BUSINESS | 13 SPORT | 20 Getit Group eyes Qatar’s fighting 40% of Qatar’s performance e-commerce ‘reassuring’, says market share striker Ali

Wednesday 19 June 2019 | 16 Shawwal 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 7927 | 2 Riyals

partners & 80+ privileges QA voted World’s Best Airline for fifth time THE PENINSULA Qatar Airways bagged prestigious in the airline industry, DOHA four prestigious so to have won so many prizes at awards at this year's the 2019 ceremony is a truly Qatar Airways has won four pres- memorable experience for Qatar tigious prizes at this year’s 2019 Skytrax. It has been Airways. Skytrax World Airline Awards, voted the World's “We are thrilled to be globally including the highest accolade of Best Airline, becoming recognised by our customers by ‘World’s Best Airline’ – becoming winning these four prestigious the only airline in the competi- the only airline in the awards. Being the first airline to tion’s history to win it five times competition's history be named ‘Airline of the Year’ for (2011, 2012, 2015, 2017 and 2019). to win it five times. the fifth time is a landmark The airline has been named achievement and, combined with ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’ three other major Skytrax awards, for a third successive year, while is testament to the tireless efforts its ‘World’s Best Business Class’ of the entire Qatar Airways team. accolade is the fourth year in suc- It is a proud moment for the cession that it has won that airline as our constant innovation Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti and Qatar Airways Group award. In retaining its ‘World’s delighted to have been here today and service standards set the Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker at the award ceremony. Best Business Class Seat’ award to witness Qatar Airways being benchmark in our industry.” for its patented Qsuite product, recognised as the ‘Best Airline of “The fact that the Skytrax class product to millions of pas- member of staff to satisfy cus- provide a customer satisfaction the airline beat strong compe- the Year’ for the fifth time”. awards are voted for by travellers sengers in the coming years.” tomers. To achieve this accolade study that was truly global. Trav- tition from all over the world. Qatar Airways Group Chief makes them especially meaningful Skytrax Chief Executive for a fifth time is a remarkable ellers across the world vote in the Minister of Transport and Executive, Akbar Al Baker, who for all of us in the industry. Aviation Officer, Edward Plaisted, said: achievement, and we congrat- largest airline passenger satis- Communications, H E Jassim bin was accompanied by Chief Oper- is a competitive business, and to “To be named as the World’s Best ulate them for this unique faction survey to decide the Saif Al Sulaiti, who attended the ating Officer of Hamad Interna- have received such recognition will Airline is a great recognition of success.” award winners. The awards are Skytrax Awards ceremony in tional Airport, Engr. Badr Al Meer, spur us all at Qatar Airways to even Qatar Airways’ high standards, The Skytrax World Airline referred to by media around the Paris, said: “This is a great day for said: “The Skytrax awards are greater heights and we look and recognises the hard work Awards are independent and world as “the Oscars of the avi- the state of Qatar, and I am widely recognised as the most forward to delivering our world- and dedication from every impartial, introduced in 1999 to ation industry”. `P3 MME allocates QR750m QF RDI's ‘Innovation Coupon’ funding Qatar launches aviation cyber for landscaping projects initiative to support private sector security THE PENINSULA pedestrian walkways, bicycle THE PENINSULA Manager, Christophe Billiottet. startup businesses to overcome guidelines DOHA paths, electric poles and many DOHA Innovation Coupon is aimed many of the growth challenges more. at Qatar-based SMEs or startups they face and the fund can help The Ministry of Municipality and The second part of the Qatar Foundation Research, in all sectors and industries that them improve vital aspects of THE PENINSULA Environment, represented by project include projects worth Development, and Innovation are engaged in the development their business. DOHA the Public Parks Department, about QR500m, to complete the (QF RDI) has marked the launch of new technology-rich “We are proud to be sup- has allocated about QR750m for rest of the projects in coordi- of its new funding initiative, products and services. The fund porting entrepreneurship in Qatar’s Civil Aviation beautification and landscaping nated with the Public Works ‘Innovation Coupon’, by signing is designed to benefit com- Qatar this way, and we are con- Authority (CAA) has released projects. Authority. The local contractors an agreement with its first bene- panies that have the needed fident that the Innovation Version 1 of the “Aviation The Ministry said in a will implement the project. ficiary, ADGS – a local private capacity and technical Coupon will act as a vehicle to Cyber Security Guidelines” statement that the projects will Under the plan, four projects sector SME that sells a suite of knowledge to develop their push forward the growth of in collaboration with the be implemented in two parts in will be implemented to build products that utilise artificial product or service but require many more promising local Cybersecurity Affairs Sector the coming years, reflecting two new public parks in Al intelligence (AI), behavioural more support to resolve a spe- startups who are producing of the Ministry of Transport positively on the cultural and Gharafah and Umm Sanim and biometrics, and emergent cific technical or business innovative solutions for Qatar, and Communications aesthetic image of the city of renovate two existing parks - behaviour. problem. The fund may award the region, and beyond.” (MOTC). Doha. Rawdat Al Khail Park and Ras The signing ceremony was up to 50 percent of the problem- Beneficiaries must use at The guidelines include The Ministry has floated first Abu Abbud Park. held at the QF RDI offices, where solving costs for a period of up least 25 percent of the awarded standards and principles tender of about QR250m to A special team was set up Dr Richard O’Kennedy, Vice- to six months. amount to cover the contracting relating to securing critical beautify seven main streets in at the Public Park Department President for Research, Devel- Dr O’Kennedy said: “It’s a costs of a local research institute aviation systems, in addition the city of Doha including to oversee the projects of opment, and Innovation, Qatar historic day for us. The devel- – such as QF research institutes to best practices in electronic Anaiza, Beheira, Jalai’a, Khalifa, public parks and contracts for Foundation (QF), and Dr Salvino opment of the Innovation and QF partner universities – or security in the field. Al Markhia, Al Dahil and beautification in coordination Salvaggio, Senior Director, Coupon highlights our com- other local expert company or This has made Qatar the Qatifiyah. with the supervisory com- Implementation and RDI Office mitment to foster local product individual, thereby taking first country in the Middle The project includes full mittee for the beautification Management, formalised the innovation and support the advantage of the local innovation East to have released such beautification, plantation, land- of roads and public places in award with ADGS President, development of SMEs in Qatar. ecosystem in developing new guidelines that focus on the scaping, sidewalks, interlock, the country. Hassan Al Ansari, and General The initiative will support products and services. `P3 deployment of the standards that aim to face and mitigate electronic threats and attacks in the civil aviation industry. Awqaf Ministry opens The guidelines are hoped to contribute to raising the awareness of all stakeholders First Ihsan School and those who work in the industry in Qatar by guiding QNA non-Arab communities in Qatar, them to cybersecurity best DOHA as the school provides free practices. education. The issuance of these Minister of Awqaf and Islamic The school aims to ensure a guidelines complies with the Affairs H E Dr Ghaith bin Mubarak good learning environment by recommendations of the Al Kuwari and Minister of providing children with better International Civil Aviation Education and Higher Education facilities. The school includes 36 Organisation (ICAO) that call H E Dr. Mohammed Abdul Wahed classrooms, accommodating 400 on all member states to apply Ali Al Hammadi inaugurated students, prepared to work in two such standards and measures yesterday the First Ihsan School sessions to accommodate 800 and continue cooperation in Umm Ghuwailina. students. and mutual support at the The ceremony was attended Minister of Education and local and universal levels. by a number of officials from Edu- Higher Education said that the CAA hails the efforts and cation Above All Foundation (EAA). school serves the community support made by the MOTC’s The First Ihsan School was members from non-Arabic students Cybersecurity Sector in established in partnership who find it financially and socially releasing these guidelines. between the Education Above All difficult to enroll in schools. These guidelines will Foundation (EAA), the Ministry of He said the school operates in assist operators and Dusty winds reduce visibility Awqaf and Islamic Affairs and the coordination and cooperation stakeholders within the Ministry of Education and Higher between the Ministry of Education aviation sector to improve Motorists navigate through low visibility as dust brought in by high winds covers the Doha skyline Education to address financial and Higher Education, the Min- their cyber security posture yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA problems and the age and educa- istry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs and build a resilient tional gap faced by children of and EAA. `P3 organisation. 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS Minister attends International Paris Air Show OFFICIAL NEWS FAJR 03. 14 AM SHOROOK 04. 44 AM Minister of Transport and Amir condoles with Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti attended the opening ceremony Ethiopian PM ZUHR 11. 35 AM MAGHRIB 06. 27 PM of the 53rd International Paris Air Show DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh ASR 02. 58 PM ISHA 07. 57 PM in Le Bourget, which French President Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emmanuel Macron inaugurated in the Deputy Amir H H Sheikh WEATHER TODAY presence of senior officials from several Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani countries and top aircraft manufacturers. and Prime Minister and Inte- The aerospace industry’s marquee rior Minister H E Sheikh event is a chance to take the pulse of Abdullah bin Nasser bin Kha- the $150-bn-a-year commercial aircraft lifa Al Thani sent cables of industry. On the sidelines of the show, condolences to the Prime the Minister met with French Minister Minister of the Federal Demo- for Transport Elisabeth Borne. The two cratic Republic of Ethiopia, Dr officials discussed cooperation in the Abiy Ahmed Ali, on the death fields of aviation and transportation of his father. QNA and a number of matters of common Qatar attends interest between the two countries and means of further enhancing them. Arab-China forum The meeting was attended by Qatar’s ABU DHABI: Qatar took Ambassador to France, Sheikh Ali bin part in the meetings of the Jassim Al Thani, and Qatar Airways 16th session of the Arab-China Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker. Cooperation Forum, which was held in Abu Dhabi, yesterday. Qatar’s Permanent Repre- sentative to the Arab League, Ambassador Ibrahim bin Abdulaziz Al Sahlawi, chaired the delegation. The meetings discussed means of deepen- ing and expanding scopes of cooperation between the two o o sides and developing them 39 C 45 C to broader horizons. The par- Minimum Maximum ticipants also reviewed the various achievements made in the framework of the Forum Very hot daytime with blowing dust to since the 8th session of the dusty at some places. ministerial meeting. They also

coordinated on issues and files

HIGH TIDE 04:38–18:17 LOW TIDE 01:34 – 11:59 of mutual concern. QNA Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department Ehsan holds discussion to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day QNA pated in the discussion. witness a significant increase in security law in Qatar mentioned quality of healthcare, which important than applying legisla- DOHA The event aimed to raise the number of elderly and the elderly as their own segment requires amending the policies tions and laws. awareness on the rights of the elderly, with that growth more in terms of financial assistance and laws related to them in order Qatar Lawyers Association Ehsan Centre For Empowerment elderly and their basic needs, and emphasized in developing and other benefits that are to protect their rights, meet their Zainab Mohammed called on the and Elderly Care held yesterday introduce the role played by the nations. offered by a number of minis- needs so they are not subjected need to issue a new Qatari law a panel discussion on social center in the Qatari society, in For her part, the Ministry of tries, include the Ministry of to violence or abuse. that protects all Qatari retirees security and providing protection addition to discussing the most Administrative Development’s Interior. She also highlighted the need from all ministries, agencies and for the elderly against discrimi- important issues pertaining to Noura Ali Hassan said during the For her part, NHRC legal to intensify campaigns and companies operating in the State, nation. the elderly. panel discussion that the State expert Rania Jaballah spoke efforts to sensitize current and including private companies and The panel was held to mark CEO at Ehsan Centre of Qatar has guaranteed the about the rights of the elderly in future generations on how to business owners, and for this law the World Elder Abuse Mubarak bin Abdulaziz al Khalifa rights of the elderly through Qatar and possible mechanisms deal with them and enhance the to include members of the Qatar Awareness Day, which takes said that they were committed various means, whether in the to ensure their protection and humanitarian and societal Lawyers Association, in recog- place on June 15 of every year. to raising awareness on the need Constitution, or through legis- dignity. She added that new sta- aspects of caring for this nition of their service to the Experts from the Ministry of to care for the elderly and cele- lation and laws that protect and tistics show that the elderly in important group in society. country. She also called for a Administrative Development, brate international events related maintain their dignity, particu- Qatar represent about 2.2 Jaballah also said it has been review of the pensions to provide Labor and Social Affairs, Qatar to them, especially the World larly in terms of social security, percent of the population and are proved that educating the indi- them with adequate living National Human Rights Com- Elder Abuse Awareness Day. He housing and employment. She expected to increase to 27.6 vidual and urging them to change services that ensure a decent life mittee, and from Ehsan partici- noted that the world is set to highlighted that the social percent in 2039 due to the negative behavior is more for them. Arabic calligraphy exhibition opens at Katara Qatar takes part in Arab RAYNALD C RIVERA Parliament Committee meets THE PENINSULA for plenary preparations Iranian artist Abulfadel Khuzaei creatively inscribes “Bismillah – QNA achieve Arab water security. In the name of Allah” in 30 CAIRO The committee on economic different variations using various and financial affairs reviewed a types of Arabic calligraphy, which The standing committees of the number of proposals concerning are on show in his solo exhibition Arab Parliament held yesterday the requirements of achieving which opened on Monday at their meetings in preparation for the common Arab market, Arab Katara Cultural Village. the fourth plenary session of the economic legislation and Arab Using different Arabic callig- third session of the second legis- trade exchange. raphy scripts, colours and Islamic lative term. The committee also studied designs, Khuzaei showcases his The State of Qatar is partic- the drafting of work proposals expertise in creative interpretation ipating with a delegation from for the parliament in the field of of the significant phrase from the the Shura Council. electrical interconnection Qur’an and most prevalent motif The committee on foreign between Arab countries in Arabic calligraphy in an exhi- and political affairs and national and in the field of facilitating the bition titled “Basmalah” which security discussed a draft reso- digital economy in the Arab reflects the beauty of the Arabic lution on the latest develop- world. Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, General Manager of Katara, and other officials at the opening of calligraphy across the Islamic ments in Yemen, in addition to The legislative, legal and Basmalah Exhibition by Iranian artist Abulfadel Khuzaei held at Katara. PIC: BAHER AMIN /THE PENINSULA world. “This exhibition features 30 the political and security devel- human rights committee dis- art pieces, all of which have the opments in the Arab countries cussed a draft resolution on phrase ‘Bismillah Al-Rahman Al- Qur’an by hand so he is a great cal- working in cooperation with rooted Islamic heritage and and the developments of joint tackling the phenomenon of Rahim.’ The artist has used six ligrapher and he is a formidable almost all embassies in Qatar. civilisation. Arab action in light of the Islamophobia and reviewed a types of Arabic calligraphy such artist using different types and Katara is the place for artists, no Dr Al Sulaiti opened the exhi- decisions of the 30th Arab memorandum on the latest as Reqa and Thulthuth,” Dr. Khalid methods for calligraphy. We are matter where they are from. bition along with Rida Shahrayor, Summit held in Tunis on March developments in joint Arab bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, Katara very pleased here in Katara to host Katara hosts artists from Asia to Cultural Attaché at the Iranian 31, and the extraordinary action on legislative, legal and General Manager, told The and always look for artists of this Africa to Europe and other conti- Embassy , with diplomats and dig- summit held in the Kingdom of human rights issues. It also Peninsula. kind,” he added. nents,” added Dr. Al Sulaiti. nitaries in attendance including Saudi Arabia that took place on reviewed a report on the follow- While lauding the artist for his Katara has forged partnership Though the artworks bear the Fikret Ozer, Ambassador of May 30. up of human rights in impressive method and style, Dr. with different missions in Doha in same phrase, they are made dis- Turkey; Axel Wabenhorst, Ambas- The committee also dis- Palestine. Al Sulaiti added that Khuzaei had providing platform to different tinct with the colours and borders sador of Australia and Abdelsattar cussed the general framework The committee on social, also written the entire holy Qur’an artists from all corners of the inspired by Islamic art. Having Al Janabi, Charge d’Affaires at the and themes of the report on the educational and cultural affairs, by hand. “I think this is one of the world to showcase their works, been in the field of calligraphy for Iraqi Embassy. political situation in the Arab women and youth reviewed a best exhibitions of the year when and for this exhibition Katara has over 20 years, the artist said he The exhibition runs until June world 2019, as well as the report report on the plan developments it comes to this type of art. This collaborated with the Iranian also adorns the frames using 23 and is open from 10am to 10pm of the sub-committee on the to issue the Arab document on artist has also written the full Embassy. “Katara has been Islamic art style inspired by deep at Katara Building 22. Arab Parliament’s vision to women’s rights. Galfar Al Misnad football team defeats Shappoorji to clinch Eid Trophy 2019

