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Qatari-Austrian Hathab Series helps Business Forum achieve our goals: discusses promotion QEF President of investments Al Attiyah

Wednesday 6 March 2019 | 29 Jumada II 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 23 | Number 7822 | 2 Riyals

The big Ooredoo Your home internet will now be Supernet boost up to 5x faster for FREE! Terms & conditions apply Qatar and Austria strengthen relations further Amir meets Austrian President, Chancellor; two memorandums of understanding signed

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani receiving a football with signatures of Austrian National team players from Austrian President, Alexander Van der Bellen. RIGHT: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the Chancellor of Austria, Sebastian Kurz, witnessing the signing of an agreement in Vienna, yesterday.

QNA VIENNA bin Hamad Al Thani’s two-day and means of enhancing them During a session of official especially the situation in Palestine, honour of H H the Amir. Later in official visit. H H the Amir met in various fields. H H the Amir talks, they discussed aspects of in addition to the Gulf crisis. The the afternoon, Amir H H Sheikh with Federal President of the and the President also exchanged enhancing joint cooperation to meeting was attended by the Their Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Qatar and Austria yesterday Republic of Austria, Alexander views on current issues in the cover various fields, especially in Excellencies, the members of the Chancellor of the Republic of strengthened bilateral relations Van der Bellen at Hofburg Pres- Middle East and the world. Upon politics, economy, investment, official delegation accompanying Austria, Sebastian Kurz, witnessed with the signing of two memo- idential Palace. arrival at the Hofburg Palace, H health, and education. The leaders H H the Amir. The Federal Pres- the signing ceremony of two mem- randums of understanding During the meeting, the two H the Amir was accorded an also discussed the latest regional ident of the Republic of Austria orandums of understanding, at the during Amir H H Sheikh Tamim sides reviewed bilateral relations official reception ceremony. and international developments, hosted a luncheon banquet in Chancellery in Vienna. `P2 QIIB’s $500m Sukuk listed on LSE Qatar ranks 5th in world

THE PENINSULA for best healthcare DOHA THE PENINSULA East, with QR22.7bn invested in London Stock Exchange (LSE) DOHA healthcare in 2018, a four has listed QIIB’s $500m Sukuk percent increase from the pre- in the presence of QIIB Improved life expectancy, better vious year. Chairman and Managing health outcomes and investment Qatar is the only country in the Director Sheikh Dr Khalid bin in health infrastructure have led region to score in the top five on Thani Al Thani; Chief Executive to Qatar being ranked fifth in the the annual prosperity index, Officer, Dr Abdulbasit Ahmad world for best healthcare by the placing behind Singapore, Luxem- Al Shaibei; Qatar’s Ambassador Legatum Institute, a London- bourg, Japan, and Switzerland. to the UK Yousef bin Ali Al based think-tank. In compiling H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Khater; UK’s Ambassador to the health ranking in the annual Kuwari, Minister of Public Qatar Ajay Sharma; and Her prosperity index, countries’ Health, said that under the wise Majesty’s Trade Commissioner performance in three areas, leadership of Amir H H Sheikh (HTMC) Simon Penney. including basic health outcomes, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, The highly successful health infrastructure and prevent- Qatar has invested heavily in the offering was oversubscribed ative care, and physical and health sector. She said the top nearly seven times with mental health were evaluated. placement in the international investors bidding for more The rise in the rankings from index is a reflection of the coun- than seven times the amount 13th place last year has been try’s commitment to system- offered and reflects the pos- driven by the fact that Qatar has wide priorities designed to both itive outlook of the Qatari the highest life expectancy rate meet the needs of future gener- economy and the strength of in the Eastern Mediterranean ations and improve the health its financial position. Region and globally ranks in the of the current population. The offering was over- top 25 percent for healthcare “The 2018 ranking recog- subscribed by investors, access and quality. The coun- nizes the investment the country mostly from outside the QIIB Chairman and Managing Director Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Thani Al Thani with other dignitaries during try’s healthcare spending is has made in health infra- Middle East. `Business 01 the listing of the bank's $500m Sukuk on the London Stock Exchange, yesterday. among the highest in the Middle structure. `P2 Hamad Port’s 2nd container terminal to be operational by next year

MOHAMMAD SHOEB established by Qatar Ports Bissett added: “We have is currently working to improve tonnes of bulk and break bulk THE PENINSULA Management Company already started the process, and the efficiency of CT-1 of Hamad cargo has been imported to (Mwani) and Qatar Navigation looking at appointing a design Port, which is growing very Qatar, and most of that has been Works for the development of (Milaha). consultant, and then we will go quickly. directed to the massive infra- YESTERDAY'S RESULTS the Phase II of Hamad Port has “Because of the rapid to appoint contractors to carry “Within a short period of structure development, already started. With the works growth of the Qatari economy, out the civil works. And in par- time we have seen significant including stadiums, roads, Ajax beat Real Madrid 4-1 (5-3) progressing on schedule, the we have already started the allel we are also in the process growth. So we need to release metro, and many other projects Tottenham Hotspur beat second container terminal development works of the of procuring the equipment that further infrastructure to handle in line with the Qatar National Borussia Dortmund 1-0 (4-0) (CT-2), which is part of the Phase II of the Hamad Port, will go with the CT-2.” the growing number of vessels Vision 2030. expansion project, is set to which consist of another con- Asked about the exact date coming to the port. Therefore “In terms of the devel- TODAY'S FIXTURES become operational by next year, tainer terminal. QTerminals has of the completion of the Phase II CT-2 has become a critical opment projects in Qatar, (KICK-OFF 11:00PM QATAR TIME) said a top official of QTerminals, been awarded the design, project, he said that the time line expansion of the Hamad Port,” Hamad Port accounts for FC Porto vs Roma (Agg 1-2) which has been awarded the develop and operation contract is still very fluid but at least the Bissett said. between 95 and 96 percent of contract. for the CT-2,” Neville Bissett, first phase of the CT-2 will be Since the operations began all the goods entering the PSG vs Manchester United QTerminals is a terminal CEO of QTerminals, told The operational next year. at Hamad Port in December country at the moment,” said the (Agg 2-0) operating company jointly Peninsula. He also said that QTerminals 2016, roughly over three million CEO of QTerminals. `P5 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 Qatar, Austria strengthen relations further

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the Federal President of the Republic of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen, held a session of official talks at Hofburg Presidential Palace in Vienna yesterday. H H the Amir also held a bilateral meeting with the Chancellor of the Republic of Austria, Sebastian Kurz, at the Chancellery in Vienna.

FROM PAGE 1 Sustainability and Tourism in the Republic of Austria, Alexander The first MoU was on eco- Republic of Austria. The MoU Van der Bellen, and Chancellor nomic, trade and technical coop- aims to develop and promote of the Republic of Austria, eration between the Ministry of cooperation between both coun- Sebastian Kurz, expressing deep Commerce and Industry and the tries in this field. thanks and appreciation for the Federal Ministry for Digital and H H the Amir and the Chan- hospitality and honor accorded Economic Affairs in the Republic cellor of Austria also discussed to him during the visit, which of Austria. The MoU aims to ways to strengthen bilateral rela- allowed the exchange of views promote economic relations, tions in various fields, especially on issues of common concern improve the level of trade economy, investment, trade, and means of strengthening and exchange, encourage the estab- energy and technology. The promoting the friendly relations lishment of exhibitions and talks also discussed current and cooperation between the mutual events between the two regional and international devel- two countries in various fields countries and exempt customs opments. H H the Amir and the for the good and the benefit of duties on some imports and Chancellor also held a bilateral the two peoples. exports. meeting at the Chancellery. H H the Amir wished the The second MoU was in the H H the Amir left Vienna yes- President and the Chancellor the tourism field between Qatar terday evening after a two-day best of health and happiness, and National Tourism Council and official visit. H H the Amir sent the friendly people of Austria the Federal Ministry for cables to Federal President of the further progress and prosperity. NHRC holds three leading positions in GANHRI Qatar ranks 5th in the world for best healthcare QNA gained the confidence of the APF, FROM PAGE 1 GENEVA which decided to elect Dr Al continually measuring itself Marri for three positions and a “Over the past two years, we against the very highest inter- National Human Rights fourth position for Dr have opened six new public national standards. Committee (NHRC) was appointed Mohammed bin Saif Al Kuwari sector hospitals and more than “It is a mark of how far three leading positions during the as member of the APF council. 1,100 new hospital beds,” Dr Al Qatar’s healthcare system has General Assembly meeting of the This victory culminates NHRC’s Kuwari. progressed in recent years that Global Alliance of National Human achievements and contributions “We have also opened four it now not only meets but Rights Institutions (GANHRI). to the defence of human rights new Health and Wellness exceeds many international The three positions appointed issues in Qatar and the region, Centers. The ranking also rec- benchmarks for quality of care. to Chairman of the NHRC, Dr Ali and its efforts and international ognizes that our focus on areas For example, the international bin Smaikh Al Marri, yesterday in moves to face the blockade such as cancer, diabetes, and benchmark for the time that GANHRI are vice president, sec- imposed on Qatar, which a great smoking cessation are having a elapses from when a heart retary and member of the bureau, violation to human rights. NHRC positive impact on people’s lives, attack patient arrives at the hos- based on the elections which took is the only one in the GCC to and ultimately it recognizes that pital to the time the blocked place on the sidelines of 23rd Asia receive an ‘A’ status from life expectancy in Qatar con- artery is opened is 90 minutes, Pacific Forum of National Human GANHRI, after following a rig- tinues to improve,” said Dr Al while at Heart Hospital, it is Rights Institutions (APF) Annual orous accreditation process, Kuwari. around 60 minutes. Meeting, held in Hong Kong. under the supervision of the Dr Al Kuwari said the And at HMC 68 percent of Dr Al Marri said he will Office of the High Commissioner opening of the new facilities, stroke patients are treated with work hard during the next for Human Rights , as the secre- along with the expansion of acute intervention within 60 three years as GANHRI vice tariat to the GANHRI and its Sub existing services, is part of the minutes of arrival, above the president and secretary to Committee on Accreditation. ‘A’ long-term plan set out in the international benchmark of 50 promote the independence and status is granted only to national National Health Strategy to 60 percent. We have also operations of national human institutions that are being in full 2018-2022. worked hard to focus our efforts rights institutions, in compliance with the Paris She said a focus on prevent- on infection control and have an accordance with the Paris Principles. ative care and integrated incidence per 10,000 patient Principles, and the com- NHRC Chairman Dr Ali bin Smaikh Al Marri at the meet. NHRC has again received services across the whole health days of hospital-acquired MRSA mitment to defend and protect GANHRI confidence, which have sector is helping ensure that of just 0.2, well below 0.6 in the human rights globally. He said region to develop their per- protect human rights in the earlier rejected complaints by when people need care, they are US and 5.5 in Switzerland,” Dr the confidence gained by the formance and their conformity region. the blockade countries, who able to access it in a timely way. Al Kuwari added. NHRC will stimulate all rights with international standards and The elections were a historic opposed the ‘A’ status given to Dr Al Kuwari noted that Qatar also ranks strongly for institutions in the Asia-Pacific promote human rights gains and victory for NHRC, where it NHRC. Qatar’s health system is a number of health outcomes. WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 HOME 03 Al Subaie meets EU envoys, discusses ties Civil Defence acquires

QNA DOHA latest sophisticated Minister of Municipality and Environment H E Abdullah bin firefighting vehicles Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie met yesterday with the Ambas- sadors of EU countries SIDI MOHAMED The General accredited to Qatar. DOHA During the meeting they dis- Directorate of Civil cussed cooperation between the The General Directorate of Civil Defence has acquired State of Qatar and their coun- Defence (GDCD) has recently many advanced fire- tries in the fields of agriculture, acquired many advanced fire- fighting vehicles environment, urban planning, fighting vehicles related to civil municipal affairs and food defence, including 90-metre and related to civil security. 112-metre ladder vehicles which defence, including They also discussed means can be use in case of fire incident Minister of Municipality and Environment H E Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie with the 90-metre and 112- to promote cooperation aspects in high-rise buildings, said an metre ladder vehicles. to achieve mutual goals. Ambassadors of EU countries accredited to the State at the meeting. officer at the Directorate. During the meeting the EU “The General Directorate is Ambassadors were briefed on Municipality and Environment, currently under implementation to what the Ministry has keen to develop its equipment and Directorate of Civil Defence on the strategy of the Ministry of the most prominent work and future projects. In addition achieved in different fields. procuring latest equipment. Now Sunday marked Word Civil the Directorate has a sophisti- Defence Day in the presence of a cated vehicle that can reach faster number of representatives of to the spot in a record time before companies and related institu- HMC develops novel lymphedema care guidelines the arrival of normal fire tions, and a number of school vehicles,” said Captain Khalid students. FAZEENA SALEEM treatment in Qatar. Emad Basher Abdalla, a phys- public about lymphedema. Saud Al Kuwari, from the General The celebration came under THE PENINSULA “Prior to the establishment of iotherapist and Certified Lymph- “We have put a lot of effort Directorate of Traffic. the theme ‘Children’s Safety is Our the lymphedema clinic at NCCCR edema Therapist at NCCCR, said: into raising awareness among GDCD in an earlier statistics Responsibility’, to underscore the Hamad Medical Corporation patients either had to leave the “Lymphedema is swelling that doctors and other healthcare pro- had said that it had improved its importance of promoting a (HMC) has developed first of its country to receive treatment or can occur in any part of the body fessionals as well as among average response time to reach culture of concern for children as kind in the Middle East best prac- live with the physical and psy- but is commonly seen in the arms cancer patients and the public. the spot to 7-10 minutes in 2017 the future of the renaissance of tices and clinical guidelines for chosocial burden of the con- and legs. While it can be hered- Our efforts have been effective compared to 7-12 minutes in 2016. the nations, and the cornerstone the care of primary and dition,” said Shafi speaking to itary, it is often caused by the as demonstrated by the increase The reduction in response was for building societies. secondary lymphedema. media. removal of lymph nodes, trauma, in the number of patients we are achieved despite continuous The Word Civil Defence Day The guidelines for standards “The clinic provides Interna- abdominal surgeries, or cancer, seeing,” said Abdalla. urbanisation and ongoing infra- is celebrated worldwide on the of care and the management of tional standard of care for the and specifically exposure to radi- March 6, i.e. today, is World structure work in the country. 1st of March each year, in order lymphedema specifies referrals, patients and its free of charge,” ation therapy or removal of the Lymphedema Day and the Phys- Regarding inspection drives to remind the role played by Civil diagnosis, assessment, treatment he added. lymph nodes and vessels as part iotherapy and Lymphedema about safety measures at Defence to protect lives and and ongoing care of patients, said Lymphedema is a condition of cancer treatments.” Department will hold events for buildings, speaking to Qatar Radio property. Mohammed Shafi, Head of the characterized by localized fluid In 2016, a total of 194 patients patients and members of the recently on the occasion of Word About the occurrence of most Physiotherapy and Lymphedema retention and tissue swelling and received treatment for lymph- public to raise awareness about Civil Defence Day, Al Kuwari said: of fire incidents, another official Department at HMC’s National is caused by a compromised lym- edema at HMC the majority of lymphedema and the importance “The General Directorate carries from the General Directorate of Center for Cancer Care and phatic system. It can affect the these patients were female breast of early treatment. Workshops out two kinds of inspections; the Civil Defence said that most of fire Research (NCCCR). face, neck, abdomen, and other cancer survivors. In 2017, it will be held to educate physio- first is periodic inspection while incidents used to occur in The NCCCR’s Physiotherapy parts of the body. The condition increased to 342 and last year therapists and health care pro- the second one is surprise summers at homes due to elec- and Lymphedema Department can be primary or secondary, 400 have received treatment for fessionals & Upcoming ‘Walk to inspection and both aim to save tricity problems and also fire inci- was established in 2013 and cares with primary lymphedema the condition. fight Lymphedema’ Walkathon lives and properties of people.” dents in vehicles during same for patients transferred from caused by the abnormal devel- “We receive more female event on March 7 at Aspire Park On the periodic inspection, he season. GDCD looks forward to across HMC’s network of hos- opment of the lymphatic system patients as breast cancer is the from 4 pm to 6 pm. said, “Companies and institutions achieving the Ministry of Interior’s pitals, as well as from primary and secondary being the result of most common cancer in the Lymphedema clinic has always succeed in it but they fail strategy in the public safety sector health centrEs, and private damage to the lymphatic system. country,” said Abdalla. earned international accolades in surprise drives and a number and enhancing its procedures in healthcare providers in the The condition is a common side In addition to caring for for HMC at different international of violations register against them various sectors in line with Qatar country. The Physiotherapy and effect of some cancer treatments, patients, HMC is also focused on conferences. It has gained local during this kind of inspection.” National Vision 2030. It will Lymphedema Department is the including surgery and radiation raising awareness among medical and international recognition for The Ministry of Interior rep- accomplish it by raising the level only provider of lymphedema therapy. professionals and the general its service. resented by the General of efficiency and skills.

Dr Hayat Abdullah Maarafi (centre), Executive Director of QatarDebate, with other officials during a press conference held yesterday. PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA QatarDebate to host world’s biggest debate championship

FAZEENA SALEEM Executive Director of non native Arabic speaking indi- THE PENINSULA QatarDebate, speaking at a press vidual and team. The winner of conference yesterday. ‘Pioneers award’ will be pre- QatarDebate, a member of Qatar The event will be held in sented to the best project to Foundation (QF) has announced Arabic between March 16 and 20 spread the art of debate based the world’s biggest ever debating March at Qatar National Con- on precise judging standards. championship. The fifth Inter- vention CenteR (QNCC). These awards will be presented national Universities Debating “The event bring together beside the championship trophy. Championship organised by young Arabic and non-native New QatarDebate ambas- Qatar Debate will bring more Arabic speaking debaters from sadors will also be announced than 110 teams from 52 coun- Europe, North America, Africa, during the championship. tries together this month in the Middle East and Central Asia. The fifth International Uni- Doha. This year we have nine new par- versities Debating Championship The debating championship ticipants including Serbia, will be held under the new cor- will be held under the patronage Kosovo Azerbaijan, Macedonia porate re-brand identity, and the of H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad and Iran,” said Dr Maarafi. new slogan, ‘Dialogue, Debate, Al Thani, the Vice-Chairman and “A maximum of three teams and Diplomacy of QatarDebate.’ CEO of QF and aim at contrib- represent each participating It also marks the 10th year anni- uting towards spreading the art country. However, Kuwait and versary of QatarDebate and of debate and the cultural Oman will represent with five reflects mission of the centre. exchange of participants. teams each,” she added. The five-day event supports “This is the biggest ever During the debate, teams the mission of Qatar Foundation event held within the debating from native and non-native to unlock human potential by community. Around 600 people Arabic speaking countries will fostering a culture of discussion including debaters, judges, be separated and they will be and debate, helping shape the trainers and others will be par- competing with those with equal global citizens of the future and ticipating the five day champi- language skills. A special prize create intellectual leaders of onship,” said Dr Hayat Maarafi, will also be awarded to the best tomorrow. 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 MME presents Qatar’s recycling initiatives at international conference

THE PENINSULA Qatar research successfully dem- well-received by the audiences, DOHA onstrated the in-service per- and selected for publication in the formance of concrete buildings International refereed Journal of A research team led by Dr and road pavement constructed Pavement Engineering and Mohammed bin Saif Al Kuwari, with recycled aggregate materials Asphalt Technology in the UK. Assistant Undersecretary and after being exposed to loadings and The conference was held in Director of the Environmental and climatic conditions for 5 years. Liverpool – UK and attracted large Municipal Studies Institute at the Recycled materials of exca- numbers of speakers from the Ministry of Municipality and Envi- vation and demolition waste and industry and academia, from the ronment, participated the inter- incinerator bottom ash were used UK, Europe, Middle East, USA, national conference on ‘Pavement to replace up to 50 percent of South America, Australia and the Engineering, Asphalt Technology, imported gabbro in structural and Far East. and Infrastructure’. non-structural concrete, and up The conference covered dif- The conference was held in to 100 percent of local limestone ferent topics of innovative devel- the Liverpool John Moores Uni- and dune sand materials used in opment in materials, construction versity in Liverpool – UK on Feb- road construction. and management of asphalt and ruary 27 and 28 2019. The research Visual inspections and site concrete technology, sustainable team also included Dr Khaled data showed good performance, infrastructure, aggregate recycling, Hassan, Managing Director of the with no obvious differences energy reduction, environment Infrastructure Research & Devel- between the recycled and primary protection, and highway design opment (IRD) at the Qatar Science Dr Mohammed bin Saif Al Kuwari (centre), Assistant Undersecretary and Director of the Environmental materials, with reduced cost and and maintenance. The recycling & Technology Park, and Dr Murray and Municipal Studies Institute at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, at the conference. less carbon emission. The out- implementation project, led by the Reid, geotechnical expert. comes provide confidence in the Ministry of Municipality and Envi- The Qatar team presented a applications. The research is part support the government strategy construction and demolition waste, wider implementation of recycled ronment, also includes various new research on the long-term of the QNRF funded project on the of sustainable development in construction with the combined materials in high value con- workshops and training courses performance of recycled materials ‘Implementation of Recycled through the wider implementation benefits of reduced costs and pro- struction applications. for developing Qatar’s capacity for in buildings and infrastructure Materials in Construction’, to of solid waste, mainly from tection of the environment. The The Qatar research was recycling in construction. Ooredoo partners with KaiOS to launch 5,000 smart feature phones

