QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune FRIDAY JULY 3, 2020 DHU AL-QA’DA 12, 1441 VOL.13 NO. 4989 QR 2

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Business 8 Sports 10 Nation 13 QSE outperforms Qatar’s ambitions DFC reopens all retail GCC peers, jumps growing by the day: outlets as COVID-19 124 pts Almoez Ali restrictions eased

Amir, Erdogan vow to take bilateral ties to new heights Qatar, Turkey pledge to strengthen relations in economic, investment, energy and defence fields

On the occasion of the visit of brother Presi- dent Erdogan, we note with satisfaction the depth of the re- lations between the Qatari and Turkish people, and we recall the geographical neigh- bourhood and the common cultural heritage between the Arabs and Tur- key, which established a constructive cooperation in the development and stability of our region, and an inte- grated contribution to the progress of all humanity.

QNA President of the Republic During a meeting held at and the ways to support and goals. on international issues of him at the Pearl Palace. DOHA of Turkey Recep Tayyip Er- the Pearl Palace on Thurs- enhance them in various HH The Amir and Er- common concern. The Turkish president dogan on Thursday vowed to day, HH The Amir and the fields, especially in econom- dogan discussed the latest Later, HH The Amir host- left Doha later in the even- HIS Highness The Amir of take the bilateral relations to Turkish president discussed ic, investment, commercial, developments in Palestine, ed a dinner banquet in hon- ing. State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim greater heights and more in- the strategic relations be- energy and defence coop- Libya, Syria and Yemen, in our of Turkish president and bin Hamad Al Thani and tegrated levels. tween the two countries eration to achieve common addition to exchanging views the delegation accompanying See also page 13

Sharp rise in COVID-19 restrictions can Qatar Airways unveils online traffic transactions be re-imposed if indicators protective kits for in 2020 H1 affected adversely: Of cial fliers & cabin crew QNA DOHA He added the source of the infec- TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK ‘Qatar proud of exceptional tion is often due to family gatherings DOHA THE General Directorate achievement in addressing and visits, and the lack of commit- of Traf c’s online services, ment to measures, especially physical QATAR Airways (QA) has increased especially the Metrash2 coronavirus pandemic’ distancing. its health and safety measures on- application, witnessed a He advised the people at greater board by introducing new personal signi cant turnout from the TNN & QNA risk of complications from the dis- protective equipment (PPE) for public during the rst half of DOHA ease, such as the elderly, pregnant passengers and cabin crew. 2020. women and people suffering from The airline’s additional robust A total of 514,000 on- TRANSITION from one phase to an- chronic diseases, to stay at home and measures include offering face line traf c transactions were other depends on strict indicators and not go out unless absolutely necessary shields and protective kits to all carried out during the rst the extent of everyone’s commitment and avoid all forms of social gather- passengers, in addition to a new half of 2020 as compared to the instructions. Restrictions can ings, including receiving visitors. protective gown for cabin crew. to about 303,000 transac- be re-imposed at any time if indica- The MoPH has issued guidelines The disposable face shield will be tions for the same period tors are adversely affected and the for the precautionary measures in the available in two standard sizes – one last year. data shows that there is a need to do second phase of lifting COVID-19 re- for adults and the other for children. Director of Traf c Aware- so, a top health official has said. strictions. The children’s face shields fea- ness Department Colonel “The second phase of easing the The guidelines seek to provide ture the airline’s Oryx Kids Club Mohammad Radhi Al Hajri COVID-19 restrictions is a decisive While more advice based on research into best mascots as part of their design. said traf c statistics showed phase because of the increased min- restrictions are lifted practices to facilitate the safe return Passengers travelling from Hamad that the public conducted gling of people. While more restric- to restore life to of activities gradually, while observ- International Airport (HIA) will 450,000 online vehicle tions are lifted to restore life to normal ing precautionary measures that con- receive their face shields at the normal in the second phase, the registration transactions in the second phase, the precaution- precautionary measures tribute to limiting the spread of the check-in counters, whereas at other - the most among online ary measures announced by the Min- announced by the Ministry of COVID-19. destinations, the face shields will be services, and 36,000 driving istry of Public Health (MoPH) must The guidelines include the most distributed at the boarding gates. ● Passengers are now required licences transactions. be followed to protect ourselves, our Public Health must be followed prominent procedures to be imple- Onboard, all Qatar Airways pas- to protect ourselves, our families to wear a face shield, face The General Directorate families and our society as a whole,” mented in gatherings, transporta- sengers will be provided with a com- mask or covering of Traf c’s portal on Met- Sheikh Dr Mohammed bin Hamad Al and our society as a whole.” tion, outdoor venues and profes- plimentary protective kit. Inside a zi- rash2 offers more than 40 Thani, Director of the Public Health sional sports, health and education, plock pouch they will find a single-use ● They will also be given a services related to driving Department, said at a press confer- —Sheikh Dr Mohammed bin business and entertainment, with a surgical face mask, large disposable complimentary protective licences, vehicles, signs, ence on Thursday. Hamad Al Thani focus on infection prevention and powder-free gloves and an alcohol- kit onboard traf c violations, accidents, He said Qatar is proud of its ex- control. based hand sanitiser gel. Business traf c certi cates, and other ceptional achievement in addressing The guidelines are visitors and Class customers will also be offered ● QA has introduced a protective services. the coronavirus pandemic. so far. “This is an exceptional achieve- employee awareness and physical dis- an additional 75ml sanitiser gel tube. gown for cabin crew Colonel Al Hajri urged Nearly 100,000 people have been ment,” he added. tancing to maintain a safe distance, Qatar Airways has also intro- the public to take advantage infected with COVID-19 in Qatar since He said the past few weeks have in addition to guidelines for groups duced new disposable protective of the online services pro- the outbreak and more than 86,000 witnessed an increase in the number most vulnerable to complications of gowns for cabin crew that are fitted sonalised with Qatar Airways’ logo vided through the Metrash2 of them have recovered. Qatar has of COVID-19 cases among citizens the disease, such as the elderly and over their uniforms, in addition to imprinted on the top left corner. application and the Ministry also been maintaining one of the low- and residents (other than expatriate those with chronic diseases. safety glasses, gloves and a mask. of Interior website. est death rates linked to coronavirus workers), despite the decrease in the The new branded gowns are per- Continued on page 2 in the world, with only 118 casualties total daily infections in Qatar. Continued on page 2 02 Friday, July 3, 2020