THE PENINSULA 1-1 at full time and had to go into football initiatives in Qatar. Sports play in creating leaders, The Galfar Cricket Club has The captain of the Galfar DOHA penalties. The Galfar team then The leading Qatari con- nurturing team players, and also made its mark on the Qatari cricket team, Mohammed Rizlan went on to win by scoring 5-4, and struction firm is also an integral boosting company morale and sporting circuit with its A Division and fellow staff member Gayan The Galfar Al Misnad football team took home the trophy. partner in various nation building unity. It was this belief that led to team consistently reaching the Buddika, are also in Qatar’s emerged as victors after defeating Earlier in the year, the Galfar projects being completed for 2022, the creation of the Galfar Sports final stages of all tournaments held National Cricket Team, and were the Shappoorji team in the finals football team did well at the QSL including the Al Bayt Stadium in Club in 2003, which offers the by the Qatar Cricket Association. selected to represent the country of the Eid Trophy 2019 that was Workers Cup Tournament 2019 Al Khor. opportunity for all employees to In the latest QCA Twenty20 Tour- at the ACC Western Region organised by the Kenyan Football and reached the semifinals. Galfar Galfar Al Misnad recognised participate in different sporting nament, Galfar Al Misnad took Twenty20 Cricket Tournament in Club. The two teams were drawn Al Misnad is a keen supporter of early on the important role that activities throughout the year. home the Runners Up trophy. Oman in January 2019. WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 HOME 03 Qatar Airways voted World’s Best Airline for fifth time FROM PAGE 1 Skytrax at no charge. There are Survey entries were Skytrax pay all costs of the no fees or costs for airline use of screened by Skytrax to identify survey and awards event, and the award logos and results. IP and user information, with airlines do not pay any entry or More than 100 customer duplicate, suspect or ineligible registration fee. nationalities participated in the entries deleted. The awards event and award survey with 21.65 million eligible More than 300 airlines are presentations are supplied by entries counted in the results. featured.

Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs H E Dr Ghaith bin Mubarak Al Kuwari and Minister of Education and Higher Education H E Dr Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al Hammadi during the opening of the school. Awqaf Ministry opens First Ihsan School

FROM PAGE 1 at a cost over QR4m, excluding under EAA. H E Al Hammadi said the maintenance, where the Ministry The program was designed school operates on the special of Education and Higher Edu- for children to ensure that they curriculum for students who cation will cover most of these have equal access to quality edu- Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, at the award ceremony. speak non-Arabic, which is the expenses. He noted that the cation. The program was Cambridge English curriculum, school includes 354 students updated on January 1, 2017 as a adding that a second school will who were unable to afford to program that seeks to reach soon be launched with an Arab complete their education. children who have not previ- QF RDI’s ‘Innovation Coupon’ funding curriculum. He said the school is of good ously been enrolled in a school He said the school building quality in terms of teaching and and contributes to mitigating initiative to support private sector is one of the older schools that is approved by more than one factors that hinder access to edu- are over 50 years old. The entity, giving student access to cational opportunities that meet FROM PAGE 1 security solution from a Windows funding cycle, beneficiaries are building has been renovated and quality education. The school their basic aspirations. Innovation Coupon will to a Unix-based environment. The expected to report on the progress rehabilitated in the old style, classrooms hold the best Managing director of the support its first recipient, ADGS, ADGS team will use QF RDI’s of the innovation for a certain pointing out that the ministry has equipment. He said the teaching school Mohammed Khan Zadeh by supplementing their capacity award to employ external support number of years to allow QF RDI provided other buildings for will be in English and Arabic, and thanked all stakeholders for to further develop their cyber in order to allow the company to to assess the impact of the funding community schools in Qatar. will teach Shari’a and the history their interest in supporting edu- security product, STROKK. The continue its expansion. provided. Commenting on the Director of the General of Qatar, pointing out that the cation for children living in software adds an organic security The funds were awarded after design of the fund, Dr O’Kennedy Department of Endowments school is considering the deci- limited circumstances and pos- layer on any system, in any lan- a rigorous assessment where said, “The mechanics of the Sheikh Dr. Khaled bin sions adopted by the Ministry of sibilities. He added that the guage, and renders stolen pass- applicants are required to specify program allow QF to ensure the Mohammed bin Ghanem Al Education and Higher number of registered students words useless to hackers by how the money will be spent, and funds are supporting committed Thani said the school is one of Education. reached 350 and the registration learning the way an individual the major milestones to be met. SMEs that will deliver impact in the pioneering educational ini- EAA programs director process is still ongoing and will types to clearly recognize the user. Al Ansari said, “We are very proud the local economy. The size of the tiatives of the endowment bank Mariam Al Mannai said EAA reopen mid-August before the STROKK is currently being pur- to be the recipients of the very first innovation ecosystem in Qatar is for scientific and cultural devel- launched a program in part- next semester. He said that the chased by customers in highly coupon and it will allow us to such that we can allocate greater opment as well as a vivid nership with the Ministry of Edu- curriculum model of the school cyber security sensitive industries, resolve a process that will ensure resources for a higher number of embodiment of the community cation and Higher Education and is based on a comprehensive such as finance, banking, defense, we continue delivering our inno- SMEs. This enables us to transfer partnership with various sectors, Qatar National Commission for educational program, which the armed forces, and intelligence vative product to local, regional, expert knowledge from our side noting that the school will Education, Culture and Science focuses on the development of services in several countries. and international markets.” to the SMEs to help them innovate provide basic education. and has been designed, basic learning skills of ADGS is working to port its After the completion of the in the local economy.” He said that school was built developed and implemented students. Qatar committed to global standards in dealing with chemicals Initiative to encourage more SANAULLAH ATAULLAH DOHA Qataris to join nursing field

Qatar is committed to interna- FAZEENA SALEEM tional conventions and standers THE PENINSULA to ensure proper circulation of chemical materials for the safety Sidra Medicine by joining with of people in the country, said a partners is playing an active role senior official. in encouraging more Qataris to Assistant Undersecretary for join the nursing profession. Along Environmental Affairs at the Min- with the other nursing leaders in istry of Municipality and Envi- Qatar, the organisation has been ronment Eng. Ahmed Mohammed working to promote the Al Sada that the Ministry has con- profession in Qatar, said Julie verted all paper transactions in The Director of the Department of Radiation and Chemicals Protection at the Ministry of Municipality Smith (pictured), Chief Nursing various departments of environ- and Environment, Eng Abdulrahman Al Abdul Jabbar, with other officials at the meeting, in Doha Officer (CNO) at Sidra Medicine. mental sector into electronic ones yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA “We are doing this through in order to save time, effort, the platform created by Nursing nurse educators. Qatar has more money and to protect the envi- Sada. He added that the ministry including issuance of licenses and complying to implement the Now, an International Campaign than 16,000 registered nurses and ronment. This came during the is interested in providing the best conducting inspections as per the requirements and standards of the to enhance the understanding and Sidra Medicine has approximately first consultative meeting with services in the field of chemical international conventions singed relevant international conven- profile of nursing across the 1,500 nurses. Developing nurses chemicals companies operating products, in order to increase by Qatar. tions. Abdul-Jabar said that the world. We are always looking for to become Nurse Practitioners is in the state orgaised by the Min- industrial output and economic Abdul-Jabar underlined radiological monitoring system is opportunities to show the com- also a focus for Sidra Medicine. istry of Municipality and Envi- growth. State’s commitment to the multi- being developed and installed at munity what nurses do and what “Nurse Practitioners are ronment, represented by the Speaking to the media persons lateral Rotterdam Convention all levels of the country on land excellent careers nursing offers,” highly trained and skilled nurses Department of Radiation and on the sidelines of the event, designed to promote joint respon- and sea and 14 monitoring stations she told The Peninsula. who have taken on extended roles Chemicals Protection yesterday Director of Radiation and Chem- sibility and concerted efforts will be upgraded and developed. Nursing Now Qatar was in delivering patient care in an at City Center Rottana Hotel. icals Protection Department Eng. among countries in the interna- He said that the aim of all launched by the World Innovation area of specialty. They have Al Sada said that that event Abdulrahman Youssef Abdul- tional trade of certain hazardous these consultative meetings is to Summit for Health (WISH), an ini- undertaken additional training aims at introducing the services Jabar said that the aim of this chemicals, in particular pesticides, introduce companies to the legis- tiative of Qatar Foundation. WISH and education at a Masters level provided by the Department in meeting was to introduce the industrial chemicals and haz- lation related to the procedures has partnered with the global to undertake this role. They dealing with hazardous sub- services provided by the ardous pesticide formulations, to required, and to strengthen coop- Nursing Now Campaign and the provide the medical teams with stances. “The objective of the Department in dealing with haz- protect human health and the eration between the public and International Council of Nurses expert input to their patient group meeting is also to find out the dif- ardous chemicals in terms of cir- environment from potential private sectors in this field. The to train young nursing leaders and can undertake duties that ficulties facing companies oper- culation, storage, transportation damage. He stressed that Qatar is Department deals with hundreds from around the world to amplify would have historically been ating in the field of chemicals in and packaging. He said that during in a safe position in terms of the of companies, and last year their voices and positively undertaken by junior doctors” order to bring about the best pos- recent past the Department pro- risks that might arise from the uses 22,000 shipments related to influence healthcare policy, ahead said Julie. sible solutions for them,” said Al vided over 20,000 transactions of these substances because of chemicals were released. of attending the annual World “This group is highly valued Health Assembly. by both the nursing and medical Senior representatives of professions, providing 24/7 spe- Sidra Medicine including Julie, are cialist hands-on care. We have International Day of Yoga in Qatar on June 22 board members of Nursing Now approximately 50 nurse practi- Qatar. “I always strive to ensure tioners at Sidra Medicine. We are THE PENINSULA Inspired by the response of June 22 will not only include Yoga conducted by the Embassy in last the voice of nursing is strong, very proud to have our first Qatari DOHA enthusiastic Yoga practitioners demonstrations by experts but two months including workshops understood and contributes to the nurse currently undertaking her from various parts of Qatar in the also provide an opportunity for all for students in various schools progression of care and treatment post graduate education to The Embassy of India in Doha is past four editions of International to participate in Yoga session based in Doha. In addition, Yoga of our patients at Sidra Medicine become our first Qatari Nurse celebrating the 5th International Day of Yoga in 2015, 2016, 2017 which will be based on the sessions for Indian community and their impact on the overall Practitioner at Sidra Medicine,” Day of Yoga on June 22. The cele- and 2018, the Embassy of India is Common Yoga Protocol and will based in Al Khor were also health care system in Qatar,” Julie she added. bration is a part of global also organising Yoga camps & comprise of various postures and organised on a regular basis. added. She also said being a nurse is commemoration of the Interna- workshops at Asian Town, Al Khor breathing techniques, followed by On December 11, 2014, the The nursing team at Sidra a privilege, to help people at their tional Day of Yoga and will be held and Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al meditation. As a prelude to the cel- United Nations General Assembly Medicine is made up of over 40 most vulnerable is very humbling at National Museum of Qatar from Thani Museum on June 21. Dukhan ebration of the 5th International declared June 21 as the Interna- nationalities, with many highly and rewarding 5 - 6 am and in evening it will be recreational Centre will host Yoga Day of Yoga, numerous work- tional Day of Yoga and on June 21, trained nurses in a range of areas “Nursing practice is based on held at Qatar Sports Club Multi activity on June 28. Many schools shops and demonstrations in col- 2015, the first International Day across specialist pediatric and evidence and science and pro- Purpose Indoor Hall from 7 - 8pm in Qatar are also organising Yoga laboration with well known Doha of Yoga was celebrated women’s services, including spe- vides a progressive and rewarding on Saturday. from June 16 to 20. The events on based Yoga Studios have been worldwide. cialist nurses practitioners and career,” she said. 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 QA touches down first time in Davao THE PENINSULA The inclusion of Davao City and Davao Region in DOHA Davao into it’s global the Philippines. It is the busiest air- port on the island of Mindanao and The first Qatar Airways flight from network further one of the busiest in the Philip- Doha to Davao, Philippines, demonstrates the pines. We look forward to wel- touched down yesterday at Davao commitment of its coming all passen-gers on Qatar International Airport, where it was team to the Far East Airways’ weekly return flights.” welcomed with a celebratory With numerous beaches and water cannon salute. Qatar region, a highly resorts, Davao City, on the Airways flight QR936 departed important market for southern Philippine island of Hamad International Airport (HIA) Qatar Airways. Mindanao, is a coastal com- on June 18 at 02.45 and landed in mercial center near Mount Apo, Davao at 17:20 local time. the country’s highest peak. Davao The Ambassador of the Phil- demonstrates our commitment to City is the largest city outside of ippines to the State of Qatar, Alan the Far East region, a highly Manila and the fourth largest in Timbayan, was joined by Qatar important market for Qatar the Philippines in terms of popu- Airways Senior Vice-President Airways. With 50 weekly pas- lation, with over 1.4 million Asia Pacific, Marwan Koleilat, on senger flights to and from the Phil- residents. board Qatar Airways’ inaugural ippines, we take great pride in our The airline will operate its flight to Davao. Qatar Airways role of enabling trade and con- Davao service once a week with Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al necting international a Boeing 787-8 aircraft, featuring The officials and cabin crew of Qatar Airways at Davao International Airport. Baker, said: “Qatar Airways is very businesses.” 22 seats in Business Class and 232 proud to extend its reach into the Commenting on the new route seats in Economy Class. Pas- The Philippines is an on the Doha-Manila-Doha route route effective 18 June, exporters Philippines by launching our third launch, Davao International sengers will be able to enjoy the important air freight market for and 70 tonnes on the Doha-Clark- in Davao will be offered direct gateway into this beautiful country. Airport Manager, Engr. Rex A. airline’s superior entertainment Qatar Airways, with the carrier’s Doha route. With the introduction connection to destinations in The inclusion of Davao into our Obcena, said: “Davao International system, Oryx One, offering a wide cargo arm offering a weekly of flights from Doha to Davao on Europe, the Middle East and the global network further Airport is the main airport serving variety of entertainment options. capacity of 350 tonnes each way the Doha-Clark-Davao-Doha Americas via Doha. Qatar Charity opens mosque in Somalia More countries added to THE PENINSULA hospital in early 2018 to contribute Vodafone Passport Pack DOHA to saving lives and meeting the needs of hospitals for the THE PENINSULA Vodafone Passport Qatar Charity, with the support ambulance. DOHA Pack allows customers from the people in Qatar, inaugu- It is worth mentioning that to enjoy 1GB of data rated a mosque in the Somali Qatar Charity seeks to improve Vodafone Passport Pack, Qatar’s and 100 minutes of capital of Mogadishu, in the education in Somalia, as it has widest reaching roaming pack, presence of Ambassador of Qatar, already completed the implemen- now covers more of the globe roaming calls for only Hasan Hamza, and Ambassador tation of several multi-service across 119 countries, with 15 new QR100 per week. of Turkey, Mehmet Yilmaz, in projects, including school projects. countries added this month addition to many local officials Recently, Qatar Charity including Nigeria, Zambia, and residents of the region. opened the Dar es Salaam Primary Singapore, Philippines, Tunisia, enabled countries, so they can The people attending the School in the city of Garowe to Tanzania, Canada, Vietnam, roam free. Prepaid customers can inauguration ceremony praised benefit 400 students. The project Mexico and Mozambique. activate Vodafone Passport Pack the role of Qatar Charity in imple- aims at supporting education in Vodafone Passport Pack is the through the My Vodafone App or menting such model projects that Somalia, contributing to increasing only roaming pack in Qatar by dialling *110*110#. people need in their lives, Ambassador of Qatar Hasan Hamza and Ambassador of Turkey the literacy rate, improving edu- enabled on all operators across Diego Camberos, Chief Oper- expressing their happiness at the Mehmet Yilmaz opening the mosque, which was built by Qatar cation facilities, and creating gen- these 119 countries and has the ating Officer at Vodafone Qatar, opening of the mosque in this erations capable of participating widest 4G coverage. said: “With Vodafone Passport Charity, in Somalia. coastal area inhabited by a large in the development of the country. Vodafone Passport Pack Pack, customers can now discover number of Muslims, with few which accommodates more than the areas neighbouring the hos- In 2017, Qatar Charity also allows customers to enjoy 1GB of more of the world with an mosques. 500 people, also has a prayer pitals. It is the largest mosque built opened multi-service centres in data and 100 minutes of roaming unmatched worry-free The mosque, built in an area space for women, in addition to by Qatar Charity in Somalia so far. the country. In the same year, a calls for only QR100 per week. experience. of 320 sqm , is located inside the toilets and places for ablutions. Earlier, nearly 28 mosque projects specialised agricultural school was Vodafone Bill Manager In time for the summer hol- women and children hospital The construction work of the have been implemented in the opened in Afgooye, a town in the product automatically activates idays season, we hope we’ve known as the Yardimeli Hospital. mosque took 18 months. Now, it country. southwestern Lower Shebelle Vodafone Passport Pack for all made it even easier for customers It was built at an estimated cost of is available for medical staff, Previously, Qatar Charity has region of Somalia, which is the Postpaid customers, as soon as to enjoy priceless moments with over QR350,000. The mosque, patients, visitors, and residents of donated an ambulance to the first-of-its-kind in the region. they’re roaming in one of the their loved ones.” CRA urges landlords to grant service providers access to properties

