki, chief executive director Development Division Strat- (QRCS) has commenced its and acting general director egy 2020-2023; mecha- 3rd annual meeting of foreign of Relief and International nisms of charitable work offices via video conferencing. Development Division; Dr by Qatari organisations in The event brings together Mohamed Jassem Al Mosli- light of the latest guidelines managers and representatives mani, director of Compliance issued by the Regulatory of QRCS foreign offices, heads and Risk Management; Saleh Authority for Charitable Ac- of department at the Relief Al Kaabi, head of Internal tivities (RACA); sustain- and International Develop- Auditing; and Dr Fawzi Ous- The first day of the meeting discussed the main achievements and challenges of this year, to come up with strategic plans for better and able funding and resource ment Division, and officials sedik, head of International broader field performance. mobilisation; development and experts from organisa- Relations. of media content; adminis- tions concerned with charita- In his remarks, Hammadi investigating the major chal- He emphasised the safety the frontline workers that of this year, to come up with trative policies, procedures ble and humanitarian work in said the organisation is up to lenges and finding feasible of medical professionals and this pandemic could be con- strategic plans for better and and control; programming Qatar. all the humanitarian issues solutions, which will allow volunteers as a top priority, trolled,” he added. broader field performance. amid the current challeng- Several senior officials and events that require inter- us to better perform our role calling for protecting them The first day of the meet- The participants also covered es; action plans and quality of QRCS participated in the vention. “We seek to further locally and internationally,” as they fight COVID-19. “It ing discussed the main the difficulties facing the or- control; and mechanisms of opening ceremony, includ- improve our field work by said Hammadi. is with the great efforts by achievements and challenges ganisation in different parts of planning and studies.