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Thursday 16 May 2019 | 11 Ramadan 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 7893 | 2 Riyals Take a photo of any Ooredoo Ramadan poster and get a gift this weekend! Use the Ooredoo app to take the photo… Amir hosts Iftar banquet for heads of diplomatic missions and envoys of Qatar

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani hosted yesterday an Iftar banquet in honour of their excellencies heads of diplomatic missions accredited by the state, their excellencies Ambassadors of the State of Qatar abroad, and ranking officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan. The banquet was attended by H H Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Personal Representative of H H the Amir, and a number of their excellencies Sheikhs.

Ooredoo Group A step closer to Qatar's 2022 dream in World’s top 50 telecom as Al Wakrah Stadium opens tonight brands list THE PENINSULA Al Wakrah Stadium — one of the eight venues for the 2022 Doha Metro to extend train service on the red line from 8am DOHA FIFA World Cup — set to be officially inaugurated with today until 3am tomorrow to help football enthusiasts watch Ooredoo Group confirmed spectacular opening ceremony at 9:15pm. the Amir Cup final between Al Sadd and Al Duhail. yesterday it has again been listed in the Telecoms 300, 2019 IRFAN BUKHARI report as one of the top 50 tele- THE PENINSULA communications brands in the world, with a brand value of In an atmosphere charged with some $3.779bn. excitement and thrill, Al Wakrah The Qatar-based telecom- Stadium—one of the eight venues munications provider jumped for the 2022 FIFA World Cup— to 41st in the Top 50 rankings, will be officially opened tonight from 43rd last year, reporting with hosting of the Amir Cup a growth of 12 percent in brand final. value. Al Wakrah Stadium is the Also, Ooredoo Group main- second 2022 FIFA World Cup tained its Brand Rating status venue being delivered by the of AA+, with a Brand Strength Supreme Committee of Delivery Index (BSI) of 77.4, up from 74.7 and Legacy (SC) after the opening the previous year. of iconic Khlaifa International Industry valuation and Stadium in 2017. strategy consultancy Brand The opening of the landmark Finance produces the rankings Al Wakrah Stadium today is step- list each year according to val- by-step realisation of Qatar’s uations of telecommunica- dream of hosting a historic mega tions companies worldwide. football event in Qatar in 2022. Brands are first evaluated to Al Wakrah Stadium, designed by determine their strength - celebrated Iraqi-British architect based on factors such as mar- Zaha Hadid, has a capacity of keting investment, familiarity, 40,000 seats and is just 23km loyalty, staff satisfaction and from Doha city centre. corporate reputation - and The futuristic Al Wakrah Al Sadd players taking part in a training session at Al Wakrah Stadium for the Amir Cup final tonight. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA this strength is then used to Stadium will host matches up to determine the proportion of a the quarter-finals stage during business’s revenue that is con- Qatar 2022. The design is Prohibited items entering the stadium counterfeited tickets, devices, horns, lasers, batteries and power tributed by the brand. Infor- inspired by the sails of traditional weapons, chemical substances, fireworks banks etc. mation gained from both proc- dhow boats; in tribute to Al Wak- during Amir Cup final and explosives, drugs, alcoholic drinks, flags Like that, the activities such as gambling, esses then forms the basis of the rah’s seafaring past. of non-participating teams, balls and smoking, political and religious rallies, unau- rankings of the world’s most It also features innovative The Organizing Committee of the Amir Cup frisbees, glassware, mugs, cans, flag poles thorized marketing, trading, collection of valuable telecommunications cooling technology for the issued a number of instructions for the spec- longer than one meter, perfumes and money such as busking and charities etc. brands. benefit of spectators and players. tators of the Amir Cup final that will be held colognes, pushchairs and animals. are not permitted inside the stadium. Brand Finance has previ- The technology is capable of in Al Wakra stadium tonight with the aim In addition to these, for the safety of Entering restricted areas including the ously noted the consistent cooling the spectator areas to of successfully conducting a safer final tour- the spectators, the Organizing Committee field of play, obstructing the gateways, increase in Ooredoo Group’s 18°C and the field of play to 20°C. nament. prohibits carrying animals, umbrellas, access ways, entrances, exits and stairways brand value since the company `P5 The committee urged the spectators of selfie sticks, cigarettes and lighters, and climbing on any structure are also began its global brand roll-out `Sports 07 & 08 the grand football tourney to not carry while bicycles and skateboards, recording strictly prohibited. in 2013, with the telecommu- nications operator now active in 10 markets across the Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Qatar’s hospitality sector retains top ranking in region Asia. `P3 THE PENINSULA twelve million online guest guest satisfaction by considering According to the ‘guest type’ cat- continued growth, and their focus DOHA reviews over the past 12 months different aspects of their tourist egory, Qatar’s tourist accommo- on providing travellers with unpar- Thursday 9 May 2019 ( April 1, 2018 – March 3, 2019) accommodation experience, dation was particularly popular alleled hospitality and authentic Offers, discounts galore this Ramadan Qatar’s hospitality sector from popular online booking including service, location, clean- among business travelers, fam- experiences. The Olery report con- Leading hypermarkets, retailers and hotels line up offers continues to win accolades as it sites. Qatar’s score increased liness, room quality, and value for ilies, and friends. firms that Qatar’s hospitality sector has been ranked best in the from 84.3 last year to 85.4. The money. In Qatar, service, clean- Akbar Al Baker, Secretary- is best in class, and a model for the Middle East for a second consec- development of new attractions, liness and location received General of Qatar National industry and the region. The Olery utive year, by the Guest Expe- such as the recently opened Qatar ratings of 9.0, above the global Tourism Council (QNTC), said: report and the guests who have Included with rience in the Middle East Report, National Museum, was credited benchmark in each of these cat- “Qatar’s hospitality sector remains stayed in Qatar’s hotels articulated today’s edition is a released by hospitality and with helping maintain the hospi- egories. Qatar’s hospitality sector a key engine of our tourism vision. the main selling points as attentive travel data providers Olery. tality sector’s momentum. also scored higher in rooms (8.9), We congratulate our partners in service, top notch facilities, and special supplement The report analysed over The report measures overall food (8.8) and facilities (8.4). the private sector for their authentic experiences. 02 HOME THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 HOME 03

Amir hosts Iftar banquet for heads of diplomatic missions and envoys of Qatar

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani hosted yesterday an Iftar banquet in honour of their excellencies heads of diplomatic missions accredited by the State, their Excellencies Ambassadors of the State of Qatar abroad, and ranking officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan. The banquet was attended by H H Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Personal Representative of H H the Amir, and a number of their Excellencies Sheikhs.

OFFICIAL NEWS Ashghal paves way to Al Wakrah Stadium Amir congratulates President of Paraguay THE PENINSULA DOHA DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, The Public Works Authority Deputy Amir H H Sheikh (Ashghal) has delivered a number Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani of local roads, expressways and and Prime Minister and Inte- various infrastructure projects rior Minister H E Sheikh that serve Al Wakrah Stadium Abdullah bin Nasser bin Kha- facilities which will host today lifa Al Thani sent yesterday Amir Cup final. cables of congratulations to Ashghal has developed new the President of the Repub- roads and upgraded existing lic of Paraguay, Mario Abdo roads to facilitate access to the Benitez, on the occasion of stadium and its facilities. Aiming his country’s Independence to provide well-developed roads Day. QNA that facilitate access to 2022 The Doha Express Highway (Southern Part) leading to the Al Wakrah Stadium. World Cup Stadiums, Ashghal continues to work on several Efforts of projects that serve the stadiums connect commuters from the Stadium. and for those coming from Wakrah Stadium. through the completion of the north, such as Al Majd Road, and The Southern Part of the Mesaieed Industrial City, Sealine In order to facilitate the fan QFFD praised surrounding roads and infra- other roads facilitating com- Doha Express Highway project and Al Afja area. Al Wakrah Main commute from Al Wakrah Metro structure in the areas in which muters from the south such as is considered one of the most Road will serve Al Wakrah Station to Al Wakrah Stadium, QNA / TUNIS they are located. Mesaieed Road and Hamad Port important roads that directly stadium, one of 2022 World Cup Ashghal has implemented 3.5km Through a number of Road. connect to Al Wakrah stadium stadiums. Road users can use The long pedestrian and cycling Tunisian Minister of Equipment, projects, Ashghal is establishing Ashghal has substantially though Al Wukair Interchange, Pearl roundabout on Al Wakrah tracks extending from the metro Housing and Spatial Planning a network of roads to facilitate completed the construction as it connects with Doha Main Road Project to reach Al station to the stadium, starting Noureddine Selmi praised the traffic movement during the works of all expressways Expressway, Sabah Al Ahmad Wakrah Stadium. from Al Wakrah Street to pass efforts of the office of Qatar Fund World Cup in 2022 in coordi- adjacent to Al Wakrah Stadium Corridor and G Ring Road on one Ashghal’s achievements in through Najma Street extension for Development (QFFD) in nation with the Supreme Com- during 2017 and 2018, including end, and with Al Wukair Road, implementing the highways and Al Wukair Road, within two Tunisia, adding that these efforts mittee for Delivery & Legacy, the southern part of Doha Mesaieed Road and Al Wakrah leading to Al Wakrah Stadium months. come as part of the bilateral rela- Ministry of Interior, Amiri Guard Express Highway and G-Ring Main Road on the other end. from all over Qatar extended to The implementation of these tions between the two brotherly and Qatar Football Association. Road. Al Majd Road which include the development of local tracks aims to enhance the countries and within the objec- Commuting from Doha to Al The G-Ring Road facilitates enhanced connectivity with a roads in Wakrah and Al Wukair movement and transportation of tives of sustainable development. Wakrah nowadays does not nec- access to 2022 FIFA World Cup number of stadiums such as Al area that serve the stadium visitors and fans during the Amir The Minister of Equipment, essarily require passing through stadiums such as Al Wakrah Rayyan, Al Khor, and Lusail sta- through a series of projects. Cup final. The work of beautifi- Housing and Spatial Planning Al Wakrah main road, since there Stadium where Umm Besher diums, also facilitated access to Development works also cation and landscaping are said that QFFD seeks to alleviate are new alternative routes like Interchange will enable road Al Wakrah stadium for road include upgrading the road carried out in order to provide poverty, create jobs and improve G-Ring Road, and the southern users coming from G-Ring Road users coming from northern and leading to Al Wakrah Central shade for these tracks; Ashghal services and infrastructure, espe- part of Doha Express Highway, to get on the Southern Part of southern regions, through Bu Al Market and the new Al Wakrah also provides shaded rest areas, cially when it comes to water, Najma street extension, in Doha Express Highway and Yawabi Interchange, for those Road, Packages 5 and 7, with a in addition to providing many sanitation, transport and other addition to the construction of reach Al Wukair Interchange coming from Salwa Road, and total length of 23 km, which pro- tunnels along these tracks if areas. other upgraded roads that which directly serves Al Wakrah through Hamad Port Interchange vides direct connection with Al necessary. Ooredoo Group in World’s Commuters urged to avoid area surrounding Al Wakrah Stadium from 6:30pm to 2am top 50 telecom brands list THE PENINSULA Qatar Football Association (QFA) such as asphalt condition, road FROM PAGE 1 Sheikh Saud bin Nasser Al Thani, and new markets around the DOHA and the Supreme Committee for signs, safety barriers, drainage Major corporate develop- Group Chief Executive Officer, world with new and innovative Delivery & Legacy (SCDL), assets, street lighting, pedestrian ments are being undertaken, said: “We are delighted to confirm technology. We aim to become Under continued efforts before Ashghal contributes to easing crossings, tunnels, traffic signs, including an ongoing complete that, yet again, we are among the data experience leaders across our and during the Amir Cup, the traffic management on the roads etc., to ensure the readiness of digitalisation programme, and sig- Top 50 telecommunications global footprint, enhancing peo- Public Works Authority (Ashghal) surrounding the stadium through these assets, in cooperation with nificant investment is being made brands in the world, recognising ple’s digital lives and ensuring has urged road users to avoid the a number of directional signs that all partners. in networks – most notably 5G, in our significant achievements in everyone can enjoy the Ooredoo area surrounding Al Wakrah lead people to the parking plots It was agreed on the nec- which the telco leader is a global the world of telecommunications. Supernet and the benefits it brings, Stadium (in case of non- with its different categories, in essary operational plans, the pioneer – as well as in efforts to We have a phenomenal lead- and we are rightfully proud to be attendance) from 6:30pm until addition to mobile overhead development of immediate emer- ensure complete customer satis- ership team, backed by the leading the way in the journey 2am on the opening day (today) gantry with supplementary signs gency response plans, and faction. Ooredoo Group’s total visionary support of our board of towards full commercial 5G. Our due to planning for road closures, to lead the road users. prepare the necessary teams and brand value has grown from less governors and our leaders in brand is going from strength to traffic diversions and alternative An integrated team has been equipment to ensure the success than $1bn to more than $3bn, and Qatar, and we are proud our strength and we look forward to routes during the event to facil- established by the Roads Oper- of the event, in addition to the it is now becoming one of the most efforts are acknowledged by consolidating our position as one itate the movement of individuals ation and Maintenance study of all the road projects widely recognised communica- industry analysts in this way.” of the world’s top 50 telecoms and vehicles. Department at Ashghal since being implemented around the tions brands in the world today. “We continue to expand and brands this year,” added Sheikh In coordination with the February 2019 to survey, study stadium and ensure its readiness Speaking of the 2019 ranking, evolve, reaching new customers Saud. General Directorate of Traffic and and test all available road assets during the event. 04 HOME THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 Cabinet approves draft to establish municipality of industrial zones

QNA medals and flags of the Qatari Authority in the State of Qatar DOHA Armed Forces and Law No. 22 and China Council for the Pro- of 2002 on decorations, orders motion of International Trade. Prime Minister and Interior and medals of the police force. The Cabinet took necessary Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin The Cabinet took necessary procedures to ratify protocol to Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani procedures to ratify a memo- cooperate between Qatar-China Minister of State for Foreign Affairsm H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, addressing the Human Rights chaired the Cabinet regular randum of cooperation in the Friendship Association and the Council in Geneva, yesterday. meeting held at the Amiri Diwan, field of transport between the Chinese-Arab Friendship yesterday. Following the Ministry of Transport and Com- Association. meeting, Minister of Justice and munications in the State of Qatar The Cabinet approved a draft Acting Minister of State for and Ministry of Land, Infra- MoU for cooperation in the civil Al Muraikhi: Protection of human Cabinet Affairs H E Dr Issa bin structure, Transport and service affairs and adminis- Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi stated Tourism in Japan. trative development between the that the Cabinet reviewed the The Cabinet took necessary governments of the State of rights tops Qatar’s priorities topics on the agenda. procedures to ratify a memo- Qatar and the State of Kuwait. The Cabinet approved its randum for economic, trade and The Cabinet approved the QNA improve and enhance their com- internal practices and advance draft decision to establish a technical cooperation between draft first executive program of GENEVA mitments on the bases of the them in the field of human rights. national committee for woman, the Ministry of Commerce and cooperation in the field of edu- international human rights law,” The Minister indicated that child, elderly and people with Industry in the State of Qatar and cation, higher education and sci- The State of Qatar has reiterated he said, stressing Qatar’s support Qatar is very keen on holding a disabilities affairs. the Ministry of Economy, Trade entific research of the MoU for its continued cooperation with for and full cooperation with the comprehensive and constructive The Cabinet approved its and Industry in Japan. cooperation in the field of edu- all United Nations human rights UPR as well as other interna- discussion around the report. draft decision to establish The Cabinet took necessary cation, higher education and sci- mechanisms, in particular the tional and regional mechanisms “We have an extended dele- municipality of industrial zones. procedures to ratify a memo- entific research between the Human Rights Council, to towards the strengthening and gation that has come to Geneva According to the draft decision, randum of understanding (MoU) governments of the State of achieve the objectives of the protection of human rights. to engage in this discussion. This a municipality called “munici- to promote cooperation in Qatar and the Federal Republic promotion and protection of Al Muraikhi pointed that the delegation represents a number pality of industrial zones” shall business events industry of Somalia for the academic human rights. State of Qatar views the inter- of government authorities and be established, to be under the between the National Tourism years (2019/2020, 2020/2021, This came in a speech active dialogue as an exchange circles, all concerned with the Ministry of Municipality and Council in the State of Qatar and 2021/2022). delivered yesterday by Minister process that enhances under- protection and strengthening of Environment. the China Council for the Pro- The Cabinet reviewed the of State for Foreign Affairs H E standing between itself and the human rights in its wholistic The Cabinet approved a draft motion of International Trade in memorandum of the Minister of Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi Working Group. “No doubt that indivisible concept,” he said. law on military decorations, the People’s Republic of China. Municipality and Environment before the Human Rights Council working with this group and the He stressed that the size, orders and medals, and referred The Cabinet took necessary on the proposed mechanism to in Geneva on the “Third Periodic other treaty bodies is certainly level and formation of the dele- it to the Shura Council. The draft procedures to ratify a memo- provide a database on the real Report of the State of Qatar”. a path to strengthen human gation and the efforts that the law replaces Law No. 12 of 1992 randum of understanding on estate sector in the country and “In the State of Qatar, we rights and to attain the desired State has put in to prepare the concerning decorations, orders, cooperation between Free Zone took the appropriate decision. greatly value the important role objectives,” he said, adding that report underline the seriousness played by the Universal Periodic the State of Qatar considers the of Qatar in implementing its Review (UPR) and the Working UPR process as important commitments under the UPR Group to help countries to opportunity to improve its mechanism.