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MME takes part in meeting to discuss COVID-19 impact QAC celebrates graduation on agriculture, food security QNA Both meeting sessions on DOHA of 2019-2020 Class virtually Wednesday and Thursday THE Ministry of Municipal- addressed the impact of QNA ity and Environment (MME), COVID-19 pandemic and DOHA represented by the Livestock the measures taken to Department, is participating slow down its spread QATAR Aeronautical Col- in a regional consultative tech- on agriculture and lege (QAC) celebrated the nical meeting being organised graduation of a new batch of by the Food and Agriculture food security its students in a virtual cere- Organisation (FAO) over four mony that was broadcast live separate sessions on July 1, 2, its spread on agriculture and on all social media platforms 15 and 23. The meet aims to food security. They also dis- and sites of the College on discuss the ways to address cussed the job status, partici- Thursday. the impact of the coronavirus pants in the food chain and In a statement, the QAC (COVID-19) pandemic on ag- the lessons learned from it. said it organised the virtual riculture and food security in The two sessions high- graduation ceremony as a countries of the near east re- lighted the policy measures commitment to the stand- gion and north Africa. that countries must imple- ards, plans and precautionary Senior technical and high- ment to support recovery measures taken by the State to level officials at the relevant from the crisis and rebuild limit the spread of the corona- ministries of the member food systems that enjoy virus (COVID-19). states, their permanent repre- more resilience and sustain- The 2019-2020 batch sentatives at the FAO, experts ability, in addition to the ex- of graduates includes about from the region from devel- pected response from FAO 100 students who success- ulated the students, praising proud to present to friendly despite the circumstances and in accordance with the precau- opment and financial institu- to support countries in the fully passed the academic their dedication and persever- countries a new batch of grad- difficulties that the world faces tionary procedures that were tions, representatives of the recovery phase. programmes, such as the pilot ance to achieve such success in uates who have received ad- in view of the coronavirus pan- coordinated with the compe- private sector and other pri- It is expected that a set training programme, aircraft light of the exceptional health vanced scientific qualification demic, which led to the dis- tent authorities. mary stakeholders participat- of recommendations will maintenance engineering, me- conditions that the world is that is in line with the require- ruption of most aspects of life. He said, “QAC has over- ed in the meeting, which was emerge from the meeting teorology and air monitoring, witnessing today. ments of the times and the He praised the graduates come all difficulties with the held via video conferencing to alleviate the effects of and the advanced programme The minister praised the levels of major academies and of this year, stressing that continuous and constant sup- on Wednesday and Thursday. COVID-19 pandemic on food of aviation management. graduates’ keenness to show institutes around the world. they are different and distin- port of Minister of Transport Both meeting sessions security and agriculture in In a speech to the gradu- the highest levels of determi- For his part, QAC Direc- guished, indicating that de- and Communications HE Jas- on Wednesday and Thurs- the region, as well as the re- ates during the virtual cer- nation and work to become tor-General Sheikh Jabor bin spite all the circumstances, sim bin Saif Al Sulaiti.” day addressed the impacts of quired measures for the agri- emony, Minister of Transport distinguished in the majors Hamad Al Thani congratu- they performed their tests at He urged the graduates COVID-19 pandemic and the culture and food systems to and Communications HE Jas- they studied. lated the graduates on this the QAC headquarters with to discharge their duties with measures taken to slow down become healthier. sim bin Saif Al Sulaiti congrat- He added that the QAC is distinguished achievement the utmost transparency and sincerity. Take caution, reduce social MME inspects over 134,071 tonnes of visits, MoPH urges residents imported agri consignments in June Continued from page 1  the corniche for all age groups with QNA and issuance of closure decisions for the application of distancing proce- DOHA 129 food establishments, 49 of which THE second phase includes allow- dures and the continued closure of were reconciled after removing the ing limited social gatherings with playgrounds, and allowing training THE Ministry of Municipality and causes of violations and paying fines. a maximum of five people indoors in the open spaces and large halls Environment (MME) implemented Besides, 178 food samples were with- and 10 people outdoors. for the professional category, with several awareness campaigns and drawn to ensure compliance with the The ministry advised people to a maximum of ten people. inspection tours in different munici- specifications. be cautious and reduce social visits, Vocational training courses are palities in June to inspect quarries The veterinarian team of the De- including family visits as possible, also allowed for small groups of up and agricultural quarantine offices in partment of Health Control exam- and ensure that the requirements to 10 people indoors and groups of various customs outlets affiliated to ined 460,249 carcasses at the auto- of the new phase are applied, in- up to 50 people outdoors. the Agricultural Affairs Department matic slaughterhouse in the central cluding the accuracy of following The second phase also witness- at the ministry. market, where 12,606 carcasses were all preventive measures, such as es the opening of more mosques to During the campaigns, the minis- completely destroyed and 10.5 tonnes washing hands or sterilizing regu- perform the five daily prayers with try’s teams inspected 5,200 consign- Ras Al Nouf and Al Ghariya beaches waste bags to beachgoers to educate of meat were destroyed for being par- larly, wearing masks, and adhering limited capacity. ments weighing 134,071 tonnes of to educate the beachgoers about the the public about the need to preserve tially not fit for human consumption. to a physical distance of at least 1.5 Shopping centers will operate various types of imported agricultural need to adhere to the cleanliness of the environment. Besides, 139 tonnes of fish were exam- metres from others at all times, in with an increased capacity of 50 consignments - plants and produc- the beaches and distributed waste During the first half of this year, ined and 1.3 tonnes were destroyed addition to installing Ehteraz app. percent. However, all restaurants tion input products - at all customs bags and educational pamphlets, the health control section of the De- for not being suitable for human The second phase also includes within the shopping centres will outlets in the country. urging them to throw the waste at the partment of Municipal Control of consumption. The complaints team opening some retail markets, remain closed. The teams destroyed 56 con- designated containers. the Doha Municipality conducted of the department received 333 com- wholesale markets, museums and It also allowed the number of signments weighing 132 tonnes for The ministry’s teams called on 15,88 inspections tours on food es- plaints, which were addressed within libraries to the public with a lim- employees who start their work in violating the agricultural quarantine the public to take all precautions and tablishments within the geographic 24 hours. Umm Salal, Al Daayen and ited capacity, in addition to open- the public and private sectors to be law. In cooperation with Al Khor, preventive measures to preserve pub- scope of the municipality and the Al Rayyan municipalities carried out, ing a limited number of restaurants increased to 50 percent as a maxi - Al Thakhira and Al Shamal munici- lic health and safety. Industrial Area. in coordination with the competent with a limited capacity to ensure mum. The restrictions imposed on palities, the ministry, represented by The Department of Natural Re- The tours resulted in the issuance authorities, numerous campaigns physical distancing, in addition to inbound flights to Doha remain the Department of Public Hygiene, serves of the ministry, represented of 588 minutes of violations of the to remove abandoned cars and en- opening public parks, beaches and unchanged as in the first phase. conducted awareness campaigns at by Al Khor marine unit, distributed human food control regulation law croachment on state property.