THE PENINSULA / DOHA efforts to encourage customer enhance their mobile services. contribute to the development the work inside the landlords’ choice and to improve quality of “The landlords’ consent will of the Information and Commu- properties. The probability of As per the current regulations, service in the fixed-line market further support CRA’s efforts to nications Technology Sector and damages during the work is very the Communications Regulatory in Qatar. The landlords’ consent encourage sustainable compe- to the development of the coun- limited. In any case in the unfor- Authority (CRA) urges landlords form is included in the Reference tition in the fixed-line telecom- try’s infrastructure,” said tunate event of damages pro- to give consent to service Infrastructure Access Offer. munications market in Qatar. Mohammed Ali Al Mannai voked by the contractors, service providers for access to their The landlords’ consent The service providers will be (pictured), President of CRA. providers are liable for the properties, for deployment of enables service providers to enabled to provide innovative During fibre deployment, damages and responsible for their fibre optic networks. This reach the customers with their and competitive services, which service providers work with pro- compensating the affected comes in line with CRA’s aim and fixed fibre networks and to will benefit consumers, and fessional contractors to carry out landlord.

MoCI recalls Mercedes-Benz GL CLASS 2018 model THE PENINSULA on the left and right does not follow up on the maintenance DOHA conform to manufacturer spec- and repair works and will com- ification. municate with customers to The Ministry of Commerce and The recall campaign comes ensure that the necessary repairs Industry (MoCI), in cooperation within the framework of the are carried out. The Ministry with Nasser Bin Khaled Automo- Ministry’s continuous efforts to urges all customers to report any biles, dealer of Mercedes-Benz protect consumers and ensure violations to its Consumer Pro- in Qatar, announced the recall that car dealers follow up on tection and Anti-Commercial of Mercedes-Benz GL CLASS vehicle defects and repairs. Fraud Department, which proc- model of 2018 due to the possi- The Ministry said that it will esses complaints, inquires and bility of front torsion bar linkage coordinate with the dealer to suggestions.

Students of IIS celebrate Fathers’ Day The tiny tots of the Ideal Indian School (IIS) celebrated the Fathers’ Day recently. The KG section wore a festive look with the students, dressed in colourful clothes, impersonated ‘fathers’ from various nationalities. Speaking on the occasion, the students highlighted the greatness of fatherhood and praised the love and care fathers give. Special colouring sheets were given to students to paint and present it to their fathers. WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 HOME 05 HBKU to host information session Ooredoo Passport: to showcase new LLM degrees Key to worry-free THE PENINSULA HBKU’s College of Law DOHA introduced the LLM in roaming this summer International Law and THE PENINSULA will automatically be DOHA The College of Law (CL) at Foreign Affairs and activated. Hamad Bin Khalifa University Speaking of the quick, effi- (HBKU) will host an information LLM in International Ooredoo has reminded cient and easy service, Manar session to showcase its new LLM Economics and customers about the amazing Khalifa Al Muraikhi – Director (Master of Laws) degrees to Business Law degrees benefits of its Ooredoo PR and Corporate Communi- current and prospective students at a university-wide Passport for customers trav- cations at Ooredoo – said: “We on June 26. elling abroad this summer. The know many of our customers The pioneering degrees – an event last month. Ooredoo Passport enables travel abroad during the hot LLM in International Law and customers travelling abroad to summer months, but they still Foreign Affairs and an LLM in law to attend the session to enjoy worry-free roaming. want to stay connected easily International Economic and obtain detailed information Once an Ooredoo Passport is and cost-effectively without Business Law – are at the inter- about the degrees and the activated it instantly provides worrying about running up section of the legal, business, and admissions requirements, and The information session will take place in Conference Room 1 at 1 GB data and 100 minutes, huge roaming bills. entrepreneurship sectors, and have their questions thoroughly Minaratein at 6pm on June 26. available in 104 countries. In “We’re incredibly proud of designed to cross the lines of answered.” case allowances are all used our Ooredoo Passport product single-discipline studies. The programmes are offered Law degrees this May at a uni- complex civil, common, and up, customers need not worry as we know it ticks all the Dr Susan L Karamanian, in English by renowned aca- versity-wide event, which gar- Sharia law systems. The college’s – a new Ooredoo Passport will boxes; it’s great value for Dean of CL, said: “Each of the demics and practitioners recog- nered the interest of more than Juris Doctor (JD) programme is automatically be activated, so money; it’s very easy to use two degrees is designed to nised in their fields of expertise, 400 potential applicants in the first graduate law degree of large roaming bills will not with minimal effort required, address Qatar’s current legal and who will be available to answer Qatar. The college was estab- its kind offered in the region and accrue. and it provides peace of mind business trends, and thus equip specific questions regarding the lished to provide highly selective is now offered in parallel with Should a customer forget while you travel. We wish all Qatari and international grad- curriculum. Attendees will also and demanded programmes that the college’s LLM degrees. to activate an Ooredoo our customers a great summer uates with the tools to work in have the chance to meet our assist and align with Qatar’s The information session will Passport prior to travel, and travelling abroad.” top level positions in gov- admissions team to discuss pro- national developmental goals, be in Conference Room 1 at then spend QR100 roaming in Customers can sign up for ernment, law firms, multina- grammes and application as well as the aspirations of key Minaratein from 6pm. Intrested a Passport country, an Ooredoo an Ooredoo Passport online, tional organisations, and the requirements. sectors and industries. participants can find details Passport with 1 GB and 100 via the Ooredoo app or in any judiciary. CL introduced the LLM in HBKU’s College of Law offers about the information session minutes will automatically be of our Ooredoo shops around “We invite prospective stu- International Law and Foreign multidisciplinary graduate pro- and to register to attend via the activated. town. Customers can also get dents with an interest in pur- Affairs and an LLM in Interna- grammes that equip students HBKU website at https://www. And again, if all allowances an Ooredoo Passport card suing their graduate studies in tional Economics and Business with the skills to navigate hbku.edu.qa/en are used up, a new Passport before boarding at HIA. Malabar Gold & Diamonds announces summer offers THE PENINSULA chance to win gold bars with purchase the zero deduction offer on 22K (GCC) Divine- Indian Heritage Jewellery, DOHA of gold and diamond jewellery this gold jewellery exchange as well. Precia - Gem Jewellery and Starlet – summer season. To add more glitter to the season, Kids jewellery. Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the With every purchase of gold & they have also unveiled the latest col- This holiday season, Malabar Gold largest jewellery retailers globally with diamond jewellery worth QR500, cus- lection of jewellery in gold, diamonds & Diamonds will provide customers with a strong retail network of 250 outlets tomers get a chance to enter raffle draws and precious gems to suit the tastes of the most attractive offers, definitely not spread across the globe, has unveiled a to win 100 gramme of gold each in 10 their multicultural and multinational worth a miss. new campaign to celebrate the onset of raffle draws. customers. Their mesmerising collection and summer. Adding to the above, customers Malabar Gold & Diamonds has exclusive offers can be availed in all This campaign will run at all Malabar also get a Scratch & Win Coupon with incorporated these designs as a part outlets of Malabar Gold & Diamonds in Gold & Diamonds outlets located in every Diamond jewellery purchase for of various brands presented at Qatar. Qatar until July 14, 2019. a guaranteed cash back and get a Malabar Gold & Diamonds namely Customers can witness a huge col- To celebrate this season, Malabar cious gems jewellery in their outlets. chance to win up to 100 percent cash Ethnix - Handcrafted Designer Jew- lection of gold & diamond jewellery at Gold & Diamonds will showcase the Malabar Gold & Diamonds will back. ellery, Era - Uncut Diamond Jewellery, Malabar Gold & Diamonds and win latest collection of gold, diamond & pre- offer their customers an exclusive Furthermore, customers can avail Mine - Diamonds Unlimited, exciting prizes. 06 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 Egypt’s ex-president Mursi buried in Cairo The leader, who was removed in 2013 and later charged UN calls for probe ANATOLIA/ANKARA with espionage, was buried at a cemetery The UN human rights office called yesterday for an independent in eastern Cairo’s investigation into the death of former Egyptian President Mohamed Mursi. “Any sudden death in custody must be followed by a prompt, Medinat Nasr, one of impartial, thorough and transparent investigation carried out by his lawyers said. an independent body to clarify the cause of death,” said Rupert Colville, spokesman for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. At the time of his death, Morsi faced a host of legal charges, AFP which he, along with numerous human rights groups and inde- CAIRO pendent observers, said were politically motivated.