Chairman of General Authority of Customs meets envoy of Switzerland, Deputy Head of Korean Mission Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, and other senior officials during a Suhoor event. The Chairman of General Authority of Customs, Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Jamal, met yesterday with the Ambassador of Switzerland to the State of Qatar, Edgar Dorig. During the meeting, they discussed QA, QDF host Suhoor for local media cooperation between both sides and some customs issues and other related matters. The Chairman also met with the Deputy Head of Korean Mission, Chung Suk-kyoon, where they discussed promoting THE PENINSULA campaign highlighting the airline’s kick-off the tournament with this cooperation between both sides in the customs field, as well as some issues of common economic DOHA sponsorship of the FIFA Women’s captivating TVC, which is sure to interest between the State of Qatar and the Republic of Korea. World Cup France 2019 taking generate massive interest among To mark the Holy Month of place in France next month. The football fans around the world.” Ramadan, Qatar Airways and TVC, scheduled to launch globally A multiple-award-winning Qatar Duty Free (QDF) hosted a next week, expresses the tre- airline, Qatar Airways was named Suhoor for local Qatar-based mendous excitement generated ‘World’s Best Business Class’ by Joint drive succeeds in inspection media yesterday at the Mondrian in the run-up to the most thrilling the 2018 World Airline Awards, Hotel at the hotel’s ‘Alf Leila w moment yet in women’s sports, managed by international air Leila’ Ramadan Tent. set to take place in France from transport rating organisation of 7,758 establishments in a month The event was hosted by June 7 – July 7, 2019. Skytrax. It was also named ‘Best THE PENINSULA Municipality and Environment in achieving its objectives in Qatar Airways Group Chief Exec- Qatar Airways Senior Vice Business Class Seat’, ‘Best Airline DOHA and the Ministry of Public Health raising awareness of individuals utive, Akbar Al Baker, and was President Marketing and Cor- in the Middle East’, and ‘World’s participated in the campaign. and institutions of society. He said attended by members of the air- porate Communications, Salam Best First Class Airline Lounge’. The joint inspection drive ‘Al The Assistant Minister of that preserving security and sta- line’s senior leadership, as well as Al Shawa, said: “We were Qatar Airways currently Sarayat 4’ of 2019, carried out by Health Affairs at the Ministry of bility in Qatar is the most more than 100 representatives of delighted to welcome so many operates a modern fleet of more a number of authorities in the Public Health, Dr Saleh Ali Al important pillar of the Doha-based media, to thank members of Doha’s vibrant media than 250 aircraft via its hub, country for a whole month, Marri, said that participation in the development. them for the key role the media industry to join us at this special Hamad International Airport (HIA) succeeded in inspecting 7,758 campaign contributed to the con- Captain Omar Khalifa Al plays in keeping the public Suhoor in celebration of the Holy to more than 160 destinations establishments and educating certed efforts between the com- Rumaihi, Head of Research and informed of current events. The Month of Ramadan. We were worldwide. The airline will add a individuals and companies oper- petent authorities and coordi- Investigation section and head of evening also provided guests the especially pleased to be able to number of new destinations to its ating in the country with the laws nation among the parties when the inspection campaign, said that opportunity to experience Qatar’s provide a sneak preview of our extensive route network in 2019, regulations private sector. conducting inspection visits. the campaign started with a week- rich cultural heritage and hospi- new TVC highlighting our spon- including Izmir, Turkey; Rabat, The Ministry of Interior; the The Director of the Search and long workshop aimed at identi- tality through traditional sorship of the FIFA Women’s Morocco; Malta; Davao, Philip- Ministry of Administrative Devel- Follow-up Department at the fying the laws, exchanging expe- Ramadan celebrations. World Cup France 2019. This pines; Lisbon, Portugal; opment, Labor and Social Affairs; Ministry of Interior, Brigadier riences, how to work together and During the event, the National innovative new campaign will Mogadishu, Somalia and the Ministry of Commerce and Abdullah Jaber Al Labda, affirmed providing participants with theo- Carrier of the State of Qatar pre- officially launch next week, and Langkawi, Malaysia. Industry; the Ministry of the success of the joint campaign retical and field experiences. viewed its thrilling new TVC we could not be more excited to Qatar envoy announces humanitarian projects in Gaza Strip QNA Meanwhile, the contract of supplying the President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Palestinian factions and the appreciation the Palestinian society in general, and GAZA power plant in Gaza will be extended until Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh in Ram- of their sacrifices, and stressed the special especially in Gaza Strip, in order to alle- the end of this year. He added that Qatar allah within two days. In response to a relationship between him and all factions, viate its humanitarian suffering. He under- Chairman of the Qatari Committee for the will also support the 161 project within the question about the salaries of Gaza including the brothers in the Islamic Jihad lined that Qatar’s efforts aim at protecting Reconstruction of Gaza Ambassador plan to develop and improve the electricity employees, Al Emadi explained their file Movement, as one of the most important the Palestinian people, and it rejects any Mohammed Al Emadi has announced a supply in Gaza, and will continue the dis- will be discussed later, noting that it is the factions on the Palestinian arena. aggression against the Palestinian people set of humanitarian projects in Gaza Strip. bursement of cash assistance to poor and responsibility of the government in the He said he had several meetings and in all international forums. In a press conference held in Gaza, Al needy families for six months. Gaza Strip. He stressed that the grant is direct contacts with the brothers in the Al Emadi called on the brothers to wait Emadi said that $180m of the total Qatari Al Emadi noted that both Hamas and currently allocated to poor families and Islamic Jihad Movement during his fre- and not to rush to explain things, because grant will be allocated for humanitarian Israel do not want to escalate the situation, humanitarian aid. Al Emadi underlined quent visits to Gaza, noting that they have the shared process of reconstruction and projects that serves Gaza and supports the adding that if the recent escalation con- that the remarks attributed to him on the a positive attitude that reflects their deep alleviating the consequences of the electricity sector in the Strip, in consul- tinued for few more hours, the world accusation of the Islamic Jihad Movement awareness of the nature of the stage which blockade is bigger than just a statement tation and coordination with the UN insti- would have witnessed humanitarian dis- are completely incorrect, contrary to the Palestinian issue is going through. that has never meant to offend anyone. tutions. Al Emadi explained that Qatar will asters and the entire region would have reality, and are meant to harm the rela- The Ambassador noted that Qatar, Al Emadi left Gaza Strip at dawn yesterday build a field hospital on the border of the entered into a critical situation that con- tionship with the Palestinian brothers. through its financial support in the recent through Beit Hanoun checkpoint, accom- northern Gaza Strip on an area of 40 sequences are unknown. In a statement, Ambassador Al Emadi grant, affirms its steadfast position in sup- panied by his deputy Khaled Al Hardan. dunums to support the health sector. He said he will meet with Palestinian affirmed the respect of all porting all factions and components of Al Emadi arrived in Gaza Strip on Monday. THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 HOME 05 People who worked on Al Wakrah Stadium recall the moments THE PENINSULA DOHA

Today, the second FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 stadium will be unveiled when it hosts the Amir Cup final. The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) broke ground at Al Wakrah Stadium in 2014 and since then thou- sands of people from all over the world have made significant Jassim Mohammed Telefat Thani Al Zarraa Abdulaziz Al Ishaq Najla Al Obaidan Williams Morales contributions to the devel- opment of the 40,000-capacity arena, which will host matches The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy worked as an engineer on the worked as a Senior Architect at – I’m already looking forward up to the quarter-finals stage broke ground at Al Wakrah Stadium in 2014 and Al Wakrah Stadium project. Al Wakrah Stadium since the to opening the others.” during Qatar 2022. since then thousands of people from all over the “Firstly, I am so proud to be project started in September Williams Morales, Project To mark the first match at world have made significant contributions to part of this landmark in the State 2012. Senior Engineer, has monitored the stadium, we spoke to eleven of Qatar. I believe I have now “I joined the SC in the same progress at the site on behalf of people who have played a sig- the development of the 40,000-capacity arena, been able to do something for week the tender process for Al the SC since 2014. nificant role in the venue’s which will host matches up to the quarter-finals my nation; a nation which has Wakrah Stadium started and “My most memorable development to find out their stage during Qatar 2022. done so much for me. had the opportunity to meet all moment from a technical point memorable moments and get an “The Amir Cup final is an the bidders. I would say my of view was seeing the roof idea of how they’ll feel when the important moment that we are favourite time was during late being lifted into place. From a Zaha Hadid-designed venue special when His Highness remember the engagement with all looking forward to. I was 2013 when I got the chance to personal perspective, I love opens for business, the SC announces that the stadium is the local community here in Al lucky enough to play in the Amir work with Zaha Hadid Archi- seeing the field of play and reported on its website. open and ready to host matches Wakrah and our efforts to build Cup final on two occasions for tects and AECOM to finalise the experiencing the cooling tech- Jassim Mohammed Telefat, during the World Cup in 2022.” facilities they would use long Al Wakrah, so this will be extra design. nology, lights, video screens and Competition Venues Executive Thani Al Zarraa became the after the World Cup has ended. special for me. “My favourite aspect of the sound system working together Director, joined the project in Al Wakrah Stadium Project “I’m very proud of how far “You cannot compare this stadium is the fact that it’s one in harmony. 2018. Manager in 2015. we’ve come. I’ve learned that stadium to any other. You can of Zaha Hadid’s masterpieces. I “The shape of the stadium “When we finished the seats, “The day we laid the pitch I project management life is not only compare it to an artist also love how it reflects the is my favourite aspect – I love laid the turf and had the lights walked from goalpost to normal and that you can’t do sitting down with a paintbrush culture of Al Wakrah and how the design and I am sure it will and sound up and running, it goalpost, or from where I anything without teamwork and and creating something. It’s not it’s going to add value to Qatar be a reference point for was a memorable moment. The imagined the goalposts would strong collaboration. I’m very something you can create auto- and the local community. football fans around the world pitch is probably my favourite be, as they were not yet thankful to my hardworking and matically on a computer – it is “I feel so proud when I see in 2022. part of the stadium as the turf installed. I imagined the stadium eager team. Our time together a piece of art. We were fortunate the stadium now – it really is a “My reaction when I see the was grown locally and is where packed with fans, two teams on has been both challenging and to have worked with Zaha Hadid dream come true. It’ll be stadium now is simple: wow! I the action will take place in the pitch, and in the presence of enjoyable.” and she gave us a really inter- amazing when we host the Amir can’t wait for Al Wakrah to host 2022. His Highness the Amir, and I got Abdulaziz Al Ishaq played esting and unique stadium. We Cup final. Finally, the first of the Amir Cup final – I’ll be really “It’s great to see the stadium goosebumps. for Al Wakrah in the 1970s and are proud to have it here.” seven new stadiums for the happy and very proud of all the completed and it will be very “When I look back, I for the past three years he’s Najla Al Obaidan has World Cup will be delivered hard work we’ve put in.” Sidra Medicine undertakes research studies FAZEENA SALEEM what happens when it is not scientific endeavour to one that Colitis), ALPS, immune defi- THE PENINSULA functioning properly. In doing so, improves patients’ health. This ciencies etc.),” he said. not only do we figure out how is something that could imme- He added, “I am currently Sidra Medicine’s Research these diseases work, what facil- diately improve the lives of working on a mutation we found Department has embarked on itates diagnosis, prevention, and people we work with and in one of the families that we studies which would positively treatment, but we also gain provide major support to the cli- think is causing the disease in impact patient care both directly insight into the immune system nicians in helping these patients. their child. The child suffers from in the short term, and indirectly in general. This insight will allow In doing so, we are contributing very early-onset, severe IBD. Our over the long term. medical professionals in the to the creation of a healthcare job is to investigate this muta- For the direct benefit to the future to manipulate the immune system that can provide person- tion’s involvement in the child’s patient, research provides system to improve treatment alised care in a practice known disease and to elucidate the insight which could help the options,” said Al Shaibi. as ‘precision medicine’ ” said Al mechanism of how that physicians understand the case In the short term, if Shaibi. happens,” he said. and adjust treatment based on researchers find that someone Al Shaibi plays multitudes of Al Shaibi, who was spon- findings, while on a broader, has a defect in a key pathway, roles within the research sored by Sidra Medicine, is a social/human level, the goal is like IL10 signaling, then the department that begin at the young Qatari researcher and was to figure out the role of different patient might need a bone patient and end at the bench. His initially inspired by the abun- genes in the immune system marrow transplant after confir- responsibilities include recruiting dance of natural scientists and Ahmad Al Shaibi, Research Specialist at Sidra Medicine. and how defects in these genes mation with a clinical test. patients, processing samples, philosophers in Islamic history may contribute to disease, said Researchers, once they have designing and running experi- (mainly during the Islamic Ahmad Al Shaibi, Research Spe- figured out the mechanism of a ments, and analysing data. golden age), and how their STEM fields. It also allowed me I want us to contribute to cialist II in the Division of Trans- disease, can help the patients “Our lab has a focus on studies were motivated both by to come to the conviction that humanity significantly enough lational Medicine at Sidra they are studying, by trying to monogenic autoimmune and scientific curiosity and by their countries in the region will not to be remembered, and I think Medicine. find if any of the approved drugs immune dysregulation diseases, faith. move on and survive without science is a great way of doing “By studying diseases that in the market will work to help which overlap with a wide range “My parents encouraged me the ability to contribute to this,” said Al Shaibi. have a genetic component, we address the patient’s condition. of specialities (immune- to read children’s science books pushing the frontiers of He encourages young people can understand what the role “Once this becomes a real mediated neurological diseases, and watch documentaries and humanity, both through gener- with an interest in the field of each gene has when it comes to possibility in any of our research inflammatory bowel diseases I credit that for my love of ation of knowledge and trans- science or medicine to go after immunity because we know projects, it turns from a purely IBD (like Crohn’s and Ulcerative nature and technology and lating it to a benefit to humanity. that passion. A step closer to Qatar’s 2022 dream as Al Wakrah Stadium opens tonight

Al Sadd team members training at Al Wakrah Stadium. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT / THE PENINSULA FROM PAGE 1 the last time on the pitch as a “We’re delighted to extend our The tickets for the Amir Cup player. Doha Metro announced train service on the red line from 2019 final that will be played yesterday that it would extend its 8am (Thursday) until 3am on May between Al Sadd and Al Duhail service tonight for the Amir Cup 17 (Friday) so that customers can have already been sold in no time 2019 final. Passengers will be able use the metro to watch the Amir and all preparations by the author- to access the metro even after the Cup final,” Doha Metro tweeted. ities concerned including the match. Meanwhile, the Organising Supreme Committee, Qatar The service will be open till Committee of the Amir Cup has Football Association, Public Works 3am on Friday, which will help issued a number of instructions for Authority, Doha Metro, the General football fans to commute back fans with the aim of successfully Directorate of Traffic, and others from the stadium after the match, conducting a safer final tour- have been finalised to conduct a which kicks off at 10.30pm tonight. nament. Along all the citizens and super successful sporting event The inauguration ceremony residents of Qatar, the employees tonight. Another highlight of of the Al Wakrah Stadium, which of the SC who have been dedi- tonight’s final is a farewell for will host the final, will begin at catedly attached with the project Spanish legend and Al Sadd 9.15pm. The door opens for the are joyous over the completion of captain Xavi, who will appear for sold out match at 7.30pm. landmark stadium. 06 HOME THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 Mongolia’s FM meets Qatar’s envoy Follow-up Committee of National Traffic Safety Committee holds meeting QNA DOHA