Qatar accords top priority Safety of passengers top priority for to children’s rights: Naama Qatar Airways, says Akbar Al Baker Continued from page 1  travel confidently. option to display a ‘Do Not sealed refreshing wipes. QNA Secretary of the Permanent dress the negative effects of In order to ensure the Disturb (DND)’ indicator if Economy Class meals and DOHA Mission of Qatar to the United climate change and air pollu- QATAR Airways Group Chief highest level of hygiene on they wish to limit their inter- cutlery are served sealed as Nations Office in Geneva Talal tion, he added. Executive Akbar Al Baker board, passengers of the actions with cabin crew. usual, and menu cards are QATAR has reaffirmed that Al Naama. In this regard, he stressed said, “Through the COV- Economy Class are required Parents flying with chil- temporarily discontinued. it attaches great importance Naama said that Qatar that air pollutants are moni- ID-19 crisis, the safety of our to wear their face shield visor dren should advise them to All social areas on board the to the promotion and protec- believes that providing a safe tored in government schools passengers has been our top in addition to their face mask continue wearing their PPE aircraft have been closed due tion of children’s rights, and and clean environment is a to prevent their effects, in priority. By implementing to cover the entire flight, ex- throughout the journey, al- to social distance measures. considers it a priority in its prerequisite for children to addition to the integration of these additional safety and cept when they are served though children under two QA aircraft are regularly development plan that relies grow and enjoy their rights, environmental education into hygiene measures on board, their meals or drinks. years of age are not advised disinfected using cleaning primarily on investment in pointing out that adopting an the school curricula and allo- our customers can rely on Business Class customers to wear face shields and face products recommended by the human capital. approach that addresses the cation of a national environ- us and our unparalleled ex- are asked to wear their face masks or blankets. During International Air Transport As- Qatar asserted its keen- dimensions of a healthy envi- ment day to educate children pertise to take them safely shields and masks on board boarding and disembarka- sociation ( IATA) and the World ness to provide the necessary ronment is extremely impor- about environmental issues to their destination. As the at their own discretion, as tion, all passengers will be Health Organization (WHO). infrastructure and a healthy tant to realise the enjoyment and encourage their partici- largest international airline they enjoy more space and required to wear a face mask Its aircraft are equipped with environment to ensure proper of human rights, achieving pation in addressing them. consistently to fly through- privacy. In addition, for air- or a face shield. the most advanced air filtra- development of all the chil- well-being, and making the Naama said Qatar also out the pandemic, we have craft equipped with Qsuite, Since the start of the tion systems, equipped with dren on its soil. planet sustainable. continues its efforts at the become one of the most ex- the award-winning business COVID-19 crisis, the airline industrial HEPA filters, which This came in the speech of Some of the models that international level, providing perienced in safety and hy- seat of Qatar Airways, Busi- has also taken additional remove 99.97 per cent of viral Qatar during the annual de- reflect what Qatar has done developmental aid to develop- giene. We will continue to ness Class customers are of- health and safety measures and bacterial contaminants bate on the rights of the child and is still doing to provide ing countries that are affected lead the industry in terms fered even greater privacy on board its flights. Qatar from re-circulated air, provid- in the Human Rights Council, a healthy environment for by environmental disasters of the services offered to our with sliding partitions and Airways also introduced ing the most effective protec- which was delivered by Third the child are its efforts to ad- and climate change. passengers so that they can fully closing doors and an single-use menu cards and tion against infection. Nation Friday, July 3, 2020 03 50% QU staff back to campus in sanitised environment TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK precautionary measures. We DOHA are implementing several pre- cautionary measures which College of Education among top 300 QATAR University (QU) wel- include; the security will check comed 50 percent of employ- employees’ temperatures universities in Shanghai Int’l Ranking ees to work in a clean and upon entry. Employees with sanitised environment in line temperatures of 38 degrees TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK with the implementation of Celsius and above will not be DOHA the decisions of the University permitted to enter. Everyone Administration and in accord- should wear masks, gloves THE College of Education has made remark- ance with the directives issued and practicing social distanc- able progress compared to the previous year, by the Supreme Committee for ing. Activation of the mobile according to the Shanghai International Spe- Crisis Management. application (Ehteraz) before cializations Ranking of Universities (Social Sci- To begin the second phase entering the campus as the ap- ences) 2020, ranking 301-400 globally, based of the plan to phase out the plication is used by security to on the criteria of one of the strongest and most restrictions imposed to re- check employees’ health status important international rankings, indicating duce coronavirus (COVID-19) before entering.” the advanced academic level achieved by the spread, the percentage of em- “Meetings will be held faculty in education. ployees in the workplace will Employees suffering from chronic diseases, pregnant women and remotely via audio or visual Expressing his sentiments on this occa- be increased to 50 percent of elderly people over 60 years of age will continue to work remotely. platforms. If it is not possible sion, the Dean of the College of Education, the total number of employ- to hold a meeting remotely, Dr. Ahmed Al Emadi, said: “This classi cation ees. The rest of the staff will Municipality of Doha (Depart- various colleges and research in-person meetings must not reects the efforts of the College to maintain carry out the tasks assigned to ment of Gardens), sanitised centers, as well as the library include more than five peo- international standards in its academic pro- Dr Ahmed Al Emadi, dean of college of Education them remotely. and disinfected all university and all car parks. ple, while taking the necessary grams in order to excel and deliver academic Employees suffering from buildings and facilities as a Commenting on it, Eng. precautions prescribed by the outputs of international quality. It is also an will be among the top 200 colleges. On this chronic diseases, pregnant precautionary measure and Mai Fetais, Director of Facili- Ministry of Public Health. We international recognition that the college has occasion, I would like to thank Dr Hassan women and elderly people preventive measure against ties and General Services at are taking the necessary steps become a reference for students, academics Al-Dirham, President of the University, and Dr over 60 years of age will con- the emerging coronavirus in the Department of Facilities to clean offices after official and educational leaders in the State of Qatar Omar Al-Ansari, Vice-President of Academic tinue to work remotely. April. and General Services QU, said: working hours and disinfect in relation to (education) according to interna- Affairs. Especially those who spared no Qatar University (QU), in Sanitisation, spraying and “The Department is sterilising frequently touched surfaces tional education standards.” effort to provide all the resources needed cooperation with the Minis- disinfection work included the buildings frequently and peri- such as desks, door handles, This ranking will motivate us to develop to help the college and raise its status,” he try of Municipality and Envi- internal streets of the cam- odically in order to maintain telephones and keyboards,” over the next two years in the hope that we added. ronment, represented by the pus, administrative buildings, the highest level of safety and she added. beIN launches ‘A Summer QF experts discuss ways for Qatar Like No Other’ campaign to move towards electric vehicles TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK with exclusive content DOHA TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK QATAR’S goal of greening DOHA three to five percent of its total car population by 2022 is to beIN has announced an excit- shift 25 percent of its fleet of ing programming schedule of public transport buses to elec- world-class sports and enter- tric buses by 2022 and to de- tainment content for families ploy electric buses in the main and households across MENA services during the FIFA World to enjoy during the summer sea- Cup in 2022 to make it the first son, including new movies, chil- World Cup to use electric mass dren’s programming, sports, transit buses. cookery shows and more. “These steps are important A charging station for electric vehicles. Dr Marcello Contestabile beIN’s ‘A Summer Like No in building public confidence Other’ campaign, launched on in Electric Vehicles (EVs). The popularity of electric vehicles. public to introduce EVs to that the battery might run out July 1, will see new entertain- movies have been released and featuring the coolest private eye shift in bus fleets will be an im- And while the high pur- them. A large portion of the before you get to the charging ment for all ages being broad- are available on beIN CINEMA, on any New York City block. portant step in communicating chase price of EVs may dis- population is completely una- point. The good news is that cast across beIN’s exclusive including: JJ, aka John Shaft Jr. (Usher), the government’s commitment couraging most people, Dr. ware of how EVs can be benefi- Qatar is making active progress channels – including beIN  Enemy Lines (starring Ed may be a cybersecurity expert to EVs, “said Dr. Marcello Con- Contestabile suggests that in- cial to the environment.” in the development of charging Movies, beIN Drama, beIN Westwick, John Hannah and with a degree from MIT, but to testabile, Chief Economist at centives in the form of govern- Several myths about elec- infrastructure – with the aim of Groumet, FataFeat, Baraem Tom Wisdom): During World uncover the truth behind his the Qatar Environment and ment subsidies are one way to tric vehicles also discourage having 400 charging stations Channel and Jeem TV. War II, an American officer best friend’s untimely death, he Energy Institute. make the switch more attrac- people from buying them. by 2022. beIN’s dedicated sports teams up with a crack team of needs an education only his dad Dr. Contestabile special- tive. “For Qatar to overcome “These need to be addressed in “Range anxiety is valid in channels beIN Sports will also allied commandos in occupied can provide ises in technology transitions the existing barriers at a cost order to initiate a change in at- some cases, such as in cars broadcast the best sports tour- Poland to embark on a danger- Children of all ages can also and innovation policy, par- that is commensurate to the titudes towards EVs,” said Dr. with a small battery pack be- naments including the UEFA ous mission behind enemy lines enjoy beIN’s very own Baraem, ticularly in road transport, and benefits that EVs can bring, it Contestabile. ing driven in very hot weather Champions League, Spain’s and extract a rocket scientist be- beJunior and JeemTV channels was speaking at a webinar on is imperative that the govern- One such myth is that the where a large chunk of the bat- LaLiga, the English Premier ing held by the Nazis which broadcast thousands of Electric Vehicle (EV) Transi- ment ensures its EV policy is use of electricity produced by tery power is consumed by the League, UEFA Europa League  The Roads Not Taken hours of shows including new tion that was hosted by Qa- designed bearing in mind the the burning of natural gas, as air conditioner. These vehicles and much more, covering a (starring Javier Bardem, Elle releases, such as: Q Pootle 5 tar Foundation’s Hamad Bin local needs and market condi- is the case in Qatar, essentially will require some adaptation remarkable 400 games in 40 Fanning and Salma Hayek): on Baraem, Xploration Earth Khalifa University’s research tions,” Dr. Contestabile said. cancels out any environmental on the part of the drivers but days. Sally Potter’s The Roads Not 2050 on JeemTV, Solo Jeem on institute – Qatar Environment “Another approach would benefits of electric cars. can be dealt with by choosing As part of the new summer Taken follows a day in the life JeemTV, and Lab-ra-Kazam on and Energy Research Institute be to start taxing both conven- This is not entirely correct, the right EV model, one that campaign, the beIN Cinema of Leo (Javier Bardem) and his beJunior. (QEERI), where he discussed tional cars and fuel. Additional according to Dr. Contesta- has a battery pack suitable for service, launched in April of this daughter, Molly (Elle Fanning) The world’s most prestig- various aspects related to EVs, incentives can be in the form of bile, as he says, “even if EVs their particular travel range re- year, also offers incredible value as she grapples with the chal- ious football competition, the including how Qatar’s accept- the government mandating car are charged using gas-fired quirements,” Dr. Contestabile for families. For the price of lenges of her father’s chaotic UEFA Champions League will ance of EVs can be boosted. manufacturers to provide EV electricity, they still produce said. just one cinema ticket ($10) per mind. As they weave their way be broadcast live and exclu- In a region where fuel is buyers with free or discounted lower emissions than the aver- “We are lucky in the sense movie, the whole household can through New York City, Leo’s sively on beIN SPORTS this cheap, it is difficult to point out installation of a charging point age gas-powered vehicle.” In – Qatar is a small country by watch, enjoy and share the en- journey takes on a hallucinatory summer. Starting from Au- one specific reason for the lack at their home, saving buyers an order to fully benefit from the area – which means we don’t tertainment that has never been quality as he floats through al- gust 7, viewers across MENA of electric vehicles on the roads additional expense that comes environmental benefits of EVs, travel long distances on an seen before and wasn’t due to ternate lives he could have lived, can watch their favorite Eu- of Qatar; according to Dr. Con- with buying an EV.” Qatar unveiled its first solar- everyday basis. And once the be released to cinemas until leading Molly to wrestle with ropean football teams back testabile, it is more likely to be a It is also important to raise powered charging stations in country’s planned 400 charg- later. The service also offers vi- her own path as she considers in action – with giants Paris combination of several factors. awareness among people – to 2019 – currently 28 of these ing stations are operational, it tal support to film distributors, her future Saint Germain, FC Barcelona, Apart from cheap fuel, higher help them understand how in- stations are in operation with will mean availability of charg- who can now make their movies  Shaft (starring Samuel L. Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, purchase prices, lack of charg- dividual choices shape the car- plans of several more being ing stations at every few miles, available to families across the Jackson, Jessie Usher and Re- Chelsea, and Manchester City ing infrastructure and poor bon footprint of the country. added by 2022. making the likelihood of being region during this period. gina Hall): “Shaft” is the next all competing for the coveted public awareness are some of Dr. Contestabile said, “There One more common con- stranded due to a dead battery More than 30 blockbuster chapter in the film franchise trophy. the main reasons for the lack of needs to be a dialog with the cern is “range anxiety” – fear quite low.”

Renovated Four Seasons Hotel Doha unveils summer staycation offer TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Guests can enjoy bespoke cof- booking now. DOHA fee brewed from single-origin Anticipating that the beans at Arabica, complete COVID-19 global pandemic FOLLOWING an extensive with a new contemporary cof- will continue to evolve, Four refurbishment project and the fee and dessert bar. Seasons properties across lifting of Qatar government re- Guests can make the most the world, including Four strictions, Four Seasons Hotel of their stay with a credit to- Seasons Hotel Doha, have Doha has launche a special of- ward Hotel dining and drinks, launched Lead With Care. A fer designed for guests looking early check-in, and late check- health and safety programme to stay closer to home this sum- out until 4pm starting from provides ongoing, real-time mer. The ‘Experience More’ QR1,400 per night with mini- guidance and clear measures promotion provides local resi- mum stay of two nights. With to enhance cleanliness, guest dents with an opportunity to be diverse dining and lounge comfort and safety, and em- among the first to enjoy the re- concepts, there is no shortage ployee training. imagined hotel and an elevated of options to enjoy food and While face-to-face inter- guest experience -- all guided beverage credits as follows: actions may be more limited, by the new Four Seasons global Deluxe or Premier Rooms: Four Seasons staff will remain health and safety programme $100 (approximately QR 360) as connected as ever. Through ‘Lead With Care’. per stay the Four Seasons App and “Now more than ever, our and safety of our employees an extensive renovation of its energy efficient technologies ing and lounge outlets such Executive or Seaview Chat, guests will have direct guests - especially our local and guests at the forefront guest rooms, suites, floors, including automated curtains as Nobu, Elements, Seasons Suites: $150 (approximately access to property teams in community - are seeking a without compromising genu- lobby and select dining out- and lighting systems as well Tea Lounge, Arabica, Library QR545) per stay 100+ different languages, well-deserved respite”, says ine Four Seasons care and lets. From Qatari artwork to as windows with temperature and Cigar Lounge, and Pool Ambassador One Bed- providing a contactless ex- Jeff Rednour, general man- signature service.” mother of pearl inserts in the management preservation. Grill. Notably, the Seasons room Suite: $200 (approxi- perience that allows guests ager at Four Seasons Hotel Led by award winning and bookcases, the redesign pays A strong sense of place Tea Lounge, reminiscent of mately QR725) per stay to manage their itinerary, re- Doha. “We’re eager to wel- world-renowned interior de- homage to Middle Eastern and nod to nature continue a Parisian café, is enhanced Offered only this summer, quest amenities, discover per- come them to a new guest ex- signer Pierre-Yves Rochon, influences while guest rooms throughout the lobby and with marbled floor inspired the Experience More promo- sonalised recommendations, perience that puts the health the hotel recently completed and suites boast the latest the hotel’s refreshed din- by Islamic mosaic tilework. tion is available for online and more. 04 Friday, July 3, 2020 (http://www.islamweb.net) Under the guidance and supervision of Ministry of Awqaf (Religious Endowments) Islam and Islamic Affairs