THE PENINSULA business demand, especially for phones can help to support col- DOHA connecting large numbers of laboration, growth, and business employees working on mega- competitiveness for Qatar’s Ooredoo, the region’s leading projects. KaiOS’ smart feature industry sectors that have mul- enabler of digital business inno- phones’ business-friendly fea- tiple locations with many vation, at Mobile World Congress tures include affordability (under employees – including con- 2019, announced a partnership QR100 each), fast Wi-Fi and 4G struction, oil and gas, ports and with global technology company Internet access, long battery life, logistics, and transport.” KaiOS Technologies to drive and Bluetooth and GPS navi- Qatar continues to set the Qatar’s business growth and gation. The feature phones are tone for global mobile innovation, enhance digital experiences for pre-loaded with Google Assistant, with the KaiOS smart feature 500,000 feature phone users. and Google Maps, Google Search, phones set to roll out across the KaiOS Technologies powers and YouTube, along with Ooredoo Group markets in Asia, Sheikh Saud bin Nasser Al Thani (second left), Ooredoo Group CEO, holding KaiOS feature phone. an emerging ecosystem of Facebook and WhatsApp. Africa, and the Middle East fol- affordable digital products and Yousuf Abdulla Al-Kubaisi, lowing Qatar. The KaiOs part- services. In the coming months, Chief Operating Officer, Ooredoo, nership supports digital inclusion, mission is to help close the digital Ooredoo has one of the largest leverage the Ooredoo Advantage, Ooredoo plans to pilot launch said: “Our Mobile World Congress and is aligned with Ooredoo’s divide by bringing mobile con- customer bases in the world, and making Ooredoo “Best for 5,000 KaiOS’s smart feature partnership with KaiOS aims to Digital House framework and nectivity to the billions of people together we’re creating affordable Business”, thanks to its breadth phones in Qatar, to provide deliver fast and efficient commu- strategy to drive digital and without internet in emerging devices and data plans that make and depth of talent, best fixed and essential smartphone features on nication across Qatar, and to mobile innovation. markets, as well as providing internet access a reality for many mobile networks, broadest port- affordable feature phones. enhance our business’ customers Sebastien Codeville, CEO, those in established markets with more people.” folio of ICT services and solutions, Ooredoo expects strong digital experiences. Our feature KaiOS Technologies, said: “Our an alternative to smartphones. Business customers can and trusted partner for 60 years. Education Ministry organises training program for public school principals

QNA DOHA

The Training and Educational Development Centre at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, in cooperation with the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, is currently organising a training program entitled ‘Performance Evaluation Management’, which targets all public school principals. The program aims to provide participants with skills and expe- rience to enable them to adopt A session of the program organised by the Training and Educational the latest techniques and meth- Development Centre at the Ministry of Education and Higher odologies in the field of per- Education. formance evaluation interna- tionally, to train on the practical application of a number of performance of the staff to raise The program is attended by modern international standards the productive efficiency in the a group of experts from inside adopted in the field of per- schools, as well as achieve the and outside the country, who formance evaluation and to objectives of performance eval- have practical professional review the most important inter- uation management, such as experience that can be converted national experiences in this area. guidance and scientific research, to practical skills in the field. It also aims to evaluate the in addition to contribute to the The program is also attended performance by measuring the achievement of educational by 192 male and female school functional behaviors in the work goals in accordance with Qatar principles and representing all environment and developing the National Vision 2030. school levels. QU receives Kosovo minister

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Dr Darwish Al-Emadi, Chief Strategy & Development Officer at Qatar University (QU) met with Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo, Abdulselami Shkodra, yesterday at the University. Accompanying Shkodra is First Secretary and Consul at the Embassy of the Republic of Dr Darwish Al-Emadi (right), presenting a memento to Deputy Minister Kosovo in Riyadh, Vahid of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo, Abdulselami Shkodra. Haxhiu. During the meeting, they discussed a number of topics conclusion of the meeting, Dr. Minister with a gift, who thanked of mutual interest. At the Darwish presented the Deputy QU for their support. WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 HOME 05 Early detection key to better treatment of glaucoma, says HMC expert

FAZEENA SALEEM More than 400 patients optic nerve by slowing the pro- THE PENINSULA with glaucoma are gression of the disease through treated at HMC’s reducing the elevated eye Early detection is the key to pressure often present in slowing the progression of Ophthalmology glaucoma. However, in rare cases, glaucoma, a group of diseases that Department each even patients who have what is is a leading cause of vision loss month. considered to be within the and blindness, according to an normal range of eye pressure can expert. develop the disease. This means “To prevent blindness or a sig- information from the retina to the many people could be slowly nificant loss of vision due to brain. The condition has no losing their eyesight without being glaucoma, we are advising people known cause but is often asso- aware they have glaucoma,” said at risk to ensure that they have ciated with a buildup of pressure Dr Al Ansari. their eyes checked once in a year inside the eye. Each March, HMC holds free or at least every two years,” said More than 400 patients with glaucoma screenings and con- Dr Zakia Al Ansari, Glaucoma glaucoma are treated at HMC’s ducts public awareness sessions Director of Public Security meets Pakistan Ambassador Consultant at Hamad General Ophthalmology Department each to highlight World Glaucoma Hospital’s Ophthalmology month. Week, being held this year from The Director of Public Security, Staff Major General Saad bin Jassim Al Khulaifi, met yesterday with the Department. There has been an increase in march 11 to 17. According to Dr Al Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the State of Qatar, Syed Ahsan Raza Shah. During the “Risk factors for glaucoma the number of new cases diag- Ansari, the week provides an meeting, a number of issues of mutual interest were discussed. include, being over 40 years of nosed in recent years, noting that opportunity to draw attention to age; having a family history of last year 27 new cases were diag- a disease that often has no obvious glaucoma; being of African, His- nosed from the approximately warning signs and to encourage panic, or Asian heritage; having 600 people screened, compared people to undergo a compre- diabetes; a history of elevated eye to only three new diagnoses in hensive eye examination. SHATIU & Arab Thought Forum sign pact pressure; a decrease in corneal 2017 from over 500 people To mark this year’s World thickness and rigidity; being near- screened. Glaucoma Week HMC will hold sighted; or having a previous eye “A timely diagnosis and free glaucoma screenings and to enhance cooperation in several areas injury,” she said while speaking appropriate treatment are key to public awareness sessions at Souq to media persons yesterday. preventing blindness or a signif- Waqif in Wakra. Staff from the THE PENINSULA Glaucoma is an eye disorder icant loss of vision due to Ophthalmology Department will DOHA which results in progressive glaucoma. Glaucoma medication, provide free eye examinations and damage to the optic nerve, the or surgical treatment when nec- educate the public about The Sheikh Hamad Award for part of the eye that carries visual essary, can prevent damage to the glaucoma. International Translation and Understanding (SHATIU) has signed recently a memorandum Hamad Port’s 2nd container terminal to be operational by 2020 of understanding (MoU) with the Arab Thought Forum in Amman, FROM PAGE 1 transship within a range of 250 Jordan, to enhance areas of coop- QTerminals at the moment Nm from Hamad Port. This is eration and its objectives, mech- operates Phase-I of the Hamad aimed at establishing the port as anisms of action and follow-up Port which is consist of several a regional hub and maximise the with the aim of developing and facilities, including a container productivity and efficiency of the- Dr Hanan Al Fayyad, (right) Spokesperson of the Sheikh Hamad strengthening intellectual, scien- terminal (CT-1), a general cargo state-of-the-art facility. Award for International Translation and Understanding and Dr tific and research cooperation. terminal (which is also called “Hamad Port is a sovereign Mohamed Abu Hamour, Secretary-General of the Arab Thought The agreement also seeks to multi-use terminal) that handles asset with a huge investment. We Forum, signing the MoU. exchange views, make visits, joint cars and other vehicles, heavy are encouraging shipping lines studies, workshops, seminars, contributed to the expansion of the role of translation in conveying equipment and livestock, and direct to the Hamad Port rather books, periodicals, scientific and interest and encouraged transla- literature, knowledge and cultural other areas which is called off- than transshipping. We intend to cultural information, agreements tions from and to different lan- renaissance, and the role of trans- shore-supply services terminal to continue handling bigger vessels and regular exchange of infor- guages. The signing of the MoU lator as mediator between two or support the oil and gas industry. Neville Bissett, CEO of QTerminals to ensure higher returns to the mation and documentation on has come as part of a tour aiming more parties. QTerminals is also responsible investment. We subjects of common interest. to introduce the fifth edition Dr. Hassan Al Duwairi, Pro- for enabling Qatar’s imports and announced that it will be offering are working to enhance pro- The MoU was signed by Dr Award 2019 and the main lan- fessor of European Languages at exports, its maritime trade flows incentives to the main shipping ductivity and efficiency of the port Hanan Al Fayyad, Spokesperson guages selected for this season. the University of Jordan, also high- and stimulating economic growth lines that have direct services through various ways,” noted of SHATIU and Dr Mohamed Abu The tour, which will continue until lighted the importance of trans- locally and regionally. It recently calling at Hamad Port and do not Bissett. Hamour, Secretary-General of the today, includes several cultural lation in global cultural exchanges Arab Thought Forum. events related to translation and its role in building intercul- “The Award is a unique award issues, challenges and dissemi- tural relations. He pointed out that serving the Arabic language and nation of information related to the role played by the translators, human culture in general,” said the award. who must understand the original Dr Hanan Al Fayyad. She stressed As part of the tour programme text, stressing the challenges that the importance of cooperation the team held a seminar at the translators face to fine publishing with the Arab Thought Forum, Faculty of Languages of the Uni- houses to publish their works. which continues its efforts in col- versity of Jordan under the theme Another seminar was held on laboration with Jordanian and ‘translation of world languages, Monday at the Shoman Foun- Arab intellectuals. For his part, the the path of understanding, and the dation Shoman Cultural Forum Secretary-General of the Arab role of international awards in the on translation and the role of Thought Forum, appreciated the advancement of translation’ in Sheikh Hamad Award in the importance of the efforts exerted which a number of Jordanian aca- development and extension of by the Sheikh Hamad Award in demics participated. bridges for easing and encour- keeping pace with the various sci- Dr. Al Fayyad pointed out aging communication between ences, especially those contrib- during the seminar that the award people. The speakers at the uting to the revival of the Arabic aims at honouring the translators seminar included Valentina Con- language and enriches it. through appreciation to their stantine, Chairperson of Shoman He stressed the importance of works and role in bridging the Forum, Dr Hanan Al Fayyad, Pro- working together, coordination barriers and enhancing commu- fessor at Qatar University and between cultural institutions to nication, in addition to encour- spokesperson of the Award, Dr guide intellectuals towards paying aging individuals and publishing Imtinan Al Smadi, member of attention to their cultural issues. houses and cultural institutions to teaching staff at Qatar University Dr Imtenan Al Smadi, member involve in translation and and member of Award’s media of the Media Committee of the encourage creativity on the basis team, Dr Jihad Hamdan, Chairman Award, presented the philosophy of quality and accuracy to enrich of the Association of Professors of of the Award, its objectives and the Arab library with important English Language and Translation the standards of the jury. She works of world languages. at Arab Universities, and Dr Walid pointed out that the award is open Dr. Areej Al-Lozi, Professor of Al Suwairki the translator and in many languages and has English at the same spoke about academic. IT experts discuss measures to enhance information security at MOTC workshop

THE PENINSULA The workshop discussed the companies, deploys the latest DOHA outcomes of an assessment MOTC technologies and technical has conducted in association with services to make the most out of The Ministry of Transport and Microsoft over the past few world’s advanced software. It also Communications (MOTC) has months at more than 30 minis- provides training and awareness recently hosted more than 200 IT tries and government entities. It campaigns to technical specialists specialists from various also covered how to address and working at government entities government entities at an inter- avoid information security threats to raise their information security active workshop that covered the through enabling Microsoft expertise,” said Eng. Khalid Al mechanisms and tools that are security controls and features. Hashmi, Assistant Undersecretary available in MOTC’s Microsoft Workshop attendees were of Cyber Security at MOTC. Framework Agreement for also updated on the fast-paced The workshop said gov- assessing to what extent the best world of sophisticated infor- ernment entities covered in the practices for the information mation system threats, attacks and agreement are increasingly fol- security of Microsoft software and data breaches and how to detect lowing an approach focused on platforms are followed in work and recover proactively. regular upgrading and updating environments. “Engaging the private sector of the Microsoft technologies they Aiming at further improving in enhancing supply chain security use. It also said those entities were how government entities function is highly important as part of using the modern technologies the digitally, MOTC wants to make the Qatar’s efforts to raise gov- Agreement provides in their day- most out of all its framework ernment entities’ information to-day functions, particularly agreements with major universal security efficiency. MOTC, through cloud computing, document save technology corporations such as its framework agreements with and track and multi-factor the one signed with Microsoft. major global technology authentication (MFA). 06 HOME WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 QNTC leads delegation to take part in ITB Berlin

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Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) is leading a delegation from Qatar, consisting of leading hotels, local tour operators and other tourism service providers, to the German capital for the world’s largest trade show ITB Berlin from March 6 to 10. Spread over 222sqm, the Qatar pavilion in ITB Berlin will have representation from QNTC and its 20 co-exhibitors show- A participant shares his experience during the event at Qatar National Library. casing the country’s expanding tourism and hospitality options. A file photo showing Qatar’s pavilion at ITB Berlin. Among these are National Sports envoys share success stories at QNL event Museum of Qatar, Qatar Rail, IAAF World Championships in we expect this upward trend of German cruise ships AIDA and THE PENINSULA “It is very important “It is a fantastic opportunity Athletics 2019, and Supreme visitor arrivals to continue.” TUI Mein Schiff arriving to Doha DOHA for everyone in Qatar to be sharing thoughts with vis- Committee for Delivery & Legacy The delegation’s partici- port. The hosting of mass partic- itors at the Library. I am updating visitors about the 2022 pation comes as part of QNTC’s ipation events such as the World The sports ambassadors from to be active and get delighted to see people in Qatar FIFA World Cup Qatar™. efforts to shed light on Qatar’s Corporate Games in November Qatar and the UK shared their engaged in at least take so much interest in their Rashed AlQurese, from unique authentic experiences to this year, first time to be held in success stories with visitors in one physical activity,” health. The Library has QNTC commented, “We saw a promote the country as a tourism the Middle East, further supports an engaging event, “We Talk said Yasmian, Qatar’s impressive resources and envi- strong growth in visitor arrivals destination among travel pro- the country’s goals for devel- Sports,” which was held ronment for people to become from Germany in 2018. We also fessionals and tourism industry oping a vibrant sports and rec- yesterday at Qatar National first female golfer. more aware of their health and recently sealed a number of leaders in Germany. German- reation tourism sub-sector, while Library (QNL) in collaboration wellbeing,” said Shaun. partnerships with leading speaking countries are a key tapping in business tourism with British Council Qatar. how to overcome challenges in Sulaiman Bah, a participant German companies in tourism source market for Qatar with a opportunities. London 2012 Olympian and life. “It is very important for eve- at the event, said: “The Library sector including Dertour Tour record growth of 34 percent in Qatar Airways, now serving Physical Trainer at Olympic ryone in Qatar to be active and is putting knowledge to practice Operators and AIDA Cruises, and 2018 receiving 78,858 visitors, Hamad International Airport Stars Doha, Jade Faulkner; get engaged in at least one in a new way. I am happy to have with joint communications, co- compared to 58,930 visitors the with 70 weekly flights from Golfer, Yasmian Ghanem; physical activity. The Library is access to such a resource for marketing actions and familiar- previous year. Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin, Runner and Co-founder of Qatar the right place to get information free. The event today is an isation trips with these partners, Qatar offers a wide range of Vienna, Zurich and Geneva, also Triathlon Club, Rashid Al Hajri about your favourite sport. I am example of how the Library along with our recently launched unique tourism experiences to offers comfortable access to the and Shaun Marsden Heathcote, glad that we have access to such brings together people from dif- global destination campaign: diverse categories of German desert state and only recently Development Manager at Youth an amazing library,” said ferent backgrounds to learn. This Qatar – Qurated for you high- tourists. Year 2018 saw strong increased frequency from Zurich Sports Trust, shared insights Yasmian, Qatar’s first female place has become my second lighting the destination’s development in the country’s and Vienna to its home hub about their achievements, and golfer. home.” bespoke tourism experiences, cruise tourism segment with Doha. QF RDI strengthens collaboration with Stars of Science

THE PENINSULA equipping them with the know-how and DOHA tools to innovate. “Extending our support to the con- Qatar Foundation Research, Development, testants of this competition through expert and Innovation (QF RDI) has further mentorship, market-relevant guidance, and strengthened its partnership with Qatar hands-on training is of key importance to Foundation’s (QF) popular edutainment QF RDI, because it is through such purposeful reality TV show, Stars of Science – helping collaborations in science, technology, and contestants take their innovative ideas to innovation that we deliver impact across the the next stage following the completion of nation and beyond.” Over a period of two the competition, and transforming them into months, Stars of Science contestants partic- viable start-ups. ipating in the XLR8 program will receive Enhancing the existing level of collaboration, intensive training and mentorship under the Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), supervision of leading mentors from Qatar part of QF RDI, has launched a special edition and abroad, as they work on developing their Participants of Transnational Analysis 101 workshop pose for a group photo. of its flagship accelerator program, XLR8, ideas to the prototype stage. dedicated to the Season 11 contestants of Yosouf Abdulrahman Saleh, Executive Stars of Science. Director, QSTP, said, “As an international It commenced recently and is geared toward hub for applied research, innovation, incu- Harmony with inner self crucial for mental helping aspiring entrepreneurs turn their bation, and technology entrepreneurship, ideas into products that have the potential QSTP’s XLR8 program provides a significant to make a commercial impact. platform for great ideas to come to fruition. health, say experts at TA 101 workshop Dr Richard O’Kennedy, QF Vice Pres- The exposure to an impressive network of ident for Research, Development, and Inno- expertise that XLR8 provides enables THE PENINSULA approach to psychotherapy and over this drive, opined that practices in the vation, said, “Qatar Foundation’s Stars of aspiring entrepreneurs to move ideas closer DOHA the past 50 years of its growth, it has workshop prepared participants to get Science is inspiring Arab youth and to commercial reality. found wider application in all fields motivated, to accept and to be accepted Harmony with inner self in an indi- concerning human growth and change, which are instrumental in creating a vidual is the key element to enhancing namely counselling, education, organ- positive working environment in an mental health. This theme was empha- isations and coaching. Its simplicity organization. sized in the two-day Transnational makes it accessible to people from all Haseena Abdulla facilitated the Analysis (TA) 101 workshop conducted walks of life. Its universal value that workshop. She is authorised to teach, at Wyndham Hotel on February 22 and ‘people are ok’, it emphasis on people’s supervise and practice psychotherapy 23, 2019 by Lifelab International in power to choose and the immense hope by ITAA which is the international body association with BNI Qatar. it places on the possibility of change, of Transactional Analysis. Haseena is Participants endorsed that the makes it relevant to all cultures. Director for Project Interventions in content and process of the workshop TA workshops can be organised Lifelab International, a human capital were high-value addition for their per- individually or collectively by licensed development social enterprise in India. sonal and professional profile. educational institutions, particularly She is a PTSTA, Provisional Teaching “Concepts connecting with prac- universities and schools, corporate, and Supervising Transactional Analyst tical realities in work situation and ther- mental health organisations, legally rec- (Psychotherapy) and is professionally apeutic setting gave me a deep insight ognised learning and development associated with ITAA, USA, and SAATA to look at life profoundly,” said Fadiya, centres, NGOs in the country to enhance (South Asian Association of Transac- a creative designer. Narmeen, a senior the quality of people in their respective tional Analysis). professional in Learning & Devel- filed, and this will be their contribution A workshop by name “May I Play” opment, praised the basic philosophy to develop quality human capital in the based on Transactional Analysis for of TA and said the workshop helped country. children converging with Psychodrama her immensely by learning how to Chaitali Shetti, the key person in was conducted for children aged 10 to create a positive environment and be organising the workshop, emphasised 15. productive in her organisation. its support for developing internal res- Shaheen Backer, Director of Safari TA 101 is the official introductory onance in parenting children in their Group, and Kabeer, Managing Director workshop with a standardised syllabus academic performance and behaviour of Lifelab, said consistent follow-ups accredited by ITAA (International modification. She added that parents are in progress to develop a group of Transactional Analysis Association), become mindful in role modelling, tol- professionals through learning plat- USA and it is pre-requisite for further erance and acceptance at home. forms to spread the message to larger learning and practicing the discipline. Jinesh John, an official from a population, specifically to schools in TA was initially developed as an leading corporate and a promoter of Qatar.