The Follow-up Committee of the National Traffic Safety Committee held a meeting with representa- tives of Qatar Transportation and Traffic Safety Center at Qatar University, chaired by Undersec- retary of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, and Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi. Attendees of the meeting stressed the importance of the role of the Follow-up Committee in reviewing the achievements made by the concerned authorities and ministries in implementing the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, and Chairman of the Committee, National Road Safety Strategy, and Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi (centre) with other officials during the meeting. in determining challenges and finding solutions to move forward the state of traffic safety in the in activating the set plans aiming Attendees of the meeting stressed the importance State of Qatar, as well as the study at achieving the objectives of of the role of the Follow-up Committee in reviewing of children car seats available in traffic safety in Qatar. the achievements made by the concerned the local market and subject them The participants also high- authorities and ministries in implementing the to experiments in the collision lab- lighted the important role of QU oratory in the Center in cooper- Qatar Transportation and Traffic National Road Safety Strategy. ation with the Hamad Interna- Safety Center in conducting tional Training Center. research that contributed effec- as well as the importance of inte- Qatar Transportation and Traffic The team noted that the tively and greatly to making grating the efforts of all ministries Safety Center, and implementing Center carried out two training radical changes that raise the level and stakeholders through the research on traffic safety after courses in traffic safety in 2018 of traffic safety in the country. investing the research issued by referral to the concerned and that it is announcing two more They called upon all bodies the Center and refer them to the authority, and facilitating the work training courses this year, specif- and ministries to complete their competent authority, in order to of researchers and providing them ically in September and plans emanating from the National achieve effective results to raise with the necessary data for November. Road Safety Strategy, noting that the level of traffic safety in the research. The courses will be attended the role of the Committee is to State of Qatar. The team of Qatar Transpor- by specialists in the field of road maintain the progress of the At the end of the meeting, the tation and Traffic Safety Center safety from the relevant gov- process and overcome the Follow-up Committee issued shed light on the achievements of ernment agencies. The Center Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, Damdin Tsogtbaatar (right), obstacles. several recommendations, urging the center, including the study of has also launched a driving sim- with Ambassador of the State of Qatar (non-resident) to Mongolia, In addition, they stressed the all concerned parties to implement the specifications of the methods ulation laboratory to conduct H E Sultan bin Salmeen Al Mansouri. During the meeting, the officials need to review the plans and the National Road Safety Strategy of separation on the roads and the traffic accident studies, in discussed bilateral relations and ways to boost and develop them, determine the priorities by through participating in the work- intermediate islands, the project addition to other related events in addition to issues of common interest. focusing on the plans of impact, shops and conferences held by of the annual statistical study on and projects. Vodafone, Hifz Al Naema distribute Ramadan food baskets THE PENINSULA month under the banner of the year in row, emphasising that DOHA Company’s Ramadan campaign Hifz Al Naema welcomes part- #ShukranFromTheHeart. nerships and collaborations of For the second year in a row, Mohamed Al Yafei, Head of all kinds with companies and Vodafone Qatar and Hifz Al Public Sector, Vodafone Qatar government institutions. Naema Social Centre came said: “We’re proud to once This reflects the level of together to distribute Ramadan again partner with Hifz Al commitment to corporate social food baskets that benefited Naema to share our blessing responsibility required from more than 200 families in need. during the Holy month. Hifz Al organisations to help realise the The baskets were personally Naema are doing incredible Qatar National Vision 2030. delivered by Vodafone Qatar’s work to identify and help those Hifz Al Naema is a social Head of Public Sector Mohamed less fortunate so it’s important awareness centre that utilises, Al Yafei and the Company’s that the private and public rationalises and recycles the Brand Ambassador Ali bin Towar sector support their honourable resources available to society Al Kuwari. mission.” in the best way possible. The baskets contained Youssef Al Khulaifi, The centre also offers its chicken, rice, pasta, lentils and Manager of Hifz Al Naema, said services to those in need, and milk, enough to feed an entire that the food basket project is raises awareness about food family throughout the Holy one of the centre’s Ramadan waste in Qatar. month of Ramadan. initiatives designed to provide Hifz Al Naema was In parallel, Vodafone Qatar Vodafone and Hifz Al Naema officials posing for a group photo. support to families that have launched in year 2008 as a and Hifz Al Naema will use their registered. community initiative and social media channels to raise major issue in Qatar. organised as part of Vodafone corporate social responsibility He also praised Vodafone opened the first food bank in awareness about food waste, a The initiative is being Qatar’s broad ranging programme during the holy for its support for the second Qatar. DOMASCO announces Honda Ramadan offers

THE PENINSULA Customers buying the DOHA latest Honda car can take advantage of Doha Marketing Services 1-year free insurance, Company W.L.L. (DOMASCO), the exclusive distributor of free service for the Honda in Qatar has unveiled a first 20,000km and ChiChh ldreddrereen ene gagegagg gegeddindi ini dedecd coorattionioonn desiesiessiigng wororkrkrkshohophops at QNL.NL series of exclusive offers across Kidzania vouchers for its car, bike, and marine lines a family of four with Children celebrate Ramadan for the Holy month of Ramadan. Customers buying the latest every purchase to top through creative workshops at QNL Honda car can take advantage up the festivities of of 1-year free insurance, free the month. They can THE PENINSULA and patterns reflected in the per- service for the first 20,000km DOHA sonalised individual designs and Kidzania vouchers for a also enter a draw to offered an opportunity for par- family of four with every pur- win gold/jewellery Qatar National Library is ticipants to exchange different chase to top up the festivities of vouchers worth up to offering a creative way for Ramadan traditions practiced in the month. They can also enter QR100,000. A Honda Pilot SUV car. children to celebrate the Holy the Gulf region and many other a draw to win gold/jewellery month, with a series of countries. vouchers worth up to Ramadan-inspired decoration The workshop also brought QR100,000. pair of gloves. They will also get is a time of heartfelt giving; it is Honda Pilot received the Best design workshops, which began a focus on encouraging family On pre-owned Honda their first two services free of also a time to reflect and be Family SUV Award. This award recently. traditions in celebrating vehicles, DOMASCO is giving charge. thankful. That is why we have accentuates Honda car’s The first workshop was Ramadan. The Library is offering away Marks & Spencer gift cards Honda Marine is offering a put together a wide array of exquisite service setting a new highly popular, bringing together a full program of events worth QR1,000 along with low special price of QR109,999 on generous offers to our loyal cus- standard of quality in the a diverse group of children aged throughout May, which is down payment and free a set of BF250 engines during tomers.” He added: “Whether segment. 6-12 years, representing all parts focusing on the theme of faith. registration. the Month of prosperity. Cus- you want to purchase from our DOMASCO’s Honda of the community. Using special Zainab Elmi, who attended Customers can also benefit tomers can also benefit from Honda Marine line, to get your Ramadan offers are available at machines provided by the the event, said: “I have so far from low monthly payments free installation and accessories hands on a new or pre-owned the showroom on Khalifa Street Library, workshop presenters attended two events during starting from QR1,699 on all worth QR26,000 on every pur- Honda cars or to buy a brand- near the National Mosque and taught the young participants Ramadan at the Library and pre-owned Pilot models. chase, with 3 years warranty as new Bike, you will benefit from TV intersection. how to design and create dif- enjoyed all of them. These events Customers wishing to buy a well as a free multifunction a special reward.” During the Holy month, the ferent symbolic decorations to offer a good chance for people new Honda Bike can enjoy free display. During this year’s Golden showroom is open from Sat- celebrate Ramadan in their who want to spend their time comprehensive insurance and Faisal Sharif, Managing Steering Wheel Award (GSWA) urday to Thursday, 8am until homes. doing something new in daylight registration for one year, along Director at DOMASCO, said: ceremony organised by Arab 2pm and 730pm until midnight The unique Islamic elements hours during Ramadan.” with a free riding jacket and a “The Holy Month of Ramadan Motors Middle East and X-Tork, and 8pm until 11pm on Fridays. THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 MIDDLE EAST 07 US pulls staff from Iraq amid ‘Iran threat’ REUTERS It was unclear how Both the United States and BAGHDAD Iran have said they do not many personnel were want war, and Iraqi Prime Washington ordered the affected, and there Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi departure of non-emergency was no word on said on Tuesday he had indi- American employees from its any specific threat. cations “things will end well” diplomatic missions in Iraq despite the rhetoric. yesterday in another show of Visa services were Iraq has said it will keep concern about alleged ‘threats suspended at the strong ties with Iran, but also from Iran’. heavily-fortified US with the United States and President Donald Trump’s missions. regional neighbours, some of administration is applying new whom, like Saudi Arabia, con- sanctions pressure on Tehran sider Tehran an arch-rival. and sending additional forces “I think we are now in a to the Middle East to counter many personnel were affected, quite dangerous situation what it says is a heightened and there was no word on any where a miscalculation by threat from Iran to US soldiers specific threat. Visa services either side could lead us into and interests in the region. were suspended at the heav- conflict,” US Senator Chris Iran calls that “psycho- ily-fortified US missions. Coons, a Democrat on the logical warfare”, and a British “Ensuring the safety of US Senate Foreign Relations Com- commander cast doubt on US government personnel and cit- mittee, told CNN in an military concerns about threats izens is our highest priority... interview yesterday. to its roughly 5,000 soldiers in and we want to reduce the risk “When you project force into Iraq, who have been helping of harm,” a State Department a very volatile region and you’ve local security forces fight spokesman said. got real tension between Iran Iranian President Hassan Rouhani speaking during a government meeting in the capital Tehran. Islamic State jihadists. Also yesterday, Germany, and the Saudis — we have to be The US State Department which has 160 soldiers in Iraq, careful. We need a strategy,” said employees at both the US suspended military training Coons said, echoing a call by sectarian militias may also embassy in Baghdad and its operations, citing increasing Congress for the government to threaten US citizens and Iran will defeat US-Israeli consulate in Erbil, capital of regional tensions. And the brief lawmakers. The State Western companies throughout semi-autonomous Kurdistan Netherlands suspended a Department reissued travel Iraq,” it said. A senior Iranian alliance: Defence Minister region, were being pulled out mission providing assistance advisery for Iraq saying US cit- official said yesterday that any immediately due to safety con- to Iraqi local authorities, izens were at high risk of vio- conflict in the region will have “Iran has the highest level of cerns. It was unclear how Dutch news agency ANP said. lence and kidnapping. “Anti-US “unimaginable consequences.” defence-military preparedness to confront any type of threat and excessive demands,” he added. The United States has Pelosi warns Trump against war in Mideast sent further military forces to the Middle East. AP any war with Iran,” Pelosi told declaring a war without the military action with Iran, must Separately yesterday, a WASHINGTON her colleagues, according to a consent of Congress,” she said. come to Congress to seek senior Iranian official said that person in the room, who was “The very idea that they would approval,” said Sen. Bob Tehran was ready for all sce- House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said granted anonymity to discuss the say that they would use the Menendez, D-N.J., . narios from “confrontation to yesterday that the US must avoid private caucus meeting. authorisation of the use of mil- Menendez said the Trump diplomacy” but the United States war with Iran, and she declared Pelosi warned that the itary force that is 18 years old” administration “has not provided could not afford another war in the White House has “no administration cannot rely on she said is “not appropriate in any information to this com- the Middle East. Israel will stand business” moving towards a the last use of force authorisation terms of its scope, its geography, mittee on the intelligence behind REUTERS with the United States to con- Middle East confrontation approved by Congress nearly 20 its timing for any actions they their decisions or what they plan GENEVA front Iran, Israeli Prime Minister without approval from Congress. years ago for the wars in Iraq and might take.” The top Democrat to do in Iraq or Iran.” He said he Benjamin Netanyahu said on Top leaders in Congress are Afghanistan. Since last week, on the Senate Foreign Relations has “repeatedly reminded the Iran will defeat the American Tuesday. “We are united in our expected to receive a classified House leaders have been asking Committee also warned the administration” of its responsi- and Israeli alliance, Iranian desire to stop Iranian briefing from the administration for a classified briefing for law- administration against any bility to brief the committee. Defence Minister Amir Hatami aggression,” he said. “Israel and today, but Pelosi said the admin- makers on the situation with action without approval from Multiple sources said yes- (pictured) said yesterday, all the countries of the region istration has resisted a wider Iran, but Pelosi said the admin- lawmakers. terday that top House and Senate according to the Islamic and all the countries who seek briefing for all lawmakers and istration indicated it couldn’t “Congress has not authorised leaders of both parties — eight Republic News Agency (IRNA). peace in the world should stand congressional requests for more come together “that fast.” war with Iran, and the adminis- lawmakers in all — would be “We will defeat the Amer- together with the United States information. “We have to avoid “They have no business tration, if it were contemplating briefed by the administration. ican-Zionist front,” he said. against Iranian aggression.” 08 VIEWS THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 Education City Stadium... 1996 ESTABLISHED IN Jewel of the Desert CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI QNA DOHA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI he Education City Stadium is [email protected] labeled the Jewel of the Desert. It is one of the stadiums that will host the FIFA World Cup ACTING MANAGING EDITOR T 2022 in Qatar. It will be one of the MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED most prominent environmentally sus- [email protected] tainable stadiums in the world, in addition to its design that is inspired by Islamic architecture. DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR The stadium, located 12 km from MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI the heart of the Qatari capital Doha, [email protected] will accommodate 40,000 spectators and will be located in the western part of the Education City’s southern campus. The venue will be a symbol of innovation, sustainability and progress the stadium was done using the best project will be ready to host any event. for decades to come. practices adopted globally, which will He stressed that the Supreme The Supreme Committee’s Project result in high levels of water and Committee for Delivery and Legacy in EDITORIAL Manager of the stadium Eid Al Qahtani energy efficiency. At least 20 percent all the projects of the Qatar 2022 said that the design of the stadium, of the materials used in building the World Cup remained committed to with the flood lights on, will make the stadium were from sustainable workers’ rights, safety, and security in stadium sparkle at night, as if a jewel sources, in addition to purchasing 55 accordance to the highest interna- Second stadium is ready in the desert, hence the nickname. percent of the building materials from tional standards. He added that this Speaking to Qatar News Agency local sources. was evident in the committee’s rules he day football fans had been waiting for has arrived. (QNA), he said that the stadium’s most The project was awarded the five- that oblige contractors to provide Today Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani important characteristic is its location star Global Sustainability Assessment housing for workers that is not further Twill inaugurate the new Al Wakrah Stadium when at the heart of Education City. He System program (GSAS), thanks to the than five kilometers away from the football giants Al Sadd take on Al Duhail in the country’s added that it will overlook the most strategy employed in its design and stadium. biggest football tournament. After five years of planning important main roads, starting with construction. It is the first stadium in Al Qahtani stressed that the and slick construction by the Supreme Committee for the southern Khalifa area to the the world to earn that recognition. Supreme Committee chose very care- Delivery & Legacy (SC), the brand new Al Wakrah Stadium coastal city of Dukhan. Al Qahtani said that construction fully all the locations of the World Cup, will open the gates to a little over 40,000 fans for the Amir Education City Stadium has a work is progressing rapidly in order to with each one telling its own story. He Cup final to be played between two quality sides. When the design that draws on the rich history meet the set deadline, noting that added that this helps with the legacy of Amir announces the opening of the Al Wakrah Stadium, it of Islamic architecture, blending it work on the iron structure, which the World Cup in Qatar. will be the second venue to be officially put to use by Qatar, with striking modernity. The facade includes the roof and the facades and The project manager said that the the hosts of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. features triangles that form complex, the base was more than 70 percent arrival of World Cup spectators to the Almost two years ago, H H the Amir inaugurated the diamond-esque geometrical patterns, complete, in addition to completing all Stadium of Education City will be easy, iconic Khalifa International Stadium in the presence of appearing to change color with the the concrete structure work over the whether through the Doha Metro in FIFA President Gianni Infantino and 50,000 fans. That sun’s movement across the sky. Like past two months. the presence of more than one station was the first official venue of the 2022 FIFA World Cup diamonds, the stadium’s design repre- He noted the great progress made in the city of education, as well as the opened five years ahead of schedule. Today’s landmark sents quality, in terms of the two phases of electro- stadium stands beside the Dukhan occasion in Qatar’s journey takes even greater significance durability mechanical work. Work in the first highway. He pointed out that there since Al Wakrah Stadium has been built from scratch. The and resil- phase is close to completion, while the were also four parking lots that have a Khalifa International Stadium was massively renovated ience, and second phase is more than 80 percent combined space for 16,000 cars, that’s and decked up in spectacular fashion for the 2017 Amir will become complete. He noted the great acceler- in addition to the stadium’s parking, Cup final played between Al something to ation in the pace of work in all stages which fits 4000 cars. Sadd and Al Rayyan. Al Sadd Construction work be treasured as the project is set for completion in Al Qahtani said that fans will be won that match 2-1 against is progressing both for the the coming period. able to reach the educational city arch-rivals as the world mar- rapidly in order memories it The project manager revealed that stadium from the east side, but will not velled at the imposing sports to meet the set holds and its the finishing work for the roof was 75 be allowed to access to the stadium by venue. future value percent finished, the floors were more car, instead a train will take them to Almost two years The new Al Wakrah deadline, noting to the country than 80 percent finished, as well as the gates. He added that the parking ago, the Amir Stadium is directly connected that work on the and region. thermal insulation which is also more spaces will be allocated for organizers inaugurated the with the Doha Metro that was iron structure, The than 80 percent complete. The instal- and officials of FIFA, as well as media iconic Khalifa launched last week attracting which includes project lation of the plastic seats will be and senior guests in accordance to the more than 80,000 passengers manager said installed in the final phase along with requirements of FIFA. International in the first two days of public the roof and the the stadium laying the grass. He also said that they He added that the presence of the Stadium in the service. The ground breaking facades and the will set an have secured the supply of seats, in stadium near both Al Rayyan Stadium presence of FIFA ceremony of the new Al base was more example for preparation for installing them at the and Khalifa International Stadiums President Gianni Wakrah Stadium took place in the use of right moment. confirms the compact nature of 2014 and in less than five years, than 70 percent intelligent He noted that work has already Qatar’s 2022 World Cup. The stadium Infantino and an engineering marvel has been complete and building begun on the two roof covers, the first is only 4.5 kilometers away from the 50,000 fans. That constructed with state-of-the- all concrete systems that is circular for the pitch, the second is Khalifa International Stadium and six was the first official art construction techniques. structure work conserves the an indoor roof. He added that he from Al Rayyan Stadium. This will The stadium, which was energy of expects work on the roof to be com- allow the public to move between the venue of the 2022 designed by legendary architect compelted over things such as pleted in the coming month, especially three stadiums and give them the FIFA World Cup Zaha Hadid, has a 92m the past two automatic in light of the accelerating pace of opportunity to see three Matches in a opened five years retractable roof that will con- months. lighting and work and the determination to com- day, something that has not been ahead of schedule. tribute to the efficiency of the air condi- plete all tasks on schedule. achieved in any previous World Cup. stadium’s innovative cooling tioning units. The project manager also said that Al Qahtani said that he believes Today’s landmark technology and protect the The environmentally-friendly con- he expects the final phase of work to that donating about 20,000 seats from occasion in Qatar’s interior of the stadium from struction practices will also reduce the be easier than the previous one. He the stadium, following the conclusion journey takes even harsh weather conditions, carbon footprint of the stadium, not noted that work on the final finishing of the World Cup, to help build sta- greater significance according to SC. More than 100 just during the construction stage, but phase, in addition to the operational diums in developing countries in air ventilation units – split after its completion as well. phase will take place in the next six cooperation with FIFA will give the since Al Wakrah evenly between the lower and Al Qahtani said that the design of months. He said that, after that, the fans a great feeling. Stadium has been upper tiers – will serve the built from scratch. stadium bowl. Just last month, Qatari company Urban Concept Facebook to curb live streaming amid pressure over Christchurch massacre laid the turf at the new Al Wakrah Stadium in just 9 hours 15 minutes. AFP additional steps today,” Ardern said in the table and saying they have a role SC says after the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the seating a statement. too.” But analysts say the tighter con- capacity of the venue will be reduced to 20,000 and handed acebook said yesterday that it She and Macron will later issue trols pledged Wednesday will go only over to Al Wakrah Sports Club that features in the Qatar would tighten access to its their Christchurch Call to fight the so far in preventing people from cir- Stars League. Following the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the top livestreaming feature as New spread of hateful and terror-related cumventing rules and policies already tier of the stadium will be removed and donated to a country Zealand’s premier Jacinda content, along with leaders from in place against disseminating vio- F lence and hate speech. which needs sporting infrastructure, SC has promised. Ardern and French leader Emmanuel Britain, Canada, Norway, Jordan and When the referee blows the kick-off whistle today, Qatar Macron prepared to launch a Senegal, who will also be in Paris. “You can’t prevent content from will have fulfilled another promise. “Christchurch Call” initiative to tackle The largely symbolic initiative is being uploaded: it would require the the spread of violence and extremism intended to keep up the pressure on resources for tracking everything put online. Facebook chief Mark Zuck- social media companies who face online by all internet users,” said erberg has been under intense growing calls from politicians across Marc Rees, editor in chief of the tech- pressure since March, when a white the world to prevent their platforms nology site Next INpact. “Can you supremacist gunman used Facebook from becoming stages for broad- imagine trying to get TV or radio to QUOTE OF THE DAY Live to stream his rampage at two casting extremist violence. prevent libellous, abusive or violent mosques in the New Zealand city of “We need to get in front of this speech that someone might say?” he Germany, France and Christchurch, killing 51 people. (problem) before harm is done,” Ardern asked. Britain are taking a The California-based network told CNN in an interview Wednesday. The political meeting in Paris will different approach from said it would ban Facebook Live users “This is not just about regulation, but run in parallel to an initiative launched the US on the question of who shared extremist content and bringing companies to the table and by Macron called “Tech for Good” seek to reinforce its own internal con- saying they have a role too.” which will bring together 80 tech exec- the Iran agreement. For trols to stop the spread of offensive Many countries have already utives to discuss how to harness tech- all our other differences, videos. tightened legislation to introduce pen- nologies for the common good. Top we even have common “Following the horrific recent ter- alties for companies that fail to take officials from US tech giants Wikipedia, interests here with rorist attacks in New Zealand, we’ve down offensive content once it is Uber, Twitter, Microsoft and Google Russia and China. been reviewing what more we can do flagged, by either users or the will attend, but not Zuckerberg, who to limit our services from being used authorities. met privately with Macron last week. to cause harm or spread hate,” “We need to get in front of this The US government has not endorsed Angela Merkel Facebook vice-president of integrity (problem) before harm is done,” the Christchurch Call and will be repre- German Chancellor Guy Rosen said in a statement. Ardern told CNN in an interview on sented only at a junior level at a “There is a lot more work to do, Wednesday. “This is not just about meeting of G7 digital ministers which is but I am pleased Facebook has taken regulation, but bringing companies to also taking place Wednesday in Paris. THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 OPINION 09 The return of Palestinian refugees is quite possible