A Muslim Follows the Truth Regardless Obligation of the of the Mathhab He Imitates Question: Assalamu alaykum warohmatullohi wa barakatuh. I have downloaded from your site books for women and other books. But my mathhab is Hanafi. Is it allowed for me to read them? Are there no dif- ference? Five Daily Prayers Answer: All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Mu- RAYER is the most oblig- when they become seven years old, hammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is His slave and atory of the Five Pillars of and beat them for (not performing) Messenger. Islam after the Two Tes- it (i.e. prayer) when they become ten There is nothing wrong with reading these books even if their authors timonies of Faith (I bear years old; and arrange their beds (so do not follow the same Mathhab (school of Fiqh) that you do, and it is witness that there is no that boys and girls sleep) separately.” not forbidden for a lay Muslim, who follows a certain Mathhab, to read deityP (worthy of worship) but Allah. [Ahmad, At-Tirmithi, Abu Dawood, the books of other schools of Fiqh or general religious and educational And I bear witness that Muhammad and other compilers of hadeeths] books authored by scholars from different schools of Fiqh. Our website is Allah’s Messenger), and it was or- It is also impermissible to per- does not follow a speci c Mathhab and we issue our Fataawa accord- dained in the best and the most per- form prayer later than its due time, ing to what we believe to be correct, and we draw from all the schools fect way for an act of worship. Prayer for Allah, the Exalted Says (what of Fiqh and bene t from all of them. In fact, the scholarly difference of includes many of the acts of worship, means): {...Indeed prayer has been opinion among the four schools of Fiqh occurs mainly in subsidiary is- like the remembrance of Allah Al- decreed upon the believers a decree sues and does not entail divergence among Muslims to the point that it mighty, the recitation of the Qur’an, of specified times.} [Qur’an 4:103] prevents them from reading each other’s books. standing humbly before Almighty The meaning is that prayer has Moreover, these four schools of Fiqh are not fragmentation of Is- Allah, bowing, prostration, supplica- specified times at which it has to be lam into different sects nor do they introduce new legislations to the tion and Takbeer (uttering the words performed. A prayer is impermis- Sharee‘ah, but they are only methodologies for understanding the ‘Allaahu Akbar’). sible to be deferred except for those Sharee‘ah, methods of interpreting its texts and ways to deduce the Prayer is also the head of the who would like to combine it with religious rulings from the sources of the Sharee’ah, which are the physical acts of worship, of which the following prayer, provided that Quran, the Sunnah, Ijmaa‘ (consensus of scholars) and Qiyaas (deduc- none of the religions brought by any the said prayer can be combined tive analogy). People can be classi ed into three categories with regard of Allah’s messengers is void. with another, and that the case is to their approach to the various schools of Fiqh: two categories at the Prayer, unlike all other acts of among those in which combining extreme ends and a third in the middle. At one end, the rst category worship, was enjoined by Almighty two prayers is permissible as well includes people who absolutely denounce the adherence to a speci c Allah on His messenger, Muham- as the person being one who is al- Mathhab and Taqleed (following or imitating a certain school or Imaam mad, peace and blessings of Allah be lowed to combine prayers in this without necessarily asking for evidence), even for a lay Muslim who has upon him, the Seal of Messengers, on way. As for delaying performing no adequate religious knowledge enabling him to follow the Sharee‘ah the night of Al-Mi’raj (the ascension a night prayer until the morning, evidence on his own. They go to extremes in denouncing adherence to of the Prophet, peace and blessings 4:103] fainting and the like, has to perform a day prayer until the night or the any Mathhab to the extent of alleging that the opinions of the Imaams of Allah be upon him). This is an in- Those prayer times are the times the prayer at the moment when they Fajr (Dawn) Prayer until sunrise, it and their independent reasoning and understanding of the religious texts dication of its greatness, a confirma- pointed out by Allah’s messenger, wake up or recover to the normal is by no means permissible, whether carry no weight at all or carry the same weight as their own understand- tion of its being obligatory and a sign peace and blessings of Allah be state. Allah, the Exalted, Says (what the reason is a state of major ritual ing. There is no doubt that this category is dispraised. of its high status in the Sight of Allah. upon him, through his words or his means): {...And establish prayer for impurity, minor ritual impurity In fact, the truth indicated by the Quran and Sunnah is recognised by There are many Ahadeeth indicating deeds. Allah, the Exalted, Says (what My remembrance.} [Qur’an 20:14] or anything else. Rather, one has none other than those Imaams. Ash-Shaatibi, may Allah have mercy on the virtues of prayer and showing its means): {And they were not com- In addition, the Prophet, peace to perform them at their specified him, said in the conclusion of his book Al-I‘tisaam: “If it is established being obligatory on all Muslim in- manded except to worship Allah, and blessings of Allah be upon him, times, regardless of one’s state [i.e. that the ultimate objective is to reach the truth rather than follow the dividuals. The fact that prayer is an [being] sincere to Him in religion, said: “Whoever misses a prayer out they must purify themselves and opinions of scholars, it is also established that truth cannot be known obligatory act of worship is primarily inclining to truth, and to establish of oversleeping or forgetfulness, let then perform it at due time] without their help. Rather, it is through them that the truth can be known in Islam. So, whoever denies prayer and to give Zakah. And that him perform it once he remembers A person might happen to be in reached and they are the guides on the path to it.” [End of quote] this fact is considered to be an apos- is the correct religion.} [Qur’an 98:5] it.” hospital where he is confined to a At the other end is the second category, who call for absolute tate. In addition, through many verses A guardian of a child has to com- bed that he cannot leave to pray or Taqleed and adherence to a speci c Mathhab, even with regard to what Linguistically, prayer means in- of the Qur’an, Allah, the Exalted, mand him to perform prayer when cannot change the impure clothes is proven to contravene the Quran or Sunnah from the opinions of the vocation; Allah, the Exalted Com- Emphasised the importance to es- the child reaches the age of seven, he wears or cannot find pure earth Imaam they imitate and follow his Mathhab. They also forbid following mands the Prophet, peace and tablish the Prayer. The following are though it is still not obligatory for to perform tayammum (dry ablu- the opinions of scholars from any other Mathhab. There is no doubt that blessings of Allah be upon him, to some verses in this regard: him. But the purpose is to make the tion) instead of ablution to pray. this category is dispraised as well. ‘pray’ for the believers, and Allah Allah, The Exalted, Says (what child interested in prayer and used to Some ignorant people in this case The middle (moderate) category is the one that calls for seeking guid- Says (what means): {…And invoke means): it. Thus, the child and his guardian defer prayer on the pretext that they ance from the opinions of all the Imaams and bene ting from their under- [Allah’s blessings] upon them...} • {And establish prayer...} will be rewarded when the former will perform it later when possible. standing of the Sharee‘ah texts, studying their schools of Fiqh, adopting [Qur’an 9:103] [Qur’an: 2:43] performs prayer, for Allah, the Ex- In fact, this is a grave mistake and what they agree upon with consensus and following the opinions of According to the Sharee’ah (Is- • {[O Muhammad], tell My serv- alted, Says (what means): {Whoever a means of missing prayer whose other scholars when supported by evidence – if the person can weigh lamic Jurisprudence), prayer is de- ants who have believed to establish comes [on the Day of Judgment] reason is unawareness and lack of the evidence on his own – while nding excuses for them (with regard fined as a special kind of sayings and prayer…} [Qur’an 14:31) with a good deed will have ten times juristic consultation. What they have to their difference of opinion). This category also does not censure a lay deeds beginning with Takbeer and • {So Exalted is Allah when you the like thereof [to his credit] ...} to do is to perform prayer at its speci- Muslim for choosing to follow any of the schools of qh as long as he is ending with Tasleem (saying ‘as- reach the evening and when you [Qur’an 6:160] fied times regardless of their states. unable to acquire religious knowledge and seek the supportive evidence salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah’). It reach the morning. And to Him is Moreover, when a woman Their prayer will be sufficient, even by himself. is called ‘prayer’ because it includes [due all] praise throughout the heav- showed the Prophet, peace and if it is performed without tayam- Allah Knows best. invocation. During prayer, the wor- ens and the earth. And (Exalted is blessings of Allah be upon him, a mum or in impure clothes; Allah, shipper is in a state of invocation He) at night and when you are at young boy who was with her, saying: the Exalted, Says (what means): {So through worshipping Almighty Al- noon.} [Qur’an 30:17-18] “Does this one have to perform Hajj fear Allah as much as you are able...} lah, praising Him, or supplicating Therefore, it is obligatory for (Pilgrimage), O Messenger of Allah?” [Qur’an 64:16] Him for something. whoever reaches one of the speci- He, peace and blessings of Allah be Even if they pray without facing Your Lord has a right over you, and This is why it is called ‘prayer’. fied times of prayer, being adult upon him, replied, “Yes, and you will the Qibla (the direction of Qa’bah), Prayer was decreed by Almighty Al- and sane, to perform it, excluding have a reward.” provided they are unable to face it, your wife has a right over you, so give lah on the night of Al-Mi’raj before women in a state of menstruation or So, a guardian has to teach his their prayer is still valid. each one his right.” – Al-Bukhari Hijrah, as five prayers to be per- postnatal bleeding. Scholars unani- child how to perform prayer and how The prayer is the basic pillar of formed every day and night at speci- mously agree that it is not obliga- to perform ablution for it. A guardian Islam, and it is the main difference fied times by every legally account- tory for women in the aforesaid two has also to beat his child if the latter is between a Muslim and a disbeliever. able Muslim. Allah, the Exalted Says cases to perform prayer, nor to make ten years old and neglects prayer, for So, whatever good deeds one might (what means): {...Indeed, prayer has it up later after purification. On the the Prophet, peace and blessings of do are useless if one is negligent of been decreed upon the believers a other hand, whoever is in a state of Allah be upon him, said: “Command prayer; we ask Almighty Allah for decree of specified times.} [Qur’an unconsciousness, as in sleeping, your children to perform prayer safety.