Omani delegation reviews Qatar’s experience in education QNA of Education and Higher Education application and the challenges it DOHA on the work methodology in cur- faced. riculum development, the commu- The visit includes several schools An educational delegation from the nication mechanism and the work in different stages, where the dele- Sultanate of Oman is visiting Doha with the publishing houses of the sci- gation learns the mechanism of to learn about the country’s expe- entific series. teaching the series through the rience in the preparation of the Sheikha Al Rumaihi, Head of the classroom attendance, and meet scientific series on the English English Department at the Ministry, with teachers, and school adminis- language. briefed the delegation on the basis trations, as well as visit the Training During the three-day visit, the for building the English language and Educational Development Omani delegation listened to a sim- standards document, with a presen- Center of the Ministry to learn also plified explanation from the officials tation of the experience of the edu- the mechanism of coordination and of the departments of the Ministry cational series, the mechanism of its training on English sources. WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 HOME 07 08 HOME WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 Qatari brands steal the show on Oscars red carpet Qatari medical team

The gown was expressive of Commenting on the design, Gills Manju- performs cochlear the Middle Eastern tradition of lakshmi, Co-Founder and COO at AADIMA, modesty with a combination said: “I am very proud and blessed to have of luxury reflected by the deep had this opportunity as a designer to create a custom Oscars red carpet look for Fatma implants for Gaza kids royal navy colour. Bringing that was listed amongst the best dressed at organic wear to the Oscars® the biggest entertainment and fashion event THE PENINSULA (PRCS) Al Quds Hospital, as well red carpet is one of the most of the year. DOHA as the Department of Audiology accomplished dreams of It was challenging to bring the modest at Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al wear look combined with a natural fabric, Sherif Qandil, a Palestinian Thani Hospital, for their efforts AADIMA. without compromising the essential element father from Gaza, stood at the to select and prioritise the of comfort.” door of an operating theatre in beneficiaries. The gown was expressive of the Middle the Al Quds Hospital, waiting for “Looking ahead, we are THE PENINSULA Eastern tradition of modesty with a combi- good news about his young planning to rely totally on the DOHA nation of luxury reflected by the deep royal daughter. Palestinian surgeons in Gaza to navy colour. Bringing organic wear to the The 7 year-old girl was being perform the cochlear implants. Qatari fashion brands dazzled on the red Oscars® red carpet is one of the most accom- operated on by a Qatari medical During the current mission, we carpet at the recent 2019 Academy Awards plished dreams of AADIMA. delegation, to have a cochlear are giving them a greater oppor- as Fatma Hassan Al Remaihi, CEO of Doha Taking a month to complete, the gown device surgically implanted into tunity to take part in the opera- Film Institute (DFI), made it on best dressed is made up of 15 meters of pure silk with an her head. “Since her birth, Malak tions, with guidance from the lists by leading international publications asymmetrical cut cape embellished with cus- suffered severe sensorineural Qatari physicians,” Dr Al wearing local brands. tomized handmade neck detailing. hearing loss,” said Qandil. Qahtani revealed. Al Remaihi attended the awards cer- The gown was complemented with dia- “All our attempts to help her Dr Akram Nassar, Head of emony to support two films backed by the monds and ruby jewellery from Pappillon to hear again were to no avail. QRCS’s representation office in institute; ‘Capharnaum’ and ‘Of Fathers and Jewellery. Just when she was examined at Gaza, noted that this visit is part Sons’. Fatma Hassan Al Remaihi said: “In my Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al of a whole QRCS supported pro- A strong supporter of Qatari brands, Al second year attending the Oscars, I am so Thani Hospital for Rehabilitation gramme that addresses a wide Remaihi shone on the red carpet with a regal proud to be representing Qatar and the and Prostheses, it was found that range of issues related to hearing Fatma Hassan Al Remaihi, CEO of Doha cape in pure blue silk from Aadima by Gills Doha Film Institute wearing Qatari designs she needed a surgery”. disability. Film Institute Manjulakshmi, an emerging Qatari design that were amazingly artistic and collabo- He wished that his daughter “These include neonatal brand that creates bespoke organic modest rative in the design of my dress and jew- would be able to hear, speak, screening for hearing defi- wear for the modern Middle Eastern woman. region, and a perfect representative of Qatari ellery look. and play with her friends. “I pray ciencies at primary health care Hayfa Al Abdulla, Co-founder and CEO, fashion and style.” I take pride in supporting Qatari Brands, for her to start going to school, centers, providing hearing aids Aadima, said: “We are so happy and proud Ghosoon Al Obaidly, Co-founder and and I hope that in the coming years we will as she has the passion and high for any disability cases detected, to have such an astounding representation COO, said: “The fact that Mrs. Al Remaihi was see a stronger representation from more local spirits,” he added. and performing cochlear at the Oscars. Fatma Hassan Al Remaihi sym- featured in the Oscars best dressed lists talents and brands internationally, that reflect Commenting on the sixth implants if required,” he bolises the recent success and achievements across leading international industry publi- the visions and designs authentic to the visit by the Qatari medical del- explained. of Qatari women . cations is an acknowledgement of our work region. I am very happy the look made it to egation to Gaza, Dr Abdul Salam The QR26m programme is She walked the Oscars Red Carpet as a and our brand, and an indicator that the the top ranking lists of the event, and I wish Al Qahtani, Head of ENT and aimed at enhancing pro- role model for young Qatari women, Qatari Fashion industry has growing inter- Aadima and Papillon Jewellery the best of Cochlear Implants at Hamad grammed screening and inter- embodying the evolution of culture in the national relevance.” luck in their future endeavours.” Medical Corporation (HMC), and vention for hearing disability in board member of Qatar Red Gaza, covering children with Crescent Society (QRCS), stated, disability under various inter- “This time, we are going to ventions at an early age, Safari launches 3 perform 25-30 cochlear reaching out to as many cases implants. Consequently, the total as possible, minimizing the neg- number of children who bene- ative socioeconomic impact of new promotions fited from the cochlear implant belated screening, raising public programme will have reached awareness about hearing- THE PENINSULA enjoy maximum a total of 130 since its launch in related issues, improve special DOHA discounts for all 2016”. education accessibility, shaping items. Also they He valued the contributions a better future for persons with Safari, the well-known retail chain will get a purchase of all partners, particularly the special needs, and facilitating in Qatar which always stood for coupon worth of physicians and nurses at the Pal- their social and educational the customers by offering variety QR75 while purchasing for QR150. the taste buds of our customers This Malabar Food Festival is estinian Red Crescent Society’s integration. of products at very low price, has In the health and beauty pro- with nostalgic taste feelings. The arranged both in Safari Mall at introduced new promotions motion there will be a variety of districts from Kasaragod to Abu Hamour and Safari Hyper including Health & Beauty products which will help to Malappuram have a unique Market at Salwa Road. Above all, Promotion, Saree, Churidar and maintain the health and beauty of Culture, arts & different taste cui- the new fabulous promotion in Abaya Festival, Malabar Food the customers. In Cosmetics sines. Safari recreates the same which the customers can win Festival among many more. division items includes soap , traditional Malappuram, 10kg gold is introduced in all Saree collections including shampoo, hand wash liquids, face Kozhikode & Thalasseri tastes safari outlets . Banarasi saree, Kanchipuram wash creams of the international with the supervision of eminent The fourth lucky draw will saree, raw silk saree, printed brands like Dove, Nivea, Loreal, chefs with out loosing the fra- take place at Safari Mall located saree, cotton saree, tussar silk Ponds and other brands are also grance of Malabar. at Abu Hamour on March 11, saree, synthetic saree, Georgetty available. Muringaka Mutton Soup, 2019. Any one can participate in work saree. Churidar division ver- In sports division home jim, Puyapla Mutton Soup, Kunjip- this event through the lucky draw ities include cotton churidar treadmill’s, dumbbell sets will be pathal, Ithathas Kozhikari, Mean of coupons which they receive material, cotton silk churidar available at a discount prize. In vatti Pollichathu, Irachippathiri, while purchasing for every QR50 material, Pakistani churidar electronics division products like Mutta Mala, Mutta Surka, Chat- goods. The winner of first prize material, chiffon churidar material massager, glucose monitor, blood tippathiri, Kallumekkaya Nira- will be awarded 1 kg gold, 500gm etc. pressure monitor, hair chathu, Unnakaya Rahath for second prize winner, 300gm Turki jilbab, Syrian jalabiya, straightener, of international Biriyani, Arakkal Poth Biriyani, for third winner and 200 gm for butterfly Abaya are also show- brands like Beurer, Citizen, Vallumarathe Aattin Charu, Kozhi the person who is coming at the cased in this Saree-Churidar & Philips, Braun, will also be Urumathu, Kizhiyilakkiya forth position. This is a golden Abaya Fest at a fabulous discount available. Chemmeen Kootam among many opportunity for the customers to prize. This festival is designed in Over 100 Malabar traditional more are showcased under one win 10 KG gold through five lucky Qatari medical team performing a surgery at a hospital in Gaza. such a way that the customers can dishes are available to stimulate umbrella. draws. QC’s FCC organises cultural and literary events for Asian communities

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The Friends Cultural Center (FCC), a community devel- opment centre of Qatar Charity (QC), has organised various activities, which included competitions on public speaking and literary meetings. Some of the artworks by Omani artist Dr Salman Al Hajri on display Many FCC members belonging at the “Spirit of Letters” exhibition. to Asian communities took part in these activities. The FCC held speech com- ‘Spirit of Letters’ exhibition showcases petition for women participating in the Toastmasters course, beauty of Arabic calligraphy which aims to help women boost confidence, develop effective THE PENINSULA characters printed on canvas and oral communication skills, DOHA strapped to a wooden frame. “The enhance public speaking capa- nature of the artworks in this bilities, and improve professional The Cultural Village Foundation exhibition is an attempt to present abilities. – Katara opened the “Spirit of the Arabic letters as a basic theme Also, the Friends Cultural The winners of various competitions organised by the Friends Cultural Center, a community development Letters” exhibition by Omani artist expressed by the Arab Muslim Center held a literary meeting for centre of Qatar Charity, with officials during the prize distribution at the event. Dr Salman Al Hajri on Monday at artist on identity, thought and phi- lovers of literature and books, Building 19. losophy,” the artist added. who participated in a discussion observations on the books sharpen their skills and highlight humankind can only be achieved The exhibition focuses on Describing his motives, Hajri on some famous books. An intro- reviewed at the meeting. their talents. by cooperation and interaction the beauty of Arabic calligraphy said that people are living in an duction was given on six Habeeburahiman Kizhissery, He also noted that Qatar between different religions, art and how letters and words era of knowledge that requires a renowned Malayalam books, Director of FCC, said, “Such Charity, through the FCC, aims opinions and ideas. can be combined to form an language-based container, which including S Hareesh’s Meesha events have a good impact on the to achieve cultural interaction It is worth mentioning that expressive artwork. is one of its tools. and Veerankuttiyude Kavith- beneficiaries, as they develop and exchange ideas that con- the centre conducts weekly “Arabic characters have the “The philosophy of the exhi- akal’s Mindaa Prani, which is a their cultural knowledge and tribute to the development of courses in knitting and cro- potential to express the bition is to promote the Arabic poetry collection. raise their awareness, facili- human values and the pro- cheting as well as handicrafts movement and mass, and enrich alphabets and its infinite ability The literary meeting wit- tating communication and inter- motion of culture and civili- training for women. It also has the structural relationships in one to adapt,” he concluded. The exhi- nessed serious discussion and action with other Asian zation among the Asian commu- classes for the Holy Quran and artwork,” Al Hajri said. The artist bition is open to the public until meaningful conversation, as par- nationals”, pointing out that nities, as Qatar Charity believes Arabic languages in addition to presents about 30 works of March 21 at Building 19. ticipants shared their views and these activities contributed to that the well-being of karate. WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 MIDDLE EAST 09 Civilians stream out of last IS bastion in Syria

AFP Among them was Surrendering jihadists NEAR BAGHOUZ, SYRIA the widow of French were also among at least 3,000 militant Jean-Michel people who have fled the Civilians streamed out of the pocket of IS territory since IS Islamic State (IS) group’s last Clain, who said her slowed down its offensive on Syrian stronghold yesterday into husband had been Sunday, the Syrian Democratic territory held by US-backed killed last month in Forces said. forces battling to finish off the IS seized large parts of Syria militant’s dying “caliphate”. mortar fire. and neighbouring Iraq in 2014, Men sat on the ground, sur- declaring a “caliphate” there, but rounded by Kurdish forces, while of French militant Jean-Michel have since lost all but a patch on women clad from head to toe in Clain, who said her husband had the banks of the Euphrates River black waited to be searched at been killed last month in mortar in Baghouz. an inspection point near the fire, after his brother Fabien. The Syrian Democratic village of Baghouz. Fabien Clain, 41, had voiced an Forces and allies from the US-led Hundreds of people had IS audio recording claiming coalition smashed their way into gathered there for screening responsibility for the November that sliver at the weekend, People who fled the Islamic State group’s last holdout of Baghouz, in Syria’s northern Deir Ezzor after fleeing on Monday and 2015 attacks in Paris, when IS unleashing a deluge of airstrikes province, ride in the back of trucks in an area controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Foces early yesterday. jihadists slaughtered 129 people and artillery attacks. (SDF), yesterday. Among them was the widow in coordinated operations. But they slowed down the offensive on Sunday over con- resumed their offensive late Maquere said. The mass out- conditions at the crammed cerns for civilians trapped inside. Friday, following a two-week pouring of people from the dying facility, it said. After months Turkey reopens key border crossing An SDF spokesman said pause to allow for civilian evac- “caliphate” has sparked a major under heavy bombardment and thousands of people had since uations. The Kurdish-led force humanitarian emergency, with sometimes with very little to eat, ANATOLIA been evacuated. “We managed pushed into Baghouz on Saturday. an aid group saying 600 people many of those emerging from KILIS, TURKEY to evacuate about 3,000 people” On Monday night, a corre- arrived early Tuesday in one Baghouz are in poor physical and from the pocket, Mustefa Bali spondent near the frontline saw camp in northeast Syria. psychological health. Turkey’s southeastern border gate with Syria reopened after an said on Monday night. black smoke billowing over the Among them, ten people Around 90 people, mostly eight-year hiatus. As of yesterday, Turkish trucks will be able to “A large number of Daesh besieged pocket after an airstrike. “needed urgent medical children under the age of five, cross the Oncupinar border gate in the province of Kilis after (IS) jihadists surrendered to our The Observatory, which relies on treatment because of shrapnel or have died en route or shortly after showing relevant travel documents to custom officials. forces among the same group.” a network of sources inside Syria, war injuries”, the International arriving at Al Hol, OCHA said. The border gate was closed in 2011 when civil war broke out An SDF official said “hun- said artillery fire and air strikes Relief Committee said. Six were Syria’s Kurds hold hundreds in Syria. Turkish trucks had to stop at the border gate and transfer dreds” of IS fighters were among continued into the night. sent to hospital. Around 15,000 of foreign jihadists and IS sym- their goods to Syrian trucks. them. The Syrian Observatory Outside the IS pocket on people have reached the Al-Hol pathisers, whose governments According to information obtained, 50 trucks crossed to Syria for Human Rights, a Britain- Tuesday, Dorothee Maquere said camp from Baghouz between have been reluctant to take them through the gate in the last few hours. based war monitor, said 280 IS her husband Jean-Michel Clain, February 22 and March 1, the UN’s back. A US judge on Monday Serdar Tohumcu, a truck driver, said the reopening the gate has fighters were among those who 38, had been killed last month, humanitarian coordination office rejected a request for expedited reduced travel time. “When I used the Cobanbey customs gate in quit the pocket since Sunday. after his brother Fabien Clain. OCHA said on Monday. treatment of the case of an southeastern Turkey, it took four hours to reach Syria’s Azaz province, Diehard jihadists are fiercely “The drone killed my The new arrivals have pushed Alabama woman who joined IS but now it takes only 15 minutes via Oncupinar,” Tohumcu said. defending their last patch after brother-in-law and then the the camp’s population to over in Syria but has asked to return the SDF and the US-led coalition mortar killed my husband,” 56,000, exacerbating already dire home. Israel arrests 10 Khashoggi’s death: US Senators threaten Saudi sanctions Palestinians in

AP Magnitsky Act. The request was Chris Murphy of Connecticut said consulate in Istanbul last year by death of a US resident, a West Bank raids WASHINGTON made in October, which gave the the briefing contained “zero” Saudi agents. The Saudi gov- journalist.” president 120 days to respond. new information. He criticised ernment said the slaying was Republican Sen. Marco Rubio ANATOLIA/JERUSALEM Senators left a closed-door briefing But the White House declined to the lack of an intelligence official carried out by rogue operatives of Florida, another member of with Trump administration offi- submit a report by the deadline, among the briefers, a move he and denied Crown Prince the committee, said, “The Senate Israeli forces rounded up 10 cials deeply frustrated by the lack angering members of the Senate described as “purposeful.” Mohammed bin Salman had any will have to decide if it’s going to Palestinians in overnight raids of new information on the killing Foreign Relations Committee. “They don’t want us to have involvement. impose its own sanctions” carried out across the occupied of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, with New Jersey Sen. Bob a conversation about the intelli- Lawmakers have said they The dispute over Khashoggi’s West Bank, according to the some raising the prospect of Menendez, the top Democrat on gence,” he said, referring to the believe the Saudi crown prince death comes at a point of rising Israeli military yesterday. placing new sanctions on the the panel, called the briefing “a White House. “These folks had ordered the killing, but Trump tensions between the White The individuals were government of Saudi Arabia. farce” and said Trump still needs no new information and were has been reluctant to place House and Congress over the US- arrested for “suspected Lawmakers had instructed to give Congress an answer. not permitted to give us any new blame. Absent a determination Saudi relationship, fueled in part involvement in popular ter- President Donald Trump to order “The law’s very clear, there information.” Khashoggi, a from Trump, Menendez said the by the Trump administration’s rorist activities”, the army said an investigation into Khashoggi’s needed to be a determination,” writer for The Washington Post, Senate has to do something, involvement in Yemen’s civil in a statement, without elabo- killing by invoking the Global Menendez said. Democratic Sen. was killed in a Saudi Arabian “unless it is willing to accept the war. rating on the nature of these activities. The Israeli army frequently carries out wide-ranging arrest US: Lebanon at difficult campaigns across the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem on economic crossroads the pretext of searching for “wanted” Palestinians. AP/BEIRUT public debt of $85bn, or 155 percent of the gross domestic Iran releases three A top US State Department product. Some 1 million Syrian official visiting Lebanon said refugees make up a quarter of Jordanian fishermen yesterday that the new Lebanon’s population. government in Beirut needs to Lebanon’s powerful Shiite ANATOLIA/AMMAN make tough decisions as it tackles militant group Hezbollah, which widespread corruption and a is backed by Iran, made signif- Iran yesterday released three crumbling economy, in addition icant gains in last year’s parlia- Jordanian fishermen held by to ongoing security issues. mentary elections at the expense Tehran for violating the coun- David Satterfield, acting of the largest Sunni party headed try’s territorial waters, the assistant secretary of the Bureau by Prime Minister Saad Hariri. Jordanian Foreign Ministry of Near Eastern Affairs, said Satterfield met with Hariri said. Washington is looking to support on Tuesday along with Foreign The ministry spokesman the Lebanese people as they Minister Gebran Bassil and the Sufian Al Qudah said the fish- move their country forward, but leader of the right-wing ermen had been handed over warned against increased Christian Phalange party, Samy to the Jordanian Embassy in Iranian influence. Gemayel. The US diplomat said Tehran. The Iranian authorities The eight-year war in neigh- Iran’s growing influence in have yet to confirm the release. Houthis protest boring Syria has deepened Leb- Lebanon required a national The fishermen had been anon’s economic woes, which response, adding that “parties, held by Tehran since late 2018 Houthi supporters, including police officers, demonstrate against British Foreign Secretary Jeremy include high unemployment, notably Iran, are not passive, for entering the country’s ter- Hunt in Hodeidah, Yemen, yesterday. meager growth and a soaring they’re very active.” ritorial waters. UN delays report on firms linked to Israeli settlements AP and other countries to squelch The letter Bachelet sent to human rights body is on the line. Israeli and American, were body. The Trump adminis- GENEVA publication of what Israel has the council’s president, Ambas- They want Bachelet to set a clear facing a review of business tration cited the alleged bias as described as a “blacklist” that sador Coly Seck of Senegal, on date for publication to raise practices involving the Israeli a leading reason it withdrew The United Nations’ human could drive away Monday cited the “complexity” pressure against the Israeli set- settlements. It did not identify the United States from the rights chief has delayed publi- companies. and “novelty” of the assignment. tlements. The report has been any companies by name. council last year. cation of a report on companies The UN-backed Human She wrote that she was com- delayed before. It was expected Israel has long claimed it is Proponents of the resolution doing business in Israeli settle- Rights Council in 2016 instructed mitted to fulfilling the council’s to be published during the coun- unfairly singled out by the insist companies must be held ments in the West Bank, saying the office Bachelet now oversees orders, but “further consider- cil’s current session, which ends council, whose members include accountable for their activities in a letter made public yesterday to create a “database” of com- ation” was needed. March 22. some countries with poor human in Israeli settlements, arguing that her office needs more time panies deemed to be linked to or Bachelet said the office she UN officials have said the rights records themselves. Israel that those actions can contribute to carry out a complex and supportive of the settlements, has overseen since September human rights office received no is the only country in the world to injustices against unprecedented task — one with which are considered illegal by has a “view to finalising this additional resources or funds for whose policies automatically Palestinians. deep political implications. the vast majority of the interna- mandated activity in coming a project that has involved face scrutiny at every council Over 600,000 Israeli settlers The decision by High Com- tional community. months” but her letter did not reaching out to scores of com- session. live in the West Bank and east missioner for Human Rights The council, which is made give a more specific panies, governments and The United States has called Jerusalem, territories captured Michelle Bachelet, a former up of 47 governments, had never timeframe. advocacy groups. the council’s resolution by Israel in 1967 and claimed by president of Chile, followed a before requested such a list scru- Supporters of the report say Last year, the rights office emblematic of an alleged anti- the Palestinians as parts of a campaign by the United States tinising corporate activities. the credibility of the UN’s top said 206 companies, mostly Israeli bias at the U.N.-backed future independent state. 10 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 Silatech conference calls for empowering ESTABLISHED IN 1996 young people, tackling unemployment