Egypt’s first democratically elected president Mohamed confinement and deteriorating August 2013 crackdown on Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan addresses mourners during a symbolic funeral ceremony for Mursi was buried yesterday, after health. The prosecutor general’s Islamist sit-ins at two Cairo the former Egyptian president, yesterday, at Fatih Mosque in Istanbul. he collapsed in a Cairo office said the 67-year-old leader squares, weeks after Mursi’s courtroom. The leader, who was had collapsed and “died as he ouster by the military. removed in 2013 after a year of attended a hearing” on Monday Over 800 people were killed rule and later charged with espi- over alleged collaboration with in a single day as security forces Erdogan condemns inaction before death onage, was buried at a cemetery foreign powers and militant moved against protesters in eastern Cairo’s Medinat Nasr, groups. Abdel Maksoud said that demanding Mursi’s rein- ANATOLIA municipality shows there were candidate Ekrem Imamoglu will one of his lawyers said. only around 10 family members statement. The attorney-gen- ANKARA those who were “reminiscent of again vie for the Istanbul mayor’s Abdel Moneim Abdel and close Mursi confidants were eral’s office said Mursi, who [the fate of] Mursi” on the one seat after the country’s top Maksoud said family members present at the funeral, including appeared “animated”, had Turkey’s president yesterday hand, and those who would election authority ordered a had washed Mursi’s body and himself. addressed the court on Monday condemned “the Western world “walk the just way” on the other. re-run of the March 31 Istanbul prayed the last rites early yes- A reporter saw a handful of for five minutes before falling to and humanity” for looking on as Mursi, Egypt’s first democrat- polls. The results of the March terday morning at the Leeman mourners entering the cemetery the ground inside the defendants’ former Egyptian president ically-elected president, died on vote were cancelled after the Tora Hospital. complex, accompanied by police glass cage. The Brotherhood’s Mohamed Mursi died after being Monday during a court ruling Justice and Development That lies near the prison officers, but journalists were pre- political wing — the Freedom and toppled and tortured in prison. appearance. (AK) Party and Nationalist where Egypt’s first civilian pres- vented from entering the site. Justice Party — accused Egyptian Speaking at a rally in In a local elections re-vote Movement Party (MHP) appealed ident, a prominent Muslim Broth- The graveyard is in the same authorities of “deliberately killing Istanbul, Recep Tayyip Erdogan slated for June 23 in Turkey, Peo- to the election council, citing erhood member, had been held suburb as the largest massacre him slowly” in solitary said Sunday’s upcoming mayoral ple’s Alliance candidate Binali irregularities and violations of for six years in solitary in Egypt’s modern history, the confinement. election of the city’s metropolitan Yildirim and Nation Alliance the elections law. US sends troops to Mideast amid tensions Syrian AGENCIES clashes kill communicating to Iran that we are there obtain a nuclear weapon, to abide by their WASHINGTON to deter aggression,” Pompeo said at commitments to the international com- Iran dismantles MacDill Air Force Base in Florida. munity,” State Department spokeswoman 45 fighters The US is sending 1,000 more troops to The Pentagon responded by ordering Morgan Ortagus said on Monday. US spy network the Middle East as tensions in the Arab 1,000 more troops to the Middle East, The US accuses Iran of attacking two AFP Gulf mounted yesterday over Iran’s including security forces for additional tankers near the Arab Gulf; the Iranians AFP BEIRUT announcement it will not comply with the surveillance and intelligence-gathering. deny responsibility. With details murky TEHRAN international agreement that keeps it from The escalation of American military might and no one owning up to the attacks, the Clashes between pro- making nuclear weapons. At the same was aimed at deterring Iran and calming Pentagon released new photos intended Iran said yesterday that it had dismantled government forces and time, Iran insisted it was not seeking war. allies worried about the safety of strategic to bolster its case. a US spy network, after Washington militant-led groups that control Iran’s announcement on Monday that shipping lanes. Iran’s president, Hassan Acting Defence Secretary Patrick announced it would deploy 1,000 more Syria’s northwest killed at least it could soon start enriching uranium to Rouhani, insisted yesterday that while “we Shanahan said the forces are “for troops to the Middle East and as key 45 combatants yesterday, a war just a step away from weapons-grade do not wage war with any nation,” Ira- defensive purposes to address air, naval, powers expressed concerns about regional monitor said. levels challenged President Donald nians will withstand mounting US pressure and ground-based threats” in the Mideast. tensions. The fighting flared on the Trump’s assurances to allies that the US and emerge victorious. “The United States does not seek con- “Following clues in the American edge of Hama province when withdrawal from the deal last year made After Trump withdrew from the deal flict with Iran,” Shanahan said, describing intelligence services, we recently found militant group Hayat Tahrir Al the world a safer place. signed by President Barack Obama, he the move as intended “to ensure the safety the new recruits Americans had hired and Sham launched a dawn attack In the meantime, the Secretary of reinstated stiff economic sanctions, and welfare of our military personnel dismantled a new network,” Iran’s state on regime positions, the Syrian State, Mike Pompeo, said yesterday that leaving the European and other partners working throughout the region and to news agency IRNA said, quoting an intel- Observatory for Human Rights the United States will maintain its pressure in the accord struggling to keep Iran on protect our national interests.” He said ligence ministry official. said. At least 14 pro-gov- campaign on Iran and continue to deter board. Iran’s announcement that it would the US.will continue to adjust troop levels It said some members of the alleged ernment forces died in ensuing aggression in the region but does not want not abide by a limit on uranium stockpiles as needed. Russia urged restraint by all CIA network had been arrested and clashes, said the Britain-based the conflict with Tehran to escalate. “We established under the 2015 agreement puts parties and worries that the additional handed over to the judiciary, while others monitor. “Regime forces foiled have been engaged in many messages, the US in the awkward position. “We con- forces could “bring in extra tensions,” still required “additional the attack,” Observatory head even this moment right here, tinue to call on the Iranian regime not to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. investigations”. Rami Abdul Rahman said. State news agency SANA also said the offensive had been thwarted. Those who oppose military are Hama’s northern coun- tryside lies on the edge of a mil- enemies of Algeria: Army head itant-controlled region including most of Idlib AFP to circumvent... terms of the consti- province. The frontline had ALGIERS tution, do they realise what it means to been relatively calm since suppress all state institutions?” he clashes on Saturday killed more Military chief General Ahmed Gaid asked in a speech. Gaid Salah said a than 35 combatants, including Salah said yesterday that those who constitutional void would amount to militants and regime forces, oppose the army were “enemies of “the destruction of the foundations of Abdul Rahman said. Algeria”, as the country’s protest the Algerian national state”. Regime airstrikes on movement demands an overhaul of the “It is unthinkable to proceed in the northern Hama and neigh- entire regime. name of the people with the destruction bouring Idlib had also paused Those with “grudges and animosity of the achievements of the Algerian for more than 24 hours, before towards the army and its command... people, that is to say... the constitution.” resuming yesterday following are undoubtedly enemies of Algeria”, Street protests of the type that led to the latest bout of fighting, said Gaid Salah, the country’s Bouteflika’s ouster have carried on with according to the monitor. strongman since longtime president demonstrators demanding the fall of The bombardment killed Abdelaziz Bouteflika was ousted in regime insiders and the establishment one civilian in southern Idlib, it April. “Those who are knowingly trying of independent institutions. said. 300,000 flee Congo violence, complicating Ebola fight: UN REUTERS in northeastern parts of the Demo- Congolese flee violence at “this GENEVA cratic Republic of Congo is reported massive scale”, fears are that more to have displaced more than 300,000 people will try to seek safety in More than 300,000 people have fled since early June. The situation in Ituri Uganda, crossing Lake Albert, Baloch inter-ethnic violence in northeastern province has deteriorated since the said. An Ebola epidemic in Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo since middle of last week, with multiple which spread to Uganda last week, early June, complicating the tracing attacks involving the Hema and has caused 2,168 infections since and treatment of patients at risk from Lendu groups,” the UN refugee August, including 1,449 deaths, with Ebola, UN aid agencies said agency spokesman Babar Baloch told Ituri accounting for about 10 percent yesterday. a news briefing. of cases and deaths, WHO spokesman At least 161 people have been The UNHCR fears that the esca- Tarik Jasarevic said. killed in a northeastern province of lation could engulf large parts of the “We are always saying the Democratic Republic of Congo in the province, amid reports of killings, mobility of the population in North past week, local officials said on kidnappings and violence unleashed Kivu and Ituri is a risk factor,” Jas- Monday, in an apparent resurgence against civilians, he said. The gov- arevic told the briefing. “It is more of ethnic clashes between farming ernment is trying to bring the clashes complicated to do the work of follow- and herding communities. “Violence under control, he added. As up, contact tracing.” WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 ASIA 07 BJP picks Rajasthan MP Om Birla as Lok Sabha Speaker candidate

IANS Parliamentary Affairs Many of Birla’s supporters NEW DELHI/JAIPUR Minister said 10 also burst crackers on the parties have committed occasion at his residence. Om Birla, BJPs two-time MP He will be the fifth leader to from Rajasthan, is the NDAs their support to his take up the Lok Sabha Speaker’s nominee for the post of Speaker candidature and post during his second tenure as of the 17th Lok Sabha and is set that even the main an MP. to be elected today, with at least opposition Congress Birla served as an MLA in 10 parties, including outside the 2003, 2008, 2013 for the 12th, BJP-led coalition, committing may not oppose Om 13th and 14th Rajasthan Assem- their support to his candidature. Birla. blies and thereafter he won the The name of 56-year-old parliamentary election in 2014 Birla was proposed by Prime and became an MP. Nadda elected BJP Working President Minister Narendra Modi, Home Gandhi and Virendra Kumar He won the recent parlia- Minister Amit Shah, Defence who have been elected to the mentary polls again by beating Members of Bharatiya Janata Party felicitate Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Working President Jagat Minister Rajnath Singh and lower house of Parliament mul- Congress’ Ramnarayan Meena Prakash Nadda (centre) at the party headquarters in New Delhi, yesterday. BJP appointed former Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, tiple times. by over 2.79 lakh votes. Birla got health minister Jagat Prakash Nadda as its Working President. Parliamentary Affairs Minister However, this is not the first over eight lakh votes in the Prahlad Joshi told reporters in such case. Manohar Joshi of Shiv election. Delhi. Sena had become the Speaker Overall, he has contested five He said 10 parties have com- in his very first term in 2002. elections and won them all. Owaisi counters shouts of BJP MPs mitted their support to his can- Birla, a Masters in Com- His wife Amita Birla said it didature and that even the main merce, has earlier been a was a happy and proud moment IANS Soon after going through the indicating Rahul Gandhi not to opposition Congress may not member of the Rajasthan for the family. NEW DELHI procedure, Owaisi responded to make any comment. oppose him. Assembly thrice from 2003. For the last 35 years, Birla the slogans with ‘Jai Bhim’, The BJP MPs raised the The parties include NDA Born on November 23, 1962, had been working from the The second day of the 17th Lok ‘Nara-e-takbeer Allah Hu Akbar’ slogans whenever any Tri- constituents Akali Dal, Shiv Sena, he started his political career as booth level to strengthen the Sabha was brought into sharp and ‘Jai Hind’. namool Congress (TMC) MP took JD(U), LJP, AIADMK, Apna Dal, a student and is known to be party, Rajasthan BJP spokes- focus by slogans raised during Reacting to slogans by pro- oath. National People’s Party (NPP) close to the Rashtriya Swayam- person Amit Goyal said, adding the oath-taking ceremony of the Hindutva side, Owaisi said, “It TMC’s Kakoli Ghose gave and Mizo National Front (MNF). sewak Sangh (RSS). he had leadership qualities. new lawmakers. is good that they (BJP MPs) back to the BJP MP’s slogans with From outside the NDA, the He has also been the Akhil Through his nomination, the All India Majlis-e-Itte- remember such things when ‘Jai Hind’ and ‘Jai Bengal.’ Sonia parties which have committed Bharatiya Janata Yuva Mocha Prime Minister had given a hadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) they see me. I hope they will Gandi admired her strong their support are YSRCP and BJD, national Vice-President as well message that anyone working chief Asaduddin Owaisi’s also remember the Constitution reaction with thumpings on her Joshi said. as the Bharatiya Janata Yuva for the party honestly and with swearing-in got all the and deaths of children in Muz- table. He had also sought support Morcha state President in dedication shall be given the attention as he responded to affarpur.” Most BJP MPs raised An Independent MP from from Congress leader Ghulam Rajasthan. highest position, BJP MLA in the shouts of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ by ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and ‘Bharat Mata Amravati, Navneet Rana, reacted Nabi Azad and felt the party may Birla made a strong con- Rajasthan Satish Punia said. Bharatiya Janata Party MPs Ki Jai’ slogans when they took to the sloganeering and said: not oppose Birla. tribution to the BJP particu- Punia said that Birla was the with ‘Allahu Akbar’. oath. “This is not the right place, Birla will succeed 76-year- larly when he was the Parlia- second leader from Rajasthan As the Hyderabad MP walked An exchange of sarcasm was temples are there for it. old Sumitra Mahajan, who did mentary Secretary in the after Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, towards the Speaker’s podium to visible between Congress Pres- “All gods are the same, but not contest the Lok Sabha Rajasthan government from former Vice-President of India, take oath, chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’, ident Rahul Gandhi and targeting someone and taking election this time. 2004 to 2008. to be given such a big Constitu- ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and ‘Vande Lakhimpur Kheri MP Ajay that name, is wrong.” Slogans of The candidature of Birla, Meanwhile, supporters of tional post. Mataram’ were raised by almost Kumar when the BJP legislator ‘Mandir vahin banayenge’ were elected for a second successive Birla gathered outside his house “This gives a strong message all members on the treasury raised ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and ‘Bharat raised in the Lower House as term from Kota Lok Sabha con- yesterday to celebrate his nom- to party cadre — work hard and benches. Mata Ki Jai’ slogans. Unnao MP Sakshi Maharaj took stituency, is a surprise as there ination as the Lok Sabha you shall be rewarded,” he A smiling Owaisi waved at UPA chairperson Sonia oath as a Member of Parliament are BJP leaders like Maneka Speaker. added. them and proceeded to take oath. Gandhi then intervened, in Sanskrit. 4 soldiers lost in Centre retires 15 senior one day as key Pulwama attack indirect tax officials suspect killed for misconduct