very year, a day after Israel myths and false claims in order to new reality today and that the own- At this point, the only viable marks its independence day justify flaunting international law and ership rights of Palestinian refugees to way forward that does not involve on May 14, we commemorate continuing the victimisation of their homes and their land have dis- further violence and ethnic with sadness and nostalgia Palestinians. appeared after 70 years. cleansing on either side is to re- E But the passing of time does not the Nakba of 1948. The events of that Israel says Palestine was a land arrange the current relationship year changed the Palestinian lot for without people. and cannot cancel liability for a crime between Palestinians and Israeli generations to come, transforming But the census the British con- against humanity and absolve its per- Jews on the basis of justice and AHMED ABU ARTEMA them from a people living peacefully ducted shortly after they took control petrators. What is right is right and equality as opposed to discrimi- AL JAZEERA and comfortably off of the fruits of of Palestine in 1920 showed that it what is wrong is wrong. And just like nation and dispossession. their land to refugees struggling in had a population of more than the Israeli state is a fait accompli, so is Part of this solution has to be misery in overcrowded camps, forced 750,000, only 11 percent of whom the right of more than six million Pal- the return of Palestinian refugees, to depend on charity for their daily were Jewish. estinian refugees to return, based on which is neither an outlandish idea bread. Paradoxically, Israel also says that official legal documents produced by nor a dangerous one. In fact, it is Every year, in our communities Palestinians left “voluntarily” in 1948 the UN under whose legal framework quite realistic. Demographic studies we count how many elderly Pales- (meaning there must have been a and recognition the Israeli state was indicate that more than 80 percent tinians who witnessed the Nakba are native population that had to “leave”). created in the first place. of the land Palestinian refugees left. Although their numbers shrink Yet, as Israeli historians like Ilan Israel also claims that it was were ethnically cleansed from is with every passing Nakba day, the Pappe have demonstrated in their created to provide “safe haven” to either empty or has very low popu- memory of what happened seven research, the ethnic cleansing of Pal- Jews and the return of Palestinian ref- lation density, as the majority of the The campaign of decades ago is kept alive. The keys to estine was very well planned and exe- ugees would endanger them and Israeli population is concentrated mass ethnic cleansing the homes from which they were cuted by Zionist leaders. Clear result in a massacre. in large cities. continued over seven forcefully expelled are passed on to instructions were given to Jewish We do not deny that Jews have the There is enough land for all and us, the younger generation, as we militias to use terror, bombardment of right to live in safety, but why should with the cancellation of discrimi- months and resulted continue the struggle for the return of villages, burning and demolishing res- the solution to a tragedy they faced natory policies that favour Jewish in the expulsion of all Palestinian refugees. idential areas, and booby-trapping produce a tragedy for another people? settlers, equal distribution of 800,000 Palestinians Meanwhile, Israel continues to do evacuated homes to force people out The establishing of this “safe haven”, resources can be achieved. to nearby countries, everything it can not to abide by inter- and prevent their return. the way it was done in 1948 and ever Israel already has in place a law national law and implement the The campaign of mass ethnic since, has resulted in mass ethnic that allows Jews to immigrate and the destruction of United Nations resolution 194 of 1948, cleansing continued over seven cleansing and incremental genocide settle on its territory. It only makes 531 villages and the which stipulates the rightful return of months and resulted in the expulsion of Palestinians. The Palestinian people sense that it would extend that depopulation of 11 all Palestinians to their homes. It con- of 800,000 Palestinians to nearby have faced one massacre after policy to all Palestinian refugees to urban neighbourhoods. tinues to imprison millions of Pales- countries, the destruction of 531 vil- another over the past seven decades come back to their homes. tinians behind walls in the West Bank lages and the depopulation of 11 urban and as a result, they have no “safe All this comes down to a choice In the words of Pappe, and Gaza Strip and keep the Pales- neighbourhoods. In the words of haven” of their own. Israeli Jews have to make - to con- it was a crime against tinian minority within its borders Pappe, it was a crime against And with all Palestinians that tinue living in unstable and humanity. under an apartheid regime. humanity. Israel has killed over time, with all insecure apartheid state or to It also continues to propagate Israel also claims that there is a weapons it has accumulated, all walls embrace real stability and security it has built, and all repressive policies by ending injustice and establishing it has implemented, has it become equality and peace for all. We, Pal- more safe and secure? Security built estinians, have already made ours: on death and oppression is an illusion; We will continue to struggle for our true security for Israeli Jews will not rights and our freedom until the be achieved until there is justice for day we are able to stand at the Palestinians. doorstep of our ancestral homes Our struggle is against occupation with a key in hand. and apartheid, and not for the And in this struggle we are not oppression and ethnic cleansing of alone. We are backed by all those Israeli Jews. As we continue to resist who believe in and advocate justice Israeli attempts to wipe us all out of and humanity across the world. our homeland, we do not wish to see Israeli Jews being wiped out either. Israel also claims that Palestinians do not want peace. Yet its leadership has officially declared its intention to seize all Pal- estinian land west of the Jordan River and has repeatedly demonstrated that D-RING ROAD it is using peace negotiations only to POST BOX: 3488 further entrench the occupation and DOHA - QATAR make the return of Palestinians [email protected] impossible. This strategy is not an aberration or a policy of the Israeli right only, but rather the direct con- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE tinuation of the path taken by the TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 Zionist movement since it was estab- FAX: +974 4455 7758 lished - it is the path of ethnic The Israeli Forces personnel intervene with Palestinian protesters with tear gas during a demonstration to mark the cleansing of the native population and MANAGING EDITOR TEL: anniversary of 71 years since the “Nakba” in Rafah, Gaza, yesterday. expansion of settler colonialism. 4462 7505