CHAIRMAN QNA SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI ilatech has organized a high- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF level conference entitled DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI “Empowering Youth, Trans- [email protected] Sforming Societies” at the Inter- national Conference Center Geneva, the conference called for tackling rising ACTING MANAGING EDITOR youth unemployment through eco- MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED nomic and social empowerment, par- [email protected] ticularly in developing regions with increasingly young populations. The conference stressed the DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR importance of empowering young MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI people economically, creating more job [email protected] opportunities to reduce the negative impact of unemployment and placing the issues of youth empowerment in the priority of the international agenda for development work. It also described UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet during a discussion the role of Silatech foundation in pro- on “Empowering Youth, Transforming Societies” at the International Conference viding more than 1,100,000 jobs as pio- Center Geneva. EDITORIAL neering work. Silatech conference also urged countries, describing the achievement development and real investment in the international community to do of Silatech and its success in providing any country. Qatar-Austria ties growing more to address unemployment and more than one million jobs for young Prime Minister of Somalia Hassan invest in youth development to con- people as a leading role. For her part, Ali Khayre said 70 percent of Somalia’s atar and Austria cemented their relations further tribute to the promotion of economy United Nations Secretary-General’s population is young and every job during Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al and peace for the security of peoples Envoy on Youth Jayathma Wickrama- opportunity is an investment in the QThani’s two-day official visit. The visit of H H the and the whole world, and to implement nayake said that poverty leads to social country’s future. Amir to Austria comes as part of the wise leadership’s the international strategy against ter- exclusion and marginalization, noting His Excellency added that the youth strategy and the keenness to keep strong and robust com- rorism, especially as young people are that 64 million young people are in the population in his country can be munication, cooperation and coordination with states. the foundation of the renaissance of unemployed while 70 million workers a positive or negative factor if provided This serves Qatar’s economic goals and plans, develop- nations. still live in extreme poverty. with the skills of entrepreneurship they mental programs, its aspirations, and its benefits in various Sessions of discussions were on the Ambassador for Silatech Chaker would be the backbone of economic fields. agenda of the conference, one of which Khazaal said that young people need to growth, but ignoring them and not pro- During the visit, H H the Amir met with Federal Pres- was on how to build a global system build bridges of communication rather viding them with employment oppor- ident of the Republic of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen, conducive to than walls. As a former refugee, he has tunities will make them a cause of at Hofburg Presidential Palace. Bilateral relations and the empow- learned that he must cling to hope, instability and conflict. means of enhancing them in various fields were reviewed. erment of adding that the world is dark, but hope United Nations High Commissioner H H the Amir and Chancellor of the Republic of Austria, youths. The must be upheld because it is the only for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, Sebastian Kurz, witnessed the signing of two memorandums focus was on way to the life of any refugee and and former President of Chile said of understanding, at the Chancellery in Vienna. The first the role of the thanks to organizations like Silatech, youth are partners in change and MoU was on economic, trade and technical cooperation Silatech’s work Silatech foun- there must be the belief that tomorrow benefit from it, and their voices must be between the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the on empowering dation in pro- will be better. heard. She highlighted the importance Federal Ministry for Digital and Economic Affairs in the and improving viding job Speaker Chris Gardner, Author of In of youth’s role, their empowerment, Republic of Austria. The second MoU was in the tourism opportunities the Pursuit of Happyness called for investing in them and interacting with field between Qatar National Tourism Council and the the lives of young for young action to tackle unemployment. He also them. H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism in the people is more people, espe- thanked HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Silatech and UN Sus- Republic of Austria. important than cially in con- Chairperson of Silatech’s Board of tainable Development Goals Advocate, The relations between ever, especially flict areas and Trustees and Advocate for the Sus- had announced on Monday that youth Qatar and Austria are strong, increase the tainable Development Goals, for her will receive three million employment deep, progressing and contin- in a world that standard of efforts in order to enable the youth and opportunities globally by 2022, calling uously growing. It covers the grows darker and living of the provide them with job opportunities for more partners to help raise that political, economic, sports, more frightening refugees and through Silatech. number to five million. The relations culture, and tourism fields. displaced He added that Silatech’s work on Silatech is an international, social, between Qatar Qatar is also an important eco- every day. persons. empowering and improving the lives of non-profit, non-governmental organi- and Austria are nomic partner to Austria where United young people is more important than zation based in the State of Qatar estab- strong, deep, the volume of trade exchange Nations High ever, especially in a world that grows lished by H H Sheikha Mozah bint between the two countries are Commis- darker and more frightening every day. Nasser in 2008 which aims to combat progressing and increasing by the day. sioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi The participants, including politi- unemployment, extremism, and mar- continuously Moreover, Austrian small and stressed the importance of listening to cians and officials of the United ginalization of young people and growing. medium-sized companies are the voice of young people, adding that Nations, the European Union and women through employment and eco- finding their way to Qatar, they have always been followers and prominent international organizations, nomic empowerment initiatives. whereas Qatari investments to now they should be leaders, stressing agreed that the provision of Silatech is empowering young people Austria continued to grow, the importance of investment to employment opportunities for young to lead change and improve their lives especially in real estate. employ young refugees in host people is a key to economic and communities for the better. Meanwhile, H E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, Minister of Commerce and Industry, called on Qatar and Austria to capitalise on their potential to further bolster bilateral trade, which was valued at around €187m in 2018. Praising the contribution of over 51 Austrian companies that are Trump’s ‘ultimate deal’ faces ultimate failure currently operating in Qatar to the country’s rapidly expanding economy, Al Kuwari said Qatar looks forward towards Israel: Makovsky is that the triumvirate dele- for secrecy and the refusal to welcoming Austrian investors to take advantage of the a senior fellow at the gated with this mission - to consult knowledgeable promising opportunities that Qatar offers. The opportu- Washington Institute for Trump’s son-in-law Middle East peace negoti- nities in Qatar include investment projects being under- Near East Policy (WINEP) Kushner, Trump Organi- ators as simply paranoid. taken within the framework of the Qatar National Vision which is closely linked to sation lawyer Jason Green- No wonder then that 2030 and in preparation for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. On the pro-Israeli lobby blatt and Trump campaign there is an absence of faith Qatar’s economic environment, the Minister highlighted AIPAC; Ross, after leaving adviser David Friedman - is on the Palestinian side. that the nation has cemented its position as one of the BILL LAW his post as envoy, returned seen as closely linked to the Kushner seems to believe region’s most stable, competitive and growth-oriented AL JAZEERA to WINEP as a counsellor illegal settler movement in that his project, which economies. and distinguished fellow. the West Bank. Makovsky called “economy The State of Qatar and the Republic of Austria play What was abundantly Kushner’s family foun- plus-plus”, will convince effective, distinct and coordinated roles in the service of t a private gath- clear from their comments dation has funded a set- the Palestinian leadership humanity, international security, and peace. The two coun- ering at the Royal was that the peace deal, tlement. Friedman, to give up some, if not all, tries also play roles that seek active mediation to settle United Services whose details remain a Trump’s appointee as of their “hot button” issues disputes and resolve issues in many of the world’s areas Institute (RUSI) in closely held secret, is ambassador to Israel, has in return for economic A argued that the settle- benefits. These core issues of conflict. Both countries are also meeting points for many London on February 28, doomed to failure. As Mak- international events and conferences such as interfaith David Makovsky and ovsky put it “if it was left to ments, contrary to interna- remain the right of return dialogue. In Vienna, there is a United Nations headquarters Dennis Ross - two men the advisers, they would say tional law, are not illegal. for refugees, borders based which a hosting site for a large number of international with a deep understanding do not pursue this deal.” He Greenblatt, confounding on the 1967 Green Line, organizations and bodies. of the decades-long peace added that the risk of failure experts as well as common security and occupied East process between the Pales- was high and “every failure sense, has decreed that the Jerusalem as the capital of tinians and Israelis - spoke comes with a cost”. settlements are “not an a viable Palestinian state. frankly and at length about This is the fourth obstacle to peace”. The benefits that are US President Donald attempt at a comprehensive In keeping with the supposed to flow, in Kush- Trump’s “ultimate deal”. peace deal and the cynicism president’s approach to ner’s mind, like water in QUOTE OF THE DAY Makovsky is an author on both sides, after decades foreign affairs, Kushner has the desert, will come in and journalist who covered of effort, is running higher eschewed the systems and part from the largesse of Our Olive Branch the often anguished twists than ever before. Ross structures that in normal the Gulf states, in par- and turns of the journey to noted that “both sides have times are used as essential ticular, Saudi Arabia. He, of border gate (with reach the Oslo accords of lost faith”; without faith, he tools of diplomacy. He course, has a special rela- Syria’s Afrin) is ready. 1993 and 1995. Ross was argued, there is no chance shares his father-in-law’s tionship with the Saudi God willing, it will appointed President Bill of a deal. “What has been egotistic view that he has no crown prince and de facto Clinton’s Middle East envoy completely lost is the sense need for the machinery of ruler Mohammed bin become operational in the first Clinton adminis- that there is the possibility a government nor the Salman (MBS). next week. tration and in that capacity deal can be reached. That thoughts of wiser and older However, the Saudis helped to broker the possibility has to somehow Middle East experts. In his are not prepared to stump Ruhsar Pekcan Interim Agreement on the be recreated.” very limited world view, this up unless the US does too. Turkey’s Trade Minister West Bank and the Gaza Resurrecting the peace is just another Manhattan Given Trump’s erratic and Strip, commonly referred process is a major challenge real estate deal writ large. unpredictable approach to to as Oslo II in 1995. in itself, but what makes it Makovsky called the foreign policy, there is no Both men are seen by even more difficult to triumvirate’s approach guarantee whatsoever that critics - justifiably or not - achieve for the Trump “close-holed”; other practi- will happen, a point not lost as being sympathetic administration is the fact tioners see the obsession at all on the Saudis. WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 OPINION 11 Failed aid intervention in Venezuela raises questions

n January 23 the president refusal of Maduro’s government. Santander border bridges. Meanwhile the entrance of aid to his country? of the National Assembly of On February 22, Venezuelan oppo- the Colombian Police, in charge of This was the photo many people Venezuela, Juan Guaido, sition deputies gave a press conference safeguarding order and coexistence, expected to see. invoked articles 233, 333 in the border city of Cucuta, Colombia, simply observed the events and never One of the main debates on this O intervened to prevent the humani- and 350 of the Constitution and pro- in which they announced how a episode is if the tons of aid packages claimed himself interim president of “humanitarian avalanche” would cross tarian avalanche from turning into that were to be sent to Venezuela DANIEL SALGAR ANTOLÍNEZ the country. Then he began leading a the border to enter the aid. chaos and violence. Why would qualify as humanitarian aid. Seen ANATOLIA strategy to end Nicolas Maduro’s gov- Deputies Gaby Arellano and Jose Colombian authorities allow young from International Humanitarian ernment, calling the president an Manuel Olivares assured that it would people, many of them underage, to Law, this aid should comply with “usurper”. This new plan from Vene- be a peaceful protest, demonstrators risk their lives and attack a neigh- principles of independence, neu- zuelan opposition has gathered strong would dress in white while supporting boring country? Why they remained trality and impartiality. It should allies and seized attention of global the entrance of trucks that carried the so passive while protesters were have an exclusive humanitarian media, but still lacks of convincing aid. They seemed confident that the injured and tear gas was raining in objective and a prior study of the results. Bolivarian National Guard (GNB), facing their own territory? specific needs and how they will be First part of the strategy is a this type of unarmed revolution, would Other issue is the presence of Ven- satisfied. This was not the case. Even struggle for international support. step aside and open a corridor. They ezuelan civilian armed groups, the so- the International Committee of the Guaido has achieved important recog- also said that in each border bridge in called collectives. Their existence in Red Cross and UN refused to partic- nition as interim president from at Cucuta there would be an opposition Venezuela is undeniable and it is well ipate in the operation of February least 50 states. However this is far from deputy coordinating the historic oper- known that they have committed 23 and pointed out that it could not the majority among the 193 member ation to open the doors of Venezuela. homicides, received weapons from be described as “humanitarian”, due states of UN. Bigwigs at UN Security Hundreds of journalists were ready Chavez government and stand to to its highly politicized content. Council like Russia and China still don’t to cover this peaceful humanitarian defend the Bolivarian revolution. On the ground, the operation support him. Even with the main advance on February 23, but the situ- During the demonstrations on Feb- was far from a genuine humani- western powers on his side, the young ation on the ground was quite dif- ruary 23, the presence of these armed tarian gesture aimed to help the Venezuelan opposition leader has a ferent. Instead of unarmed people groups on the Venezuelan side of the most vulnerable people, but a per- long way to go before isolating and dressed in white and led by the oppo- border was repeatedly denounced. formance in front of global media delegitimizing Maduro internationally. sition figures, groups of youths with However, no deaths were reported. aimed to shame and delegitimize Regardless of the international covered faces were seen throwing At the end of the day, no humani- Maduro. At the end of the day, success of Guaido or Maduro, there is rocks and molotov cocktails at the tarian aid entered Venezuela, instead Guaido sang victory not because the basic problem of legitimacy and GNB, which responded with tear gas there were at least 285 injured. In humanitarian aid had reached its power within their own country. and rubber bullets. Francisco de Paula Santander bridge, goal, but because the world had wit- Besides the legislative power that It was immediately clear that the two trucks carrying aid were burned nessed the repressive character of Guaido leads, none of the remaining border would not be opened as and there is still no certainty of who Maduro. What was the real purpose four State branches recognize him as planned. Which country would allow was responsible. In the following days, of this “humanitarian” aid then? interim president: neither the exec- the entrance of humanitarian aid the scenes of youngsters throwing If the purpose was to help mil- utive, nor the judicial, the electoral under these circumstances, with rocks and molotov cocktails have lions of Venezuelans who suffer from No humanitarian aid and the citizen powers. Neither do the groups of civilians attacking without become constant at the main bridges, hunger due to shortages and hyper- entered Venezuela, armed forces. control? Although Guaido and his allies as contemplative attitude of inflation, or the sick people lacking instead there were Second part of the strategy headed insist that the GNB repressed peaceful Colombian authorities remains. medicines, a humanitarian operation by Guaido was sending humanitarian demonstrators, and many media Other questions arise analyzing the could have been done in other ways at least 285 injured. aid to Venezuelans across the terres- reproduce this speech, after being on role of opposition leaders. Although and without violent confrontations. In Francisco de Paula trial borders with Colombia and Brazil, the ground it is possible to say that the they assured that they would be coor- In fact, although Maduro refuses to Santander bridge, two and through the maritime borders with GNB responded with non-lethal dinating the entry of humanitarian aid, recognize a humanitarian crises in Puerto Rico and Curacao. The entry of weapons to an aggression against their only some of them barely appeared in his country and doesn’t want to open trucks carrying aid over 600 tons of aid provided mainly territory, as any armed forces of any the middle of the battle. On one hand, humanitarian corridors, many were burned and there by the US and Chile was scheduled for country in the world would do. they were unable to control the organizations constantly send aid to is still no certainty of February 23. It was repeatedly These youth groups led a pitched civilians pouring through the bridges Venezuela through different ways, who was responsible. announced that this aid would enter battle that lasted over seven hours on to confront with violence the Vene- maintaining anonymity and ensuring Venezuela by any means, despite the Simon Bolivar and Francisco de Paula zuelan guards. On the other side, some that specific products reach those organizers wearing blue vests were who need them. seen encouraging these demonstrators, providing them masks or material to attack on the border line. Wasn’t it supposed to be a peaceful protest? Meanwhile Guaido, after giving a press conference at noon, jumped on one of the 14 lorries displayed at the D-RING ROAD border to be photographed by the POST BOX: 3488 many journalists following him all DOHA - QATAR around Cucuta. Then he got off and [email protected] disappeared until the press conference he addressed at night. He was never seen leading the humanitarian ava- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE lanche or preventing it from becoming TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 a violent act. FAX: +974 4455 7758 So there was no clear leadership from the main opposition figures who MANAGING EDITOR orchestrated the operation. It is impos- TEL: 4462 7505 sible not to wonder how Guaido, trying to show himself as interim president of DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR TEL: Venezuela, allowed a group of civilians 4455 7769 to attack his own army and his own territory. Having such an amount of LOCAL NEWS SECTION TEL: Colombian and international media 4455 7743 around him, shouldn’t he have pre- Venezuelan opposition leader and self-proclaimed Acting President, Juan Guaido, gestures as he speaks during a sented himself peacefully in front of BUSINESS NEWS SECTION TEL: press conference after a meeting with union leaders in Caracas, yesterday. his soldiers and ordered them to allow 4462 7535 SPORT NEWS SECTION TEL: 4455 7745 call by French President especially over President Donald Commission spokesman said. Emmanuel Macron for Trump’s “America First” policies. Some EU officials were less diplo- ONLINE SECTION reforms of the European “The German government sup- matic when speaking on condition of TEL: 4462 7501 Union to pave the way to a ports engaged discussions about the anonymity. They ascribed the timing [email protected] A of the proposals to Macron’s desire to “European renaissance” won mainly direction of the European Union,” said a spokesman for the government in boost his popularity ratings in France just polite support on Tuesday from PUBLIC RELATIONS before the European Parliament elec- other European leaders. Germany, the EU’s biggest member TEL: 4455 7613 JAN STRUPCZEWSKI tions in May. “People are seeing it as a Some officials portrayed Macron’s state. He declined to give further [email protected] REUTERS reform plan as part of a bid to become details. bit ridiculous that he keeps thinking The importance of Berlin’s he reinvents the wheel,” one official ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT backing for any change in the EU, or said. “He is a solid pro-European but TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 lack of it, has become clear since there’s not much in there that isn’t FAX: 4455 7870 Macron’s vision of deeper integration already done or adds value”. [email protected] Reinventing the wheel? among the 19 countries that use the Some officials said that while euro currency failed to materialise becoming Europe’s main leader was CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT undoubtedly appealing for Macron, Macron’s EU reforms after 18 months of EU talks. TEL: 4455 7857 European Council President his immediate aim was to set out [email protected] Donald Tusk, who chairs EU leaders’ reforms that might help him repeat win polite support summits, focused on only one aspect his success in France’s 2017 presi- SUBSCRIPTION & of Macron’s reform drive -- the cre- dential election, when he ran on a DISTRIBUTION ation of a European Agency for the pro-European agenda. “This letter TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 Protection of Democracies to protect should be read more in a domestic FAX: 44557819 EU countries from outside cyber French context than in a European [email protected] the new leader of Europe as Angela attacks and meddling in elections. one,” a second EU official said. Merkel prepares her exit as German “I agree with Emmanuel Macron. Belgian Prime Minister Charles chancellor, and suggested it was at Do not allow external anti-European Michel offered selective support to the least partly intended to boost his forces to influence our elections and raft of ideas proposed in the Macron All thoughts and views waning popularity in France. decide on key priorities and new editorial. “Support for Emmanuel “I agree with His proposals, unveiled in an open leadership of EU,” Tusk said. Macron’s proposals for a new impetus expressed in these columns Emmanuel Macron. letter to citizens of Europe that was The European Commission, the for the European project. Minimum are those of the writers, Do not allow published in newspapers across the EU executive, saluted Macron’s call as wage, climate investments, Security not of the newspaper. EU, are to protect and defend Europe’s a contribution to the debate about and Defense Council, multi-speed external anti- citizens while giving the 28-nation Europe but said most of the ideas had Europe,” Michel said n Twitter. European forces bloc new impetus in the face of global already been implemented or were The most ringing endorsement All correspondence to influence our competition. under way. came from one of the smaller EU regarding Views and elections and decide Britain is preparing to leave the “We would like to point out that a member states. “I fully support the Opinion pages should be EU, and elections to the European number of the elements that were proposals of Emmanuel Macron in his sent to editor-in-chief on key priorities and Parliament take place in May. The EU presented by the president tally with ambitious words about the future of new leadership of also faces a more assertive China and the structures that already exist, or Europe,” Luxembourg Luxembourg office or mailed to the EU,” Tusk said. challenges from Russia, and has dif- which the Commission has already Prime Minister Xavier Bettel wrote on [email protected] ferences with the United States, proposed and is implementing,” a Twitter. 12 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 Upcoming polls: Netanyahu’s fate in balance