IANS IANS The officers retired, include SRINAGAR NEW DELHI Anup Srivastava, Principal Com- missioner, Pr ADG (Audit) Delhi, The Indian Army yesterday Days after a dozen senior Atul Dikshit, a commissioner killed yet another militant Income Tax officials were shown who was under suspension and linked to the Pulwama attack the door for alleged misconduct, G Shree Harsha, Commissioner, that took away the lives of 40 the axe has now fallen on 15 ADG DGPM Chennai. CRPF troopers earlier this year. senior revenue officials dealing Srivastava was booked by Despite losing four soldiers in with indirect taxes on charges the CBI in 2012 for demanding past 24 hours in Jammu and ranging from demanding bribe and accepting bribe from an Kashmir, the Army was and criminal conspiracy to importer to cover up a case of successful in killing the Jaish financial impropriety, sources duty evasion. He was also fined man whose car was used in the said. Rs20 lakh by the Estate office February 14 attack. The axe fell on Central Board for non-vacation of a gov- The Jaish-e-Muhammad of Indirect Taxes & Customs ernment flat. militant whose car was used in (CBIC) officials in the rank of According to sources, some the Lethpora terror attack was Principal Commissioner, Com- officials were forcibly shunted out killed on Tuesday in a gun fight missioner and others under for having disproportionate assets, with the security forces in the Clause (j) of Rule 56 of the Fun- as in the case of Atul Dikshit, who Anantnag district, police said. damental Rules. was charged by the CBI in a dis- Sajad Ahmad Bhat, JeM mil- A Finance Ministry proportion assets case to the tune itant, whose car was used in the statement, however, said that of 78.46 percent in excess of his suicide bombing in the Lethpora the President of India has retired known sources of income. area of Pulwama which killed the officers in “public interest” Assistant Commissioner of 40 Central Reserve Police Force with immediate effect on com- Mumbai GST Zone Vinod Kr troopers and put the two neigh- pleting 50 years of age. Sangha, Assistant Commissioner bours on the brink of a major “All these 15 officers will be of Bhubaneswar GST Zone S S showdown, was among the two paid a sum equivalent to the pay Bisht and Deputy Commissioner militants killed in Waghama. and allowances for a period of of Delhi GST Zone Amresh Jain “Sajad Ahmad Bhat alias three months calculated at the were also among the 15 compul- Afzal Guru had joined militancy same rate at which they are sup- sorily retired officials. days before the Lethpora terror posed to be withdrawing imme- Assistant Commissioner of attack. He belonged to diately before their retirement,” CC(AR) - Allahabad Mohd Altaf Marhama village,” police the statement said. was retired for being involved sources added. This is yet another major in smuggling of red sanders. He A soldier was also killed and clean-up drive by the Modi gov- was a co-noticee in two case of two others injured in the ernment after coming to power smuggling and was fined Rs 2.05 Waghama gunfight, the police for a second consecutive term crore by the adjudicating said. last month. authorities. Heatwave kills 90 people in Bihar

IANS /PATNA reported from Aurangabad, Gaya, of the Code of Criminal Pro- Nawada and Jamui districts, cedure (CrPC) in Gaya, Severe heatwave killed 12 more where temperatures hovered Begusarai, Darbhanga, people in Bihar in the past 24 around 45.8 to 42 degrees Celsius Gopalganj, Madhubani and Sita- hours, taking the death toll over on June 15, 16 and 17. marhi districts. Bihar Chief Sec- the past three days to 90, official According to the State Dis- retary Deepak Kumar said that said yesterday. aster Management Department the government will conduct an However, unofficially, the website, some 90 deaths had enquiry into how intense the heatwave has claimed more than been recorded till yesterday. In heatwave was between 3-5pm 250 lives in three days across a a first, prohibitory orders have on June 15 that it resulted in the dozen districts. Deaths were been imposed under Section 144 highest number of deaths. 08 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 The warlord wrecking ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN Sudan’s revolution SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ISHAAN THAROOR ACTING MANAGING EDITOR THE WASHINGTON POST MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected] or the first time since April, Sudan’s ousted strongman, DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR Omar Hassan Al Bashir, made MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI Fa public appearance. On [email protected] Sunday, the former dictator emerged from prison clad in his trademark white robes and was taken by police to court, where he faced corruption- related charges, including embez- zlement and the possession of foreign currency. But glaringly absent from EDITORIAL the allegations were the far worse Supporters of Sudanese General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Himediti, crimes associated with Bashir’s three- raise up their sticks during a meeting with the General in Khartoum, yesterday. decade rule. Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court in The protesters to rape, beatings and other broker a way forward appear to have Hague for war crimes, crimes against acts of torture. A nationwide made little headway. Care for all humanity and genocide charges clampdown on the Internet followed, “There is a total impasse. The atar’s healthcare system is top of the world. It matches related to his regime’s vicious coun- shutting off many of the avenues the negotiations have been suspended, with the best in the world. It also got several acco- terinsurgency more than a decade ago opposition had to share information Internet services remain blocked, and Qlades and praises from all over the world for its in the Darfur region. with each other and the outside world. the Ethiopian mediations apparently advanced systems and the care it provides to all its That veneer of accountability sums “Now that the sit-in site . . . is in ashes, did not make progress,” Dura Gambo, citizens and residents. But Qatar never stops there as it is up the grim state of Sudan’s fragile there is an overwhelming feeling of an activist with the Sudanese Profes- always in the process of moving to the next best available political moment. Bashir was brought isolation,” journalist Zeinab sionals Association, the lead protest healthcare system in the world. Minister of Public Health H down in April after protesters took to Mohammed Salih wrote in a BBC dis- group, told the Associated Press. E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari stressed said that the health the streets for months, clamouring for patch this week. “Not only are the Despite the violence, the opposition is system in Qatar is always focused on providing quality his exit and a transition to a civilian demonstrators no longer able to planning on reviving its campaign services according to international standards to meet the government in the country. Their gather, but they have found it difficult with nighttime vigils and marches in aspirations of the people of the country, in line with the ren- pressure compelled Bashir’s former to communicate and share their disap- the country’s cities. International aissance of Qatar and its resulting increase in population. allies in Sudan’s security apparatus to pointment, frustration and anger at pressure is slowly mounting on the The Minister announced a number of projects that will remove him from power. But in the the turn of events.” junta. Western governments are contribute to further development of the health system. The weeks since, the junta that replaced The junta’s de facto leader is Lt. demanding it account for the killings projects include the construction of a number of new spe- Bashir has cracked down on the Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, this month. cialised hospitals, both in the public or private health sector, protest movement and political oppo- who’s also known as Hemeti. “We believe very strongly there in addition to the creation of new services that will further sition with Hamdan is no would-be democrat - has to be an independent, credible improve the existing system, which was ranked fifth best brutality he’s the head of the RSF, which, investigation to figure out what exactly globally. reminiscent before being rebranded, rampaged happened, why it happened, who gave It’s all well-known fact that the country’s health sector of the horrors through Darfur as the infamous Jan- the orders, how many victims there has undergone enormous expansion in recent years and unleashed in jaweed militia. Now, as Declan Walsh were,” US Assistant Secretary for provides a full range of high- Darfur, of the New York Times reported, African Affairs Tibor Nagy told jour- quality healthcare services to its “It is clear that where gov- Hamdan is trying to present himself nalists in Ethiopia last week. people. Qatar is always the responsibility ernment- as a savior. Over the weekend, he “It is clear that the responsibility expanding its healthcare system lies with the backed took an armed convoy to a rally 40 lies with the Transitional Military to meet growing patient needs. Transitional Military militias miles outside the capital, where sup- Council (TMC) as the authority in In 2018, it opened Hazm carried out porters greeted him with chants cele- charge of protecting the population,” a It’s all well- Mebaireek General Hospital and Council (TMC) as hideous brating army rule. group of European Union foreign min- known fact that a dedicated Surgical Specialty the authority in slaughters of “If I did not come to this position, isters said in a statement, which hailed the country’s Center. Last year also saw the charge of protecting predomi- the country would be lost,” Hamdan the “historic opportunity” posed by the health sector official opening of the Tobacco the population,” a nantly non- told the Times, denying responsibility protest movement and added to the Control Center, a new Stroke Arab com- for the slaughter of protesters while calls for an independent investigation. has undergone Service Unit, and the launch of a group of European munities also blaming the opposition for Hamdan and his allies have so far enormous number of new services that are Union foreign between goading security forces. “People say rebuffed those demands. In their camp expansion in improving patient care. The ministers said in a 2003 and Hemeti is too powerful and evil,” he are a conspicuous crop of Arab autoc- recent years and health sector authorities such as 2008. added. “But it’s just scaremongering. racies - Saudi Arabia, the United Arab the Ministry of Public Health, statement, which On June 3, My power comes from the Sudanese Emirates and Egypt. The two Gulf provides a full Qatar Foundation, Hamad hailed the “historic soldiers from people.” monarchies, in particular, are invested range of high- Medical Corporation, Primary opportunity” posed the Rapid In public remarks, Hamdan has in preserving the military regime; quality healthcare Health Care Corporation, and by the protest Support panned the protesters and appeared to Hamdan recently visited Riyadh and World Innovation Summit for Forces, or the renege on earlier deals made between met with Saudi Crown Prince services to its Health (WISH) jointly push all movement and RSF, a noto- the junta - known as the Transitional Mohammed bin Salman. people. possible efforts to improve the added to the calls rious para- Military Council - and the main oppo- “Saudi Arabia and the United Arab healthcare facilities and for an independent military sition groups. A central sticking point Emirates are instead driven by their researches in the country. investigation. group, remains the composition of a transi- own fear that should a major Arab The Minister of Public Health stressed that the health attacked pro- tional legislative body that would country transition to democracy, it sector enjoys great support from Amir H H Sheikh Tamim testers in eventually pave the way for fresh would lead to upheavals at home,” bin Hamad Al Thani in order to develop a comprehensive Khartoum, ransacking a central site elections. Iyad El-Bagdhadi, an Arab pro- system with high-quality services that improves the health that the pro-democracy movement Activists fear Hamdan and Lt. Gen. democracy activist, wrote earlier this of the Qatari society. had occupied for months. At least 128 Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the more month. He added that “as long as the The number of patients who visited Hamad Medical Cor- were killed, according to the main senior face of the junta, may move to military junta has political and poration (HMC) last year was 1.7 million. The addition of protest organization. Reports continue appoint a parallel body and further financial support from the Saudis and specialised services in primary healthcare units will help to surface of militia forces dumping erode what hope there is for a civilian- the Emiratis, it will have little reason reduce the load on HMC, which will in turn lead to less waiting bodies in the Nile, while subjecting led democracy. Ethiopian attempts to to back down.” times. The draft law on the new health insurance system will soon be presented to the Shura Council. In the last three months itself, the number of beds in hos- pitals increased by 200. That is in addition to the 1,200 new May’s sad legacy is bigger than Brexit beds added between 2016 and 2018 after the opening of eight new hospitals, with a total number of beds currently at 2,121. There are also plans to increase the number of beds BLOOMBERG that contributed to the recent surge of spending more intelligently. For instance, in the private sector by 25 percent, while there is also a homelessness. Assuming that semi-func- funding for early-years development has thought to convert dental services for residents who cur- heresa May will be remem- tioning government is one day restored been shown to have health and educa- rently hold health insurance to the private sector to reduce bered as the prime minister in the UK, these issues will demand to be tion benefits for children in poorer areas. the pressure on public dental clinics, which has seen a major who couldn’t deliver Brexit. addressed, not just named. To be sure, In time, those benefits mean lower pub- developments in terms of expanding its services. TBut she also leaves her suc- there’s no single over-arching remedy lic outlays (on health interventions and cessor another testing legacy: her for this nexus of ills. And public funds control of crime) and higher tax revenues failure to confront what she has called aren’t limitless. It will be crucial to set (from a more productive workforce and the UK’s “burning injustices.” priorities - and to pair additional spend- economy). Programs of this kind have been Britain is a rich country by any def- ing, where needed, with reform. slashed by two-thirds over the past dec- QUOTE OF THE DAY inition, but it scores badly on a range Start with health care. Government ade - a patently false economy, proving of social measures. Income inequal- health spending in the UK, at 7.6 per- that “austerity” and fiscal responsibility I am deeply concerned ity is higher than in many comparable cent of GDP, is about half that in the US aren’t always the same thing. about the escalation nations, and economic mobility is lower. and far beneath Germany, France and The divide between Britain’s pros- of the fighting in Pockets of deep poverty persist. There other rich countries. At first sight, genu- perous southeast and the rest of the Idlib. Even in the fight are pronounced regional disparities in inely universal health insurance at such country continues to widen. Address- education and health, and “deaths of modest outlay is a success. But the strains ing this is increasingly urgent, because against terrorism despair” have been rising. on the system are now painfully clear. the rupture is poisoning the country’s there needs to be May has acknowledged these prob- May pledged an extra 20 billion pounds politics. Throwing money at the issue full compliance lems, but has done little to solve them. annually for the National Health Service has been tried and doesn’t work. Brit- with international During her brief tenancy of 10 Downing by 2023. Even that is unlikely to suffice, ain needs to rethink the management human rights and Street, many have grown worse. Cuts to given rising costs and a rapidly aging of these resources. Local authorities are local-government budgets have under- population. The NHS is already lean, so often best placed to design programs humanitarian law. mined social care for the elderly and the scope for savings from greater effi- that meet local needs. They should be vulnerable, for instance. Efforts to curb ciency is small. If Britain wants to retain given the power and budgets to over- Antonio Guterres substance abuse have faltered. A once- its fully funded public system, it will need haul provision of transportation, health UN Secretary-General promising welfare reform, known as to raise taxes to pay for it. services, training and social care in the Universal Credit, was bungled, a failure Elsewhere, opportunities abound for areas they know best. WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 ASIA 09 Pakistan saves climbers hit by avalanche AP Karrar Haidri, Head of Pakistan’s Alpine Club, he added. Ashraf Aman, a Paki- that they survived. “I think experienced of climbers. Earlier ISLAMABAD said that the six surviving climbers, including stani tour operator who arranged glacier collapsed and millions this year, two European climbers the expedition, confirmed that tons come down. We were very -Italian Daniele Nardi and Briton A Pakistani army helicopter four Italians and two Pakistanis, were taken Pakistan’s military had dis- up at the mountain,” he said. Tom Ballard - were killed during rescued yesterday four Italian to a hospital in the nearby town of Gilgit patched the helicopter earlier In a separate incident on bad winter weather on Nanga and two Pakistani climbers for the treatment of injuries. One Pakistani yesterday morning to rescue the Monday, two Chinese moun- Parbat, which is the world’s stranded at an altitude of around mountaineer was killed. climbers. He said the body of the taineers were reported missing ninth-tallest mountain at 8,126 5,300 metres in the country’s Pakistani mountaineer, in another area in northern metres (26,660 feet). north, after an avalanche struck Mohammad Imtiaz, would be Pakistan, said Haidri. He said a Nardi, from near Rome, had the team the previous day, a Karrar Haidri, head of Pakistan’s are being treated at a hospital,” brought down later. rescue mission was planned to attempted to scale the peak in worker said. A Alpine Club, said that the six sur- he said. Aman said none of the sur- find them. winter several times. Ballard’s Pakistani member of the team viving climbers were taken to a “A Pakistan army helicopter viving team had life threatening Mountaineers from across disappearance hit his homeland was killed. hospital in the nearby town of was used for this complicated but injuries. The four Italian climbers the world travel to Pakistan particularly hard as he is the son The expedition was hit while Gilgit for the treatment of successful rescue operation, involved are expedition leader every year to try scaling its high of , the first descending a peak in the injuries. “Sadly, one Pakistani despite the fact that the stranded Tarcisio Bellò, Luca Morellato, northern mountains. Harsh woman to scale Ishkoman Valley, located in the mountaineer was killed, but six mountaineers were present at an David Bergamin and Tino Toldo. weather and conditions often alone. She died at age 33 northern district of Ghizar. other members of the expedition altitude of around 5,300 metres,” Bellò said they were “very lucky” prove a test for the most descending the summit of .