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR TEL: making a similar mistake? Nuclear stronger than the arguments for 4455 7769 weapons have not been used against pessimism, and indeed they are. LOCAL NEWS SECTION humans since 1945, and we are now When it comes to nuclear weapons, TEL: 4455 7743 Nuclear war is still very assuming they will remain dormant however, the arguments for pes- for the rest of history. simism only have to be true once - BUSINESS NEWS SECTION Each generation has its own form and that is likely to happen sooner TEL: 4462 7535 possible and very scary of recency bias, as it is called in or later, no matter how positive the behavioral economics. Just after Sept. general trends. SPORT NEWS SECTION 11, for example, there was great So, combining that insight about TEL: 4455 7745 concern about follow-up attacks. risk with the phenomenon of recency (Thankfully, nothing comparable fol- bias, I return to my original thought: ONLINE SECTION lowed.) Now we worry a lot - maybe We should be very worried indeed TEL: 4462 7501 BLOOMBERG too much - about insolvent banks, about nuclear weapons. [email protected] insufficiently high inflation, and the They are all still there, and most Chinese shock to US manufacturing. of them probably still work. We can ne of the most striking facts PUBLIC RELATIONS So what about nuclear war? never be quite sure about the of today’s world is that TEL: 4455 7613 accuracy of the systems for early young people do not seem Looking forward, the reality is that the [email protected] to worry very much about risks of such a war are quite small in detection of incoming missiles, and O whether there might be false nuclear war. Climate change is by far any particular year. But let the clock ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT the larger concern, while nuclear war run and enough years pass, and a signals of a launch, as there were in TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 is seen as a threat of the past. As nuclear exchange of some kind 1983. FAX: 4455 7870 Chapin Boyer, who is in his late 20s, becomes pretty likely. There are also reasons particular [email protected] wrote in the Bulletin of the Atomic I have found that people with a to the present moment to be con- Scientists a few years ago: “I cannot background in financial market cerned about nuclear weapons. They CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT remember a time when the threat of trading are best equipped to under- are becoming easier and cheaper to TEL: 4455 7857 nuclear weapons seemed real. … My stand the risks of nuclear war. An build, and it is not implausible to think [email protected] generation grew up believing that the analogy might be helpful: Say you that nations such as Iran, Turkey and problem of nuclear weapons had write a deeply out-of-the-money put, Saudi Arabia might get them in the SUBSCRIPTION & been solved.” without an offsetting hedge. This is in next 20 years, to the detriment of DISTRIBUTION In contrast, I am inclined to think fact a very risky action, though almost regional stability. North Korea keeps TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 that the risk of nuclear war remains all of the time you will get away with adding to its stockpile of nuclear FAX: 44557819 the world’s No. 1 problem, even if that it. When you don’t, however - when weapons and improving the quality of [email protected] So what about risk does not seem so pressing on any market prices move against you - you its delivery systems. nuclear war? particular day. can lose all of your wealth quite Meanwhile, a generation of hyper- Looking forward, In the 1950s and ‘60s, fears of suddenly. sonic delivery systems, being nuclear war were palpable. In 1951, In other words: Sooner or later the developed by China, Russia and the All thoughts and views the reality is that the president of Harvard wrote a unexpected will come to pass. The US, will shorten the response time the risks of such a letter to his 21st-century successor. correct intuitions about this kind of available to political and military expressed in these columns war are quite small “There are many who anticipate risk do not always come easily to the leaders to minutes. That raises the risk are those of the writers, in any particular World War III within the decade,” inexperienced investor. In similar of a false signal turning into a decision not of the newspaper. James B. Conant wrote, “and not a few fashion, shortsighted voters do not to retaliate, or it may induce a nation year. But let the who consider the destruction of our appreciate the ongoing risk of nuclear to think that a successful first strike is clock run and cities including Cambridge quite war. possible. Remember, it’s not enough All correspondence enough years pass, possible.” Which brings me to my reaction for the principle of mutual assured regarding Views and and a nuclear It turned out such views were too to Steven Pinker’s renowned book destruction to be generally true; it has Opinion pages should be pessimistic, perhaps overly influenced “The Better Angels of Our Nature: to be always true. sent to editor-in-chief exchange of some by still-fresh memories of two earlier Why Violence Has Declined”: He Like Dr. Strangelove, we learned kind becomes pretty world wars. But if Conant’s generation does not think enough like a to stop worrying and to love the office or mailed to the likely. was extrapolating too much from financial economist. Yes, the argu- bomb. Let us not forget that the bomb [email protected] recent experience, might we be ments for optimism often appear never will love us. 10 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 Sudan military, oppn agree 3-year transition AFP Lieutenant General Yasser Al Atta said a final KHARTOUM agreement on the sharing of power, including Sudanese army rulers and the forming of the next ruling body — the protest leaders yesterday agreed sovereign council — will be signed with the on a three-year transition period protest movement, the Alliance for Freedom for transferring power to a full civilian administration even as and Change, within a day. negotiations over a new sovereign ruling body remain transition period. “We agreed on He said of the three-year unfinished. a transitional period of three transition period, the first six The protest movement is years,” Lieutenant General months will be allocated to demanding a civilian-led tran- Yasser Al Atta, a member of the signing peace accords with sition following 30 years of rule military council told reporters. rebels in the country’s war zones by former president Omar Al Atta said a final agreement like Darfur, Blue Nile and South Bashir. Talks between the two on the sharing of power, Kordofan. sides resumed earlier in the week including the forming of the next The army generals had ini- but were marred by violence ruling body — the sovereign tially insisted on a two-year tran- when an army major and five council — will be signed with the sition period, while the protest protesters were killed by uniden- protest movement, the Alliance leaders wanted four years. tified gunmen at a long-running for Freedom and Change, within The key negotiations sit-in outside military head- a day. “We vow to our people however remain on the compo- quarters in Khartoum. that the agreement will be com- sition of the sovereign council, The two sides announced pleted fully within 24 hours in a which the generals have insisted early yesterday that they had way that it meets the people’s to be military led while the reached an agreement on the aspirations,” Atta said. protest leaders want it to be majority civilian. After the forming of the sov- Sudanese protesters celebrate after an agreement was reached with the Military Council to form a African Union lauds Sudan pact ereign council, which will new transitional government of three years, in Khartoum, yesterday. ANATOLIA/ADDIS ABABA replace the existing ruling body made up solely of generals, a The African Union Commission commended Sudan for agreeing new transitional civilian gov- on a transitional roadmap with reasonable timing. ernment would be formed to run Eight injured in gunshots near Khartoum sit-in “The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa the country’s day-to-day affairs. Faki Mahamat wishes to commend the Sudanese stakeholders That civilian government AFP clashes. “Eight wounded from we are seeing several wounded,” for the progress being made towards reaching an agreement for would work towards having the KHARTOUM live bullets so far,” Amjad Farid, said Mohamed Dahab, a vol- a political transition in Sudan,” the group said in a statement. first post-Bashir elections after a spokesman for the umbrella unteer at a field clinic at the Mahamat congratulated “national stakeholders for their high the end of the transition period. At least eight people were protest group the Alliance for protest camp. A protest leader level of responsibility to complete the negotiation cycle in a rea- Atta said that during the wounded by gunshots near a Freedom and Change wrote on also said on condition of ano- sonable time in order to adequately address the legitimate con- transitional period the par- Khartoum sit-in yesterday, a Facebook. nymity that among the eight cerns of the Sudanese people.” He also commended the collabo- liament will be composed of 300 spokesman for Sudan’s protest A witness said that gunshots wounded, three were in serious ration of the United Nations, the European Union and the Troika of members, of which 67 percent movement and a witness said, had been fired near the protest condition. The Sudanese Profes- the US, Norway and the UK in supporting the AU’s approach to help will be from the Alliance for ahead of crucial talks on civilian camp outside army headquarters sionals Association urged people Sudan achieve a Sudanese-led and -owned political transition for Freedom and Change and the rule. Protest leaders responded in central Khartoum. to join the sit-in in support of the betterment of the country and the region. rest will be from other political by urging people to join the “There are gunshots in Nile those who have camped there groups. demonstrators but to avoid Street and around the sit-in and round-the-clock for weeks.

Lebanon Fighting grips Hodeidah port, upsets peace move postpones final REUTERS point for food imports and aid. Saudi Arabia said had hit two of the Al Duraihmi area to its south urge the warring parties to work DUBAI The Houthi withdrawal from its oil pumping stations. but pro-government troops quickly to implement the budget meeting Hodeidah and two other Red Sea Houthi-run media said pro- foiled them. remaining redeployments agreed Houthi fighters and Saudi- ports began on Saturday and was government forces had hit Saudi Arabia and the United during peace talks in Stockholm REUTERS backed pro-government forces the most significant advance yet various parts of Hodeidah city, Arab Emirates, a leading member in December. BEIRUT battled in Yemen’s port city of in efforts to end the four-year- including the airport, with heavy of the coalition, have yet to “We would like the parties Hodeidah yesterday, breaching old war. and medium weapons. comment on the Houthi to ensure that the momentum Lebanon’s Cabinet delayed a ceasefire and potentially The United Nations said on It did not say if they were withdrawal. that we now begin to see is main- until tomorrow its last session complicating a troop withdrawal Tuesday the ports had been Yemeni troops or members of an The coalition has forces tained by implementing subse- on the 2019 draft budget, a agreement intended to pave the handed over to a coast guard and international military coalition massed on Hodeidah’s outskirts quent steps of the mutual rede- minister said, pushing back a way for wider peace talks. the pullout was going to plan. led by Saudi Arabia which backs and under the withdrawal plan’s ployments,” he told the critical meeting to finalise plans Hodeidah port, which has But both sides reported President Abd Rabbu Mansour first phase, they are supposed to 15-member body. for cutting the deficit. been under Houthi control, is a renewed clashes yesterday, a day Hadi’s Aden-based government eventually also draw back. Griffiths said he was still Lebanon has one of the lifeline for millions of Yemenis after the Iran-aligned Houthi The coalition-backed forces said United Nations Yemen envoy seeking a deal between the heaviest public debt burdens threatened by starvation because movement claimed responsi- in a report that Houthi fighters Martin Griffiths called on the UN parties on local forces to take in the world, and long-stalled of the war as it is the main entry bility for a drone attack that tried to infiltrate Hodeidah and Security Council yesterday to over security in the area. reforms are seen as more pressing than ever after years of low economic growth. President Michel Aoun, in South Sudan’s Kiir a speech late on Tuesday, urged the Lebanese to end protests warns against ‘violent and make sacrifices to rescue the country from economic and financial crisis. Prime Minister attempts to usurp power’ Saad Al Hariri has said this may AFP achieved in 2011. Army be the most austere budget in JUBA spokesman Major-General Lul Lebanon’s history. Ruai Koang said that the cele- Ministers who convened South Sudan’s President Salva brations had been postponed by yesterday afternoon had been Kiir said yesterday that any a week for “final touches” to due to meet again at night to attempt to forcibly seize power preparations. agree the budget before in the country would be met “The security deployment sending it to parliament for with “violent resistance”, as calls and all sorts of security arrange- approval. for his ouster spread on social ments (are) to provide maximum media. security and safety for the 24 Algerian police In the past two weeks, a new people during the celebrations,” group calling itself the Red Card he added. officers wounded Movement has been circulating Independent radio station in protest calls online for a protest on Eye Radio reported yesterday Thursday with the hashtags that some Juba residents had AFP #KiirMustGo and #SouthSudan- woken up to security officers ALGIERS Uprising, with organisers going house to house searching Palestinians taking part in a demonstration marking the 71st anniversary of Nakba, also known as appearing to be based mostly in for guns. At least 24 police officers have Day of the Catastrophe in 1948, in Ramallah, West Bank, yesterday. the diaspora. South Sudanese activist been wounded in clashes with The movement appears to Keluel Agok, now living in protesters rallying against be inspired by street protests in Kampala, is among those calling unemployment in central neighbouring Sudan which led for the protests. Over 50 Palestinians injured in Algeria, state media reported to the toppling of veteran pres- “If you want to an end the yesterday. ident Omar Al Bashir. impunity please come out on Demonstrators in the “Violent attempts to usurp 16th May 2019 to restore liberty, ‘Catastrophe’ anniversary protests central Tinerkouk area have power from the people would justice and unity in South REUTERS Palestinian flags. Israeli troops catastrophe that befell them at been blocking access to an oil be met with violent resistance Sudan,” he wrote on Facebook GAZA fired tear gas and rubber Israel’s creation in 1948, when company since mid-April, and the cycle of violence cannot Tuesday. bullets to repel them, but also hundreds of thousands fled or demanding jobs in the industry. end,” Kiir told a press briefing. South Sudan plunged into Israeli troops wounded nearly live ammunition, the witnesses were expelled from lands in The ongoing rally has “The way to stability in civil war in 2013 after Kiir 50 Palestinians at the Gaza said. what is now Israel. largely paralysed work at the South Sudan is through accused his former deputy Riek border yesterday during protests The Gaza Health Ministry “Our people rise today to site, according to the official democracy and democratic Machar of plotting a coup to mark the 71st anniversary of said at least 47 people were announce their rejection to this APS news agency, prompting elections, and this is what we against him. The war has left the “Nakba”, or catastrophe, wounded, though it was not clear crime and to assert their right in police to move in and disperse fought for and we will not com- 380,000 people dead and forced when many Palestinians lost how many of those were hit by Palestine, all of Palestine,” it on Tuesday. Demonstrators promise it,” Kiir said. more than four million South their homes in the fighting live ammunition or were hurt by Islamist leader Khader Habib blocked access to the local gov- Since last week security on Sudanese — almost a third of the around Israel’s creation, Gaza rubber bullets or by inhaling tear said at one demonstration, ernment offices, setting fire to the streets of Juba has been population — to flee their officials said. gas. referring to Israel and the terri- the buildings and looting them beefed up. However officials homes. A peace deal signed in Thousands had gathered at The Israeli military said tories it captured in the 1967 when the police intervened, have said this was unrelated to September 2018 has largely the coastal enclave’s frontier about 10,000 demonstrators Middle East war. according to APS. Private tele- the planned protests, but was in stopped fighting, but implemen- with Israel, the scene of gathered in several places along Palestinians also held rallies vision channel Dzair News preparation for a public holiday tation has run aground and the bloodshed over the past year the Gaza Strip fence. in the occupied West Bank but broadcast images of a gov- Thursday celebrating those who planned formation of a unity that has raised international Yesterday’s rallies were no major clashes with Israeli ernment building in flames and took up arms in the fight for government on May 12 was post- concern. Groups approached the called to mark Nakba Day, what forces were immediately protesters blocking the road independence from Sudan, poned for six months. border fence, planting Palestinians term the reported. with burning tyres. THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 ASIA 11 EC cuts short campaign in violence-hit Bengal

IANS The poll body has 24 hours, representations NEW DELHI invoked for the first received from political parties, time Article 324 of report of DEC in charge of West In the wake of violence in West the Constitution which Bengal in ECI and the joint report Bengal, the Election Commission of Special Observers.” He said the yesterday took an unprecedented gives it special powers campaigning has been curtailed step of curtailing poll campaign to control and give to ensure free, fair, transparent, in the state by a day as it ordered directions for holding non-violent, ethical elections stoppage of electioneering from during the 7th phase on May 19. 10pm today, Thursday, on the elections. “The Commission hereby remaining 9 Lok Sabha constit- directs that no person shall uencies going to the polls on May 6 other states and one Union Ter- convene, hold, join or address 19. ritory. The decisions have been any public meeting or procession The Election Commission “taken as an action on violence in connection with election or also removed with immediate in West Bengal on Tuesday,” the display to the public any election effect the state’s Principal Sec- EC official said, about the action matter by means of cinemato- retary (Home) Atri Bhattacharya taken a day after widespread vio- graph, television or other similar for “having interfered” in the poll lence witnessed in the state apparatus or propagate any Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel conduct route march in a street ahead of the seventh process and relieved contro- during a road show conducted election matter to the public by and last phase of general election, in Kolkata, India, yesterday. versial IPS officer Rajeev Kumar by BJP President Amit Shah. holding or by arranging any from his post of ADG CID, with The constituencies - Dum musical concert or any theatrical orders to report for duty in the Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jaynagar, performance or any other enter- Union Home Ministry in New Mathurapur, Diamond Harbour, tainment or amusement with a EC decision taken at BJP’s direction: Mamata Delhi at 10am today. Jadavpur, Kolkata (South) and view to attracting the member of IANS “threat” issued to the poll panel Election Commission. “Is this a The poll body invoked for the Kolkata (North) – are going to the the public in connection with KOLKATA by Shah during a media meet in fallout of that?” she asked. first time Article 324 of the Con- polls in the 7th and last phase of these elections,” the poll body Delhi yesterday morning. Banerjee alleged that Bengal stitution which gives it special the elections on May 19. said. West Bengal Chief Minister Addressing a hurriedly-con- was being targeted as Modi powers to control and give direc- “This is probably the first time “Election Commission of Mamata Banerjee yesterday vened media meet here, the knew that she was challenging tions for holding elections. that EC has invoked Article 324 India is deeply anguished at the termed the Election Commis- Chief Minister said: “Some emer- him. “I am challenging him, There will be no election in this manner but it may not be vandalism done to the statue of sion’s decision to curtail gency situation has arisen due talking against him, we are campaign in 9 parliamentary the last in case of repetition of respected late Shri Ishwar campaigning for the Lok Sabha to some directions of the Election countering him on every point. constituencies of West Bengal lawlessness and violence which Chandra Bandyopadhyay who elections in the state and remove Commission. I don’t consider Modi is afraid of Bengal, afraid from 10pm today till the con- vitiate the conduct of polls,” the was conferred the title of Vid- two senior officers as one taken these as EC’s decision. These of me.” clusion of polls on May 19, an EC official said. yasagar by Sanskrit college on the direction of the BJP, its have been taken as per the Banerjee also accused official said at a press conference. The official said the decisions Kolkata besides his many other President Amit Shah and Prime direction of the BJP, Modi and Deputy Election Commissioner The campaigning would have were taken “keeping in view the achievements as a philosopher, Minister Narendra Modi. Amit Shah.” “In the morning, Sudeep Jain of making all normally ended at 5pm on Friday recent developments in West academic educator, writer and She also wondered whether Shah held a press conference in arrangements for Shah’s road along with 50 other seats across Bengal, especially during the last philanthropist,” the official said. the directives were due to the Delhi, where he threatened the show. Modi blames TMC for trouble in West Bengal Six injured in IANS President Amit Shah during his Members of the BJP and the Guwahati blast; TAKI, WEST BENGAL roadshow. There were attempts Trinamool Congress Chhatra to terrorise and intimidate the Parishad (TMCP) got involved ULFA owns up Accusing West Bengal Chief BJP supporters,” he alleged. in violent clashes during Shah’s Minister Mamata Banerjee of Modi also said that Banerjee roadshow in the College Street IANS orchestrating the attack on BJP was scared by the BJP wave in area on Tuesday. GUWAHATI President Amit Shah during his West Bengal. The violence also spread to roadshow in Kolkata on “The whole country saw the the nearby Vidyasagar College, At least six persons, including Tuesday, Prime Minister images in Kolkata yesterday. where a large group of TMCP two security force personnel, Narendra Modi yesterday said Today the whole nation is dis- members had camped to protest were injured in a blast outside that attempts were being made cussing about it. The BJP wave against Shah’s roadshow. A bust a shopping mall here last to terrorise and intimidate the in Bengal has scared ‘didi’. The of 19th century social reformer evening, police said. saffron party activists. country and the whole world Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was The anti-talks faction of Addressing an election rally can see the level she has seen lying shattered, with the ULFA led by Paresh Baruah has here in the Basirhat Lok Sabha descended to,” Modi said, TMCP activists blaming the BJP, claimed responsibility for the constituency, Modi said the attack referring to the clashes between while the saffron party function- blast. on Shah’s roadshow in College the members of the Trinamool aries pointed fingers at the The explosion took place in Street came days after Banerjee Congress’ student wing and Trinamool. front of the shopping mall, vowed to take revenge against saffron party activists during Modi also said that a section Guwahati Central, located in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Shah’s roadshow. of students of the Calcutta Uni- Jonali area of the city. “Mamata ‘didi’ had publicly Alleging that Banerjee’s versity have started to reveal Guwahati Police Commis- announced two days ago that Bengal was an example of “the dirty politics” of Banerjee sioner Deepak Kumar said the Priyanka roadshow in Varanasi she will take revenge inch by misrule, Modi said the people and her party leaders who were suspects must have targeted the Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (centre) gestures inch against the BJP. Within 24 of the state have decided to free behind Tuesday’s clashes which security forces. along with other party leaders during an election campaign in hours of her announcement, she themselves from the “autocratic left a number of persons injured “There is a police check Varanasi, India, yesterday. orchestrated the attack on BJP rule of didi” in the coming days. on both sides. post here and it is evident the suspects must have targeted them,” he said. UN urges aid All the injured were rushed Arrests, new curfews in Sri Lanka after riots to hospitals. The blast took place on a access for AFP day when Assam Chief Minister COLOMBO Sarbananda Sonowal called Myanmar’s upon the police to devise a Sri Lanka’s police arrested over strategy to keep tabs on Rakhine state 100 suspects and reimposed criminal elements and provide REUTERS/YANGON night curfews in violence-prone security to the city residents. areas yesterday after anti- A UN official has urged Muslim riots left one man dead Myanmar to grant aid workers and caused extensive damage to Alleged Rohingya “predictable, sustained access” homes, businesses and mosques. to Rakhine state, where fighting Police spokesman Ruwan traffickers dead between government troops Gunasekera said 78 people in gun battle and rebels has displaced nearly arrested in the worst-affected 33,000 people since late last North-Western Province (NWP) AFP year, saying lack of aid has cost were remanded in custody yes- COX’S BAZAR, BANGLADESH lives. terday, while the rest were Ursula Mueller, a UN detained after a manhunt in Bangladeshi police shot dead assistant secretary-general for other areas. two suspected Rohingya human humanitarian affairs, said Some 5,500 additional police traffickers, officials said authorities had turned down were deployed in NWP to yesterday, after rescuing 103 her requests to meet those dis- contain the violence that claimed refugees in two days about to placed by the conflict in a the life of a Muslim man on make the perilous sea voyage region barred to most aid Monday. Scores of private to Malaysia. groups since the fighting broke homes, Muslim-owned shops The two Rohingya men out. and businesses were destroyed, were killed outside a refugee “We need access - pre- while several mosques were also camp in the southeast on A soldier walks past a damaged shop after a mob attack in Minuwangoda, Sri Lanka, yesterday. dictable, sustained access - to vandalised. Tuesday evening, said Prodip reach the people in need,” Muslims in Sri Lanka have Kumar Das, police chief of Mueller said, at the end of a been bracing for revenge attacks entire country was under night responsible for taking part in sword-wielding rioters killed Teknaf which borders six-day visit to the southeast since three churches and three curfews for two straight days mob attacks.” Official sources one man late Monday while van- Myanmar. “They opened fire at Asian nation. luxury hotels were bombed by after the violence escalated. said police deployed special dalising scores of shops and the police. We fired back in “If the assistance, including local extremists on April 21, The night curfew on Tuesday teams to review CCTV camera mosques. retaliation,” he said. This is the mobile clinics, cannot get to the killing 258 people. ensured there was no repeat of footage to identify the perpe- In Bingiriya, where some first time in four years sus- people, they just don’t have the Gunasekera said a night Monday’s violence against trators and carry out more 2,000 people went on the pected human traffickers were services and their needs are not curfew was being reimposed in Muslims, who make up some 10 arrests. rampage, Muslim cleric MIM Sid- killed in a gunfight in Bangla- being met and some people are NWP, just north of the capital, as percent of Sri Lanka’s population More police and army units deeque said the community was desh’s southeast. It follows a dying.” Rakhine has been in the well as the adjoining Gampaha of 21 million. were seen deployed in the worried. “Our people are still rise in attempted human smug- global spotlight since 2017, after district, which shares a border “The situation is now totally troubled areas as the authorities afraid to go out,” he said. gling of Rohingya in the last few roughly 730,000 Rohingya with Colombo, as a measure to under control,” said military lifted the nationwide curfew yes- Government spokesman months. People-smugglers Muslims fleeing a military “maintain peace”. spokesman Sumith Atapattu. terday morning. Navin Dissanayake said the have in recent years sent tens crackdown in response to mil- However, a top police source “There were no incidents of But Muslims in NWP authorities had identified the of thousands of Rohingya from itant attacks crossed into said there will be no curfews violence overnight and we are remained nervous and stayed leaders of the mobs and they the Bangladesh camps by boat Bangladesh. elsewhere in the country. The arresting groups of people indoors yesterday, after were already in police custody. to Malaysia. 12 ASIA THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019