ANATOLIA Mahdi Abdul-Hadi, a as prime minister in coalitions including month led to the emergence of several Mahdi Abdul-Hadi, another Pales- JERUSALEM Palestinian political analyst, extreme right-wing parties. According possible contenders for the party’s top tinian political analyst, agrees the indict- says the indictments could to Shalhat, a second scenario sees position, including Gideon Sa’ar, Yuli ments could end Netanyahu’s political Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Netanyahu losing the polls to left-wing Edelstein, Yisrael Katz and Gilad Ardan. career — but not the continued domi- appears to have been shaken by the end Netanyahu’s political parties led by the Blue and White party Mandelblit appears especially likely nance of the Israeli right over the coun- Israeli attorney-general’s recent career — but not the of former Army Chief-of-Staff Benny to indict Netanyahu on charges of try’s body politic. decision to indict him on bribery, graft continued dominance of Gantz and Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid party. awarding favours to Israel’s Bezeq “The absence of left-wing parties and corruption charges in three separate the Israeli right over the “This would essentially mark the end Telecom Company in return for from the political scene, the disinte- cases. of Netanyahu’s political career,” Shalhat favourable coverage on the firm’s news gration of the centrist ‘Zionist Camp’ Netanyahu has lashed out at country’s politics. said. “The election will be a matter of website. coalition, and the decline in the Labor Attorney-General Avichai Mandelblit, life and death for Netanyahu,” he added. The PM is also expected to be Party’s popularity all indicate that there accusing him of being part of a left-wing “The first scenario is that he wins “If he loses, his Likud party will abandon indicted for fraud and breach of trust in is no real leftist political presence in plan to remove him from power by the elections and maintains the right’s him and leave him at the mercy of the a case involving Israeli Hollywood pro- Israel,” Abdul-Hadi said. influencing Knesset elections slated for Knesset majority,” Shalhat told Anadolu judiciary.” ducer Arnon Milchan, who was allegedly “Israeli society is right-wing by next month. Agency. In a third possible scenario, Shalhat asked to purchase luxury items for nature,” he said. “It keeps producing “The left-wing pressure has In this scenario, the analyst said, said, the attorney-general would issue Netanyahu and his wife. right-wing parties and movements in worked,” Netanyahu said at a press con- Netanyhau would hit back forcefully indictments against the prime minister A third case in which Netanyahu various forms and coalitions.” ference held after Mandelblit announced against his domestic political rivals while before elections are held on April 9. faces the specter of indictment concerns “If a new prime minister is elected,” his decision to issue indictments. stepping up repressive measures against “This would force his party’s lead- an alleged deal for favourable media Abdul-Hadi went on to speculate, “the According to Palestinian political the Palestinians to satisfy his revitalized ership to pressure him to resign,” the coverage with Arnon Mozes, publisher resulting changes would likely be con- analyst Anton Shalhat, Netanyahu cur- electoral base. analyst said. of Hebrew-language daily Yedioth fined to domestic affairs and not foreign rently faces three scenarios. Since 2009, Netanyahu has served Internal Likud elections held last Ahronoth. policy.” Egypt, Tunisia & Algerian army chief vows to secure protest-hit country Algeria FMs take AFP The army chief, who is part in Libya talks ALGIERS deputy defence minister, urged Algerians to be ready to “erect a AP/CAIRO Algeria’s army chief yesterday rampart against anything that pledged to guarantee the coun- could expose Algeria to unpre- Egypt’s Foreign Ministry is try’s security following mass dictable threats”. hosting talks on Libya with the demonstrations against ailing Protests have seen tens of foreign ministers of Libya’s President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s thousands of people take to the neighbours to the west, Algeria bid for a fifth term in office. streets of the North African country and Tunisia, days after Libya’s General Ahmed Gaid Salah also since last month demanding the two rival governments agreed criticised those who he said want 82-year-old president resign. to hold elections. to return to the “painful years” of Thousands of students Egyptian Foreign Minister the 1992-2002 civil war “during marched in the capital and other Sameh Shoukry, Algeria’s which the Algerian people experi- cities yesterday in the latest Abdelkader Messahel and Tuni- enced all forms of suffering and display of public anger. sia’s Khemais Jhinaoui met in paid a heavy price.” Bouteflika, who suffered a Cairo yesterday. The armed forces chief of staff stroke in 2013 and is rarely seen The Libyan election said in a speech at a military in public, promised on Sunday agreement was forged last academy outside Algiers that the that if he wins elections in April Wednesday between the head country’s success “in eradicating he will organise a “national con- of the UN-recognised gov- terrorism... has displeased some ference” to set a date for further ernment in the west, Fayez Al parties who are upset to see polls which he would not Sarraj, and Khalifa Hifter, the Algeria stable and safe.” contest. His pledge, made in a commander of forces based in The people will continue to letter read out on state television, the county’s east. enjoy “security and stability” of has been dismissed as an insult Hifter’s forces recently took which the army “will remain the by Algerians weary of his two- control of the southern border guarantor”, the general, who is decade-old rule. Bouteflika has with Algeria, part of a campaign close to Bouteflika and considered been in Switzerland since Feb- announced in January to “elim- one of Algeria’s most powerful ruary 24 for what the presidency inate gangs, Islamic State ter- Algerians participate in a protest rally against their ailing president’s bid for a fifth term in power, in figures, said according to an has described as “routine medical rorists and criminals” in the the northeastern city of Annaba, yesterday. official transcript. tests”. south. Libya slid into chaos after the 2011 uprising, which toppled long-time ruler Nigerian police arrest Moammar Gaddafi. Rwanda accuses Uganda Seven dead in of supporting rebels 300 for voting offences DR Congo attacks AFP AFP/GOMA, DR CONGO REUTERS still stuck at the frontier. The FDLR is a rebel group ABUJA KIGALI Rwandan Foreign Minister composed in part of former Seven people were killed Richard Sezibera accused Rwandan soldiers and Hutu More than 300 people were arrested on suspicion of committing yesterday, three of them by Rwanda yesterday accused Uganda of offering succour to militias who fled into Democratic electoral offences during Nigeria’s recent elections, the top police machete-wielding assailants, Uganda of supporting rebel two foreign-based Rwanda rebel Republic of Congo after massa- chief has said. “A total of 323 offenders have so far been arrested in a fresh round of violence in groups opposed to President groups - Rwanda National Con- cring around 800,000 Tutsis and for various electoral offences and sundry crimes across the country,” eastern DR Congo, officials said. Paul Kagame’s government, gress (RNC) and Democratic moderate Hutus during Rwanda’s Inspector General of Police Mohammed Adamu said. In the city of Butembo, two amid a resurgence of hostility Forces for the Liberation of 1994 genocide. “Two officers also paid the supreme sacrifice, while some others soldiers were killed by Mai-Mai between the African neigh- Rwanda (FDLR). The group has since sought were assaulted and injured,” he added, vowing to liaise with the militia who made a dawn attack bours. “RNC and FDLR work from to topple Kagame’s government. electoral commission for any prosecutions. on a military camp, the Con- Relations between the two Uganda with support of some Ugandan Foreign Minister Sam The February 23 polls saw incumbent President Muhammadu golese armed forces said on nations soured last week after authorities there. This is another Kutesa said the accusations were Buhari, of the All Progressives Congress, defeat his main rival Atiku Twitter. “One assailant was Rwanda blocked Ugandan cargo serious case and we have raised false. Uganda could not allow Abubakar from the Peoples Democratic Party. killed and two (soldiers) fell on trucks from entering its territory it with them,” he told a news anyone threatening a neighbour Abubakar has rejected the result, calling the election a “sham” the field of honour,” they said, at the busiest crossing point, conference in Kigali. “to operate from its territory,” and vowed to file a legal challenge. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous using a traditional term for mil- Katuna, and barred its nationals The RNC is a rebel group led he said. nation, has a history of election violence and malpractice, including itary fatalities. from crossing into Uganda. by some of Rwanda’s most Rwanda and Uganda have a ballot-snatching, voter intimidation and vote-buying. Butembo is a major city in Officials in Kigali say they prominent dissidents including shared political, ethnic and During the ballot, which Buhari won by nearly four million North Kivu, a province wracked have directed trucks to another South Africa-based Kayumba security history that has alter- votes, some 53 people were killed and dozens of others were injured, by years-long militia violence border point 100 km (60 miles) Nyamwasa. Its founders say it is nately been friendly and hostile according to monitoring groups. In 2011, more than 1,000 were and struggling with a seven- away, but hundreds of them are a political party. over the decades. killed in post-election violence in northern Nigeria. month-old epidemic of Ebola. Kenyan finance minister summoned US sanctions against over dams scandal Zimbabwe extended REUTERS/NAIROBI REUTERS/WASHINGTON (one) year the national emer- gency declared in Executive Kenyan police have summoned US President Donald Trump Order 13288.” Finance Minister Henry Rotich extended by one year sanctions The renewal comes despite for questioning for a second against Zimbabwe saying that calls by African leaders, time over a multi-million the new government’s policies including South Africa’s Pres- dollar scandal involving continue to pose an “unusual ident Cyril Ramaphosa, for the advance payments for two and extraordinary” threat to US sanctions to be lifted to give the dam projects, the head of the foreign policy. country a chance to recover Directorate of Criminal Inves- The renewal comes despite from its economic crisis. Trump tigations (DCI) said. calls by African leaders, administration officials had said The DCI said last week it including South Africa’s Pres- the sanctions will remain until was investigating what it ident Cyril Ramaphosa, for the the government of President described as fraudulent con- sanctions to be lifted to give the Emmerson Mnangagwa changes struction of the two dams country a chance to recover Zimbabwe’s laws restricting valued at 63bn shillings. Some from its economic crisis. “The media freedom and allowing payments had already been Fire ravages homes actions and policies of these protests. According to US offi- made despite the dams not persons continue to pose an cials, there are 141 entities and being built, it said. Rotich said Flames seen from the wreckage of fire-ravaged homes at the informal settlement of Stjwetla in unusual and extraordinary individuals in Zimbabwe, that up to 19.8bn shillings Alexandra Township, Johannesburg, South Africa, yesterday. Some 100 dwellings have been destroyed threat to the foreign policy of the including Mnangagwa and long- ($198m) had been paid in in a blaze which was caused when an overhead electricity pylon collapsed, trailing its wires onto United States,” Trump said in a time former president Robert advance to various firms for the shacks below. notice announcing the extension, Mugabe, currently under US Arror and Kimwarer dams. adding: “I am continuing for sanctions. WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 ASIA 13 Opposition unity hit as Congress says no to AAP IANS With this, Delhi is set to see a triangular contest NEW DELHI for state’s seven Lok Sabha seats, all of which The opposition’s desire to put up were won by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) a united front against the BJP in 2014 and where the AAP finished second in suffered a blow yesterday after all places. the Congress refused to tie up with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi and a miffed Chief alliance was likely to consolidate will defeat this unholy alliance,” Minister Arvind Kejriwal vowed the anti-BJP vote. he said. to defeat the “unholy Congress- However, according to Speaking in the same vein, BJP alliance”. informed sources, Dikshit stood AAP Minister Gopal Rai too With this, Delhi is set to see a her ground and was able to con- accused the Congress of “unoffi- triangular contest for state’s seven vince Gandhi not to go for an cially helping” the BJP. Lok Sabha seats, all of which were understanding with the AAP, “Congress has been speaking won by the Bharatiya Janata Party claiming that the anti-incumbency the language of BJP for some time. (BJP) in 2014 and where the AAP against the Kejriwal government AAP feels the way the BJP has finished second in all places. will adversely affect the Congress. helped the Congress win in The Congress decision, putting Dikshit also pointed out that the Punjab, the Congress is unoffi- Kashmiri villagers look on as fire razes a house following a deadly gun battle between militants and to rest all speculation of a possible AAP had already declared candi- cially helping the BJP win Delhi Indian government forces in Tral area of Pulwama district, south of Srinagar, yesterday. tie up, was arrived at a meeting of dates for six of the seven Lok now,” Rai told the media here. its Delhi unit led by former Chief Sabha seats in Delhi. The Congress snub to the AAP Minister Sheila Dikshit had with Among those present at the is being perceived as a blow to the party President Rahul Gandhi at meeting were Congress Secretary larger opposition’s bid to put up a Navy chief warns of terror strikes through sea his residence here. Kuljit Singh Nagra and Delhi unit united front against the BJP and “Congress has unanimously working Presidents Haroon Yusuf Modi. Even during the February IANS years, and few countries in this reports of terrorists being trained taken a decision that there will be and Rajesh Lilothia and former 13 opposition parties’ meet in NEW DELHI part of the world have been to carry out attacks with varying no alliance with AAP. The decision President Ajay Maken. Maken is which they had resolved to have spared by this scourge. modus operandi, including was taken in Rahul Gandhi’s known to be bitterly opposed to a pre-poll pact to defeat the BJP, Underlining that India is facing “The global nature which through the medium of sea,” he presence and it is final,” Dikshit the AAP. the Congress had appeared to state-sponsored terrorism, terrorism has acquired in recent said. said later. Reacting strongly to the devel- keep its options open about tying Indian Navy chief Admiral Sunil times has further enhanced the “We have seen how quickly While the Delhi unit was firm opment, Kejriwal accused the up with the AAP. Lanba yesterday said there are scope of this threat. India, terrorist groups evolve across on not aligning with the AAP from Congress of having a “secret A day later, Kejriwal claimed reports of terrorists being trained however, faces a far more the globe and this particular the beginning, the central lead- understanding” with the BJP. that the Congress had almost said to carry out attacks through serious version of terrorism — ‘brand’ of terror may well ership had been exploring the pos- “At a time when the whole ‘no’ for an alliance with the AAP. various ways including via the state-sponsored terrorism,” become a global problem in the sibility of an understanding, country wants to defeat (Prime At the height of the Modi wave, sea route. Lanba said as he cited the near future,” he added. harping on the need for all oppo- Minister Narendra) Modi-Amit the BJP got 46 per cent of Lok Addressing the Indo-Pacific example of February 14 The Navy chief said that the sition parties to put up a united Shah duo, Congress is helping BJP Sabha votes in Delhi in 2014 while Regional Dialogue, Admiral Pulwama attack in which at least Indian security establishment is front against the BJP. by splitting anti-BJP vote,” said the AAP, which was not in power Lanba without taking names hit 40 paramilitary troopers were continuously working to address Besides Rahul Gandhi, Con- Kejriwal. then, earned nearly 33 per cent. out at Pakistan for abetting ter- killed. this menace, and stressed that it gress in-charge of Delhi P.C. “Rumours (are) that Congress The Congress, despite having rorism in the region. “This violence was perpe- is “imperative” that the global Chacko had been a votary of the has some secret understanding ruled Delhi for 15 long years, He said that the Indo-Pacific trated by extremists aided and community acts to contain and tie up and had been trying to get with BJP. Delhi is ready to fight polled around 15 per cent and region has witnessed multiple abetted by a state, which seeks eliminate terrorism, in all its Dikshit on board arguing that an against Cong-BJP alliance. People did not retain any seat. forms of terrorism in recent to destabilise India. We also have forms.

Indian pilot’s moustache BJP website in ‘maintenance mode’ after hacking attempt is new fashion trend IANS unanswered. No hacker or group data leaks in the past, tweeted: due technical support enabled NEW DELHI claimed the responsibility for “The official website of @ through NIC”. REUTERS/AHMEDABAD allegedly breaking into the BJP BJP4India has been hacked. I The website of the country’s The website of the Bharatiya website. guess they stole the database ruling political party stopped Men across India, stirred into Janata Party (BJP) went into the Social media, however, was too”. The opposition immedi- functioning amid ongoing ten- patriotic passion by an air “maintenance” mode after an abuzz with screenshots of a atley took up the issue on the sions between India and force pilot shot down in a alleged hacking attempt early meme featuring Prime Minister social media platforms. Pakistan following the Pulwama dogfight with arch-rival yesterday morning, with security Narendra Modi that appeared on “If you’re not looking at the terror attack in Jammu and Pakistan, are copying the researchers claiming the hackers the BJP website before it went BJP website right now — you’re Kashmir in which 40 CRPF facial hair of their new hero. may have stolen the entire into the “maintenance” mode. missing out,” tweeted Divya troopers were killed. Tension between the nuclear- database. Below the meme was a music Spandana, Social media head of Within hours of the Pulwama armed neighbours escalated Dhiren Makvana gets his moustache The portal was not up till the video of the film “Bohemian the Congress Party. attack, Pakistani-linked hackers late last month when both trimmed similar to the one sported evening and the message on the Rhapsody”. Ghanshyam Tiwari, national reportedly attacked nearly 90 countries claimed they by Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan website read: “We’ll be back The meme poked fun at a spokesperson of the Samajwadi Indian government websites, downed enemy jets, with Varthaman, inside a salon in soon! Sorry for the inconven- clip in which German Chancellor Party, tweeted: “I condemn the leading India to initiate counter Pakistan capturing a pilot, in ience but we’re performing some Angela Merkel walks past Modi hacking of @BJP4India BJP offensive measures in cyber space. Ahmedabad, yesterday. an ongoing dispute over the maintenance at the moment. We as he extends his hand. website. It must be investigated. In the same week, Pakistan’s Min- Kashmir region. will be back online shortly!” French security researcher In the interest of the country, istry of Foreign Affairs website The pilot, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, crash- Calls made to the party on that goes by the name of Elliot data on key Political Party web- was not working in several coun- landed in Pakistan-controlled territory on Wednesday. After why the website was down went Alderson who published Aadhaar sites must be duly secured with tries, including the US. attempting to flee on foot, firing his pistol in the air to deter stone- throwing locals, he became the human face of the crisis. He was released by Pakistan on Friday. Barbers in several cities in India Andhra Pradesh said they had received requests to copy Abhinandan’s facial hair, New Delhi is most polluted capital a distinctive hybrid of a horseshoe moustache and mutton chop signs MoUs sideburns. “Everybody follows Bollywood and celebrities’ style REUTERS but he is the real hero of our country,” said Dhiren Makvana, 30, NEW DELHI worth Rs210bn the manager of a fitness club, as he had his beard sculpted at a barber shop in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad. New Delhi was the world’s most IANS/AMARAVATI Makvana’s barber, Rajesh Nai, said that three people had polluted capital city in 2018, two come into his shop in the last day alone requesting the style, that groups monitoring air pollution The Andhra Pradesh Economic India’s newspapers are calling “the gunslinger”. said yesterday in a study of the Development Board yesterday amount of fine particulate matter signed Memoranda of Under- Fasten your seatbelts and Hail India! known as PM2.5 in 61 capital standing (MoUs) worth Rs210bn cities around the world. with various companies. AFP/NEW DELHI The Indian capital, home to The MoUs were signed in more than 20 million people, was the presence of Chief Minister Air India has reminded cabin crews to follow all announcements followed by the Bangladesh capital N. Chandrababu Naidu, APEDB with a rousing cry of “Hail India!” as nationalistic fervour grips of Dhaka and Kabul, capital of Chief Executive Officer J. the nation in its latest military standoff with Pakistan. Afghanistan, according to the Krishna Kishore and represent- “With immediate effect, all are required to announce ‘Jai study by IQ AirVisual, a Swiss- A ragpicker collects recyclable materials as birds fly overhead at atives of different companies. Hind’ at the end of every announcement after a slight pause and based group that gathers air- the Ghazipur landfill site in New Delhi, yesterday. These MoUs would fructify with much fervour,” the national carrier’s head of operations quality data globally, and into the investment potential of said in a circular. A spokesman said the order was first issued Greenpeace. level of Beijing, which averaged metre of air. India is home to 15 Rs210bn and generate direct in 2017 but that a reminder was required because new staff had New Delhi’s toxic air is 50.9 during the year, making it of the 20 most polluted cities in employment of around 57,000 joined. It comes as India’s biggest military standoff with Pakistan caused by vehicle and industrial the eighth most polluted in the the world, they said. “The and indirect employment of in years triggers a rise in patriotism, stoked by Prime Minister emissions, dust from building world. question which remains to be around 1,65,000, said APEDB, Narendra Modi ahead of looming elections. Air India’s sites, smoke from the burning PM2.5, or particles of 2.5 answered is whether there is which is responsible for sus- announcement also attracted mockery on social media in view of rubbish and crop residue in micrometers or less in diameter, enough political will to aggres- tainable economic growth of the stricken airline’s crippling debts. “Much welcome but before nearby fields. The city’s average is so dangerous because it lodges sively fight the health emergency through trade, investments, starting this Air India should improve the service. Make the airline annual concentration of PM2.5 deep in the lungs. The World India faces today and move away partnerships and profitable. Keep up to schedule. Stop wasting taxpayer money. in a cubic metre of air was 113.5 Health Organization sets a daily from polluting fuels and prac- collaborations. Be customer friendly,” quipped Dinesh Joshi, one Twitter user. in 2018, the groups said in their mean air quality guideline of 25 tices,” said Pujarini Sen, spokes- Under one of the MoUs, report, more than double the micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic woman for Greenpeace India. Maruti Ispat & Energy Private Ltd will set up MS Steel and Alloy Steel Manufacturing plant at Kurnool with an investment J&K parties, administration for simultaneous LS and assembly polls of Rs 122.7bn. Telugu Pharmaceutical & IANS/JAMMU Sabha and Assembly polls. tions. The state administration political parties said after the of the commission to hold ethical Chemicals Association propose Addressing a media conference has also favoured holding them large voter turnout in the pan- and inclusive elections.. those which to set up a cluster of MSME Chief Election Commissioner here at the end of the full simultaneously. chayat and urban civic body polls are free and fair. pharma companies in Pra- Sunil Arora said yesterday that Election Commission’s two-day “During their presentations in the state, there should be no “With regard to the holding kasam with an investment of almost every political party in visit to the state, he said: “Almost to us, no official sounded reason for not holding the Lok of elections in the state, the Com- Rs90bn. This is expected to Jammu and Kashmir and the all the political parties we met alarmist about the holding of the Sabha and assembly elections mission would be making the generate direct employment for administration are on same page have favoured simultaneous Lok polls together.” jointly. “Political parties wanted free final announcement in New 45,000 people and indirect in favouring simultaneous Lok Sabha and state Assembly elec- The CEC said that the and fair elections. It is the mandate Delhi,” he said. employment to 150,000. 14 ASIA WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 Pakistan arrests 44 militants in crackdown on banned groups