ECP seeks reply Pakistan, Iran and over Maryam’s Afghanistan urge appointment support for refugees as party’s VP INTERNEWS ANATOLIA the needs of Afghan refugees. ISLAMABAD ISLAMABAD “We urged the international community to fulfil their pledges The Election Commission of Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan and and provide support to all those Pakistan (ECP) sought a reply the UNHCR urged the interna- countries who are hosting mil- from the Pakistan Muslim tional community to support lions refugees,” said Shehryar League-Nawaz (PML-N) over a countries hosting millions of Khan Afridi, the federal minister petition challenging the refugees. for States and Frontier Regions appointment of Maryam Nawaz The demand came during Division (SAFRON) dealing as party vice-president, Express the Sixth Quadripartite Steering Afghan refugees. News reported. Committee Meeting in Pakistan hosted more than A three-member bench of Islamabad, where the issue of one million Afghan refugees in the ECP, headed by Chief repatriation of Afghan refugees line with the spirit and prece- Election Commissioner Sardar from Pakistan and Iran was dis- dence set by the Ansaar of Muhammad Raza heard the cussed. Participants reaffirmed Madinah who sacrificed their petition filed by Pakistan Siraj ul Haq, head of Pakistan’s political and religious party Jama’at e Islami, leads the funeral prayers their assurance to the principle lives and assets by sharing eve- Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in in absentia for the former Egyptian President Mohamed Mursi, in Peshawar, Pakistan, yesterday. of voluntary repatriation in rything with migrants from Islamabad. During the hearing, safety and dignity and called for Mecca, Saudi Arabia, who Jehangir Jadoon represented joint efforts to create an envi- migrated along with Prophet PML-N, Barrister Zafarullah ronment conducive to phased, Muhammad, he added. Pakistan’s leaders pay homage to Mursi represented Maryam and gradual and orderly voluntary “For the last 40 years we are Hassan Maan represented PTI. return and sustainable reinte- hosting the Afghan refugees. ANATOLIA Mursi had refused to bow to dic- the party held funeral prayers in The lawyer of the PML-N gration in Afghanistan, as well Now the time has come that the KARACHI tatorship and withdraw support absentia yesterday for Mursi and Maryam asked for a copy as to continue to more appro- global community should fulfil for the Palestinian struggle for across Pakistan. of the petition from the ECP and priately support host commu- their promises and help Pakistan Leaders of Pakistan’s ruling and freedom and independence, “Indeed — sad news. What said they would submit a nities in Iran and Pakistan, and Iran to resolve Afghan ref- opposition parties yesterday which were his only “crimes”. hope there was and how tragi- response after going through it. within the SSAR framework, ugees problems” he said. expressed grief over the “Mursi stood tall in the face cally it all ended. RIP,” Shireen Directing the authorities according to the state-run Asso- The UN refugees agency, martyrdom of former Egyptian of all pressures aimed at forcing Mazari, Pakistan’s human rights concerned to provide a copy of ciated Press of Pakistan. UNHCR, praised Islamabad and President Mohamed Mursi and him to withdraw from his minister, said on Twitter. the petition to PML-N, ECP The regional multi-year Tehran for hosting Afghan ref- said the Muslim world has lost a struggle for the fundamental Ahsan Iqbal, leader of the asked them to submit their Solutions Strategy for Afghan ugees and said it would support true hero. rights of the people of Egypt and main opposition party Pakistan reply in the next hearing on Refugees (SSAR) provides a host communities in refugees’ In a statement, Senator Siraj his support to Palestine,” Haq Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) June 25. Parliamentary Sec- framework for cooperation host countries. The legal stay of ul Haq, chief of Jamaat-e-Islami noted, adding, “the dictatorial and former interior minister, retary for Law Maleeka Bukhari between humanitarian and 1.4 million registered Afghan ref- Pakistan, the country’s main- regime failed miserably to break said Mursi will be said PML-N counsel took a development actors to address ugees would end June 30. stream religious party, said his resolve”. He announced that remembered. U-turn before the election com- mission when he stated that Maryam Nawaz is not party vice-president. UN gives Myanmar aid cut warning over Rohingya row Bukhari stressed being a convicted person; Maryam AFP leverage over the government. around 9,000 Rohingya. But they entrenching segregation”, UN water, but site planning, shelter cannot hold any party office, YANGON The majority of Myanmar’s have not been allowed to return Resident and Humanitarian construction and education facil- according to Radio Pakistan. Rohingya were driven into Bang- to their former homes and Coordinator in Myanmar Knut ities could be phased out, aid In a major party reshuffle The UN has warned it will pare ladesh by a 2017 army remain dependent on handouts. Ostby wrote to the government agency sources said. in May, Maryam was made one back aid to thousands of crackdown, but around 400,000 Instead, they are being settled in in a leaked letter, dated 6 June. The UN has faced criticism of the 16 vice-presidents of the Rohingya Muslims left destitute remain inside conflict-battered new accommodation close to the The letter, also written on for a slow response to violence PML-N along with Hamza as Myanmar’s government closes Rakhine. Those include nearly former camps. behalf of aid groups, warned against the Rohingya, which Shehbaz, who is also the Oppo- camps in Rakhine state, over 130,000 held since 2012 in That has sparked fears aid support “beyond life-saving escalated after 2012 riots sition Leader in the Punjab fears its continued support “risks squalid camps, currently sup- agencies are effectively being assistance” at the closed sites between Muslim Rohingyas and Assembly. Former prime min- entrenching segregation”. ported by UN agencies and used to prop-up a policy that would in future be linked to “tan- ethnic Rakhine Buddhists. A UN ister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was Aid agencies are facing an humanitarian groups. fails to address the fundamental gible” progress made on “the report released yesterday appointed as the senior vice- increasingly sharp dilemma in As part of its strategy to needs of the Rohingya, including fundamental issue of freedom of admitted “systemic failures” in president, while Ahsan Iqbal the region as they balance relief address the crisis, Myanmar has housing, work, food and security. movement”. “Life-saving” its handling of the build-up to the was made the general for desperate communities with closed several camps holding The camp closure plan “risks support includes food, health and Rohingya crisis. secretary. Sri Lankan police officer disobeys president to testify at attack probe

AFP been in charge of an area forms such as Facebook. COLOMBO where the bombing mas- Two weeks ago Sirisena termind was based before he sacked national intelligence A Sri Lankan police officer went underground in the chief Sisira Mendis after he tes- yesterday defied President months prior to the attack. tified that the attacks could Maithripala Sirisena and Deputy parliamentary have been prevented. testified before a parliamentary speaker Ananda Kumarasiri Mendis said the president investigation into the Easter opened the hearing with a had failed to hold regular Sunday suicide bombings that warning to public servants that security meetings to assess the killed 258 people. refusing to cooperate with the threat from Islamic radicals Sirisena has come in for committee could lead to a who carried out the bombings. major criticism after ordering 10-year jail term. Defence secretary Hemasiri top brass not to allow police, “Anyone who refuses to Fernando and police chief military or intelligence per- appear... or withholds any evi- Pujith Jayasundara also sug- Upside-down sonnel to take part in hearings dence, will be violating the par- gested Sirisena did not follow into the attacks being held by liamentary privileges act and proper protocol in dealing with Visitors pose for a picture inside an upside-down cafeteria in Dhaka yesterday. a parliamentary committee. will be liable to punishment,” a specific intelligence warning The president, who has said he said. from India. the hearings could reveal clas- The state telecommuni- Fernando was forced to sified information, is accused cation service provider, which resign, while Jayasundara has Four new districts set up in Gilgit-Baltistan by critics of presiding over a previously broadcast live pro- been suspended from duty. security and intelligence appa- ceedings of the hearing on According the reports INTERNEWS / ISLAMABAD The number of districts in Gilgit- pleased to notify the four subdi- ratus which ignored warnings cable TV, stopped doing so available, New Delhi shared Baltistan reached 14 after the visions as separate districts that could have prevented the after a presidential order two detailed information about the The Gilgit-Baltistan government notification. It said that on having same territorial juris- attack on three churches and weeks ago. targets and method of attack in north of Pakistan has set up approval of competent authority, diction, boundaries as earlier. luxury hotels. They can still be followed, as early as April 4, gleaned four new districts in the region. the government of Gilgit- The new districts include Gupis- Yesterday the committee however, on the parliament from a militant in Indian The government has issued a Baltistan in exorcise of powers, Yasin in Gilgit division, Rondu in heard evidence — much of it in website as well as private news custody, but the intelligence notification about creation of the conferred upon it under Section Baltistan division, Deral and camera — from Inspector N B channels broadcasting pro- was not acted on. new districts in Gilgit-Baltistan. 5 of Land Revenue Act, 1967, was Tangir in Diamer division. Kasthuriarachchi, who had ceedings on social media plat- 10 ASIA / EUROPE WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 13 dead, around 18 dead after ferry sinks in 200 injured in Indonesia AFP China earthquake JAKARTA The death toll from an Indo- AFP An early warning nesian ferry sinking has risen BEIJING alarm system was to 18, authorities said yesterday, triggered in the the latest maritime accident to The toll from a strong provincial capital hit the archipelago nation. 6.0-magnitude earthquake in The overloaded passenger southwest China rose to 13 dead Chengdu about one boat was carrying more than and 199 injured yesterday as minute before the 60 people when it overturned rescuers pulled bodies and earthquake struck, Monday in rough seas near survivors from wrecked and it rang for 10 Madura island, off Java’s north buildings. coast. More than 8,000 people seconds before it hit Indonesia’s search and were relocated as a large Yibin. rescue agency said 18 people number of structures were had died, including several damaged or collapsed after the children, with 39 survivors. quake struck late on Monday More than 12,000 homes A fleet of rescue vessels, a Rescue workers search for survivors in the rubble after earthquakes hit Changning county in Yibin, near Yibin, in Sichuan province, were moderately damaged, plane and local fishing boats are Sichuan province, China, yesterday. according to the city while 73 buildings have col- searching the waters for at least government. lapsed, Yibin authorities said. four others still missing, author- State broadcaster CCTV The possibility of thunder Rescuers have pulled at least ities said. aired footage of rescuers and showers over the next two 20 people from the wreckage, Japan tsunami advisory lifted But local reports have sug- bringing a survivor out of a days could complicate the rescue and more than 100 people are gested that there could be more building’s rubble on a stretcher efforts, Xinhua noted. receiving treatment at hospitals, following strong earthquake victims who were not listed on overnight. Other images were of An early warning alarm it said. the official manifest. a woman being helped out of system was triggered in the pro- More than 500 firefighting AFP the tsunami advisory around “It’s suspected that the boat another collapsed structure. vincial capital Chengdu about teams have been dispatched to TOKYO two and a half hours after the was overloaded,” East Java Photographs from one minute before the earth- the scene. Rescue personnel quake. Police spokesman Frans Barung Changning county showed an quake struck, the news agency were also sent with more than A strong 6.4-magnitude earth- The earthquake registered Mangera said. electricity pole knocked down said. The alert rang 10 seconds 5,000 tents, 10,000 cots and quake rocked Japan yesterday, six on the Japanese scale, which “The boat was hit by a large on the roof of a building, a hole before it hit Yibin. other emergency supplies. sparking a tsunami advisory goes up to a maximum of seven wave, overturned and sank.” in a brick home and broken A three-second headstart The area was hit by a series that was later lifted with no and was felt in the capital, The 10-metre long traditional windows on the street. before a tremor hits can prevent of at least four aftershocks, the reports of major damage or which is more than 300km vessel was found by fishermen Cracks appeared in several 14 percent of casualties, Xinhua largest of which had a magnitude injuries. away. The US Geological Survey shortly after it was swamped, roads, and a major highway con- said. of 5.1. The nation’s meteorological put the magnitude of the quake he added. necting Yibin and Xuyong county Nine people died in The US Geological Survey agency warned that a wave of at 6.4. Marine accidents are was closed, according to the Changning county and four put the magnitude of the main one metre (three feet) could hit Prime Minister Shinzo Abe common in Indonesia, an archi- official Xinhua news agency. others in Gong county, the Yibin quake at 5.8, although the the coast of the Sea of Japan, told reporters his government pelago nation of more than Mud and rock slipped from city government said on its China Earthquake Networks north of Tokyo, but only small would be “on the maximum 17,000 islands, where many use the side of a hill, blocking a road Twitter-like Weibo account, up Centre, the government seis- ripples of 10 centimetres were alert” to prepare for possible ferries and other boats to travel and wrapping around a truck, from a death toll of 12 earlier in mology authority, put the recorded. The agency cancelled rescue operations in the region. despite poor safety standards. CCTV footage showed. the day. quake at 6.0. More than 160 people died when a passenger ferry sunk into the depths of one of the world’s deepest lakes on HK leader apologises for extradition crisis, vows to stay on Sumatra island last year.