HADEETH: “WHOEVER RELIEVES A BELIEVER OF SOME WORLDLY DISTRESS…”

Text of the Hadeeth and is highly appreciated by people. Life is full haps Allah may relieve us (i.e. forgive us).’ So Islam with his tongue while faith has not a given field of knowledge is commensurate to It was narrated on the authority of Abu of hardships and difficulties, and we are des- when he met Allah (i.e., when he died), Allah reached his heart! Do not harm Muslims, nor the distinction of its subject matter. Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, that tined to face sundry suffering and sorrows in relieved him (i.e. forgave him).” [Al-Bukhari disgrace them, nor spy on them to expose their Now contemplate the rewards that Al- the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of it. Distress may overwhelm a believer so much and Muslim] secrets. For indeed whoever pursues his Mus- lah, The Exalted, promised those who as- Allah be upon him, said: “Whoever relieves a that his heart and mind would be clouded with The Hadeeth then urges concealing the lim brother’s faults, Allah will pursue his faults semble in a mosque, reciting the Qur’an and believer of some worldly distress, Allah will re- confusion and remain unable to find a way faults of the Muslims and refraining from and expose him, even if he were in the depths pondering over its meanings. He promised lieve him of some of the distress of the Day of out! finding fault in them and pursuing their mis- of his house.” [At-Tirmithi] them four things: tranquility will descend Resurrection. Whoever alleviates the hardship At such harsh times, how great it is for a takes and lapses. This is another example of Given the high position and refined status upon them, the divine mercy will engulf of an insolvent debtor (i.e. grants him respite Muslim to hasten to assist his fellow Muslim the refined morals with which our glorious of knowledge in Islam, the Hadeeth empha- them, the noble angels will surround them or writes off his debt), Allah will alleviate his brother, extend a helping hand to him and Sharee‘ah is adorned. Verily, the infallible per- sised its virtue and significance. It is the path and the fourth and greatest reward of all hardship in the worldly life and the Hereaf- strive to relieve or mitigate his distress. This son is the one whom Allah grants infallibility. that leads a person to Paradise. Those who is that Allah will make mention of them ter. Whoever conceals the faults of a Muslim, gracious expression of sympathy has a deep No matter how pious and righteous a Muslim devote themselves to knowledge are the guid- to those (the angels) in His proximity and Allah will conceal his faults in the worldly life impact on the heart of the distressed person, may be, he is still liable to error. He might ing beacons that illuminate the way before the praise them before His angels. If this was and the Hereafter. Allah continues to help a and therefore it is appropriate that its reward commit a sin; however, he dislikes his neglect Muslim nation and the heirs of the Prophets the only reward received for reciting Thikr, slave so long as he is helping his fellow broth- should be that Allah, The Exalted, would re- in fulfilling the rights of Allah and hates that and Messengers of Allah. Therefore, Allah, it would indeed be enough! er. Whoever treads a path in quest of knowl- lieve the doer of a graver and harsher distress people be aware of his error and negligence. So The Exalted, honours them with this refined However, such great rewards are only edge, Allah will direct him to a path leading (on the Day of Judgment); which is the dis- if a Muslim sees or learns of his fellow Mus- status and high position. It was narrated on earned through diligence and striving, and him easily to Paradise. Whenever a group of tress of standing before Him for reckoning lim’s faults, he should conceal them rather the authority of Abu Ad-Dardaa’, may Allah be they have nothing to do with a person’s people assemble in a House of Allah (mosque) and being held accountable for one’s deeds, than expose them, without neglecting the duty pleased with him, that the Prophet, peace and (social) status and prestige. None should to recite and study the Qur’an, tranquility will and receiving the due punishment. How great of offering him sincere advice and reminding blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The an- be tempted by his noble descent and status descend upon them, mercy will engulf them, and generous this reward is! him of Allah. gels lower their wings in approval of the seeker because the sole criterion of superiority be- the angels will surround them and Allah will Among the noble morals is forgiving the The virtue of such concealing of faults of knowledge and everyone in the heavens tween people in the sight of Allah is righteous make mention of them to those (the angels) in debts of insolvent debtors. Islam urges credi- was reported in the Sunnah. It was narrated and on earth seeks forgiveness for the scholar, deeds. There is no consideration for a per- His proximity. He who lags behind in good do- tors to give respite to insolvent debtors in on the authority of ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbaas, even the fish in the sea. The superiority of a son’s social status or prestige if he neglects ing (i.e. hindered because of his evil deeds), his straitened circumstances until their situa- may Allah be pleased with them, that the scholar over a worshipper is like the superior- performing good deeds, and this is why Al- noble lineage will be of no avail to him (on the tion improves. Allah, The Exalted, Says (what Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon ity of the moon over all other heavenly bod- lah, The Exalted, Says (what means): {So Day of Judgment).” [Muslim] means): {And if someone is in hardship, then him, said: “Whoever conceals the fault of his ies.” [Ahmad] They are the people of Thikr when the Horn is blown, no relationship Explanation [let there be] postponement until [a time of] Muslim brother, Allah will conceal his fault on (remembrance of Allah) and piety; how vast will there be among them that Day, nor will Islam fosters noble morals, encourages ease.} [Qur’an 2:280] What is even more re- the Day of Judgment.” [Ibn Maajah] Mean- the gap between a knowledgeable and an ig- they ask about one another.} [Qur’an 23:101] them, holds them in a refined status and des- wardable is for a creditor to give up some of while, pursuing people’s faults is repulsive to norant person is! Even the Messenger of Allah, peace and ignates great and abundant rewards for ad- his rights and forgive part of the debt he is the sound human nature as well as forbidden The best field of knowledge to which a blessings of Allah be upon him, did not avail hering to them, as underlined in this Hadeeth owed. This is evidenced by what was narrated by the Sharee‘ah. Stern warnings against it Muslim should devote his time is learning the his uncle Abu Taalib anything before Allah! cited in Saheeh Muslim. on the authority of Abu Hurayrah, may Allah were reported in the Sharee‘ah texts. It was Quran and promoting its sciences, as stated in He, peace and blessings of Allah be upon In the beginning of his directive, the be pleased with him, that the Prophet, peace narrated on the authority of Ibn ‘Umar, may the authentic Hadeeth that reads: “The best him, underlined this meaning in his compre- Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon and blessings of Allah be upon him,said: “A Allah be pleased with them, that the Messen- amongst you are those who learn the Qur’an hensive statement: “He who lags behind in him, urged us to relieve the distress of the be- man used to give loans to the people, and he ger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be and teach it.” This superiority is derived from good doing (i.e. hindered because of his evil lievers. There is no doubt that this is a great would say to his servant: ‘If the debtor is in upon him, once ascended the pulpit and called the relatedness of such knowledge to the deeds), his noble lineage will be of no avail to good deed in the sight of Allah, The Exalted, hardship, relieve him of the debt so that per- out with a raised voice: “O you who accepted Speech of Allah, The Exalted; the distinction of him (on the Day of Judgment).” World Friday, July 3, 2020 05