AFP Islamabad says action ISLAMABAD was not taken under Renewed action Pakistan has detained dozens pressure from anyone, against those on of alleged militants after a and has vehemently suicide attack in Indian-held denied involvement in UN sanctions list Kashmir last month which sent militant attacks or the tensions between the two coun- REUTERS tries soaring, its interior existence of terrorist ISLAMABAD minister said yesterday. safe heavens on its Among those detained in soil. Pakistan has made it easier Islamabad’s latest crackdown to seize and freeze the on banned groups was Abdul assets of people and groups Rauf - who according to a pleaded for restraint. facing UN sanctions. Paki- source is a younger brother of Pakistan captured one Indian stan’s foreign ministry late Masood Azhar - the leader of pilot, releasing him on Friday in a on Monday said a new militant group Jaish-e- bid to pull both countries back order, updating existing Mohammad (JeM) that claimed from the brink, though tensions laws that deal with those responsibility for the February remain high. on UN sanctions lists, had A Pakistani Kashmiri woman is seen through a hole on the roof of a house caused by cross-border 14 attack in Pulwama. Rauf is a little-known younger been issued “to streamline shelling near the Line of Control, yesterday. Rauf had been named in a brother of Masood Azhar, the the procedure for imple- dossier of evidence about that security source said. He added that mentation of Security attack given to Pakistan by “Hammad Azhar” was an alias, but Council sanctions against Pakistan Navy foils attempt by Indian India, the interior ministry said. did not say who for. designated individuals and “We have launched a Indian officials were scep- entities”. Ministry crackdown against proscribed tical of the detentions yesterday. spokesman Mohammad submarine trying to enter its waters organisations and have taken “We have seen Pakistan make Faisal said the order was 44 individuals into custody, arrests before, and then the passed by the federal INTERNEWS and seabed within a certain dis- navy units. The detected sub- including Mufti Abdul Rauf and people are released,” an Indian cabinet. Many Pakistani KARACHI tance of a country’s coastline marine is one of the latest sub- Hammad Azhar,” Minister of government official said. groups and individuals are that cannot be entered without marines of Indian navy,” added State for Interior Shehryar Afridi India, along with the US, has sanctioned by the United The Pakistan Navy (PN) permission or prior the statement. told reporters in Islamabad. pressured Pakistan to take Nations. A senior counter- yesterday said it detected an information. Learning from this incident, He did not give any further action against militancy. terrorism official said the Indian submarine trying to enter “The submarine was India should also work towards names, clarify what groups Afridi said Pakistan was government was looking Pakistani waters and success- detected and localised in Paki- peace, the statement added. those detained allegedly “not taking this action under to set up a coordination fully thwarted the attempt on stan’s maritime zone on March “This great feat is a tes- belonged to, or say if they would pressure from anyone”. “cell” to oversee action Monday night. 4,” said the statement issued by tament of the Pakistan Navy’s face charges. Islamabad has vehemently against militants. “This cell “The Pakistan Navy used its the director general of navy’s superior skills. The Navy will The February 14 attack denied involvement in militant will coordinate with specialised skills to ward off the public relations. keep defending Pakistan’s naval killed 40 Indian paramilitary attacks, and said there are no finance ministry, counter- submarine, successfully keeping “The submarine could have border. The force has the capa- personnel and spurred tit-for- safe havens left for terror terrorism departments, the it from entering Pakistani been easily engaged and bility to respond to any tat air raids between India and groups on its territory. State Bank, and financial waters,” a statement by the PN destroyed had it not been Paki- aggression.” Pakistan across the Line of JeM leader Masood Azhar monitoring units to see said. stan’s policy to exercise restraint The latest incident came a Control, the de facto border in remains in Pakistan, Foreign what actions have been Pakistan territorial waters is in the face of Indian aggression week after both the countries Kashmir. Minister Shah Mehmood taken against the militant 12 nautical miles while its seabed and to give peace a chance to claimed to shoot down each Both sides claimed they had Qureshi told CNN last week, groups, their assets and territory, the Exclusive Economic prevail. other’s war planes and engaged shot each other’s warplanes adding that he was “very their sources of income,” Zone (EEZ), grew to 290,000 “However, the submarine is in cross-border shelling along down, igniting fears of an unwell” and could not leave his he said. square kilometres in 2015. EEZ being kept under watch along the Line of Control in the dis- all-out conflict as world powers house. signifies an area of coastal water with monitoring of other Indian puted Kashmir region. Punjab minister removed for anti-Hindu remarks Flood toll in Afghanistan AGENCIES Minister Usman Buzdar sum- Prime Minister Narendra Modi, controversial comments while “Our PM’s message is always of LAHORE moned Chohan and sought an Indian armed forces and their addressing a gathering on Feb- tolerance and respect and we rises to 59 explanation from him. Sources media not the Hindu community ruary 24. The footage of his cannot condone any form of A provincial minister in Paki- said Buzdar asked Chohan to in Pakistan,” he said. remarks went viral on social bigotry or spread of religious ANATOLIA stan’s Punjab province stepped step down. “I apologise if my remarks media, where many called for his hatred,” she added. KABUL down yesterday, after he drew Both Buzdar and Chohan hurt the Hindu community in sacking. “Hindus of Pakistan are as nationwide condemnation for belong to Prime Minister Imran Pakistan. My remarks were in no Minister for Human Rights much a part of the fabric of the The death toll from flash floods making derogatory remarks Khan’s PTI party, which rules way directed at Pakistan’s Hindu Shireen Mazari, Finance Minister nation as I am. Remember the caused by heavy snowfall and about the Hindu community. both the centre and the Punjab. community.” Asad Umar and several others flag of Pakistan is not just green; torrential rains in Afghanistan Shahbaz Gill, a spokesperson Earlier yesterday, Chohan Chohan further said: “I will had also slammed Chohan. its not complete without the has climbed to 59, an official for the Punjab government, con- apologised for his remarks fol- respond befittingly to whoever “Absolutely condemn this. white which represents the statement said yesterday. firmed that Fayyazul Hassan lowing severe criticism from looks at my nation with a dirty No one has the right to attack minorities,” Umar wrote on Afghanistan National Dis- Chohan, the provincial Infor- senior members of his party and eye. Every last drop of my blood anyone else’s religion. Our Hindu Twitter. Naeemul Haque, an aster Management Authority mation Minister, had resigned. social media users. is for my nation.” citizens have given sacrifices for assistant to PM Khan, termed the said close to 150 people were Earlier yesterday, Punjab Chief “I was addressing Indian Chohan made the their country,” Mazari tweeted. remarks ‘nonsense’. also injured due to the floods, adding 24 out of 34 provinces across the country were affected by the devastating Search on for missing floods. It said the death toll was likely to surge as access to climbers in Pakistan remote areas remains restricted and rescue operation is under AP Pontecorvo has praised the was in many districts. ISLAMABAD Pakistani and Spanish moun- The Afghan National Army taineers trying to trace Nardi has been mobilised for the Armed with drones and hoping and Ballar. Ballard’s disap- rescue and relief operations. for a miracle, Spanish and Paki- pearance on the mountain with More than 14,000 stranded stani mountaineers yesterday a peak of 8,126 meters (26,660 people have been evacuated resumed their search for two feet) has hit Scotland particu- from the flood-affected areas. European climbers who went larly hard because he is the son On Monday, the UN Office missing over a week ago on the of Alison Hargreaves, the first for the Coordination of Human- world’s ninth-highest mountain woman to scale Mount Everest itarian Affairs announced flash in bad weather, officials said. alone. She died at age 33 while floods also inflicted severe The search for Italian descending the summit of K2, damage to infrastructure. Daniele Nardi and Scotsman also part of the Himalayas. The World Food Program Tom Ballard, missing for more Nardi, 42, from near Rome, has dispatched more than 1,000 than a week on Nanga Parbat - has attempted the Nanga Parbat tons of wheat for families known as “Killer Mountain” summit in winter several times affected and displaced by flash because of its dangerous condi- in the past. Ballard, 30, also a floods in Kandahar province tions - produced no leads on skilled climber, in 2015 became alone. Monday, increasing fears the the first person to solo climb all The recent spell of heavy pair may have perished. six major north faces of the Alps snowfall and torrential rains Karrar Haidri, the secretary in one winter. The search team Moments of joy has hit the war-ravaged of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, includes Spaniard Alex Txikon country after a crippling phase Rohingya children play football at a refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, yesterday. said that despite the long time and his three colleagues, of drought. that Nardi and Ballard have including a physician, and also been missing, the search-and- Pakistani mountaineer Ali rescue team was still holding Sadpara. who is familiar with the out hope. peak. Sharif’s condition life-threatening, says daughter “Miracles do happen and Bad weather twice forced have happened in the past in the search teams to halt the INTERNEWS of angina and asked for his offered to him even when he is regarding his health on part of such incidents so we are hoping operation last week. But the LAHORE nitrate spray. It was then that he taken to and kept in the hospital the govt is shocking to say the to find them,” he said. search mission helicopters flew divulged that he has had similar for days. He says he doesn’t want least. My family and I are Family members and friends even after Pakistan shut its air- Daughter of former Pakistan attacks four times last week. He to be in the hospital as an excuse extremely concerned given the of the missing climbers have space because of an escalation prime minister Mian Nawaz reiterated that he will neither or escape or just for the sake of grave risk to his health. His con- raised funds to continue the with neighboring India over the Sharif yesterday said her father’s report nor complain,” Maryam it.” dition is in every way life-threat- search operation, he added. disputed region of Kashmir. condition was ‘life-threatening’, Nawaz wrote on Twitter after a She once again called out the ening,” she added. Pakistan’s military has provided Pakistani officials say their saying he had four angina visit to the Lahore jail where government for their treatment Who will I blame or who will helicopters for the search that helicopters will continue attacks in the last week. Sharif has been incarcerated of a three-time elected prime be responsible if anything took off from the northern Paki- assisting the families of the “MNS’s doctor and I met him since December following his minister. “MNS has been a 3 happens to him God forbid? The stani town of Skardu. climbers until they decide to halt at Kot Lakhpat jail today. During conviction in a corruption case. times Prime Minister and the callousness, I repeat, is Italian Ambassador Stefano the search. the meeting he had an episode “There is no treatment insensitivity and callousness shocking,” she said. WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 ASIA 15 Philippine defence chief calls for US pact review AGENCIES US and the Philippines, and if its forces come under attack in facilities. The US has declared MANILA vowed to keep it open. a disputed region like the South that the peaceful resolution of But Lorenzana said the naval China Sea, where it has been the disputes and freedom of nav- The decades-old defence treaty manoeuvres risked dragging the locked in tense territorial con- igation and overflight in the con- between the United States and “The United States, Philippines into armed conflict. flicts with China and four other tested areas are in the US the Philippines needs to be with the increased and “The United States, with the governments. national interest. revamped, or risks dragging frequent passage of increased and frequent passage Pompeo assured the Philip- Presidential spokesman Sal- Manila into a war with China, the of its naval vessels in the West pines during his visit that vador Panelo said yesterday that Filipino defence chief said its naval vessels in the Philippine Sea, is more likely to America will come to its defence the defence department was yesterday. West Philippine Sea, be involved in a shooting war,” if its forces, aircraft or ships checking a report that Chinese Defence Secretary Delfin is more likely to be he said, referring to Filipino- come under armed attack in the vessels have been blocking Fil- Lorenzana (pictured) made the claimed areas of the sea. South China Sea, in the first such ipino fishermen from comments four days after US involved in a shooting “In such a case and on the public US assurance in recent approaching sandbars near Phil- Secretary Mike Pompeo said war. It is not the lack basis of the (treaty), the Philip- memory. ippine-occupied Thitu Island, Washington would intervene in of reassurance that The US has said it does not take pines will be automatically The top American diplomat which is called Pag-asa by Fili- case of an armed attack on Phil- worries me. It is being sides in the dispute over the involved,” he said. The “vastly assured that the US is committed pinos, in the disputed waters. ippine forces or vessels in the South China Sea claimed by different” security environment to ensuring the South China Sea Philippine officials have said disputed South China Sea. involved in a war that Beijing as well as the Philippines, now in place “necessitates a remains open to all kinds of nav- China has deployed surveillance “It is not the lack of reas- we do not seek and do Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and review of the treaty”, he added. igation and that “China does not ships and fishing flotillas off surance that worries me. It is not want,” Lorenzana Vietnam. It has however sailed The treaty behind one of the pose a threat” of closing the dis- three newly emerged sandbars being involved in a war that we said warships near the Chinese-built longest-standing security alli- puted sea lanes. called Sandy Cay near Thitu do not seek and do not want,” islands to assert free passage. ances in Asia calls on the US and The long-seething territorial since 2017 to prevent the Philip- Lorenzana said in a statement. Pompeo said on Friday the Philippines to come to each disputes are a key irritant pines from occupying them. In Filipino officials have sug- waterway, since Washington has China’s actions in the waterway other’s defence against an between Washington and addition to China, the Philip- gested the Philippines’ 1951 not stopped Beijing building arti- — through which trillions of external attack. In the past, the Beijing, which has turned several pines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan mutual defence treaty with the ficial islands over reefs claimed dollars of global trade passes Philippines has tried to clarify disputed barren reefs into islands and Brunei have overlapping US may not apply in the strategic by Manila and other neighbours. each year — threaten both the whether the treaty would apply with runways and other military claims in the strategic waters. Facebook prohibits foreign-funded ads for Indonesia elections: Report

AP for not doing enough to stop vention to identify foreign- JAKARTA misuse of their platforms by funded election ads. groups trying to sway elections. It said the restriction applies Facebook says it will not allow Critics say foreign interests, and to any ads coming from an foreign-funded advertisements Russia in particular, used advertiser based outside of the for upcoming presidential and Facebook to harvest private data country “if it references politi- legislative elections in Indonesia, and disseminate paid ads that cians or political parties or the world’s third-largest may have influenced the out- attempts to encourage or sup- democracy, hoping to allay comes of the 2016 US presi- press voting.” The company said concerns that its platform is dential election and the UK ref- it had also prohibited foreign- being used to manipulate voting erendum on leaving the funded advertisements for behaviour. European Union. Nigeria’s elections in February The announcement on Face- Indonesians vote for pres- and for Ukraine’s elections later book’s website said the ident and national and regional this month. restriction in Indonesia took legislatures on April 17. The pres- For upcoming elections for effect on Monday and is part of idential campaign pits the European Parliament and “safeguarding election integrity incumbent leader Joko Widodo India, it has said advertisers will on our platform.” Facebook and against ultranationalist former need to be authorised to buy other Internet companies are Gen. Prabowo Subianto, who political ads and a new tool will Traditional fair facing increased scrutiny over was narrowly defeated by provide information about an Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha (right) meeting performers wearing traditional costumes how they handle private user Widodo in 2014. It’s using a mix ad’s budget, the number of during an arts and handicrafts fair at the Government House in Bangkok, yesterday. data and have been lambasted of automated and human inter- people it reached and all. Vietnam suspect Pompeo sees more North Korea talks to testify in Kim REUTERS any agreement or immediate Trump said that North Korea in the past has used fiery rhetoric country and government would Jong Nam trial SEOUL plan for follow-up negotiations. wanted the sanctions lifted in against Trump and blamed the not be compromised if it aban- “I am hopeful, although I have their entirety, while North United States for previous failed doned its nuclear weapons The US Secretary of State Mike no commitment yet, that we will Korean foreign minister Ri Yong negotiations, reported yesterday programme. AFP Pompeo said he was hopeful the be back at it, that I’ll have a team Ho said they had only demanded that Kim returned home after a The United States and South KUALA LUMPUR United States would send a dele- in Pyongyang in the next couple a partial easing in exchange for “successful” trip to Vietnam. Korea announced on Saturday gation to North Korea in the weeks,” Pompeo told the Iowa dismantling its main nuclear site It made no mention of the an end to large-scale joint mil- A Vietnamese woman accused coming weeks, after a summit Farm Bureau. at Yongbyon. summit breakdown or any dis- itary exercises held every spring. of murdering the half-brother between President Donald “I’m continuing to work to However, the two sides left agreement between the two North Korea has long derided of North Korea’s leader will Trump and North Korean leader find those places where there’s room for further discussions, leaders, in line with its positive the combined exercises, which testify in court for the first time Kim Jong Un ended with no deal. a shared interest,” he said. with Trump highlighting the eco- coverage last week. Pompeo said often involve US nuclear next week, when the long- The leaders’ second summit, The two sides gave different nomic benefits for North Korea during the Iowa visit that his bombers, stealth jets and naval running trial over the Cold held last week in the Vietnamese reasons for the abrupt end to the if it gave up its nuclear weapons. team has been trying to convince ships in what Pyongyang has War-style hit resumes, her capital Hanoi, failed to produce talks about denuclearisation. North Korean state media, which Kim that the security of his called a “rehearsal for war.” lawyer said yesterday. In a brazen killing that shocked the world, Doan Thi Huong from Vietnam and Siti Rocks as big as trucks fell on Aisyah from Indonesia are accused of assassinating Kim Jong Nam by smearing VX Indonesian miners: Official nerve agent on his face at Kuala Lumpur airport in February AP to rescuers who are pulling 2017. JAKARTA apart a rock pile believed to be The women have denied covering victims. murder, saying they believed Rocks as big as trucks buried “We are determined to they were taking part in a miners when an unlicensed evacuate all victims com- prank and were tricked by Indonesian gold mine pletely, whatever the condi- North Korean agents. collapsed last week, a search tions we have to face,” Salim Bashir, one of and rescue official said Purnama said. Huong’s lawyers, said she will yesterday, as the effort to find The unlicensed mine col- testify on Monday when the victims recovered more bodies, lapsed last on last Tuesday due trial resumes with the defence body parts and belongings. to shifting soil and the large stage of proceedings after a The director of operations number of mining holes. break of several months. at the national search and Nineteen people were “Huong is in good health, rescue agency, Budi Purnama, rescued with injuries from confident and is ready to take said three intact bodies, body ranging from minor to serious. the stand,” he said, adding that parts and backpacks and shoes Informal mining operations Volvo unveils first autonomous electric bus the thrust of the defence were recovered yesterday. He are commonplace in Indonesia, remained that the women were Nanyang Technology University President, Subra Suresh (centre), Volvo Buses President, Hakan said one body and part of a leg providing a tenuous livelihood tricked into carrying out the Agnevall (left), and Land Transport Authority Chief Innovation and Technology Officer, Lam Wee Shann were recovered Monday. to thousands who labor in con- killing. “Huong had no... That raises the death toll to ditions with a high risk of (right), pose after unveiling Volvo’s first full size autonomous electric bus in Singapore yesterday. intention to commit murder.” at least 13. Authorities are serious injury or death. unsure how many people were Rescuers initially used their in the remote mine in North bare hands and shovels to find Sulawesi when it collapsed a victims and fashioned week ago but the national dis- stretchers from branches, Authorities warn wildfires threaten Australian towns aster agency has said as many twine and other materials to as 100. carry survivors away from the AP Victoria state Emergency razed more than 40,000 hec- hundreds and hundreds of fire- “The rocks that hit the mine, located in steep jungle MELBOURNE Management Commissioner tares of forest and farm land fighters working on the ground, miners were large, some as big terrain. Andrew Crisp said emergency across the state, destroying nine doing their absolute best to keep as a truck,” Purnama said. One miner’s leg was ampu- More homes were being warnings were issued for the homes, damaging another house our communities safe,” Crisp told He said an excavator has tated to free him but he died threatened yesterday by wild- towns of Dargo and Licola east and damaging or destroying 23 reporters. The fires were also opened access to the mine’s from blood loss while being fires that have burned dozens of of the state capital, Melbourne, outbuildings. The Jinks Creek being fought from the air with main cavern but progress is carried to a nearby homes and buildings in rural as flames approached homes. Winery was among the buildings 75 airplanes and helicopters being hampered by the danger settlement. southeast Australia. Since Friday, 38 fires have destroyed. “We have literally got dumping water. 16 EUROPE WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 British police boss links lower staff to stabbings

REUTERS areas of the capital London. LONDON Police have suffered big staffing and funding squeezes Britain’s Prime Minister under austerity measures by Theresa May came under London’s Metropolitan May’s government, particularly pressure to increase police Police Commissioner during her tenure as interior spending yesteday after a Cressida Dick minister before she took the top backlash over government contradicted British job. handling of rising knife crime Speaking on Monday, she and her denial that funding Prime Minister’s promised to tackle the root squeezes were a cause. assertion there was causes but insisted it was not a A wave of fatal stabbings has no link between street question of resources. dominated headlines this week, violence and police “If you look at the figures, displacing concerns about Brit- what you see is there is no direct ain’s divorce from the European numbers. correlation between certain Union and fuelling criticism that crimes and police numbers,” she May is neglecting other priorities of people killed by knives this said. during the interminable Brexit year to at least 24. The opposition Labour party saga. Britain saw 285 knife and called the stabbing deaths a Britain’s most senior sharp instrument homicides in national tragedy and accused policeman contradicted her the year ending March 2018, the May of lack of leadership. The British royal family during a reception to mark the 50th Anniversary of the investiture of the assertion there was no link highest since records began in John Apter, national Prince of Wales, at Buckingham Palace, in London, yesterday. between street violence and 1946. chairman of the Police Feder- police numbers. The rate of stabbings in ation of England and Wales “In the last few years, police Britain is broadly in line with the which represents low-ranking officer numbers have gone down United States when adjusted for officers, accused the prime min- Charles marks 50 years as Prince of Wales a lot, there’s been a lot of cuts in population sizes. But there is less ister of being delusional. other public services, there’s gun violence in Britain, which “I am really staggered REUTERS of service to Wales. charities while there were been more demand for policing, has strict control laws. beyond belief that the leader of LONDON Charles was created Prince of musical performances by stu- and therefore there must be In the latest deaths, a this country has got her head so Wales, the title traditionally held dents from the Royal Welsh some link,” said London’s Met- teenage girl was fatally stabbed firmly stuck in the sand that she Britain’s Queen Elizabeth held a by the heir to the British throne, College of Music and Drama and ropolitan Police Commissioner in the back in a park near is not seeing the reality in front reception at Buckingham Palace in July 1958 when he was nine. He a speech by the Archbishop of Cressida Dick. London in what her family said of her. It really is a very, very bad yesterday to mark the 50th anni- was formally invested with the Canterbury, Justin Welby. “There is some link between was an unprovoked attack, while situation,” he said. versary of the investiture of her title at a televised ceremony at Charles, 70, has waited violent crime on the streets, a 17-year-old boy was stabbed Knives are the most common oldest son Charles as Prince of Caernarfon Castle in July 1969. longer than any of his prede- obviously, and police numbers, in an affluent village near Man- murder weapon in the United Wales. The regalia that Charles cessors to become monarch and of course there is, and I think chester while visiting a friend. Kingdom, where guns are tightly Senior royals including wore for the occasion, along with would be the oldest-ever king at everybody would see that.” Police attribute the trend to restricted. Charles’s own sons William and the coronet, sword and other the start of his reign when he The issue shot up the various factors from gang About 40 percent of murder Harry and their wives Kate and regalia used in the ceremony, succeeds his 92-year-old political agenda after two teen- rivalries and youth services’ cuts victims were stabbed to death Meghan attended the party were on display at the reception. mother, who herself holds the agers were stabbed over the to provocations on social media. last year, while only 4 percent which the palace said paid Joining the royals were record for the longest reign in weekend, bringing the number Many have occurred in poor were shot. tribute to the prince’s 50 years figures from the prince’s Welsh British history.