Senior JuD PTI seeks oppn leader arrested support for south in Lahore INTERNEWS Punjab province LAHORE The brother-in-law of outlawed INTERNEWS The govt has Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief MULTAN, PAKISTAN introduced a bill to Hafiz Saeed has been arrested, create a new province Punjab Police confirmed Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah yesterday. Mehmood Qureshi yesterday in south of Punjab According to an Interior said the government had intro- but it lacks two- Ministry source, the arrest of duced a bill in the National thirds majority in Abdul Rehman Makki took Assembly to establish a new parliament to amend place during the crackdown province by bifurcating the against outlawed populous Punjab province. the Constitution. organisations. Qureshi, who is also the Makki is accused of hate deputy chairman of Imran to make this a reality and have speech against the crackdown Khan’s ruling Pakistan Tehreek- received a positive response and criticising steps taken by e-Insaf (PTI) party, sought the from them,” he said. the government under help of the Bilawal Bhutto’s The Minister said several Cabbies protest in Seoul Financial Action task Force Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) members of the PML-N sup- guidelines. Makki has been Taxi drivers protesting against ride-hailing service ‘Tada’ saying such services threaten their jobs and Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan ported South Punjab province arrested under the Maintenance and livelihoods, in central Seoul, yesterday. Muslim League-N to get the bill but there were others who were of Public Order Act. passed. stuck on the bill they had pre- Makki was head of Jamaat- Qureshi said the bill moved sented in the past. ud-Dawa’s political and inter- by the PTI government will “We will also speak to the Imran put on notice over disqualification plea national affairs wing and in- require amendments in Articles PML-N and I will request them charge of its charity Falah-e- 1, 51, 59, 106, 198 and 218 of the to review their decision and let INTERNEWS NA-35 Bannu candidate Inam- Akram Khan Durrani and other Insaniat for which he had Constitution. South Punjab be formed. They PESHAWAR ullah Khan were received. candidates in the NA-35 constit- appealed for donations. “We have to make the need to be practical as their It directed both the Premier uency in the July 2018 elections A crackdown was initiated amendments to make South demand for a third ‘Bahawalpur The Peshawar High Court gave and ECP to respond to the points before vacating that seat to by the Government of Pakistan Punjab province a reality,” province’ comprising just three Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran raised by the petitioner, a leader retain another also won by him. against outlawed originations Qureshi said, adding that the PTI districts is not possible,” he said. Khan and Election Commission of the Pakistan Justice and Dem- Ahead of the polls, retired under the counterterrorism government had contacted For any constitutional of Pakistan (ECP) three weeks to ocratic Party led by former chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry had National Action Plan. leaders of PML-N, PPP and some amendment, two-thirds of the respond to a petition seeking the justice of Pakistan Iftikhar announced that his party would Pakistan has also other opposition parties in Par- parliamentarians would have to disqualification of the Premier Mohammad Chaudhry. challenge the candidature of announced the freezing of liament as two-thirds majority vote in its favour. The National from holding any public office The petitioner insisted that Imran in every constituency accounts and seizure of assets is required to amend the Assembly, Pakistan’s lower on multiple grounds. Imran had neither named his from where he would contest linked to organisations banned Constitution. house, has in total 342 seats, A bench comprising Justice alleged daughter in his nomi- elections. by the UN Security Council. “I have contacted senior which means the govt needs 228 Qaiser Rasheed and Justice nation papers for the last year’s The petitioner’s counsel, parliamentarians from PPP as votes to get its way. Mohammad Ibrahim Khan general elections nor had he dis- Abdur Rasheed Khan, said they also had the stance for The PML-N has 84 members observed that further pro- closed the assets of his wife. despite the issuance of repeated Afghan poll results South Punjab, and I have told and the PPP has 54 members in ceedings would be held after Imran had defeated the peti- notices, Imran hadn’t responded announced, finally them to work together with us the lower house. written replies to the petition of tioner, former KP Chief Minister to the disqualification petition. ANATOLIA/KABUL

Opposition alliance against Imran’s govt in the offing Election authorities in Afghan- istan yesterday announced the INTERNEWS against this government,” Khan opposition front, he said the President Shehbaz Sharif from any such development. He said final results of the country’s LAHORE said.. opposition parties support each the country. Khan said the party both the parties are already col- latest parliamentary elections He said any public other on the issue to issue basis policy comes from party’s laborating on the issue to issue after months of delay and The Pakistan Muslim League- announcement regarding the due to the understanding supreme leader Nawaz Sharif, basis. protest. Nawaz (PML-N) is considering alliance would be made after reached during preceding who is ‘here with us’ to give his “The possibility of any such The country’s Independent forming a formal alliance with Ramadan. This alliance, he said, efforts of forming an all parties’ instructions while party Pres- alliance being formed in near Election Commission issued the the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) would subsequently call an all alliance. ident will also return soon after future cannot be ruled but no final list of 33 winning candi- to give the ruling Pakistan opposition parties conference to “The PML-N will announce his medical checkups. such development is taking place dates from Kabul province Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) prepare a joint road-map. its future strategy at an appro- Regarding the role of right now,” he said. today to complete results for government a tough time, said “Both opposition parties, priate time. Our party has never Maryam Nawaz in leading the The PML-N’s recent restruc- the 249-member lower house the PML-N Senator Mushahid- however, agree that they would taken decisions under pressure party out of its current crisis, he turing is seen as a change of of parliament. ullah Khan. not support or adopt any undem- in the past and would not make said Maryam was now party’s party policy from the moderate The parliamentary elections “Both sides are already ocratic means to topple the PTI such decisions in the future,” he vice-president so she will lead approach of Shehbaz Sharif as held in October last year were united against the government led government and the added. the party alongside other senior adopted after July 2018 general marred by irregularities, alle- on the opposition benches but a movement would be democratic He, however, did not disclose party leaders. election to a more aggressive gations of rigging and technical formal alliance is being hashed in nature,” he added. who were spearheading the dis- The PPP leader and former approach of Nawaz Sharif, with glitches, which caused unprec- out by the senior leaders of both Regarding the previous cussions from PML-N sides given Senator Farhatullah Babar, party hawks taking over the front edented delay in the parties to put up a united front efforts for forming a joint the absence of the PML-N however, denied knowledge of row seats. announcement of results. Indonesia’s North Korea says going new capital to through ‘extreme drought’ be decided this AFP if no proper and urgent human- year: Minister SEOUL itarian actions are taken,” the report said. AFP North Korea’s average rain and The WFP Executive Director JAKARTA snowfall this year fell to the David Beasley was in Seoul lowest level in 37 years, earlier this week, and said he is Indonesia will decide the site Pyongyang’s state media said “very concerned” about food sit- of its new capital this year with yesterday, just days after the UN uation in the North during his the aim of it being ready by expressed “grave concerns” meeting with the South Korean 2024, a minister said yesterday. about food shortages. Unification Minister Kim The decision to move the The isolated, impoverished Yeon-chul. capital from megacity Jakarta nation - which is under several A Unification Ministry came about two weeks ago sets of sanctions over its nuclear official said on Tuesday that it after President Joko Widodo weapon and ballistic missile was “necessary” to send food aid approved the long-mooted programmes - has long to the North sometime between plan. The government is final- struggled to feed itself and May and September as recom- ising studies so they can decide suffers chronic food shortages. mended by the WFP report. this year and start the ground- US-Philippine drill in South China Sea A number of international Seoul in 2017 had aimed to breaking project in 2021, Urban organisations, including the send $4.5m worth of nutritional Planning Minister Bambang A Philippine coast guard ship BRP Langgam (left) and a US interceptor boat manoeuvre during a United Nations World Food products to North Korea through Brodjonegoro said. joint search and rescue exercise near Scarborough shoal in the South China Sea, while a Chinese Programme (WFP), have said the WFP, but that never hap- “We’ve been co-ordinating coastguard ship monitors the activity from a distance. minor disasters, including pened partially due to to finalise the studies so we can drought, can significantly Pyongyang’s nuclear tests that decide this year where to move worsen and hamper food pro- year. the capital to, so the process China slams asylum for ex-Interpol chief’s wife duction in the country. The South’s presidential Blue and construction can begin in From January to early May House has said US President a year or two,” he said. AFP asylum in France, it would be an was informed that Meng, the first this year, North Korea only Donald Trump supports Seoul’s “So we hope in 2024 the BEIJING abuse of French legal proce- Chinese president at the inter- received 54.4 millimetres of rain plan to provide humanitarian new capital is ready to be the dures.” Grace Meng, who was national police agency, had or snow, the smallest amount food aid to the North. new government centre.” Beijing said yesterday that given police protection in France resigned, with Beijing later since the same period in 1982, Early seasonal drought in Jakarta - and its surrounding France granting asylum to the after she alleged an abduction announcing he was being held the state-run KCNA said, the North this year could exac- satellite cities - has a population wife of former Interpol chief attempt at the start of the year, on suspicion of taking bribes. describing the situation as “an erbate “hunger, malnutrition of about 30 million people and Meng Hongwei - who has been was granted asylum on May 2 He was officially charged extreme drought”. and health problems” for “thou- is regularly rated as one of the charged in China with accepting along with the couple’s two with accepting bribes last week Last month, the WFP and the sands of children, pregnant and most traffic-congested centres bribes - would be an abuse of its children, their lawyer Emmanuel and Chinese prosecutors said UN’s Food and Agriculture breastfeeding women” in North in the world. own legal procedures. Marsigny said. Meng had abused his positions Organisation said in a joint Korea, the International Feder- Annual flooding due to “There is no so-called Meng Hongwei disappeared as Marine Police chief and vice report that North Korea’s crop ation of Red Cross said last excessive groundwater political persecution,” said last September after leaving the minister of public security to ille- output last year hit the lowest week. extraction has also made it one Chinese Foreign Ministry French city of Lyon, where gally obtain “extremely large” level since 2008, and that an “Even before this drought, of the world’s fastest-sinking Spokesman Geng Shuang, days Interpol is based, for China. amounts of property. estimated 10 million people - 40 one in five children under five cities. Earlier this month Pres- after Grace Meng’s lawyer in He later sent his wife a social But his wife said recently percent of the entire population years old was stunted because ident Widodo visited East and France said she had been media message telling her to that Chinese officials had pre- - are in urgent need of food. of poor nutrition. We are con- Central Kalimantan on the granted asylum. “wait for my call”, and then a sented “no proof whatsoever to “The situation could further cerned that these children will island of Borneo to scout for a “If Meng Hongwei’s wife knife emoji signifying danger. back up their charges”. She has deteriorate during the lean not be able to cope with further new capital location. wanted to apply for political A few weeks later, Interpol said she fears for her life. season from May to September, stress on their bodies.” THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 EUROPE 13 Brexit rebels to vote against May’s deal