NEWS Pakistan bans IN BRIEF popular online Palestinian rival factions shooting game Iran agrees to compensate downed after suicides plane victims’ DPA families: Sweden ISLAMABAD STOCKHOLM Sweden said Fatah, Hamas pledge unity Thursday that Iran had PAKISTAN has temporarily agreed to compensate the banned access to the popular families of the foreign victims online game PlayerUnknown’s of a Ukrainian passenger Battlegrounds (PUBG) after plane that was shot down against Israeli annexations reports of suicides and men- outside Tehran in January. tal health issues among young The Boeing 737 aircraft AFP Netanyahu held off on people. was struck by two mis- RAMALLAH making a potentially inflam- The game was banned after siles and crashed shortly matory annexation announce- numerous complaints by par- after taking off from Tehran RIVAL Palestinian factions Fa- ment on Wednesday. ents, police and doctors that airport on January 8, killing tah and Hamas pledged unity Experts say there is evi- it made children addicted, the all 176 people on board. against Israel’s West Bank an- dence emerging that Netan- Pakistan Telecommunication The Islamic republic admit- nexation plans in a rare joint yahu’s desired roadmap for Authority (PTA) said in a state- ted days later that its forces conference Thursday, as signs moving forward is at odds with ment. accidentally shot down the emerged of a rift between Is- Washington’s. Kiev-bound jetliner. rael and Washington over the Former US president Ba- Police in the central prov- “We have signed an project. rack Obama’s envoy to Israel, agreement of mutual under- The relationship between Daniel Shapiro, now a fellow ince of Punjab said at least standing that we will now Fatah, which controls the at Tel Aviv’s Institute for Na- three teenage boys had negotiate with Iran about Ramallah-based Palestinian tional Security Studies, told committed suicide in the amends, compensation to Authority, and Islamist group AFP the US wants action on past month partly because the victims’ next of kin,” Swe- Hamas -- in control of the Gaza the plan to be endorsed by Ne- they failed to accomplish den’s Foreign Minister Ann Strip -- has been plagued by di- tanyahu’s coalition partner, Linde told news agency TT, in visions for more than a decade. defence minister and alternate their PUBG tasks. a statement con rmed by her The joint news conference prime minister Benny Gantz. press secretary to AFP. (AFP) was spurred by common op- Gantz, due to take over The multiplayer shooting position against US President as prime minister in Novem- game in which each contestant Pirates kidnap nine Donald Trump’s controversial ber 2021, has raised concerns tries to eliminate the others to on Norwegian oil peace plan, which paves the Senior Fatah of cial Jibril Rajoub, in Ramallah, attends by video conference a meeting with deputy Hamas about igniting regional ten- be the last person alive was af- ship off Nigeria way for Israel to annex territo- chief Saleh Arouri (on screen from Beirut) discussing Israel’s plan to annex parts of the Israeli-occupied sions and said annexation fecting the young participants’ ry in the occupied West Bank, West Bank on Thursday. (AFP) must wait until the coronavi- psychological well-being, the OSLO Pirates attacked a including Jewish settlements rus pandemic has been con- statement said. Norwegian vessel off the considered illegal under inter- tained. Access to the online game coast of Nigeria on Thurs- national law. Lebanon, Jordan warn Israeli annexation threatens peace efforts The Trump plan also calls has been blocked temporarily day and kidnapped nine “We will put in place all for talks with the Palestinians pending a court decision next Nigerian nationals onboard, necessary measures to en- AMMAN Lebanon and Jordan Lebanon’s stance is “based mines attempts to achieve and buy-in from Gulf Arab week. the ship’s Norwegian owner sure national unity” in efforts warned on Thursday that Israel’s on international decisions and peace and a two-state solution states that would theoretically “We will go for a permanent BW Offshore said. against annexation, senior Fa- plans to annex parts of the the Arab peace initiative,” Hitti based on the lines of June 4, be tasked with providing mas- ban,” a PTA official told dpa. The Sendje Berge, an tah official Jibril Rajub said in occupied West Bank threatens added. 1967. sive funds for a nascent Pales- Police in the central prov- offshore support vessel for Ramallah at the news confer- efforts to reach a peaceful solu- “We have presented our “Our work continues to tinian state’s economy. ince of Punjab said at least the oil and gas industry, ence, also addressed by Ha- tion for the Israeli-Palestinian vision of a comprehensive, focus on preventing annexa- “Those are all steps that are three teenage boys had com- came under attack at 0320 mas official Saleh al-Arouri by conict, the foreign ministers just, lasting and brave peace tion and nd a real horizon to hard for Netanyahu to absorb, mitted suicide in the past GMT, BW Offshore said in video-link from Beirut. said. and there is Arab, regional and re-launch serious and effective given what his base wants, month partly because they a ling to the Oslo stock Arouri described the con- The annexation “is a very international interest to achieve negotiations,” al-Safadi said. which is a more expansive an- failed to accomplish their exchange. ference as “an opportunity to dangerous issue,” Lebanese that.” Jordan has been working on nexation, with less coordina- PUBG tasks. There has been no news start a new phase”. Foreign Minister Nassif Hitti The 2002 Arab Peace mobilizing international support tion with other players... and “I had to seek psycho- on the nine Nigerians since Hamas chief Ismail Hani- said after a meeting with his Initiative called for establish- to halt Israel’s annexation plans, without giving anything to the logical counselling to help my they were taken, but nobody yeh said in a statement that Jordanian counterpart Ayman ing an independent Palestinian which would give Israel sover- Palestinians,” Shapiro said. child recover from the game’s remaining on board the ship the event marked “a major al-Safadi in Amman. state with East Jerusalem as its eignty over some 30 percent of “So I think there is ten- impact,” said Zahoor Bangash had been hurt, according to step towards unity”, which was Hitti said the plan is an capital. the West Bank, which Israel has sion between Netanyahu and who lives near Islamabad and the statement. endorsed by “the leadership of attempt by Israel put an end Al-Safadi said the annexa- occupied since 1967. the White House on this right has a 16-year-old son. At the time of the Hamas”. to efforts towards a peaceful tion is a “blatant violation of Amman signed a peace now.” The number of children attack, the Sendje Berge But for former PA official settlement. international law” that under- treaty with Israel in 1994. (DPA) Shapiro also noted that taken to clinics for mental was working at the Okwori and Palestinian analyst Ghas- development of the Trump health issues linked to gaming oil eld on behalf of China’s san Khatib, Thursday’s show AFP. lition government had set July tion of a demilitarised Pales- plan was spearheaded by the had seen a significant increase Addax Petroleum. (AFP) of unity was unlikely to spark “They’ll agree about the sig- 1 as the date it could begin im- tinian state across roughly 70 president’s son-in-law and in recent months, said Sadia wider co-operation between nificance and the importance plementing Trump’s annexa- percent of the West Bank, with senior advisor, Jared Kushner, Khan, psychologist based the Twin blasts near the two Palestinian groups. of the annexation and the need tion proposals. a link to Gaza. who does not want annexation north-western city of Pesha- Afghan hospital kill “I doubt the annexation to try to coordinate their efforts But the US plan, unveiled The US aside, the interna- without the larger plan moving war. challenge will help these two but I don’t think they’ll go be- in January, also calls for an- tional community has voiced forward. The game is already banned two, injure eight factions to end their split and yond that,” he added. nexations to come as part of a near unanimous opposition “The Kushner view is about in several other countries in- KABUL Two people were unify again. I don’t think this is Prime Minister Benjamin larger peace package, includ- against unilateral moves by the whole package,” not just cluding Jordan, Iraq and Nepal killed and eight others going to happen,” Khatib told Netanyahu’s centre-right coa- ing negotiations on the crea- Israel. annexation, Shapiro said. for health reasons. wounded after twin blasts went off near a military hospital in Afghanistan’s northern Balkh province, police said on Thursday. Saudi-led alliance and Yemen’s A taxi driver was slightly India’s coronavirus cases cross 600,000 wounded after the rst explosion occurred near the rebels trade blame for escalation DPA 25, has been easing up since while grocery stores would hospital in Mazar-e-Sharif, DPA missiles fired by the rebels into Local witnesses said the coa- NEW DELHI mid-May. More domestic be open for a couple of hours provincial police spokesman SANA’A the oil-rich monarchy border- lition also carried out dozens of flights and trains are resum- daily in others. Police were Adel Shah Adel said. ing Yemen. strikes in Sana’a and other rebel- COVID-19 infections in India ing this week. keeping strict vigil on the As security forces ar- THE Saudi-led coalition and An alliance official said on held areas in Yemen on Wednes- crossed the 600,000 mark Several areas have, how- movement of people. rived at the scene, a second Yemen’s Iran-linked rebels on Thursday the operation tar- day. The rebels’ self-styled Min- Thursday with the virus ever, announced fresh lock- Tamil Nadu capital Chen- bomb went off in which ve Thursday blamed each other geted ballistic missiles and istry of Human Rights said the spreading at a rapid pace as downs and restrictions as a nai is under a complete lock- police of cers and four civil- for an escalation of violence the drones fired by the Houthis strikes had hit houses and hospi- the country gradually eases result of case spikes, includ- down till July 31. ians were wounded. day after the Saudi-led alliance from rebel-controlled Sana’a tals, killing at least two civilians its lockdown. ing Mumbai and Chennai. In national capital Delhi, One civilian and an launched a military campaign at Saudi Arabia. The coali- and injuring six others in the The number of infections Residents in seven of also an epicentre of the dis- of cer later died while at in the war-torn country. tion’s spokesman Turki al- northern province of Saada, a countrywide is 604,641, with nine civic corporation areas ease, strict restrictions are hospital, Adel added. Yemen has been locked in Malki vowed that the alliance, Houthi stronghold. 17,834 deaths, according to of Mumbai had been asked to being maintained in over 260 Meanwhile, in eastern a devastating power struggle which has been fighting the The bombardment also tar- Health Ministry data. India stay at home for the next 10 containment zones. Nangarhar province, two between the Saudi-supported Houthis in Yemen since March geted medical supply warehous- is the fourth worst-hit nation days, Greater Mumbai Mu- Nearly 360,000 people Afghan border forces were government and Houthi rebels 2015, would retaliate against es of a hospital in Sana’a, the after the United States, Brazil nicipal Corporation spokes- have recovered from COV- killed and nine others wound- since late 2014. any new attack on Saudi Arabia. ministry said, without reporting and Russia. man said. Only medical ID-19 so far according to the ed in a Taliban overnight at- On Wednesday, the Saudi- “Civilians and civil installa- casualties. Saudi Arabia fears India, which introduced stores would be open and es- Health Ministry which says tack, the provincial governor led alliance mounted a military tions are a red line,” he added, the rebels are giving its region- one of the world’s most strin- sential goods would be deliv- there is a recovery rate of spokesman said. (DPA) operation against the Houthis according to the Saudi state al rival, Iran, a strategic foot- gent lockdowns on March ered to homes in some areas over 59 per cent. in retaliation for a series of news agency SPA. hold in the Arabian Peninsula. Iran reports ‘accident’ at nuclear site, warns enemies Turkey seeks French apology over ‘false’ claim in naval row AFP There was “no interruption statement “hours before” the TEHRAN to the work of the enrichment accident from a group called AFP ships was subjected to radar site itself”, which “is working the “Homeland Cheetahs” who BERLIN targeting by Turkish frigates as TEHRAN on Thursday report- at the pace it used to,” Kamal- claimed responsibility for the it sought to inspect a cargo ves- ed an “accident” at Natanz nu- vandi said. accident. TURKEY’S foreign minister on sel suspected of carrying arms clear complex in central Iran, Hours after the announce- They claimed to be “dissi- Thursday said France should to Libya. saying there were no casualties ment, Iran’s state news agency dents present in Iran’s security apologise for making “false Turkey has dismissed the or radioactive pollution, and IRNA published an editorial apparatuses” and said the loca- claims” about a naval incident allegations as “groundless”, in- warned foes -- especially Israel warning that “if there are signs tion was targeted as it was not in the Mediterranean that has sisting its vessels only observed -- against hostile actions. of hostile countries crossing “underground” and therefore fuelled tensions between the the warship. It accused the There was “no nuclear ma- Iran’s red lines in any way, the alleged attack could not be NATO allies. French ship of a “high-speed terial (at the damaged ware- especially the Zionist regime denied. Iran’s nuclear body has “When France makes false and dangerous manoeuvre”. house) and no potential of (Israel) and the United States, yet to provide an explanation claims and works against Tur- France on Wednesday pollution,” the spokesman for Iran’s strategy to confront the A handout picture provided by Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation for the cause of the accident. key, that should not be ac- said it was suspending its par- Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisa- new situation must be funda- (aeoinews) shows a warehouse after it was damaged at the Natanz Tehran-based analyst Mo- cepted,” Mevlut Cavusoglu told ticipation in the NATO mis- tion Behrouz Kamalvandi told mentally reconsidered.” facility, one of Iran’s main uranium enrichment plants. (AFP) hammad Marandi ridiculed reporters in Berlin. sion, known as Operation Sea state television. The Iranian Atomic Energy claims of responsibility for the “We expect France to Guardian, until its concerns are Kamalvandi said no radio- Organisation released a pho- According to a statement re- counts had claimed the Jewish accident on Twitter. apologise unconditionally,” addressed. active material or personnel to purportedly from the site, leased by the nuclear body, the state was responsible for the “If there’s a fire anywhere, he said, after Paris last month The spat is the latest flare- were present at the warehouse showing a one-storey building warehouse was under construc- “sabotage attempts”. Iran’s foes claim a military denounced an “extremely ag- up between the two countries within the Natanz site in central with a damaged roof, walls ap- tion and the accident caused no It stressed that Iran had strike,” said Marandi, who gressive” intervention by Turk- which have exchanged barbs in Iran, one of the country’s main parently blackened by fire and casualties. tried “to prevent escalations heads the American studies de- ish ships against a French navy recent days over their roles in uranium enrichment plants. doors hanging off their hinges Natanz governor Ramezan- and unpredictable situations partment at Tehran University. vessel participating in a NATO the conflict in Libya. He noted that the cause was as if blown out from the inside. Ali Ferdowsi told the Tasnim while defending its position and “BBC Persian claims sabo- Mediterranean maritime secu- Ankara supports the UN- being investigated, and said it State TV later showed a dif- news agency that a fire had bro- national interests”. tage by a secret organisation, rity operation. recognised Government of Na- had caused “some structural ferent angle of the building with ken out at the warehouse. The BBC’s Persian service, while their brethren in Israeli NATO has opened an in- tional Accord (GNA) in Libya damage” without specifying the minor damage to its walls and IRNA reported that un- which Iranian authorities con- propaganda claim a drone vestigation into the incident, against rebel strongman Khal- nature of the accident. some of its fans still working. named Israeli social media ac- sider hostile, said it received a strike! Poor coordination.” in which France says one of its ifa Haftar. 06 Friday, July 3, 2020