Lion mauls Czech Brexit: UK ready to be ‘flexible’ over backstop issue breeder to death ANATOLIA concessions over a deal which coming from the people who in Prime Minister Theresa May’s “No one in the cabinet wants LONDON was previously rejected by the voted against the deal before deal. no deal. What we want is a deal.” AFP parliament. who are saying, crucially, that Hunt said he hoped a no-deal The United Kingdom is set to PRAGUE The United Kingdom is prepared “The signals we are getting they are prepared to be rea- Brexit “does not happen.” leave the European Union on to be flexible over how to deal are reasonably positive. I don’t sonable about how we get to “What I am working for, March 29, following a 2016 ref- A nine-year-old male lion with concerns about the want to overstate them because that position that we can’t alongside all members of par- erendum that saw 52 percent of mauled its owner to death in a Northern Ireland backstop issue I still think there is a lot of work legally be trapped in the liament, is to get that deal British voters opt to leave the village in the east of the Czech to strike a withdrawal agreement to do but I think they do under- backstop,” the official added. through and I think we can.” bloc after more than 40 years of Republic yesterday morning, with the EU leaders, Britain’s stand that we are being sincere,” Hunt’s remarks came on a He said: “I have always said membership. police said. foreign secretary said yesterday. Hunt said. day when Brexit Secretary whatever happens in negotia- A “meaningful vote” will be “I can confirm the breeder Jeremy Hunt said the leaders “They are beginning to Stephen Barclay and Attorney- tions, we are a strong country held in the House of Commons is dead,” regional police in Europe were giving “positive realise that we can get a General Geoffrey Cox are in and will find a way to prosper. next week with supposed “legally spokeswoman Lenka Javorkova signals” as the British gov- majority in parliament because Brussels to try to secure But no deal would cause huge binding changes” to the previ- said. ernment is trying to get they are seeing the signals changes to the backstop clause disruption.” ously rejected deal. The 34-year-old breeder kept two lions, a two-year-old female and the male, without the required veterinary licence Britain urged to pull and in an enclosure built without a permit at the village of Zdechov. its weight to support “The police had to shoot the two lions dead. A doctor then declared the owner dead,” said African refugees the spokeswoman. REUTERS sub-Saharan Africa. Swedish navy boat LONDON “We are strongly com- mitted to supporting refugees hits quay, 7 injured Britain should practise what it and UK leadership has helped preaches to African countries by drive longer-term ways of AP doubling the number of working that mean refugees COPENHAGEN vulnerable refugees it hosts and can access education, find reviewing policies that restrict work and become more self- The Swedish military said one an asylum seeker’s right to work, reliant, while also benefitting of its fast assault crafts crashed lawmakers said yesterday. host communities,” a into a quay in the Stockholm A cross-party committee spokesman from Britain’s archipelago during a drill, said the British government Department for International injuring at least seven people. should “lead by example” by Development (DFID) said in a Sweden’s Armed Forces resettling and employing ref- statement. confirmed two people with ugees, especially those forcibly The United Nations has suspected head injuries were uprooted from their homes in praised African nations, which flown by helicopter to hospitals, sub-Saharan Africa. host more than 20 million dis- but their injuries are not life- “It is so important that the placed people, for adopting a threatening. The others were UK behaves at home as it is more liberal “open door” policy more lightly injured. asking some of the world’s toward refugees than Western Tourism fair in Berlin In its statement, the military poorest nations to do,” said nations, despite being low- said the accident occurred during A woman passes the booth of Seychelles Islands as preparations are under way for the upcoming tourism Stephen Twigg, chairman of income economies. a landing exercise when the fair ITB, in Berlin, yesterday. The travel trade show will begin today and conclude on March 10, 2019. the International Development As a member of the Global assault craft ran into the quay. Committee, which scrutinises Compact on Refugees, which Britain’s foreign aid was approved by UN member department. states in December, Britain had “We should not be asking an obligation to help ease pres- Two Nobel literature prizes to be awarded this year nations to house and employ sures on host countries and refugees when the numbers we provide refugees with access to REUTERS threatened to strip it of its role again be awarded, and this winner of the world’s most pres- take in are so small, and the education and work, it added. STOCKHOLM in future, after a scandal that led autumn Laureates for both 2018 tigious literary award, the employment freedoms It said although DFID to the abuse conviction of the and 2019 will be announced.” Academy made several reforms limited,” he said in a statement. encouraged other countries to Two Nobel prizes will be husband of an academy member The Swedish Academy, set last year including appointing The committee said Britain grant refugees the right to work, awarded for literature this year and allegations that prize up in 1786 to safeguard the new members and setting up a resettled 5,756 refugees in Britain’s Home Office “signifi- after the Swedish literary winners’ names had been leaked. Swedish language, picks the new prize committee. 2017/18, but only about 450 cantly limits asylum seekers’ academy that chooses the “The Nobel Foundation’s winner of the Nobel Prize only “There will be two Nobel were from sub-Saharan Africa, right to work in the UK”. winner cleaned house following board of directors believe the in the field of literature. Other prizes, as we had hoped,” according to the Internal Dis- “The government must scandals that prevented last steps that the Swedish Academy Swedish academic institutions Academy head Anders Olsson placement Monitoring Centre. urgently reassess this policy. year’s prize from being given, the has taken and intends to take select winners of the awards in said after attending a meeting It said that the country’s Nothing would carry more Nobel Foundation said. will create good opportunities scientific fields, and a Norwegian with the foundation. intake of the most vulnerable weight with partner govern- The foundation, which for restoring trust in (it) as a committee names the recipient “It is very good that we have refugees should increase to ments in Africa than the UK administers the prizes, had prize-awarding institution,” it of the peace prize. achieved a result after this long 10,000 per year, with a quarter government practising what it blocked the Swedish Academy said in a statement. “The Nobel Faced with the threat that it time. Now we can work in peace of those spaces reserved for has preached.” from awarding one last year and Prize in Literature will once might lose the right to pick the and quiet for the prize.” WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 EUROPE 17 Macron outlines vision for Europe’s future

AFP The French President of what we call fake news”. have rejected previous calls to values. PARIS also renewed his call Brexit, he said, was the take in a share of the migrants A “conference for Europe”, “symbol of Europe’s crisis in not arriving from the Middle East and involving “citizen panels”, could French President Emmanuel for greater security being able to provide for the peo- Africa. be held “to put forward all nec- Macron (pictured) outlined his cooperation and ple’s need for protection in the Macron suggested Europe essary changes to our political vision for Europe’s future, urging stressed the need for face of today’s” threats. should also share a common undertaking, with no taboos, not reform of its passport-free a common asylum Macron, who has made no border force, along with a joint even that of revising treaties,” he Schengen area and setting up a secret of his plans to form a cen- office for dealing with asylum said. new agency “for the protection policy to deal with the trist, pro-Europe alliance to stave demands. He also urged negotiating a of democracies” against cyber- migrant crisis. off populist and nationalist To head off popular dis- new “treaty on defence and attacks and fake news. movements which have been content, he raised the idea of a security”, and setting up a In an opinion piece, to be for the May European Parliament gaining ground across the con- European minimum salary, European security council that published by several top elections. tinent, also suggested reforming describing how it could serve as would include Britain to promote European newspapers, Macron The president listed a series the 26-member Schengen area a “social shield guaranteeing the collective defence initiatives. also renewed his call for greater of initiatives the EU could take Financing European political which allows free movement same pay at the same place of In a speech in September security cooperation and both to defend itself and to parties from abroad should also between members. work.” 2017, Macron called for greater stressed the need for a common adhere more closely to its core be banned, while rules should be All those who want to belong At the same time, Europe security cooperation in Europe asylum policy to deal with the values. agreed on banning “hateful and to Schengen should accept both should seek to favour its own and a common asylum policy. migrant crisis. “A European agency for the violent speeches from the stricter controls on outer borders business interests, just as “our But his ideas, until now, have “Never since the Second protection of democracies would Internet”, he added. and a common asylum policy for American and Chinese compet- met only lukewarm support from World War has Europe been so provide European experts to In January, Macron had sug- migrants, he said. itors do,” he said. Germany’s leader Angela Merkel, necessary. And yet never has each member state to protect its gested that the Brexit campaign A number of eastern Warning citizens against the while sparking outright oppo- Europe been in such a danger,” electoral process against cyber- — which saw Britain vote to European EU members, included threat of accepting the status sition from right-wing gov- Macron said, in what many see attacks and manipulation,” he leave the EU — was “manipu- those run by right-wing govern- quo, he urged them to seek ernment leaders in Italy, as the start of his own campaign suggested. lated from the exterior by a lot ments in Poland and Hungary, change while preserving shared Hungary and Poland.

Jewish museum French city hit by attack suspect claims innocence anti-police riots AP BRUSSELS AFP neighbourhood saw what hap- GRENOBLE pened and have the feeling that A suspected militant insisted there was a mistake by the yesterday that he’s innocent of Rioters in the French city of police,” said Hassen Bouzeghoub, terrorism charges over the 2014 Grenoble set fire to 65 cars and the director of a social club in killing of four people at targeted security forces with Grenoble’s Mistral area where Belgium’s Jewish museum, as fireworks and gas bomb, officials the men died. the jury in his trial prepared to said yesterday, after a third night A family member, who did consider its verdict. of violence sparked by the death not give his name, claimed Weeks after telling the of two teenagers during a police “police are responsible for their Brussels criminal court that he chase. death”. But the Grenoble pros- would reveal the truth “when Clashes began on Saturday ecutor’s office has rejected police the time is right,” Mehdi Nem- evening when two men, aged 17 liability, saying the men had put mouche yesterday said only and 19, were spotted by police others in danger by “running red that he was “trapped” into riding a stolen scooter without a lights, driving on the pavement, involvement in the slaying. licence plate and without and driving at high speeds”. “If I could change things, I helmets. Deaths caused during police would change everything,” the They were being followed by operations regularly ignite Two burnt cars are seen where riots sparked, in Grenoble, in central-eastern France, yesterday. 33-year-old Frenchman, a police vehicle when they violent protests in deprived areas wearing a black shirt and top crashed into a bus, according to of French cities where relations sparked nights of rioting last July. country following the deaths of wrong-doing in a trial. and flanked by police officers the local prosecutor’s office between local communities and The officer was later charged two black teenagers who were Last week, Grenoble’s Mistral in ski masks, said in remarks which is treating their deaths as security forces are often strained. with manslaughter. electrocuted in a Paris suburb district also erupted in violence lasting less than 20 seconds. accidental. The fatal shooting of a man In 2005, three weeks of while hiding from the police. after a man was arrested for pos- Nemmouche is charged “Young people from the in the western city of Nantes clashes erupted across the Police were later cleared of session of cannabis. with four counts of “terrorist murder” over the killing of an Israeli couple and two staffers Greece charges at the Brussels Jewish Museum. Belarus leader seeks better ties with West His alleged accomplice, Nacer 20 people over Bendrer, 30, stands accused of supplying the revolver and wildfire in Mati REUTERS suggested he had not ironed out allergic reaction and sometimes thaw with the United States and assault rifle used in the MINSK differences with Russia’s hysterics from our main partner European Union since 2014, shooting. REUTERS Vladimir Putin after several the Russian Federation,” when Belarus did not recognise Prosecutors claim that ATHENS Belarus will seek better ties with meetings, including on a Russian Lukashenko said. Russia’s annexation of the Nemmouche trained and fought the West even though this tax change which Belarus says “The question is, why are you Crimea peninsula from neigh- with the IS militant group in Greek prosecutors charged 20 provokes “hysterics” from its will cost its budget $400m this being hysterical?” bouring Ukraine. Syria. The museum shooting people, including a regional traditional ally Russia, long- year. Lukashenko has been in US and EU sanctions crystallised fears that European governor and two local mayors, serving President Alexander Speaking of Nato and the EU power for 25 years, making him imposed on Belarus over its extremists would use combat over a wildfire that killed 100 Lukashenko said yesterday, a at a government meeting, one of the longest-serving treatment of Lukashenko’s experience from places like people in the seaside town of day after lifting a cap of five US Lukashenko said, “We should former Soviet leaders. political opponents were mostly Syria or Iraq to sow terror back Mati and nearby areas in July diplomats in his country. talk to them, we should not look Throughout his rule, Belarus lifted in 2016 following the home. last year, a judicial source said Belarus is trying to improve at them as enemies. has generally been more closely release of political prisoners and The 12-member jury is set yesterday. ties with the West after a number “Ideally, the western and aligned with Moscow than any other reforms. to hand down its verdict Most of the victims couldn’t of disputes with Moscow, which eastern directions of Belarusian other ex-Soviet state, while his On Monday, Belarusian gov- tomorrow. In a secret ballot, the escape from a maze of poorly has announced cuts to subsidies foreign policy should balance lack of tolerance for dissent at ernment lifted a restriction that jury must decide by a majority planned streets in Greece’s that have long kept the country each other,” he said, as quoted home has made him largely a had capped the number of US vote whether Nemmouche is worst wildfire disaster. of 9.5 million people in Russia’s by the state news agency BelTA. pariah in the West. diplomats permitted to operate guilty. He would likely be sen- Authorities were accused of orbit. Belarus cooperating with the However, he has shown in the country at just five since tenced on Friday, and could a slow response and lack of Lukashenko’s comments West “causes some kind of increasing signs of seeking a the year 2008. face up to 30 years in prison. coordination in rescue operations. The charges include invol- untary manslaughter and Hungary okays extradition causing bodily harm due to neglect, the source said. Pros- ecutors have drafted a 292- of Portuguese hacker page report that details “a series of mistakes” in handling the AFP extortion, illegitimate access disaster. BUDAPEST and theft of data from some All the 20 accused have institutions, including the state denied any wrongdoing. A Hungarian court approved the itself.” Greece’s judicial system has extradition yesterday of a hacker Earlier, Pinto had addressed several preparatory stages and linked to the Football Leaks the court, saying: “I have not the compilation of charges does website that has exposed alleged committed any of the criminal not necessarily mean that the corruption, sparking investiga- acts that I am accused of, I have individual will face trial. tions in several European coun- never received any material An investigating magistrate tries. gain for what I have done.” is now expected to take over Rui Pinto, 30, was detained He said his actions were “in and look into the case. on a European arrest warrant the public interest, to uncover The government attributed issued by his native Portugal on the corruption that surrounds the fire to arson and dismissed January 16 in the Hungarian European football.” accusations that it failed to capital where he lives. Judge Csiszar rejected an evacuate people in time, saying “The extradition request argument from Pinto’s defence that unlicenced building had cannot be refused. EU member lawyers that the arrest warrant thrived under previous states are expected to have was invalid due to procedural governments. similar judicial standards,” said errors. Football Leaks whistleblower, Rui Pinto (centre), is escorted by a judicial officer as he arrives for his Mati, a heavily wooded area judge Judit Csiszar at Budapest’s Pinto’s lawyers have said he trial at the Metropolitan Court, in Budapest, yesterday. on the coast east of Athens Metropolitan Court, referring to is an “important part” of the overlooking the sea, was the European arrest warrant Football Leaks website, which media organisations. when he was at Real Madrid. Pinto is also suspected of popular with pensioners and issued by Pinto’s native has published a series of reve- Released in two segments, Other revelations alleged being behind a leak of internal children at summer camps. Portugal. lations about alleged wrong- the first at the end of 2016 and UEFA had helped Paris Saint- emails at Lisbon’s Benfica Other prosecutors are also Pinto, under house arrest for doing in the football world. the second in November 2018, Germain and Manchester City which led to fraud allegations investigating separate cases more than seven weeks, was The website entrusted mil- the documents exposed alleged get around the Financial Fair and a corruption lawsuit linked to the Mati fire, following accused by prosecutors of lions of pirated documents to a football-related tax evasion, Play (FFP) rules that are meant involving Portugal’s most suc- citizen lawsuits. “aggravated attempted consortium of several European notably by Cristiano Ronaldo to regulate clubs’ spending. cessful club. 18 AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 Trump lashes out at rivals amid probe

AFP The US President force funding for US-Mexico WASHINGTON said the House border wall construction, that Judiciary Committee was expected. However, this President Donald Trump investigation was “the week four Republican senators branded Democratic opponents have broken ranks to join their “crazy” and guilty of overreach greatest overreach Democratic opponents in the yesterday in a fevered response in the history of our upper house, meaning the to a huge new Democratic-led Country”. motion can pass there too. probe of his alleged crimes. Trump will likely be able to In a searing burst of early brush aside that rebuke by using morning tweets, the president of an independent probe into his the first veto of his presidency. said the House Judiciary Com- dealings with Russia by special However, the fact that he has lost mittee investigation launched prosecutor Robert Mueller. the guaranteed backing of his Monday was “the greatest over- Rumours that Mueller is party in the Senate could point reach in the history of our close to ending his two-year to trouble ahead. Country.” investigation have set Wash- In Trump’s combative vision “The real crime is what the ington on edge. of politics, the looming probes Members of the Auburn Fire Department are seen outside a devastated home after two deadly back- Dems are doing, and have done!” Debate over whether the are not all bad news. to-back tornadoes, in Beauregard, Alabama, yesterday. he said. prosecutor’s findings should be Already the White House is Another tweet labelled Dem- made immediately public is framing the Democratic ocratic leaders “stone cold already underway, with Demo- onslaught as symptomatic of CRAZY.” crats warning that attempts at a leftist radicalism supposedly Seven missing in Alabama tornadoes “PRESIDENTIAL HAR- cover-up by the White House threatening the country. ASSMENT!” said another. could lead them to subpoena Trump has made the specter REUTERS Harris, coroner for storm- and uprooted massive trees on Trump’s exclamation mark- Mueller to testify. of far-left socialism a growing BEAUREGARD ravaged Lee County, told a Sunday with 274kph winds. and capital letter-laden out- Trump’s response to the part of his 2020 reelection cam- morning news conference. “Just Forecasters ranked the worst of bursts indicated rising temper- pressure has been consistent paign, even claiming that Dem- Alabama search and rescue keep these families in your the outbreak at step four of the ature in a White House under with his longtime playbook: to ocrats want to replicate the teams yesterday were combing prayers.” six-step Enhanced Fujita scale assault from multiple insult accusers, admit no violent chaos underway in through the wreckage of houses Most of the deceased were of tornado strength. directions. weakness, and rely on backing Venezuela. flatted by weekend tornadoes, found in close proximity to their The Beauregard community Democrats, who took control from his ultra-loyal political Trump’s other main angle of looking for seven or eight people homes. The four children were in the twister’s path might have of the House of Representatives base. attack has been to dismiss the who remained unaccounted for age 6, 8, 9 and 10, officials said. had as few as eight or nine last November, suspect Trump Polls show that the presi- validity of the Mueller probe, in the wake of the deadliest US County Sheriff Jay Jones said minutes to seek shelter from the of a slew of potentially dent’s support among Repub- which he has repeatedly dubbed twister outbreak since 2013. that search crews had narrowed time the warning was issued, impeachable offenses, including lican voters remains strong, even a “witch hunt” and “phony” in The tiny community of their scope down to “the most National Weather Service chief obstruction of justice and abuse if Democratic voters are just as hopes of reducing its Beauregard, near the Alabama- affected areas” after scouring meteorologist Chris Darden said. of office. convinced in opposition. credibility. Georgia border, was beginning much of the county on Monday, In addition to 23 confirmed The powerful judiciary com- However, cracks in Repub- But in an indication that the to mourn the 23 people con- adding that he hoped the search deaths, more than 50 people mittee is demanding information lican support at the top echelons president’s rhetorical bomb- firmed killed by the storms, and rescue effort would become were reported injured, author- from 81 Trump-connected indi- of the party have appeared. shells risk misfiring, former which included four children a recovery effort by the end of ities said, making this the dead- viduals and entities, including his When the Democratic Trump White House lawyer Ty and seven people from one the day. liest tornado outbreak since a sons. majority in the House voted to Cobb went public yesterday with family, officials said on Tuesday. The tornadoes, stirred up by massive tornado struck Moore, The new front opened just overturn Trump’s controversial a surprising defense of Mueller, The victims ranged in age a late-winter “supercell” thun- Oklahoma, in May 2013, killing as Trump braces for the results use of emergency powers to calling him an “American hero.” from 6 to 93 years old, Bill derstorm, toppled mobile homes 24 people and injuring 375 others. Hillary Clinton rules out FBI steps up fight against foreign graft another presidential run AP field offices— Washington, New doing outreach to companies in pay more than $853m to resolve AFP WASHINGTON York and Los Angeles. a variety of industries, from oil investigations into allegations WASHINGTON “We’re protecting the rule of to pharmaceuticals, to teach that executives paid hundreds of Aiming to crack down on money law,” Leslie Backschies, the chief them about red flags that could millions of dollars in bribes to Hillary Clinton has for laundering and bribes to of the FBI’s international cor- indicate corruption and politicians and political parties. the first time ruled out overseas governments, the FBI ruption unit, said in an interview. encourage the companies to “We’ve seen a lot of activity running for president in is stepping up its efforts to root “If there’s no rule of law, you’ll “self-report” potentially in South America - Odebrecht, 2020. out foreign corruption with a have certain societies where they improper conduct to the bureau. Petrobras. South America is a “I’m not running, new squad of agents based in feel like their governments are “One thing when I talk to place where ... we’ve seen cor- but I’m going to keep on Miami. so corrupt, they’ll go to other ele- companies, I’m like, ‘When you ruption. We’ve had a lot of work working and speaking The squad will focus its ments that are considered fun- pay a bribe, do you know where there,” Backshies said. and standing up for efforts not only on Miami but damental, that they see as clean your bribe goes? Is your bribe “But not just South America. what I believe,” Clinton also in South America, a con- or something against the corrupt going to fund terrorism?’” Back- Miami itself, it’s an economic said in an interview. tinent that has been home to regime, and that becomes a schies said. center,” she added. “It’s a big Clinton was the some of the Justice Department’s threat to national security.” And so far, the cases the unit flow of money in and out of frontrunner in 2016 but most significant international The unit aims to identify vio- has brought have resulted in bil- Miami. It’s a city where we see ended up losing to corruption prosecutions of the lations of the Foreign Corrupt lions of dollars in settlements. individuals hiding their money, Donald Trump. last several years. Practices Act, a US law that Last September, for instance, through shell companies, “I want to be sure The Miami squad joins three makes it illegal to bribe foreign the Brazilian-owned energy through real estate, through that people understand A file photo of former US Secretary of others based in the FBI’s largest officials. The FBI has also been company, Petrobras, agreed to boating.” I’m going to keep State Hillary Clinton during an awards speaking out,” Clinton ceremony for the Georgetown Institute said. for Women at Georgetown University, in Detained mass “I’m not going any- Washington, DC. Another minister quits Trudeau’s Cabinet where. What’s at stake murderer in in our country, the kinds of of real problems and broken AFP senior officials attempted to how the government has dealt things that are happening right promises from this adminis- OTTAWA head off the prosecution of engi- with this matter and in how it California dead now, are deeply troubling to tration that need to be high- neering giant SNC-Lavalin. has responded to the issues me.” lighted,” Clinton said. Canadian Prime Minister Justin “I have been considering the raised.” REUTERS Clinton has held meetings Asked if she would run again Trudeau was dealt a fresh blow events that have shaken the Philpott is said to be close LOS ANGELES with some of the Democrats who for some kind of public office, when his budget minister federal government in recent to ex-justice minister and are now vying for the party she seemed to avoid ruling that resigned, the latest in a string of weeks and after serious attorney general Jody Wilson- Juan Corona, a serial killer found nomination or considering a run. out. officials to quit amid allegations reflection, I have concluded that Raybould, who triggered the guilty of murdering 25 farm CNN has reported that they “I don’t think so, but I love of government interference in a I must resign as a member of crisis for Trudeau’s Liberal workers whose bodies were include former vice-president living in New York and I’m so major fraud case. Cabinet,” Philpott said on government. found buried in Northern Cali- Joe Biden, who has not yet said grateful that I had the chance to Jane Philpott, who also Twitter. Last week, the opposition fornia orchards, died at the age if he is running. be a senator for eight years and served as Treasury Board pres- “The solemn principles at called for Trudeau’s resignation of 85, state prison officials said. “I’ve told every one of them, to work with people across our ident, said she no longer had stake are the independence and and for launching a federal Corona, who had been don’t take anything for granted, state,” said the former secretary confidence in Trudeau’s gov- integrity of our justice system... investigation to look into serving a life prison term since even though we have a long list of state. ernment over the allegations that Sadly, I have lost confidence in Wilson-Raybould’s claims. his 1973 conviction on 25 counts of first-degree murder, died of natural causes at an outside hospital on Monday, the Cali- Teen vaccine rebel testifies to Congress fornia Department of Correc- tions and Rehabilitation said in AFP But Lindenberger, still 18, mandatory for students to attend a statement. WASHINGTON said he did his own research, school in the US. The number of murders became convinced that infor- But almost all states — 47 out were a US record at the time Ethan Lindenberger spent his mation in defence of vaccines of 50 — allow exemptions either and authorities have speculated first 18 years unvaccinated — “outweighed the concerns on religious, moral, or personal that additional victims may defenceless against tetanus, heavily” of the so-called anti-vax grounds, including Linden- have been slain and never polio, measles. But in December, movement, and started receiving berger’s state of Ohio. discovered. defying his mother, he went and the shots he had missed as a “It was a slow progression to Corona, who was born in got inoculated, a rebellion that child. start to see evidence” of the Mexico, migrated to the US as earned him an invitation to In recent weeks he has effectiveness and safety of vac- in the 1950s and suffered a Congress. become a hero of believers in cines, he said, adding that he mental breakdown following “I grew up understanding my modern medicine in the US, grew intrigued by so many deadly floods along the Yuba mother believed vaccines are where experts and elected offi- people who “disagreed with my River in 1955, according to the dangerous, as she would speak cials still struggle to convince mom” and sought to dismiss her Ethan Lindenberger during a Senate hearing, on Capitol Hill in San Francisco Chronicle. He openly about her views both some that their refusal to get claims online. Washington, DC, yesterday. was admitted to a mental insti- online and in person,” the high themselves or their children vac- But he sought out infor- tution suffering from schizo- schooler said in testimony before cinated is fuelling several recent mation from the US Centers for scientific journals. counter the online anti-vacci- phrenia, but returned to agri- a Senate hearing on contagious outbreaks of measles. Many vac- Disease Control and Prevention, Lindenberger said one of the nation sites that peddle con- culture in the Yuba City area disease outbreaks. cines are theoretically public health organisations and main challenges now is to spiracy theories. following his release. WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019 HOME 19 HBKU, QFC co-host Islamic finance public lecture and workshop