REUTERS Theresa May’s move on to other issues,” he said. LONDON spokesman declined Nearly three years after the to confirmed UK voted to leave the EU, poli- Brexit-supporting rebels in whether the Premier ticians still disagree about when, British Prime Minister Theresa how or even if the divorce will May’s Conservative Party said would resign if she take place. yesterday that they would vote failed again to win Brexit supporters fear May’s down her European Union parliamentary support deal will keep the UK trapped divorce deal when she brings it for her Brexit deal. within the EU’s orbit for years back to parliament next month. and that it could ultimately pull Britain had been due to leave the British province of Northern the EU on March 29 but par- lawmakers to set a date for her Ireland towards the bloc. liament has three times rejected departure. Before her deal was defeated the withdrawal agreement May As well as the Brexit the last time, by 344 votes to 286 struck with Brussels. The United deadlock, the Conservative Party on March 29, May had promised Kingdom is now scheduled to suffered major losses in local to resign if it was passed. It was leave, with or without a deal to elections this month and is voted down first in January and smooth the exit, by October 31. trailing in opinion polls ahead of again in mid-March. Defeat in the vote would the May 23 European Parliament A sticking point has been the likely spell the end of May’s elections. Irish backstop, an insurance German Chancellor Angela Merkel (right), during the annual meeting of the German Sparkasse bank divorce deal and probably her Her spokesman declined to policy aimed at avoiding post- in Hamburg, yesterday. premiership. say whether May would resign Brexit controls on the border May will bring a Withdrawal if she failed again to win parlia- between Northern Ireland and Agreement Bill (WAB), which mentary support for her Brexit EU-member Ireland. implements the departure terms, deal. “If the prime minister brings Merkel, Macron ‘wrestle’ on policy issues to parliament for a vote in the Asked by a committee of law- the withdrawal bill to the week beginning June 3, Brexit makers from the upper house of Commons for a vote, the AFP of our roles,” she added. than the French president, who Secretary Steven Barclay said, parliament if this was “the last question will be ‘what has BERLIN Asked whether her rela- is not even allowed to enter the just as US President Donald chance saloon” for May’s divorce changed’?” asked Nigel Dodds, tionship with Macron had dete- National Assembly.” Trump begins a divisive state deal, Barclay said: “If the House parliamentary leader of the German Chancellor Angela riorated in recent months, Merkel also said there had visit to Britain. of Commons does not approve Northern Irish Democratic Merkel said yesterday that she Merkel replied: “No. Not at all.” been cases of bad timing, “I have talked to colleagues, the WAB, then the Barnier deal is Unionist Party (DUP), which and French President Emmanuel Instead Merkel insisted that pointing out that while Macron some of whom voted for it last dead in that form.” He was props up May’s minority gov- Macron “wrestle” on policy and Berlin and Paris agreed “natu- was pushing for major European time, and they think it is dead referring to the EU’s Brexit nego- ernment. “Unless she can dem- have different outlooks, but rally on the big issues”, adding reforms, she was engaged in half and they will vote against it this tiator Michel Barnier. onstrate something new that tended to cooperate and find that “this is how we accomplish a year of coalition building after time,” Peter Bone, a Conserv- Barclay said that would leave addresses the problem of the compromises in the end. much for Europe, even today”. 2017 elections. ative lawmaker and Brexit sup- parliament with the choice of backstop then it is highly likely “Of course, we wrestle with As an example, she cited Merkel rejected the accusation porter, said. “It seems absurd to revoking the decision to leave her deal will go down to defeat each other,” Merkel said about “enormous progress” in defence that, in comparison to reformist bring it back. It is the same thing the EU or exiting without a deal, once again.” relations between the core EU policy, saying that “we decided Macron, she had been a brake on again, again and again.” the default position if no divorce A majority of members of the leaders who have disagreed to develop a fighter plane and a change in European policy. May, who became prime agreement can be reached. European Research Group, a recently on issues from how the tank together”. “We always find a middle minister in the chaos that fol- “If the House (of Commons) large Brexit-supporting faction bloc should handle Brexit to She did, however, point to way,” the chancellor said, adding lowed the 2016 referendum in has not passed the Withdrawal in the Conservative Party, will arms exports and climate policy. different political cultures, that Germany too had “launched which Britons voted 52% to 48% Agreement Bill then there are vote against May’s deal, said “There are differences in saying: “I am the chancellor of a a whole series of initiatives”, to leave the EU, is under pressure growing voices in Europe, not Owen Paterson, a former mentality between us and dif- coalition government and much including in African devel- from some of her own least the French, who want to minister. ferences in our understanding more committed to parliament opment projects.

McDonald’s in Austria offers World leaders vow to consular services curb online violence AFP VIENNA AP Internet, without compromising PARIS human rights and fundamental Lost and hungry for help? freedoms.” American citizens who find A dozen countries and global The call was adopted by U.S themselves in distress in Austria tech giants including Facebook, tech companies. The countries can now seek support at an Google and Twitter pledged backing it were France, New unusual address — McDonald’s. yesterday to find ways to keep Zealand, Britain, Canada, Under a new partnership, Internet platforms from being Ireland, Jordan, Norway, outlets of the US fast food chain used to spread hate, organise Senegal, Indonesia and the EU’s throughout Austria will help extremist groups and broadcast executive body. Several other American citizens to get in terror attacks. countries not present at the touch with their embassy, it said World leaders led by French meeting added their on Facebook. President Emmanuel Macron endorsement. “Staff (at any McDonald’s and tech executives gathered in The White House also said in Austria) will assist them in Paris to compile a set of guide- it agreed with the overarching making contact with the US lines dubbed the “Christchurch message of the “Christchurch A Ferrari 288 GTO vintage car is being pulled on a tow truck, after the stolen vehicle was discovered Embassy for consular services,” Call to Action,” named after the Call” but did not want to endorse in a garage, in Grevenbroich, western Germany, yesterday. the embassy wrote New Zealand city where 51 it. yesterday. people were killed in a March The meeting in Paris comes Consular services include attack on mosques. Part of the at a pivotal moment for tech reporting a lost or stolen Man steals $2m Ferrari on test drive attack had been broadcast live companies, which critics accuse passport or seeking travel on Facebook, drawing public of being too powerful and assistance, the post said. AFP and a dark blue blazer who made stopped to swap drivers. outrage and fuelling the debate resistant to regulation. Some The US embassy did not BERLIN off with the 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO While the car seller was on how to better regulate social have called for giants like immediately return a request on Monday in Duesseldorf. outside the vehicle, the man media. Facebook to be broken up. for comment if Austria was the German police launched a The car, painted in classic slammed his foot on the accel- The agreement, which was Europe is leading a global push only country offering such search yesterday for a man who Italian racing red, was recovered erator of the 400-horsepower drafted by the French and New for more regulation of how the services at McDonald’s. during a test drive of a vintage a day later in a garage where the vehicle and roared off down a Zealand governments, aims to companies handle user data and Facebook users com- Ferrari worth over $2m sped off thief had tried to hide it, but the country road. prevent similar abuses of the copyrighted material. The tech menting on the post wasted no with the luxury sports car. suspect remained at large. The man, who had described Internet while insisting that any companies, meanwhile, are time in coining terms such as Police issued a wanted picture The theft happened as the himself as a car collector, had actions must preserve “the prin- offering their own ideas in a bid “McVisa” and “McPassport”. of the burly man wearing glasses would-be buyer and seller arrived for the test drive by taxi. ciples of a free, open and secure to shape the policy response. Bulgarian minister resigns UK talk show cancelled after death of guest over ‘misuse’ of EU funds AP LONDON during a recording. and specialised in emotive, confron- and on, for close to two decades AP The case has renewed debate tational showdowns, was pulled since Britain began making home- SOFIA British broadcaster ITV cancelled about the ethics of tabloid tele- after 63-year-old Steve Dymond grown equivalents of sensationalist a popular, long-running daytime vision, and sparked a parlia- was found dead at a home in Port- US programmes like “The Jerry The Bulgarian government said the country’s agriculture reality show after the death of a mentary inquiry into the regulation smouth, southern England, on May Springer Show” and putting minister has resigned amid allegations about the misuse of guest who failed a lie-detector test of programmes that put members 9. ordinary people under a micro- European Union funds. of the public Media reported that he had scope on reality shows such as “Big A government statement yesterday confirmed that while under intense killed himself. Police said the death Brother.” Rumen Porozhanov denies wrongdoing, he has stepped scrutiny. was not suspicious, and a post- ITV was already under pressure down to avoid attacks against him affecting the govern- ITV chief mortem will be held to determine following the deaths of two former ment’s work. executive the cause. contestants on reality show “Love Several senior officials have resigned amid scandals Carolyn McCall On an episode filmed earlier Island,” Sophie Gradon and Mike about the purchase of upscale apartments at below-market said “The this month, Dymond took a lie- Thalassitis. prices and the construction with EU funds of guest houses Jeremy Kyle detector test to convince his fiancee Gradon’s 2018 death was ruled for private use. Show” was that he had not been unfaithful, but a suicide at an inquest. An inquest Seeking to avoid setbacks before the European Par- being scrapped was told he had failed. has not yet been held for Thalas- liament elections, Prime Minister Boyko Borissov has already “given the The episode has not been aired. sitis, who died in March. accepted the resignations of the justice minister, his party’s gravity of Dymond’s death has Lawmaker Damian Collins, influential parliamentary faction leader and several other recent events.” heightened concern in Britain chairman of the House of officials. The about the stress put on people Commons Digital, Culture, Media Polls show the prime minister’s ruling centre-right tabloid-style appearing on reality television and and Sport Committee, said his A picture shows the logo of broadcaster ITV at their GERB party losing support and facing a serious challenge talk show, online shows, and program- panel would consider whether MediaCityUK studios in Salford, Greater Manchester, from the opposition Socialists in the EU elections on May which had run makers’ duty to protect their guests. there was adequate regulation of 26. northwest England. for 14 years It’s a debate that has raged, off reality TV. 14 AMERICAS THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019

‘Fire and Fury’ Trump Jr to testify in Russian probe author to publish new Trump book AFP Donald Trump Jr may have lied about what he and White House lawyer Don portions of Mueller’s report — WASHINGTON agreed to testify in his father knew of a June 2016 McGahn to testify about events that was subpoenaed by law- AP/NEW YORK early or mid-June, meeting in Trump Tower with a described in the special coun- makers seeking to exert their President Donald Trump’s son , behind closed doors Russian lawyer offering dirt on sel’s report, setting up another oversight responsibility. The author of “Fire and Fury” Donald Jr has agreed to testify Hillary Clinton, as well as other clash with President Trump. The report details how has more inside stories on the before the Senate Intelligence and with limits on connections between the two McGahn has not confirmed Trump’s lawyers and advisers, Trump administration. Committee investigating Russian time and the questions sides. his attendance at the House Judi- including McGahn, repeatedly Michael Wolff’s “Siege: election meddling, US media he will answer. Seeking to complete their ciary Committee’s May 21 rebuffed the president’s attempts Trump Under Fire” comes out reported. own report on Russian election hearing, and Trump has indi- to halt Mueller’s investigation — June 4, Henry Holt and The agreement resolved a interference, Senate Intelligence cated he will assert executive which some analysts said Company announced. looming fight between the Con- has already been “totally exon- Committee Chairman Richard privilege to resist Democrats amounts to illegal obstruction by Like the million-selling gress and the White House after erated” of collusion and Burr risked the wrath of the seeking materials or testimony the president. “Fire and Fury,” which came Donald Jr was subpoenaed by the obstruction of justice by Special White House and his Republican related to Russian meddling and The House committee’s out last year, “Siege” promises Republican-led committee last Counsel Robert Mueller’s report party by issuing a subpoena for alleged collusion. chairman, Democrat Jerry a juicy, behind-the-scenes look week. completed in late March. Donald Jr. “I’ve had him testifying Nadler, has said he wants at the current White House and According to reports, he had The Senate panel has inter- Finally, according to multiple already for 30 hours,” Trump Mueller himself to testify but no a president who is “volatile, initially agreed to testify behind viewed Donald Jr once before, reports, Donald Jr agreed to told Fox News last week. date has been sent. erratic, and exposed.” closed doors and then backed and is believed to be seeking testify in early or mid-June, “So I don’t think I can let him Trump said this month that The new book will focus on out for unclear reasons. clarification on his knowledge behind closed doors and with and then tell everybody else you Mueller should not testify before tensions amid Special Counsel But President Trump is bat- of contacts between the 2016 limits on time and the questions can’t.” Congress, but he reversed course Robert Mueller’s investigation tling any cooperation with Con- Trump presidential campaign he will answer. The White House is seeking last week, saying he would leave into alleged ties between gress in the Russia meddling and Russians. Meanwhile, congressional to shield a large swathe of that decision up to Attorney Russian officials and the Trump investigation, claiming that he Some Democrats suspect he Democrats scheduled former material — including redacted General Bill Barr. presidential campaign. According to Holt, Wolff spoke to more than 150 “sources,” although the pub- Republican senators lisher declined to say whether any are currently in the question migration plan administration. presented by Kushner Photos capture AP Democrats want an easing near-drowning WASHINGTON of restrictions that have pre- of migrants on vented many from obtaining cit- An attempt by presidential senior izenship, including for hundreds US-Mexico border adviser and son-in-law Jared of thousands of young people Kushner to win support for a brought to the US illegally as AP/EAGLE PASS White House immigration plan children. They’ve been allowed produced uncertain results as to temporarily live and work in New photos capture the Republican senators raised ques- the US under the Obama-era dramatic rescue of a 7-year-old tions. Deferred Action for Childhood boy from Honduras who nearly After Kushner and others Arrivals (DACA) programme, drowned in the river separating described the proposal at a which Trump has tried to the US and Mexico until Border Capitol Hill lunch with GOP law- terminate. Patrol agents rescued him. makers, Sen Lindsey Graham, Kushner won a positive The San Antonio Express- R-SC, said that White House offi- reception for his proposal last News reported the rescue of cials seemed “well on their way” week from about a dozen of the US Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-SC) during the discussion of immigration four adults and five children to winning consensus for a plan Senate’s more conservative legislation and the US-Mexico border on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, yesterday. who tried to cross the Rio that would unite Republicans on Republicans. It features a bol- Grande in inflatable children’s the contentious issue. But he stering of security measures, protections for DACA recipients of the proposal. Both spoke on get Democratic support as much pools near Eagle Pass, Texas. added, “Whether it will or not, I such as improved screening at but received no specific answer, condition of anonymity to as it is to unify the Republican The pools capsized. Agents don’t know.” southwest border ports of entry, Republicans said. describe the private session. Party around border security, a pulled the group out of the Kushner has been describing and an increased preference for “They cannot be excluded Senators said Trump was negotiating position,” Graham water on Friday and eventually his proposal to Republicans even immigrants with strong job skills from any immigration package,” expected to deliver a speech on said. took them into custody. as the approaching 2020 presi- over relatives of migrants Collins said afterward. immigration in coming days. “There was a lot of encour- The river is especially dential campaign makes a already in the US. One Republican official Kushner did not include agement today for the work strong between Eagle Pass, solution to what has long been Graham, who is close to briefed on themeeting said DACA protections in his pro- they’ve done,” said Sen Kevin Texas, and Piedras Negras, an intractable issue even harder Trump, said that while Kushner’s Kushner provided few details posal. Republicans said the plan Cramer, R-ND. Mexico. to resolve. President Donald plan focuses on people with and said senators did not seem is designed to give their party a Graham planned to unveil his An adult and three children Trump has made hard-line pol- high-end job skills, “We need overly impressed with the plan. starting point for talks and a own proposal for revamping were recently swept away icies a staple of his presidency workers across the board.” Another said Senate Majority stance they can carry into next laws that affect Central American trying to cross the river nearby; as conservatives push to reduce Moderate Sen Susan Collins, Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky, year’s elections. migrants seeking asylum to enter all four are presumed dead. legal immigration. R-Maine, asked Kushner about did not offer his views “I don’t think it’s designed to the US. Alaska floatplanes Flights between US & Venezuela suspended amid unrest collision leaves REUTERS American country. respond to a request for United States and Venezuela, in week expanded the scope of its six people dead WASHINGTON In a letter to the Transpor- comment. March said it was indefinitely Venezuela sanctions to the tation Department requesting the Many international airlines suspending its flights to defence and security services AFP/WASHINGTON The US Department of Transpor- halt, the Department of had stopped flying to Venezuela Venezuela. sectors to try to crank up eco- tation yesterday ordered the Homeland Security said “condi- anyway because of security con- In April, the US Federal Avi- nomic pressure on President Six people are confirmed dead suspension of all commercial tions in Venezuela threaten the cerns and disputes over money ation Administration prohibited Nicolas Maduro. after two floatplanes carrying passenger and cargo flights safety and security of passengers, they say the government owes US air operators from flying The moves are part of a four- cruise ship passengers collided between the United States and aircraft, and crew travelling to them. below 26,000 feet in Venezuela’s month-old campaign against mid-air in Alaska, the US Coast Venezuela, citing reports of or from that country.” American Airlines Group Inc, airspace. Maduro as the United States Guard said yesterday. unrest and violence around Venezuela’s Information previously the largest carrier The administration of US ramps up its support for oppo- Volunteer rescuers wrapped airports in the Southern Ministry did not immediately providing service between the President Donald Trump last sition leader Juan Guaido. up their search on Tuesday night once the remains of the last victim were spotted by a Coast Guard helicopter, the agency Biden widens lead on said in a statement. “In total 10 people were rescued and six people were found deceased.” rivals for presidential “The dead included four Americans, one Australian and a Canadian,” the Princess nomination: Poll Cruises confirmed yesterday. The two planes carried a ANATOLIA of State Hillary Clinton, he was total of 14 passengers from the WASHINGTON nonetheless propelled on to the Royal Princess ship when the national stage, bringing with him collision occurred Monday near Democratic front-runner Joe a nascent progressive wing of Ketchikan, a popular tourist Biden continued to expand his the Democratic Party that has spot on southern Alaskan cruise lead over fellow partisans vying since grown in popularity. routes surrounded by fjords and for the party’s nomination in the Biden has boosted his pop- dense forests. 2020 election, according to a ularity by 4 percentage points One aircraft operated by poll released yesterday. amongst Democratic and Inde- Taquan Air — whose pilot sur- The former vice-president pendent women since April vived — was flying a shore boosted his lead by 5 percentage despite being dogged by a alle- excursion sold through the points, according to the latest gations of his treatment of a cruise line. iteration of an Ipsos/Reuters woman who alleged misconduct Former Brazil president Michel Temer arrives to his house after the Superior Court of Justice ordered The other, operated by monthly poll. against Supreme Court Justice to release him from preventive prison in Sao Paulo, yesterday. Mountain Air, carried guests The poll indicated 29% of Clarence Thomas during his from the ship but was an inde- Democrats and Independents Senate confirmation. pendent company whose tour would vote for Biden — up from Asked who they would vote was not sold through Princess, Brazil’s Temer freed from detention 24% in late April prior to Biden for if their preferred candidate the cruise line said. officially entering the race. were no longer running, 16% of National Transportation AP Earlier yesterday, a judge in circumstances did not justify He leads amongst all age registered Democrats said they Safety Board member Jennifer RIO DE JANEIRO Rio de Janeiro signed off on preventive detention. groups except for 18-37 year olds would cast ballot for Sanders — Homendy said both aircraft Temer’s release from the police Instead, Temer has to who favour Vermont Senator the top choice in that scenario. were inbound to Ketchikan For the second time since he left station where he had been comply with a series of lighter Bernie Sanders. That age groups Biden followed shortly behind when the collision occurred. office on January 1, former Brazil detained since May 9. A day preventive measures, such as favours Sanders by just two with 13%. “The two planes converged president Michel Temer was before, four judges had voted handing over his passport. points, however, 18% to 16%. Registered Independents, between 3,200 and 3,300 feet released from jail yesterday, a unanimously to temporarily The superior court justices While Sanders’ 2016 White however, preferred Sanders 14% on the west side of the George week after his arrest in a release the 78-year-old poli- will deliver a final decision at a House bid was ultimately unable to 10% for Biden under those Inlet,” she said. corruption probe. tician, arguing that the later date. to best that of former Secretary conditions. THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019 HOME 15 HMC advises pregnant and breast-feeding women to take precautions during Ramadan