ESTABLISHED SEPTEMBER 3, 2006 HAMAD BIN SUHAIM AL THANI CHAIRMAN Opinion ADEL ALI BIN ALI MANAGING DIRECTOR DR HASSAN MOHAMMED AL ANSARI EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

July 4th Fun Isn’t Worth Months Of COVID-19 Misery How Biden Can e resurgence of coronavirus cases began Memorial Day Punish Putin weekend. July Fourth weekend revelry will make things worse

E now know that a resurgence of coronavirus And, to be clear, the consequence for careless If elected president, Joe Biden must designate GRU — the Russian infections and sickness in Los Angeles and revelry over the Fourth of July weekend may well Wother California counties began around Me- be months of misery and death. At the moment, the Intelligence Agency that o ered bounties to Taliban to kill US morial Day, as people emerged from three difficult US is reporting about 40,000 new cases of COV- and scary months stuck inside to take advantage of ID-19 a day, which is a nearly 100 percent increase soldiers in Afghanistan — as a foreign terrorist organisation the simple pleasures: A lunch out with a friend. A from just a month ago. At a US Senate hearing on family backyard barbecue. A girl’s night out on the Tuesday, Dr Anthony S Fauci, the director of the town. A haircut! National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseas- ELI LAKE Who could blame anyone for having believed es, warned that ignoring precautions could result in TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE that the worst of the pandemic was over, at least 100,000 new cases a day. until a possible second wave in fall? The extreme What’s more, the demographics of infections CCORDING to a series of de- measures in California had paid off. Confirmed have shifted. In the first months of the pandemic, tailed dispatches from The New cases of COVID-19 were waning; so were hospital- COVID-19 seemed to be primarily a disease of the York Times, Russia’s military isations and deaths. We had a stockpile of empty old and sick. Now, more of the cases are being re- intelligence agency has offered hospital beds and unused ventilators. And Gov- ported in people under 40. In some places in Texas, bounties to Taliban fighters for ernor Gavin Newsom and county health officials which is experiencing one of the nation’s worst out- killingA US soldiers in Afghanistan. were lifting pandemic restrictions on businesses breaks, the median age of people testing positive Some details remain unclear, and the at a rapid pace. for coronavirus is under 30. Twenty-somethings White House says that “the president Face masks were still required in many public may be less likely to die than an 80-year-old with was never briefed on this.” places, as was keeping a safe distance from other a chronic illness, but they could spread pathogens Nonetheless: The undisputed humans. But was that truly necessary — or just an to others. Also, the virus hasn’t been around long facts are bad enough. If it’s true annoying overabundance of caution? enough to have any clear picture of its long-term that President Donald Trump knew With the benefit of hindsight, it’s clear now health effects on survivors. about the Russian scheme in Febru- that, yes, those measures were still necessary in State and local officials in California and else- ary, it’s horrifying that as recently early June. The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 where are trying their best to limit the opportuni- as last month he was lobbying allies wasn’t on the run, just waiting for us to let our col- ties for large gatherings expected starting Friday, to re-invite Russia into the Group of lective guards down — which we did, in the haste to which is a day off for many. Bars, indoor dining Seven industrialised nations. And if get back to work, or something like normal. In just areas and other indoor businesses have been or- Trump didn’t read his intelligence, a few weeks, California — and many other states — dered shut down in the 19 counties, including Los or his staff kept the news from him, saw the effects of that complacence when the stead- Angeles, that have been on the governor’s watch it’s no better. Even if all the details ily downward-trending metrics started rising in an list. State beach parking lots will close, and state are not yet verified, the political ascent too steep to be written off merely as a result agency enforcement teams will crack down with peril in which Trump now finds of more testing. new gusto on businesses that don’t comply. What himself is well deserved. And now, here we are, on the verge of another authorities won’t find easy to police, however, That said, House Speaker Nancy holiday weekend — one that is typically celebrated are celebrations behind closed doors, and that’s Pelosi’s response on Sunday was de- with park picnics, family beach outings, neighbour- a problem. Family gatherings have been cited as lusional. “Just as I have said to the hood cookouts and firework displays, both sanc- a worrisome source of COVID-19 transmission all president, with him all roads lead to tioned and not. And if Californians living in the 19 over the state. Putin,” she said. “I don’t know what counties, including Los Angeles, that are nearing It’s understandable that people want to cel- the Russians have on the president, the danger zone don’t heed the lesson of the past ebrate the nation’s founding as if it were just any politically, personally, financially, or month, there is a real possibility that the current other year. But it’s not. It’s the year of terrible ill- whatever it is.” Pelosi apparently be- country’s primary adversary. And to the GRU’s sinister meddling in swell will turn into a tidal wave. Much depends on ness and suffering, and the independence we need lieves this despite the failure of the while it’s no excuse, the Russians Afghanistan. Biden, though, has an whether individual behaviours change. If not, we is freedom from disease, ignorance and selfishness. special prosecutor tasked with inves- have accused the US of supporting opportunity. He should announce may all suffer the consequences. That’s something worth waiting to celebrate. tigating Russia’s interference in the some proxies in Syria that have at- that, if elected president, he would 2016 presidential election to find any tacked Russian positions. designate the GRU as a foreign ter - evidence of collusion between the More important, the GRU has rorist organisation. The precedent Trump campaign and Russia. long specialised in plausibly deniable here is what the Trump administra- The more pressing question provocations against the US and its tion did with Iran’s Islamic Revolu- for both Trump and his opponent allies. The GRU orchestrated the hack tionary Guard Corps in 2019. in November, Joe Biden, is what and release of Democratic emails This would have the advantage should be done. during the 2016 election, of course, of making the GRU’s assets toxic for The context here matters. No but that is only the most recent exam- the legitimate financial industry. one should be surprised that the ple. In 2010, there was an attempted It would also force Putin to choose. Russian intelligence agency, the bombing of the US embassy in Tbilisi. Right now, he has two foreign poli - GRU, would target US forces in Fortunately the bomb was removed cies: His diplomats demand that Afghanistan. More than two years before it exploded. But the Obama Russia be shown the respect of a ago, the general in charge of coa - administration was in the midst of its great power, while his spies assassi- lition forces in Afghanistan said “reset” with Russia, so a clear provo- nate rivals, bankroll terrorists and there was evidence that Russia was cation that US intelligence agencies interfere in elections. If Putin wants arming the Taliban. Russian Presi- had pinned on the GRU passed with- respect, his regime must earn it. dent Vladimir Putin, has openly out a US response. groused about the collapse of the Trump so far has shown no in - (Eli Lake is a Bloomberg (Los Angeles Times) Soviet Union and sees the US as his dication that he intends to respond Opinion columnist.) India’s Chinese App Ban Is Just The Beginning Across India, public pressure is growing to boycott and ban all things Chinese, from food to technology