THE PENINSULA CEO of QFC, highlighted QFC’s DOHA commitment to continuously find ways of cooperating with institu- The College of Islamic Studies The workshop brought tions on Islamic finance, while (CIS) at Hamad Bin Khalifa positioning Qatar as a leader in University (HBKU) recently together leaders the sector by welcoming Islamic collaborated with Qatar Financial and pioneers of the financial institutions to join its Centre (QFC) to deliver a public industry to engage competitive ecosystem through lecture and workshop on Islamic the QFC platform. Finance in London. in open dialogue on Dr Nazim Ali, director of the The events were jointly hosted key issues facing CIS Research Division, and the by QFC and the Centre for Islamic the industry, and originator and facilitator of the and Middle Eastern Law (CIMEL) considered the VBI annual events, commented on the at the School for Oriental and uniqueness of this series, which African Studies (SOAS) – initiative in light generates rich discussions University of London, with of other global enriched by multi-faceted HBKU’s CIS and the International programs. knowledge and experience in the Islamic Research Academy (ISRA) The participants at the event jointly hosted by Qatar Financial Centre and SOAS in London, with CIS spirit of academic freedom. of Malaysia as academic partners. and the International Islamic Research Academy of Malaysia as academic partners. “I am truly grateful to SOAS The public lecture is an Future of Islamic Finance,’ which and QFC for hosting and organ- annual tradition that began in was prompted by the new value- ising these annual events, which 2006. Initially hosted at Harvard based intermediation (VBI) ini- term issues of public interest. sustainable decisions. (SDGs), the UN Principles of are a much needed platform for University and then transferred tiative proposed by the Sharia’h The inaugural public lecture, The workshop brought Responsible Investment and the the Islamic finance phenomenon to SOAS, each year since has wit- Advisory Council of the Central delivered by the CEO of the together leaders and pioneers of upcoming UN Principles of to grow. The leadership of CIS and nessed a public lecture and a Bank of Malaysia, Bank Negara Malaysia-based CIMB Islamic the industry to engage in open Responsible Banking, taking into ISRA should also be commended workshop that tackles a contem- Malaysia (BNM), which aims to Group, Rafe Haneef, outlined dialogue on key issues facing the account environmental, social and for their continuous support of our porary theme in Islamic finance. widen the scope of Islamic CIMB’s groundbreaking initia- industry, and considered the VBI governance considerations. A efforts in building bridges The theme for this year was finance from being strictly tives in adopting a more respon- initiative in light of other global report will be published capturing between industry, academia, and ‘Responsible Investment, Value- Sharia’h compliant to one which sible corporate strategy and programs, such as the UN Sus- the discussions. the wider community, both locally Based Intermediation and the addresses broader and longer- incentivising clients to make more tainable Development Goals Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida, the and internationally.” WCM-Q professor named UK’s HEC Paris to organise 2nd most influential diabetes Executive Program on Mastering Strategic complications researcher Negotiation skills

THE PENINSULA DOHA

HEC Paris-Qatar will deliver ‘Mastering Strategic Negoti- ations’ Executive Short Program on March 19 to 21. The three-day program will take place in the Tornado Tower and will be led by HEC Paris Associate Professor Gonçalo Pacheco de Almeida. Professor Pacheco de Almeida said: “This program is designed to equip profes- Dr Rayaz Malik of WCM-Q examining a patient. The Asean Food Festival team pose for a picture at The St Regis Doha. sionals with cutting-edge negotiation techniques to THE PENINSULA research efforts, Dr Malik is also analyze, prepare for, and DOHA a practicing physician, treating execute complex deals across The St. Regis Doha organises Asean Food Festival patients with diabetes at Hamad most industries. Dr Rayaz Malik of Weill Cornell Medical Corporation. The negotiation tech- THE PENINSULA nesia, Vietnam and Philippines. dishes inspired from the different Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) has “I am really pleased to have niques discussed in class can DOHA On March 1, The St. Regis Asean countries, and an oppor- been named the UK’s second most been placed so high up this list, be immediately applied to Doha hosted an Asean edition of tunity for the people of Doha to influential clinical researcher in especially as I had no idea it was real-world situations.” The St. Regis Doha, the finest its popular Grand Brunch, from experience a variety of the most a list of ‘Leaders in Diabetes being compiled and it came as a This program will offer address in Qatar, invites guests to 12:30pm to 4pm, for QR350 per celebrated dishes and desserts in Complications’ compiled by complete surprise. It’s very grat- participants tools to develop indulge in a collection of the finest person including soft beverages the Asean cuisine. Expertscape, the world’s leading ifying to be named alongside an innovative ‘How-To experiences, and celebrate excep- and QR495 per person including “This exceptional culinary index of academic achievement some exceptionally talented and Guide’ to succeed in tional dishes from seven different enhanced beverages. extravaganza is also a great and expertise in healthcare. prolific researchers in the UK, complex, high-stakes Asean countries. The Friday Brunch experience opportunity for us to pamper our Expertscape ranks the per- especially as the top researcher negotiations. The Asean Food Week is at The St. Regis Doha is simply guests with the finest experiences formance of researchers impar- was my mentor, Professor Additionally, they will taking place at Vine restaurant magnificent. It is where friends and bespoke culinary offers at one tially, using a series of objective Andrew Boulton,” he said. learn to apply this negotiation from 6pm to 11pm, featuring a fine and families get together to cele- of our award winning restaurants, metrics to judge the number and Dr Malik has pioneered the roadmap to the specifics of collection of the most celebrated brate life and enjoy sweeping at the finest address in Qatar,” said quality of research papers and the technique of ‘Corneal Confocal each deal and understand how signature dishes and traditional views of the Arabian Gulf from the Menon. Since it opened its doors, impact factor of the journal they Microscopy’ (CCM) over the last the economics of a deal affect desserts in Vietnam, Malaysia, terrace, funky live music and The St. Regis Doha, its location, have published in over the last ten 15 years. CCM enables real time the opportunities to negotiate Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, delectable dishes to satisfy every architectural design and most years. Dr Malik, Professor of Med- imaging of the corneal nerve or walk away from a possible Philippines and Brunei possible craving. importantly, its Butler Service, icine at WCM-Q, left the UK to join fibers and identifies nerve deal. Darussalam. The hotel will conclude its have all added to its journey of WCM-Q in 2014, but still holds an damage in a growing list of Through this Executive The event which began on special culinary Week with the excellence. honorary professorship at his pre- peripheral and central neurode- Short Program, participants February 28 will conclude on Asean edition of Vine’s seafood The Hotel currently boasts vious institution, the University generative conditions including will be better equipped to March 7, 2019. night on Wednesday, March 6, fea- twelve destination restaurants and of Manchester. diabetic neuropathy, hereditary control the negotiation On February 28, the special turing a wide array of seafood del- lounges including Al Sultan Dr Malik’s success and the neuropathies, Parkinson’s disease, process by anticipating and event spoiled guests with a special icacies complemented by mouth- Brahim, award-winning Lebanese strong links with internationally multiple sclerosis, dementia and influencing their counterparts’ edition of its legendary barbecue watering Asean flavours. seafood destination; Vintage renowned research institutions autism. actions and be able to polish night offering delicious ribs and Raghu Menon, General lounge, an ideal venue for intimate underlines WCM-Q’s now well- The test takes a few minutes, their negotiation style by iden- BBQ classics, in addition to a wide Manager of The St. Regis Doha, conversations and gatherings; two established capacity and repu- is non-invasive, utilizes existing tifying their strengths, range of Asean dishes and an said that The Asean Food Week Gordon Ramsay Restaurants and tation for conducting world-class ophthalmic equipment and can weakness and auditing exquisite array of cultural per- at The St. Regis Doha is a cele- Hakkasan, fine-dining Chinese research. In addition to his be done in the clinic. intuition. formances from Malaysia, Indo- bration of the finest traditional restaurant. A mix of cultures and diversity at ISL Qatar

THE PENINSULA DOHA

The International School of London (ISL) Qatar celebrated its sixth annual International Family Food Fair (IFFF) on March 2. The school was transformed A view of the sixth annual International Family Food Fair organised into an international extrava- by the International School of London (ISL) Qatar. ganza, a performance and dance centre, a fun-filled games and activities arcade and a prize draw. community who came to enjoy donated by sponsors. Prizes It was a magical celebration this fantastic afternoon. The 70 included a return ticket to any of of diversity, and an event which different nationalities represented Qatar Airways’ 160 destinations, IIS organises workshop for students delighted all who were there. A in the school came together for a 5 star hotel stays, Doha’s top res- spirit of friendship, multicultur- truly international event. Diversity taurant vouchers, beauty treat- Ideal Indian School (IIS) organised a workshop for the students of class 10 and 12 in connection with alism and unity took over ISL is one of the pillars of ISL Qatar ments, a makeover worth QR900, the International Women’s’ Day. Resource persons from Turner & Townsend, William Augustt (Associate Qatar. that is exemplified in the school Mall vouchers and much more. Director) and Rajani Rajendran (Senior Quantity Surveyor) enlightened the students on various career The event was attended by events such as the IFFF. The school was able to raise over opportunities for women in the construction field. over 1,000 visitors including stu- The event also held a prize QR10,000, which was donated to dents, parents, staff and the Doha draw with over 70 exciting prizes ‘Sponsor A Child’ by Qatar Charity. 20 MORNING BREAK WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS Amiri Naval Forces, Italian Navy hold joint exercise FAJR 04. 37 AM SHOROOK 05. 53 AM

ZUHR 11. 45 AM MAGHRIB 05. 40 PM ASR 03. 07 PM ISHA 07. 10 PM

WEATHER TODAY

The Qatari Amiri Naval Forces has conducted ‘PASSEX’ joint exercise with Italian Navy, with the participation of the Italian frigate (Carlo Margottini). The naval exercise comprised several exercises including the ‘Maneuvering EX’, AdEx and Surface Ex in addition to fire o o fighting and damage control 17 C 24 C exercises. The exercise aimed to train naval forces on combating Minimum Maximum maritime terrorism, as well as to Mild and scattered clouds with a chance increase combat efficiency and of light rain at some places. Relatively cold readiness, as well as to exchange by night. experiences between the Qatari

HIGH TIDE 04:51 – 16:11 LOW TIDE 12:29 –23:22 and Italian navies. Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department Ocean heat waves devastate wildlife Eating garlic, onions may across globe, worse to come: Study ward off colon AFP forests and animal populations, marine Another ocean hot spell off the coast PARIS heat waves can devastate ocean eco- of California warmed waters by 6 C (10.8 systems,” Smale said. Compared to hot F) and lasted for more than a year. cancer risk Invisible to people but deadly to marine spells over land, which have claimed Known at “The Blob”, it generated life, ocean heat waves have damaged tens of thousands of lives since the start toxic algae blooms, caused the closure IANS ecosystems across the globe and are of the century, ocean heat waves have of crab fisheries, and led to the death of BEIJING poised to become even more destructive, received scant scientific attention. sea lions, whales and sea birds. according to the first study to measure But sustained spikes in sea-surface More frequent and intense ocean Consuming 50 grams of worldwide impacts with a single yard- temperatures can also have devastating heatwaves also have a direct impact on allium vegetables, which stick. consequences. people by reducing fisheries harvests include garlic, leeks, and The number of marine heat wave A 10-week marine heatwave near and adding to global warming, the onions, daily can potentially days has increased by more than 50 western Australia in 2011, for example, researchers noted. reduce the risk of getting percent since the mid-20th century, shattered an entire ecosystem and per- “And carbon stored by sea grasses colorectal cancer, finds a researchers reported in the journal manently pushed commercial fish and mangroves may be released if they study. Nature Climate Change. species into colder waters. are hit by extreme temperatures.” To The study, published in “Globally, marine heat waves are Corals have been the marquee determine the full extent of marine heat the Asia Pacific Journal of becoming more frequent and prolonged, victims of shallow-water heat waves, wave impacts across different oceans, Clinical Oncology, showed and record-breaking events have been and face a bleak future. Even if humanity Smale and an international team from that the odds of having color- observed in most ocean basins in the past manages to cap global warming at 1.5 19 research centres crunched data from ectal cancer was 79 percent decade,” said lead author Dan Smale, a degrees Celsius — mission impossible, more than 1,000 field studies that lower in adults who con- researcher at the Marine Biological Asso- according to some scientists — up to 90 reported on how organisms and eco- sumed high amounts of ciation in Plymouth, Britain. percent of corals are likely to die, the system responded. Even if humanity allium vegetables compared Above the ocean watermark, on UN’s top climate science body said in does manage to cap global warming at with those who consumed Earth’s surface, 18 of the last 19 years October. But other bedrock species have “well below” 2C (3.6 F), as called for in low amounts. have been the warmest on record, suffered too: the 2011 surge of heat killed the Paris climate treaty, marine heat- “The greater the amount leading to more severe storms, droughts, off large swathes of seagrass meadows waves will sharply increase in frequency, of allium vegetables, the heat waves and flooding. “Just as atmos- and kelp forests, along with the finfish intensity and duration, earlier research better the protection,” said pheric heat waves can destroy crops, and abalone that depend on them. has shown. Zhi Li, from the First Hospital of China Medical University. “In general, the present findings shed light on the QM and UCL Qatar discover the earliest Islamic site in Qatar primary prevention of color- ectal cancer through lifestyle intervention, which deserves THE PENINSULA belongs to the history of Qatar further in-depth DOHA and of the Gulf, its significance explorations,”Li added. goes beyond that of national and For the study, 833 Qatar Museums (QM) and UCL regional interests, because it can patients of colorectal cancer Qatar have unearthed the potentially change our per- were matched to 833 healthy earliest Islamic period site in ception of the early history of controls by age, sex and res- Qatar and one of the earliest in Muslims.” idence area. the region, in a monumental The information gathered by Researchers have also discovery in the north west of the researchers at areas such as collected demographic and country. Meleiha and Yoghbi will allow dietary information via face- Researchers have identified experts to reconstruct the con- to-face interviews using a that the settlement dates to the tribution made by the Bedouins validated food frequency later Sassanian period, between of Qatar to the great historical questionnaire. 538 and 670 CE. The architec- themes of the Gulf region, However, the association tural features still in place today including the development of of garlic intake with cancer can be traced back to the early civilisations, the Islami- risk was not significant Umayyad period of 661 – 750 CE. sation of Arabia and the Gulf, and among those with distal colon The excavation came as part Qatar’s connectivity with the rest cancer, the Xinhua reported. of a joint project between QM of the Indian Ocean and the According to the study, and UCL Qatar, called Crowded Middle East. the health benefits can be Desert. For the past three years, Discussing the importance observed when one eats the project has centred around of the site findings, Dr Rob Carter about 16kg of allium vege- the archeological study of of UCL Qatar said: “Qatar’s tables every year or 50 grams Meleiha and Umm al-Ma’, near archaeological record already every day. The team of researchers, led by Dr José Carvajal López of UCL Qatar, at the spot where they have Zubarah. includes one of the oldest The researchers also unearthed the earliest Islamic period site in Qatar and one of the earliest in the region, in a monumental It was at the excavation of mosques known from the pointed out that cooking Yoghbi, however, that the team, discovery in the northwest of the country. Arabian Peninsula (a 9th century method can affect the nutri- led by Dr José Carvajal López of example excavated by a French tional value of allium vege- UCL Qatar, uncovered Qatar’s previous academic belief that the UCL Qatar, funded by the Qatar paint a better picture about the team at the nearby site of tables. For instance, crushing earliest Islamic period set- occupation of the Gulf in the National Research Fund, a great historical themes prevalent Murwab), and these excavations fresh garlic is beneficial but tlement. Amongst the items early Islamic period is linked to member of the Qatar Foundation in the Middle East, such as the have pushed back the occu- boiling onions reduces useful found were ceramics from the peak of trade with the Indian (QF). The main aim of this project early civilisations, the Islami- pation of the area to the 6th-8th chemicals. between the seventh and eighth Ocean, that was brought about is to enrich our knowledge and zation of the region and the centuries. At this time there was Previous studies have centuries and fragments of glass, by the foundation of Baghdad in understanding of the nomads Gulf’s long-distance connectivity a well-attested Christian found that allium vegetables metals, stone vessels and fishing 762 CE and Siraf, around 800 CE. and sedentary people who lived with the Indian Ocean and the presence in the region, so the have nutrients and bioactive tools from the early Islamic Faisal Al Naimi, Director of in the area, and their relationship rest of the Middle East. discoveries at Yoghbi have the compounds that can cut the period. Archaeology at QM, said, “The with other distant places in the Speaking about Crowded potential to shed light on this risk of cancer, particularly The discoveries at Yoghbi are joint Crowded Desert Project is Gulf. Desert, Dr López said, “This is critical moment of religious cancers of the gastrointes- significant because they counter a shared adventure of QM and “This information helps us truly remarkable heritage change.” tinal tract, the report said.