AFP But that failed to quell public Lam tacitly suggested, HONG KONG anger, and an even bigger rally however, that the extradition bill Europe’s oldest on Sunday drew over two million was unlikely to be revived given Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam people, organisers said — more the public sentiment. person dead at apologised yesterday for the than a quarter of the “I will not proceed again with political unrest that has shaken population. this legislative exercise if these 116: Report Hong Kong, but the pro-Beijing “I personally have to fears and anxieties could not be chief executive refused to bow shoulder much of the responsi- adequately addressed,” she said. AP to demands for her resignation. bility. This has led to contro- “If the bill... (does) not make MILAN The semi-autonomous ter- versies, disputes and anxieties in the legislative council by July ritory has been plunged into its society,” Lam told a press next year, it will expire... and the A 116-year-old Italian woman biggest crisis in decades, with conference. government will accept that who authorities say was the millions of people taking to the “For this I offer my most reality.” oldest person in Europe and the streets to demand the with- sincere apology to all people of Protest organisers were second oldest in the world has drawal of proposed legislation Hong Kong.” Activists have unmoved by Lam’s latest public died. Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam speaks during a press that would have allowed extra- demanded the bill be withdrawn statement, and slammed her for The Italian news agency conference at the government headquarters in Hong Kong, yesterday. ditions to mainland China. fully, for Lam to step down, and failing to address their demands. ANSA said Giuseppina Robucci Lam suspended the bill on for police to be investigated for “Her attitude is arrogant,” died yesterday in the southern Saturday after two massive using tear gas and rubber bullets anyone detained during the saying instead she wanted to said Jimmy Sham of the Civil Italian town of Poggio Impe- rallies that saw isolated bouts of against protesters. protests. “continue to work very hard... to Human Rights Front, an umbrella riale, where she was born on violence between the police and They have also asked for all But Lam gave no indication meet the aspirations of the Hong organisation of various groups March 20, 1903. She lived 116 some protesters. charges to be dropped against she was prepared to step down, Kong people”. participating in the protests. years and 90 days. Robert Young of the US- based Gerontology Research 10 fishermen Group said Robucci was the last New Zealand man jailed for sharing mosque shooting video European born in 1903. She was abducted by AFP Tarrant’s March 15 rampage at had another version that was O’Driscoll found that Arps just two months younger than WELLINGTON two mosques in the South Island modified to include crosshairs had set out to “glorify” the deaths the current oldest living person, city resulted in the worst mas- and a “kill count”, the New of Muslims and any punishment Kane Tanaka of Japan, who was militants off A New Zealand man was jailed sacre in modern New Zealand Zealand Herald reported. other than imprisonment was born on Jan. 2, 1903. for 21 months yesterday for history. “This was in effect a hate inappropriate, Radio New Robucci is No 17 on the list Borneo island distributing gruesome livestream Arps pleaded guilty to two crime against the Muslim com- Zealand reported. of people who lived the longest AFP video of the Christchurch charges of distributing objec- munity,” judge Stephen New Zealand’s chief censor lives. KUALA LUMPUR mosque attacks that killed 51 tionable material for sharing O’Driscoll said. He said it was David Shanks classified the video Known locally as Nonna Muslim worshippers, local media footage that was livestreamed to “particularly cruel” to share the from the mosque shooting as Peppa, Robucci had five Suspected Islamic State-linked reported. social media during the attack. video in the days after the objectionable content soon after children, nine grandchildren militants kidnapped 10 fish- Philip Arps, 44, was arrested Christchurch District Court attacks, when relatives were still the shooting, making sharing the and 16 great-grandchildren. ermen off Borneo island in Christchurch four days after heard Arps distributed the raw waiting to hear news of their footage a crime punishable by ANSA said she ran a coffee bar yesterday and took them to the alleged gunman Brenton footage to about 30 people and loved ones. up to 14 years in jail. with her husband for years. southern Philippines, police said, the latest abductions in the strife-torn waters. EU decision on North Macedonia, The heavily armed assailants snatched the group Albania membership delayed of nomadic sea gypsies in the early hours as they sailed in two AFP limited time available and the boats off eastern Sabah state, LUXEMBOURG importance of the matter, the in the Malaysian part of Borneo. Council will revert to the issue Six others escaped. The European Union yesterday with a view to reaching a clear Sabah police chief Omar delayed a decision on whether and substantive decision as soon Mammah confirmed that the to open accession talks with as possible and no later than fishermen had been kidnapped. Albania and North Macedonia October 2019,” the European Philippine kidnap-for-ransom until October, dealing a fresh Council, which groups member gang Abu Sayyaf is thought to blow to the Balkan states’ hopes. states, said after the talks. be responsible, and the fish- The European Commission, Albanian and Macedonian ermen were taken to islands in the bloc’s executive arm, said leaders have been shuttling the south of the country, last month that both countries through Brussels in recent reported Malaysia’s official had carried out reforms weeks to push their cases ahead news agency Bernama, citing demanded by Brussels and of yesterday’s meeting, but top police. formal membership talks should EU officials including Council The southern Philippines is be launched. But some countries, President Donald Tusk and home to numerous armed notably France and the Nether- Commission chief Jean-Claude groups, and Abu Sayyaf is noto- lands, are reluctant to admit new Juncker publicly warned them rious for kidnappings of for- members, while Germany has to expect disappointment. eigners. The militants, who Anti-China protest in Philippines yet to get parliamentary Critics say enlarging the EU demand large ransoms and Activists display anti-China placards and flags during a protest at a park in Manila yesterday, after approval it needs to back talks, further risks importing have beheaded several hos- a Chinese vessel last week collided with a Philippine fishing boat which sank in the disputed South so the decision by ministers problems, pointing to ongoing tages, have pledged allegiance China Sea and sailed away sparking outrage. meeting in Luxembourg was corruption and justice issues in to IS group. widely expected. “In light of the Romania and Bulgaria. WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 EUROPE 11 UK leadership EU top court rules German race narrows to 5, motorway toll illegal Johnson favourite AFP AFP Further rounds of LUXEMBOURG LONDON voting scheduled for A hotly-contested German road The UK leadership race today and tomorrow toll that targets foreigners is in narrowed to five yesterday as will whittle the list of violation of EU law, the bloc’s Brexit figurehead Boris Johnson contenders down to highest court ruled yesterday. prepared to defend his runaway The Luxembourg-based favourite status in his first tele- just two. European Court of Justice ruled vision debate. in favour of Austria, which Johnson expanded his lead her repeated failure to deliver opposed a “vignette” or over his remaining rivals in a Brexit. The island nation is now payment sticker costing up to second secret ballot held by 313 due to split away from the other ¤130 a year for private vehicles lawmakers from the ruling Con- 27 European Union member on German motorways. servative party in the lower states on October 31. Under the scheme Germans House of Commons. But how and when the chaos would essentially be refunded The former foreign minister paralysing UK politics — and the levy with a reduction in and London mayor picked up frightening business leaders — their annual motor vehicle tax. German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (right) 126 votes while former Brexit ultimately resolves itself may The measures have been upon Zelensky’s arrival at the Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, yesterday. minister Dominic Raab got only be decided by who becomes the subject of a furious row for knocked out after falling three the next prime minister. years with plans to launch the short of the 33-vote threshold. Further rounds of voting Merkel says she’s OK after shaking at ceremony toll in October 2020 for all cars. Moderate International scheduled for Wednesday and “The charge is discrimi- Development Minister Rory Thursday will whittle the list of AP while a military band played capital as president. Merkel, who natory since the economic Stewart continued his against- contenders down to just two. BERLIN their national anthems outside turns 65 next month, smiled burden of the charge falls, de the-odds challenge by The finalists will face the the chancellery. broadly after a reporter asked facto, solely on the owners and expanding his support base from ruling party’s 160,000 grass- German Chancellor Angela But following the anthems, whether her shaking was cause drivers of vehicles registered in last week’s 19 to 37. roots members in a vote next Merkel appeared unsteady and Merkel seemed better, walking for concern. She replied that she other member states,” the ECJ Foreign Minister Jeremy month to decide the winner. was visibly shaking yesterday as quickly along the red carpet with was fine. said in a statement. Hunt picked up 46 votes and Johnson’s lead is so sub- she greeted the new Ukrainian Zelenskiy into the building, “Since then I’ve drunk at As the neighbouring coun- Environment Minister Michael stantial that some UK media say leader in the hot sun in Berlin, pausing to greet the military least three glasses of water, tries argued, the toll is “likely Gove 41. Interior Minister Sajid the others are simply fighting for saying later that she clearly band and take a salute. which I apparently needed, and to hinder access to the German Javid scraped through with a good spot in his future gov- hadn’t drunk enough water. About an hour later, fol- now I’m doing very well,” she market for products from other exactly 33. ernment. Their attacks on him Merkel’s whole body visibly lowing their meeting, Merkel said. She laughed and gave Zel- member states,” the court Britain is frantically have been measured and the shook and she pursed her lips as told reporters at a joint news ensky a smile when he assured added. Germany is obliged to searching for a leader after race itself has been distin- she tried to contain the situation conference that they had dis- reporters the chancellor had comply with this judgement as Prime Minister Theresa May guished most by revelations as she stood with Ukrainian cussed bilateral issues and the been secure at his side. soon as possible or face stepped down last month as about various contenders’ past President Volodymyr Zelensky Minsk peace process during Zel- “She was totally safe,” he financial sanctions, it said. Conservative party chief over drug use. in the 28-degree Celsius heat ensky’s first visit to the German said. Berlin’s plans, a pet project of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s political allies in Bavaria, had Russia says also angered other neighbours Eight EU countries to phase out coal by 2030 including Belgium and the Netherlands. With the decision, victim of US AFP and Energy Commissioner commission added that but what green energy source the toll and refund scheme as BRUSSELS Miguel Arias Canete said. Germany, the EU’s most pow- they will use to replace coal, it was proposed must be cyberattacks Canete said that among the erful economy and biggest pol- according to the official. scrapped, German Transport Eight of the EU’s 28 countries European Union countries intro- luter, has also indicated it will Under the 2015 Paris treaty, Minister Andreas Scheuer ‘for years’ have pledged to phase out coal ducing or confirming such time- set “an end date” for coal-based the EU pledged to reduce its admitted, without saying what AFP for electricity production by lines, France intends to phase out electricity. carbon emissions by 40 percent would replace it. The judgement MOSCOW 2030 to reduce greenhouse gas coal by 2022 — before Italy and An EU official said the below 1990 levels by 2030. must be “respected and emissions, officials said Ireland by 2025. Denmark, remaining 20 countries, During its review yesterday, accepted”, Scheuer told The Kremlin yesterday said yesterday. Spain, the Netherlands, Portugal including coal-dependent the commission said the bloc was reporters in Berlin. Charges to Moscow had been the victim of The European Commission, and Finland aim to do so by Poland, had not submitted time- on track to meet that goal but use motorways, based either on US cyberattacks “for years” the EU’s executive arm, received 2030, the Spanish commissioner lines for weaning themselves off was falling short on its target for the amount of time spent or dis- following a New York Times the pledges as contributions to told a press conference in fossil fuel. The official, speaking renewable energy use and tance travelled, are already in report that Washington was the bloc’s efforts to deliver on the Brussels. Standing by Canete, on condition of anonymity, said energy savings. Referring to coal place in many European coun- stepping up digital incursions 2015 Paris climate agreement. Commission Vice-President the commission was also waiting plants, Canete said it was “pretty tries. Anyone driving on Aus- into Russia’s power grid. “More and more member Maros Sefcovic called the for the initial eight countries to clear” that fossil fuels have no trian motorways, including “We — I’m talking about states are making the political pledges “quite a significant signal detail how they will achieve the place in a carbon-neutral Austrians, has to buy a vignette several of our financial and commitment to phase out coal coming from quite an important goal. Not only must they show economy the commission hopes toll sticker valid for a certain media organisations, state insti- in the next decade,” EU Climate number of member states.” The how they will finance the shift EU countries endorse for 2050. time period. tutions and critical infra- structure — have been under attack for several years,” Captain in Budapest boat crash Kremlin spokesman Dmitry US announces $250m military aid to Ukraine Peskov said. AFP/WASHINGTON republic’s naval and land capa- conflict erupted in eastern was sober at the time: Police The cyberattacks “come bilities. The amount is part of a Ukraine. Ukraine and its Western from various Western coun- The United States announced series of Pentagon payments now allies accuse Russia of backing REUTERS The Viking captain was tries, including the US,” he yesterday a $250m military aid totalling $1.5bn to the country the pro-Moscow rebels across the BUDAPEST detained on suspicion of mis- added. package for war-torn Ukraine to since 2014, when Russia annexed border. Moscow denies the alle- conduct in waterborne traffic Peskov said that President strengthen the former Soviet the Crimean peninsula and a gations. Hungarian police said yesterday leading to mass casualties. He Vladimir Putin had “several that they had found no evidence was released on a 15m forint times suggested to Washington of alcohol or drug abuse by the ($52,000) bail last week. and his American counterpart captain of a cruise ship that Police have identified him to work together in the field of struck and sank a small tourist as 64-year-old C Yuriy from cyber security. These sugges- vessel last month, killing 28 Odessa, Ukraine. tions have been rejected by our mostly Korean people on board. His lawyers have said he is American colleagues.” The The Mermaid boat sank in devastated but did nothing Times at the weekend reported seconds on May 29 after the wrong. He now wears a location current and former government Viking Sigyn cruise liner hit it transmitter and is confined to officials describing the clas- from behind under a bridge in Budapest. sified deployment of American the Hungarian capital during The liner’s owner, Swiss- computer code inside Russia’s heavy rain, the worst disaster on based Viking Cruises Ltd, has power grid and other targets. the river in more than half a said it is cooperating with Hun- century. garian investigators. Nigel Farage’s “We launched the investi- Asked whether the Viking gation as soon as we got on captain was solely responsible milkshake board (the Sigyn),” Budapest or whether the Mermaid may police spokesman Soma Csecsi also have made a mistake, Csecsi attacker to pay told a news conference. said thus far there was only suf- “As a first step we took ficient reason to suspect one compensation samples from the captain. He person, the Ukrainian captain. had not consumed alcohol, nor The investigation continues, LONDON REUTERS/ taken drugs.” with 60 detectives and experts Police are also looking into working on it. The search con- A man who threw a milkshake whether the captain may have tinues for three victims and will over Nigel Farage, the leader of Packed tarmac at Paris air show been too tired to head up a ship, continue as long as there is any Britain’s Brexit Party, has been he added, without offering hope of finding the bodies, An aerial view shows the 53rd International Paris Air Show at Le Bourget Airport near Paris, France. ordered to pay him compen- conclusions. Csecsi added. sation to cover his suit-cleaning bill after pleading guilty to common assault and criminal damage. Paul Crowther, 32, Berlin to freeze rents for 5 years to curb rocketing rates threw the milkshake over Farage at an event in the AFP costs double over the last decade law that would include a tem- work will also have to seek watched across Germany, where northern English city of BERLIN as employees lured by the strong porary freeze on rents for five official approval for any a backlash is growing over fears Newcastle before the European job market move into the city. years from 2020, with a bill now increases above 50 cents ($.56) that residents are being priced elections last month. Crowther, Berlin’s government yesterday The sharp rent hikes have led to be drafted. The cap means per square metre. out of key cities. In an indication who lost his job after the moved to freeze rents in the some residents to ponder radical “protection against rent Only social housing and that the Berlin example could incident, was ordered to pay booming German capital for five solutions, including pushing for increases for 1.5 million apart- private property that has not snowball into something wider, Farage £350 in compensation years from 2020 in their latest the seizure of housing stock from ments,” tweeted the Berlin gov- been let out would be exempt. the SPD, which is also the junior to cover the cost of damage to bid to halt runaway gentrifi- powerful landlords. ernment’s department for urban The move, by Berlin’s coa- coalition partner in Chancellor a lapel microphone and his suit cation. Alarmed by the trend, Ber- development and housing. Under lition government of the centre- Angela Merkel’s federal coalition, cleaning. He was also ordered Once described as “poor, but lin’s city government agreed yes- the plan, landlords who seek to left SPD, the Greens and far-left has pledged to champion such to do 150 hours of unpaid work. sexy”, Berlin has seen its housing terday on the outlines of a draft raise rates because of renovation Linke party, is being closely rent controls nationwide. 12 AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2019 Trump launches 2020 re-election bid in Florida