Dr Faten El Taher, Senior Consultant in baby, shows any signs of dis- Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Women’s tress, she should immediately Wellness and Research Center, said while break her fast, drinking water some studies show there is little or no effect containing salt and sugar, or an oral rehydration solution. She on babies whose mothers fasted during should also immediately pregnancy, other studies have found that contact her doctor,” said Dr Al pregnant Muslim women who fast during Taher. Ramadan are likely to have smaller babies who Dr Amal Abu Bakr Arbab, Lactation Consultant and Lead are more prone to learning disabilities. for the Baby-Friendly Hospital The visitors at Coloring for Adults: Islamic Patterns workshop at QNL. Initiative at the Women’s THE PENINSULA protect themselves and their Wellness and Research Center, DOHA unborn babies from further says it is important for breast- complications. However, feeding women to consult their Islamic patterns coloring Hamad Medical Corporation pregnant women who decide physician prior to fasting. Dr Amal Abu Bakr Arbab, (HMC) is advising women who to fast during Ramadan should She said most Islamic Lactation Consultant and Lead workshops at QNL have pregnancy complications only do so under their doctor’s scholars believe that breast- for the Baby-Friendly Hospital such as diabetes, high blood supervision,” cautioned Dr El feeding women are exempt THE PENINSULA physical and material Initiative at Women’s Hospital. pressure, and anemia to take Taher. from fasting and urges women DOHA qualities. precautions if they are fasting “Each Ramadan we see an who are breast-feeding to seek As part of the Library’s this Ramadan. increase in the number of distress, which could include medical advice if they decide The visitors attended a workshop, theme of faith during May, the Dr Faten El Taher, Senior pregnant women who visit our weight loss (or not gaining to fast. “Coloring for Adults: Islamic meditative activity encouraged Consultant in Obstetrics and Emergency Department for enough weight throughout “For women who are able Patterns,” at Qatar National participants to increase mind- Gynecology at the Women’s complains associated with pregnancy), extreme thirst, to breastfeed, breast milk pro- Library yesterday, which explored fulness and disconnect from Wellness and Research Center, fasting. If Ramadan coincides infrequent urination, or dark- vides the ideal food source for a new and creative way to stressful daily routines. said while some studies show with the summer months, this coloured and strong-smelling the healthy growth and devel- increase mindfulness and “Coloring gives me a sense there is little or no effect on means hot weather and longer urine, headache, pain, or fever, opment of their infant. Both the reflection this Ramadan. of mental serenity and focus, babies whose mothers fasted days, which puts pregnant and nausea or vomiting. World Health Organization The special colouring and I was very happy by the during pregnancy, other women at greater risk for dehy- She says it is also important (WHO) and the United Nations session for adults focused on choice of Islamic decorations as studies have found that dration due to low fluid intake. to immediately contact one’s Children’s Fund (UNICEF) rec- Islamic patterns, allowing a theme. The event was an pregnant Muslim women who This could induce premature doctor if there are changes in ommend exclusive breast- participants to learn more excellent opportunity to make fast during Ramadan are likely labour and subsequently lead the baby’s movement (partic- feeding for the first six months about Islamic art. Geometric new friendships with other like- to have smaller babies who are to preterm births,” added Dr El ularly a decrease in of a baby’s life. patterns developed over the minded people who share the more prone to learning Taher. movement), if the woman Exclusive breastfeeding centuries are considered same passion,” said Taehyun disabilities. Dr El Taher said fasting experiences contraction-like means the infant only receives important in Islamic art and Kim, an attendee at the event, “Pregnant women with pregnancy women should pains, feels dizzy, faint, weak, breast milk without any addi- partly how it represents who is keen to participate in all underlying health conditions contact their doctor immedi- confused, or tired. tional food or drink,” said Dr nature and objects by their coloring events organised at the should avoid fasting in order to ately if they notice signs of “If a woman, or her unborn Arbab. spiritual qualities, not their Library. InterContinental Doha The City wins Qatar’s Leading City Hotel at World Travel Awards

THE PENINSULA DOHA

InterContinental Doha The City garnered highly coveted recog- nition by winning Qatar’s Leading City Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2019. Gilles Longuet, General Manager of InterContinental Doha The City, said, “We are delighted to be honoured with this award and to be recognised as Qatar’s Leading City Hotel. The biggest contributor to this accolade is our colleagues, who consistently strive A view of the Preparatory School Debate League Nationals in English at DeBakey High School. to provide our guests with under- stated service excellence and InterContinental Doha The City. memorable experiences.” QatarDebate concludes its QPSDL in English WTA was established in 1993 THE PENINSULA Indian School; while EFL Category (girls), to acknowledge, reward and cel- Doha The City has established InterContinental Doha The DOHA QatarDebate, awarded Moza Preparatory School ebrate excellence across all itself as a leading Business and City is located in the heart of the for Girls as the champion, followed by Runner-up sectors of the tourism industry. MICE hotel in the heart of West city within the financial and dip- QatarDebate, member of Qatar Foundation award to Amna bin Wahab School for Girls. World Travel Awards is voted for Bay since its opening in 2012. lomatic districts. It is only five recently organised its Preparatory School Debate Moreover, for Open Category (boys), by travel and tourism profes- Perfectly situated in the minutes from the Doha Exhibition League Nationals (QPSDL) in English, for boys QatarDebate, awarded DPS Modern Indian School sionals and business and leisure exclusive West Bay area, close to and Convention Centre (DECC) hosted at DeBakey High School recently and for as the champion, followed by Runner-up award travel consumers worldwide, rec- all the major areas of interest, the and 20 minutes from Hamad girls hosted at Amna bint Wahab Preparatory to The Next Generation School; while EFL Cat- ognising the commitment to stylish and modern Interconti- International Airport. With its School for Girls. egory (boys), QatarDebate, awarded Abu Bakr excellence demonstrated during nental Doha The City stands tall close proximity to Doha Golf Club, The event featured top 16 teams in the Open Alsiddiq Preparatory School for Boys as the the last 12 months. amidst the action of the city. The Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural category and EFL category for both boys and girls champion, followed by Runner-up award to Abdul Today, the WTA brand is rec- hotel offers 349 luxury guest Village and major shopping malls, tournaments. Rahman Bin Jassim Preparatory School for Boys. ognised globally as the ultimate rooms, suites and studios, as well InterContinental Doha The City is For Open Category (girls), QatarDebate, Participants also received certificates of partic- hallmark of quality, with winners as 176 residence suites offering the perfect place for short - or long awarded DeBakey High School as the champion, ipation and the top 10 speakers received certifi- setting the benchmark to which various layouts consisting of one - term guests to enjoy business or followed by Runner-up award to DPS Modern cates and medals for their debate participation. all others aspire. InterContinental to four bedrooms. leisure stays. Georgetown professor who revolutionised Arabic instruction retires Recognising the need for thoughts in order to speak able to speak and extemporize program,” says the dean of a whole new approach Arabic. fluently in MSA. GU-Q, Dr Ahmed Dalal. to teaching and learning In addition, while they may But now lawyers speak According to Dr Gerd Non- tailored to heritage speak a dialect of the language, using the colloquial and judges neman, Professor of Interna- Arabic speakers, Abbas they cannot use professional- make mistakes in the MSA tional Relations and Gulf Al Tonsi worked with his grade Modern Standard Arabic, when reading the texts of Studies, and a former dean of or MSA. Furthermore, many of rulings.” Because of a GU-Q, Al Tonsi will be remem- colleagues to transform their teachers were specifically dependence on curricula from bered as the lead in GU-Q’s the curriculum, developing trained in teaching non-native the West, he said, “all of us, to “creation of the world’s leading a separate learning speakers. a varying degree, are heritage team researching and devel- track called the Heritage Recognising the need for a learners. Most of us think in oping pedagogy for Arabic her- Learners Program—a whole new approach to dialects and then translate into itage learners.” groundbreaking Arabic teaching and learning tailored MSA.” As he said goodbye to the to heritage Arabic speakers, Al Dr Yehia Mohamed, Asso- university, and the Doha com- language initiative that Tonsi worked with his col- ciate Professor of Arabic at munity he called home, Al Tonsi includes lessons in Arabic leagues to transform the cur- GU-Q, worked on the project reminisced with some pride culture and the arts. riculum, developing a separate with Al Tonsi from the about how much has changed learning track called the Her- beginning. “During his lead- under his tenure. itage Learners Program—a ership the [Heritage Learner’s] “Today, there is no other THE PENINSULA groundbreaking Arabic lan- program has expanded to place that offers the study of DOHA guage initiative that includes become one of the most Arabic for heritage learners Abbas Al Tonsi lessons in Arabic culture and important Arabic education consistently, as part of the After a 12 year tenure at Geor- the arts, and addresses the programs in the region and the standard course offering each getown University in Qatar, in 2007, already the co-author opened in 2005, it offered the unique native speaking profile world.” semester. Senior Language Instructor of some of the most globally rec- same Arabic courses as those of many Arabic language stu- It is praise repeated by eve- We started with only two Abbas Al Tonsi will retire home ognised Arabic-language text offered at the main campus in dents in Qatar. ryone who worked with him. “I professors and now we are at to Cairo, Egypt this year, books for non-native speakers. Washington, DC. However, Al According to Al Tonsi, the was honoured to be a member nine. We started with one class leaving behind an innovative At the time he had little idea that Tonsi quickly realised that gaps addressed by the Geor- of the selection committee that and now we have multiple and thriving Arabic program he would soon be developing a many enrolled Arab students getown curriculum also plague appointed him to GU-Q in 2007. classes focused on content for tailored to the needs of Arab whole new system of teaching attended foreign international Arab education across the Arab We are proud to have had him advanced levels, conversational students. Arabic to Arab students. schools and think in English, world. “In the past, members lay down solid foundations of speech, literature, culture, Abbas Al Tonsi came to GU-Q When the Doha campus having to translate their of educated society have been such a notable educational cinema, and linguistics.” 16 MORNING BREAK THURSDAY 16 MAY 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 03. 24 AM Qatar Airways serves Iftar meals SHOROOK 04. 49 AM

ZUHR 11. 30 AM MAGHRIB 06. 15 PM ASR 02. 57 PM ISHA 07. 45 PM onboard during holy Ramadan THE PENINSULA WEATHER TODAY DOHA

Qatar Airways is continuing its tradition of supporting passengers who are fasting during the Holy Month of Ramadan and breaking their fast on board by serving a delicious Iftar meal consisting of traditional Middle Eastern specialities. The Iftar boxes feature a bespoke inhouse design inspired by Arabian calligraphy and will be offered on selected routes across the Middle East, Algeria, Tunisia, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. Each box contains a selection Qatar Airways’s economy and business class (right) Iftar meals. of sweet and savoury delicacies. The Iftar boxes are offered in addition to laban and water. Passengers travelling passengers a delicious and refreshing with the fasting passenger in mind. On Qatar Airways’ traditional meal service in Economy Class can enjoy Iftar boxes way to break their fast while travelling. behalf of Qatar Airways, we extend to for those customers who are not filled with focaccia with mozzarella, The Holy Month of Ramadan is an all warmest wishes for a Ramadan fasting. apple slices, mixed nuts, finger important time for a great number of Kareem.” Travelling between time Qatar Airways First and Business baklava, dates, shortbread, marble our customers, and we are delighted zones can be challenging for the fasting Class passengers will be offered Iftar cake, fresh laban and water. to provide a service that is tailored to traveller; thus QA cabin crew will make boxes containing a selection of cru- Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways the needs of those who are fasting. We an announcement and serve the Iftar dités, hummus, mini Arabic bread, Group Chief Executive, said: “We are invite all passengers to embrace this boxes at the appropriate time during chicken shawarma, focaccia with moz- pleased to be able to continue our tra- special time of the year with this the flight, freeing passengers from 30oC 41oC zarella, olives, dates, banana, fresh dition this year of offering our selection of items designed specifically having to calculate the time. Minimum Maximum Film on Christchurch mosque

Hot daytime with slight dust and some massacre announced at Cannes clouds at times. AFP Variety, saying members of his team

HIGH TIDE 01:53 –15:40 LOW TIDE 09:39 – 21:49 CANNES, FRANCE were currently in New Zealand to meet Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department survivors and families of the victims. The New Zealand mosque massacre “The story that ‘Hello Brother’ will in which a white supremacist slaugh- bring to audiences is just one step in tered 51 people is to be turned into a the healing process so that we might movie called “Hello Brother”, its all better understand each other, and producer told media at Cannes the root causes of hatred, racism, yesterday. supremacy and terrorism.” The title is The feature film, which follows a based on the welcoming words spoken family of refugees that flees Afghan- by an elderly Afghan man as he greeted istan for the safety of Christchurch the gunman at the doors of the Al Noor only to get caught up in the carnage, mosque. He was shot dead, but his Festival goers hang about at the International Village of the film market is being made by Egyptian producer words were taken up around the world during the 72nd edition of the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, southern Moez Masoud, he told Variety as a rallying call against hate. France, yesterday. magazine. News of the production was “In Christchurch, on March 15, the announced on the second day of the announcement, the Christchurch- organisations in the region, said it had world witnessed an unspeakable crime Cannes film festival, just two months based Muslim Association of Can- not been approached about plans to against humanity,” Masoud told after the bloodshed. Reacting to the terbury, which represents Islamic make any such film.