REUTERS The Trump of 2020 his Democratic predecessor, WASHINGTON most certainly Barack Obama, without pro- will bear a strong viding an alternative. President Donald Trump was resemblance to the “The thing that is working to yesterday to formally launched our advantage is that this pres- what may be an uphill battle to Trump of 2016 — ident now has a record to run persuade voters to give him four brash and eager on,” said Democratic National more years in office, as he bets to bash opponents Committee Chairman Tom Perez. a strong US economy will and promote tough A Reuters/Ipsos poll on June outweigh voter concerns about 11 gave Trump a 40% job his unorthodox style and polar- policies on trade and approval rating, compared with izing policies. immigration. 57% who disapproved. Other At an evening rally in opinion polls have shown him Orlando, Florida, Trump, who Russian interference in the 2016 running consistently behind his has long made it known he is election, coupled with a presi- main Democratic challengers, running for re-election, was to dential style marked by name- such as former vice-president begin making his case with gusto calling and eye-popping tweets, Joe Biden, in key battleground for a second term. has undermined some Amer- states. People stand in line at a rally for US President Donald Trump at the Amway Center in Orlando, yesterday. The Trump of 2020 most icans’ confidence in Trump Republican strategists say the certainly will bear a strong before the November 2020 fundamentals favour Trump as resemblance to the Trump of election. he heads into his election but that Look what is going on in Local Democratic Party offi- Wisconsin, and he thus far faces 2016 — brash and eager to bash He also has stirred division he faces challenges given his Orlando, Florida, right now!” cials planned a “Win With Love” challenges in all those states, opponents and promote tough with his hard-line policies on bare-knuckled approach, which The Orlando Sentinel, rally a few blocks from the along with North Carolina. policies on trade and immigration and unsettled he refuses to temper. however, welcomed the pres- Trump rally. Democrats vow to win back immigration. business and farm groups with “His support with his base is ident visit with an editorial titled: Starting his 2020 push in industrial states like Pennsyl- Two-and-a-half years into his use of tariffs in trade disputes as strong as it’s ever been for any “Our endorsement for president Florida, which the former New vania and Michigan that flipped his tenure, Trump sees plenty of with China and some allies. Republican incumbent president. in 2020: Not Donald Trump.” York businessman considers his to Trump in 2016 after decades positive factors, led by a growing Democrats cite a string of The challenge is adding to that Trump supporters with tents second home, shows how of voting Democratic in presi- economy with low broken promises in Trump’s first and building the coalition he and sleeping bags started important the state is to Trump’s dential elections, and they unemployment. term, from lowering drug prices needs for re-election,” said camping out at the rally venue re-election hopes. He would like believe his behaviour and pol- “If the economy stays strong, to closing corporate tax loop- Republican strategist Ryan Wil- on Monday and thousands had to recreate the state-by-state icies will generate strong turnout he is very likely to get re- holes and stopping plant liams, a former adviser to 2012 gathered by yesterday afternoon electoral victory map he among Americans eager to turn elected,” said Trump confidant closures. Republican nominee Mitt in a torrential downpour. “It was assembled to defeat Democrat him out of office. Newt Gingrich, a former Repub- In a media call yesterday, Romney. like a big Trump party,” said Hillary Clinton in 2016. Trump campaign advisers lican speaker of the US House of Democratic Party officials In a Twitter post before his Maureen Bailey, who slept in a That election included wave off the polls at this stage, Representatives. focused on his moves to weaken trip, Trump said: “Republican tent with her twin sister, Laureen Trump victories in Florida, Penn- saying Trump had trailed in most But an investigation of the signature healthcare law of enthusiasm is at an all time high. Vartanian. sylvania, Michigan and polls in 2016 and still won.

Pentagon chief Trump threatens mass deportation from next week nominee quits

AP dent’s tweets. AP WASHINGTON Other US officials with New York okays driving licences WASHINGTON knowledge of the preparations President Donald Trump is have said that the operation was President Donald Trump threatening to remove millions not imminent, and that ICE offi- for undocumented immigrants announced yesterday that of people living in the United cials were not aware the pres- Acting Secretary of Defense States illegally on the eve of ident would make public sen- AFP together,” Senator Luis Candidates will no longer Patrick Shanahan is with- formally announcing his sitive law enforcement plans on NEW YORK Sepulveda, one of its leading need to present a US Social drawing his nomination to lead re-election bid. Twitter. proponents, said in a statement. Security number or a visa, as the Pentagon. The US Immigration and It is unusual for law New York State passed a law “In a time when immigrants had been the case since 2001, The abrupt announcement Customs Enforcement next week enforcement agencies to allowing undocumented are being scapegoated for every and will be able to simply came in a tweet from the pres- will “begin the process of announce raids before they take migrants to obtain their driving ill in our country, this is our present a valid passport or a ident, who said Shanahan had removing the millions of illegal place. Some in Trump’s admin- licence, a controversial move by opportunity for New York State foreign driver’s licence as ID. done “a wonderful job” but aliens who have illicitly found istration believe that decisive the Democratic stronghold to show our courage and Several provisions of the bill, would step aside to “devote their way into the United States,” shows of force — like mass intended to thwart the Trump strength, and stand up for the welcomed by migrants’ rights more time to his family.” Trump said in a pair of tweets. arrests — can serve as effective administration’s restrictive marginalised communities,” associations, also prohibit com- The president added that “They will be removed as fast deterrents, sending a message to immigration policy. said Sepulveda. munication of the candidate’s the Secretary of the Army, Mark as they come in,” he wrote. those considering making the “This legislation will not In practice, the “Green Light data to the immigration author- Esper, will be the new acting An administration official journey to the US that it’s not only provide undocumented Bill,” passed by the New York ities, except at the express secretary. said the effort would focus on the worth coming. immigrants with a legal solution Senate last week and signed into request of a judge. “I know Mark, and have no more than 1 million people who A senior Mexican official said to obtain a driver’s licence, but law by Democratic Governor Republican Senator Jim doubt he will do a fantastic job!” have been issued final depor- on Monday that, three weeks its positive impacts will include Andrew Cuomo, gives everyone Tedisco said passage of the bill Trump said in a second tweet tation orders by federal judges ago, about 4,200 migrants were significant economic growth, the right to a driver’s license if “sends wrong message that cit- on the subject. but remain at large in the US. The arriving at the US border daily. improved road safety, and it will they pass the test, regardless of izenship and rule of law don’t The post atop the Pentagon official spoke on condition of Now that number has dropped keep hardworking families immigration status. matter.” has not been filled permanently anonymity to explain the presi- to about 2,600. since Gen James Mattis retired in January following policy dif- ferences with Trump. Arrests made Trump announced in May World population to reach 9.7 billion in 2050: UN that he would nominate after four shot Shanahan but the formal nom- AFP surge as life expectancy All told, 27 countries or ter- That’s close to the minimum ination process in the Senate during Raptors’ UNITED NATIONS lengthens while the global ritories have experienced a of 2.1 births needed to ensure the had been inexplicably delayed growth rate slows amid declining reduction of at least one percent replacement of generations and Shanahan, a former Boeing celebration The world population is expected fertility rates. in the size of their populations avoid long-term population executive, has been leading the to climb to 9.7 billion in 2050 By 2050, more than half of since 2010 due to low levels of decline in the absence of Pentagon as acting secretary REUTERS from 7.7 billion today, with the the world’s population growth fertility. migration, according to the since January 1, a highly TORONTO population of sub-Saharan Africa will be concentrated in just nine The report also says deaths United Nations. unusual arrangement for doubling, a United Nations report countries: India, Nigeria, are outpacing new births in The report also projects arguably the most sensitive Four people sustained non-life- said. Pakistan, the Democratic Belarus, Estonia, Germany, growing life expectancy gen- Cabinet position. threatening gunshot wounds at The population could then Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Russia, erally, including in poor coun- In his tenure at the rally celebrating the Raptors’ grow to 11 billion by 2100, Tanzania, Indonesia, Egypt and Serbia and Ukraine, but that tries where it is now seven years department he’s had to deal championship, Toronto Police according to the United Nations the United States. population loss will be offset by less than the global average. with a wide array of interna- Chief Mark Saunders said. Department of Economic and Meanwhile, the world’s an inflow of migrants. Global average life tional hotspots, ranging from Three arrests were made, Social Affairs’s “World Popu- most-populous country China The overall global fertility expectancy should reach 77.1 missile launches by North according to Saunders, who lation Prospects” report. will see its population drop by rate, which declined from 3.2 years in 2050 against 72.6 years Korea to the sudden shift of added that the investigation The study paints a picture of 2.2 percent, or around 31.4 births per-woman in 1990 to 2.5 currently, the report says. military ships and aircraft to the was ongoing. a future in which a handful of million, between 2019 and in 2019, is expected to fall further In the year 1990, the average Middle East to deal with A reported 1.5 million countries see their populaces 2050. to 2.2 in 2050. life expectancy was 64.2 years. potential threats from Iran. parked Toronto’s downtown for the Raptors’ parade and subse- quent rally at City Hall. The shootings occurred at Nathan Venezuela receives new Red Cross aid Phillips Square, adjacent to City Hall. Addition people sustained AFP Venezuela, which has suffered more than four minor injuries attempting to CARACAS years of recession and hyper-inflation marked flee the scene after the shots by shortages of basic necessities such as food were heard. Venezuela has received a second shipment of and medicine. Mayor John Tory said in a Red Cross humanitarian aid, including 24 tonnes The United Nations said that a quarter of its statement, “It is disappointing of medical supplies and generators provided by 30 million population is in urgent need of aid. and I’m sure a source of anger Panama, intended for hospitals to help address The oil-rich South American nation has suf- for more than just me that the country’s acute health crisis. fered the collapse of its vital crude production anyone would carry a gun and In a statement, the Venezuelan Red Cross and runaway inflation that the IMF projects at discharge it at what was oth- said it had received “medicines, medical sup- 10 million percent this year. erwise a joyous celebration. plies and power generators” that will be dis- Socialist President Nicolas Maduro “I hope those responsible tributed in hospitals across the country, which authorised entry of the first Red Cross shipment will be held to account to the is experiencing the worst crisis in its recent in April after signing an agreement with the Inter- full extent that the law permits. history. national Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in I want to commend and thank Six trucks moved the supplies to a Red Cross the middle of a power struggle with opposition the millions of other people warehouse in Caracas, a journalist confirmed leader Juan Guaido. who happily and peacefully cel- A worker unloads the power generators received as part of humanitarian yesterday. The Red Cross said it sent the second ebrated our beloved Toronto aid through the Venezuelan Red Cross, in Caracas, yesterday. The shipment seeks to mitigate a severe shipment from its logistics centre in Panama to Raptors.” shortage of drugs and hospital supplies in the Venezuelan capital Caracas.