PALLAVI SHAHI could eventually include private demand “bizarre” and “ridiculous,” ernment e-Marketplace (GeM) for TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE players too. social media platforms went into a all government purchases and has Even prior to this official inti- tizzy over whether the Chinese food also enabled a Made in India filter HILE the jury is still out mation, many Indians were ready served in India — fondly addressed on the platform in a bid to pro- on whether there has been and roaring to boycott anything as Indo-Chinese cuisine — is even mote local products. Wa Chinese incursion in the Chinese. What began as a call to authentic and thereby worthy of While the Himalayan neigh- Galwan Valley or which country boycott Chinese apps such as Tik- such a reprimand. Other incidents bours are locked in a military rightfully lays claim to the dis- Tok immediately, and all Chinese of protest and boycotting Chinese standoff and engage in defence puted stretch of land along the products eventually, quickly en- products involved citizens destroy- and diplomatic dialogues to Sino-India border, within India, gulfed various sectors. On June ing Chinese brand televisions, van- de-escalate the situation, pub- digital and real borders are be- 25, the Delhi Hotel and Restaurant dalising a shop in Mumbai selling lic opinion in India is split over ing hurriedly drawn. On June 29, Owners Association announced Chinese toys, and burning effigies whether recent government ac- the Indian government banned 59 that Chinese nationals were no of Chinese President Xi Jinping. tions are apt or enough. Some Chinese apps including WeChat longer welcome in over 3,000 ho- While many Indians are question- believe that an alteration of the and TikTok citing the “threat to tels and guesthouses across the ing this hyper-nationalism and the Indian map cannot be rightfully sovereignty and integrity” that capital city. This came close on the logic behind destroying that which responded to through govern- these apps pose through the mis- heels of the Confederation of All has already been purchased by fel- ment action against Chinese apps; use and transmission of user data India Traders’ (CAIT) decision to low citizens with good money, the others, meanwhile, opine that it to servers outside India. As an im- boycott Chinese products. On June call for boycotting all that is Chi- is a strong economic move and a mediate reaction, Chinese Foreign 17, CAIT released a list of over 450 nese — whether already purchased harbinger of what could follow, Ministry spokesperson Zhao Li- Chinese categories of products that clothes to education and govern- economic independence before to- or yet to be bought — seems to be especially in the technology and jian said that the Chinese govern- were to be boycotted over “contin- ance — was boycotted. One of the tal independence or Purna Swaraj rapidly gathering traction. telecommunications sector. ment was “strongly concerned” ued border skirmishes.” most memorable images from the — absolute self-governance — from Bowing to the strong consum- about the ban and that it is India’s Employing boycotts as a means period is that of Mahatma Gandhi the British rule. er demand to correctly demarcate (Pallavi Shahi is a project responsibility to “uphold the le- of registering strong disapproval in the early 1930s using a spinning Shortly after the June 15 clash and single out Chinese products, consultant at the Center gitimate rights of international and conveying an expression of wheel to create thread in the tradi- between Indian and Chinese sol- e-commerce websites such as for Peace and Conflict investors.” On the telecommuni- protest has been a huge part of In- tional manner pre-dating imperial diers where 20 Indian soldiers Amazon and Walmart Inc.’s Flip- Studies at the Seton Hall cations front, the Indian govern- dian nationalism. One of the biggest rule. It was an act of absolute rejec- were killed, Union Minister Ram- kart have agreed to prominently University. She holds a ment is reportedly mulling bar- campaigns of the Indian independ- tion of the exploitive and control- das Athawale said that restaurants display “country of origin” for all Master of Arts in Diplomacy ring Chinese companies such as ence struggle was the Swadeshi ling economic and political system serving Chinese food should be goods sold online in India. For and International Relations Huawei and ZTE from providing Movement. Within this campaign, that had entangled Indian textile banned and Indians should boy- its part, the Indian government from Seton Hall University equipment to state-run telcos in anything that was not Swadeshi or manufacturing. This, according to cott Chinese food altogether. While has mandated country of origin and has previously worked their 5G upgrade, an action that the country’s own — from books to Gandhi, would create the basis for concerned restaurateurs called the information on its massive Gov- as a journalist in India)

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. World Friday, July 3, 2020 07 China, UK clash over Hong Kong’s fate under new security law AFP ing with foreign forces. breaches China’s pre-handover unilateral changes to the rel- HONG KONG That includes from the “One Country, Two Systems” Activist Nathan Law flees Hong Kong as protest slogan outlawed evant practice, it will breach United States, where Congress promise to grant residents key its own position and pledges as CHINA promised on Thurs- on Thursday dialled up the liberties -- as well as judicial HONG KONG: Nathan Law, one of Hong Kong’s most prominent young de- well as international law and day to take countermeasures pressure by passing tough new and legislative autonomy -- un- mocracy activists, announced on Thursday he had ed overseas in response basic norms governing inter- against Britain if it presses sanctions that target banks over til 2047. to Beijing imposing a sweeping security law on the city. national relations,” China’s em- ahead with plans to extend citi- infringements on Hong Kong’s It has responded by an- “I have already left Hong Kong and continue the advocacy work on the bassy in London said Thursday. zenship rights to Hong Kongers autonomy. nouncing plans to allow mil- international level,” Law said in a short English message to journalists, declin- “We firmly oppose this and after Beijing imposed a sweep- Hong Kong’s influential Bar lions of Hong Kongers with ing to say which country he had gone to. “Based on risk assessment, I shall reserve the right to take corre- ing security law on the restless Association published a new British National Overseas sta- not reveal too much about my personal whereabouts and situation now,” the sponding measures,” it added. financial hub. legal analysis warning that the tus to relocate with their fami- message added. The revelation Law had left the city came as the local gov- Britain is not alone in an- Beijing has faced a ground- wording of the law -- which lies and eventually apply for ernment released a statement con rming that a popular protest slogan used nouncing plans to offer Hong swell of criticism from primar- was kept secret until Tuesday citizenship. over the last year was now illegal under Beijing’s new law. (AFP) Kongers sanctuary or increased ily Western nations over its -- undermines the city’s inde- “We will live up to our immigration rights as fears decision to impose a law out- pendent judiciary and stifles promises to them,” foreign sec- multiply over the semi-auton- lawing acts of subversion, se- freedoms. retary Dominic Raab told par- That move has infuriated promised not to grant full citi- ahead of the 1997 handover. omous city’s future under the cession, terrorism and collud- Britain has said the law liament. Beijing, which says Britain zenship rights to Hong Kongers “If the British side makes new law.

Swiss authorise News remdesivir for in brief wide use against US con rms record 54,000 US seeks to seize Iran oil cargoes coronavirus bound for Venezuela WASHINGTON: The US Justice Department issued a warrant AFP on Thursday to seize the cargoes of four tankers carrying GENEVA COVID-19 cases in one day Iranian oil to Venezuela, tying the shipments to Iran’s Revo- lutionary Guards, which Washington calls a terror group. The SWITZERLAND announced Many of the new cases are among people below the age of 40 Justice Department led a forfeiture complaint and warrant on Thursday that COVID-19 in federal court in Washington for the cargoes of the tankers patients beyond those on clini- DPA Bella, Bering, Pandi and Luna -- currently en route from Iran to cal trials could be given rem- WASHINGTON Venezuela. The US alleges that the shipments involve parties desivir, the first drug shown to af liated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), be relatively effective in treat- STATES across the US record- which the United States has designated a “foreign terrorist ing the new coronavirus. ed more than 54,000 cases of organiSation.” A court complaint citing a “con dential source” At least two major US the new coronavirus in a single said Mahmoud Madanipour, who has ties to the IRGC, ar- studies have shown that the day, breaking a record, as in- ranged the shipments for Venezuela, using offshore front anti-viral drug can reduce the fections continue to spike in a companies and ship-to-ship transfers to avoid sanctions duration of hospital stays for number of regions. on Iran. (AFP) those suffering from the novel The official numbers from coronavirus. the Centers for Disease Control “With immediate effect, for Wednesday come on top of French state found liable for birth remdesivir can be used more a rolling average this week of defects linked to epilepsy drug widely in Switzerland for the more than 40,000 new cases a treatment of COVID-19 pa- day, as the number of new daily PARIS: A French court on Thursday ordered the state to pay tients,” the government said in cases now regularly surpasses thousands of euros in damages over birth defects linked to an a statement. peaks seen in April and May. anti-epilepsy drug, saying of cials should have ensured that it Following a swift review There is no sign of a letup. was not taken by pregnant women. The court also ruled that this week, Swissmedic, the na- Florida, one of the main new pharma giant Sano , which makes the drug Depakine, and doc- tional agency for therapeutic hotspots, reported more than A family walks at a shopping centre in Miami Beach, Florida, recently. (AFP) tors who prescribed it were responsible as well, in a scandal products, said it would allow 9,500 cases in a single day, lo- that has affected 15,000 to 30,000 children in France. “The the temporary distribution cal health department data re- Pence visited Arizona this would derail the economic re- some re-openings, including state has neglected its duties to monitor (drugs),” the court of the drug, which was origi- leased Thursday showed, just week and is due in Florida later covery from the recession. indoor dining. New York City, said in its ruling, adding that health authorities should have nally intended as a treatment about matching a single-day Thursday for a meeting with The figures come as the US however, is still planning to required information on the risks to pregnant women in the for Ebola. “Products contain- record for the Sunshine State. Governor Ron De Santis who heads into the July 4 holiday reopen schools in September, instructions that came with the medicine. It ordered payment ing the active substance rem- Cases are also on the rise has all but said he will not sig- weekend, which starts Friday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said. of 20,000 to 200,000 euros ($22,500-$327,000) to the three desivir and marketed under across southern and south- nificantly shut down the econ- raising concerns about large Many of the new cases are families who led the case, depending on the date of birth of the brand name Veklury may western states, with California, omy, though he has placed re- gatherings for Independence among people below the age of ve children now aged between 11 and 35. (AFP) be used in Swiss hospitals, Texas, Arizona, Georgia and strictions on bars and taverns. Day. Some local authorities 40, with Florida reporting an without authorisation, for the North Carolina all seeing signif- President Donald Trump in Florida cities are imposing average age of 37. Elected of- treatment of COVID-19 pa- icant spikes. As cases mount, has continued to say that the stricter measures than their gov- ficials seem to be hoping that Hungary dismisses EU border reopening tients,” the statement said. there is growing concern that federal government is help- ernor, including cancelling fire- with the most vulnerable not recommendation The product will be made some areas of the country reo- ing local officials deal with work shows. At the same time, badly affected right now, and available to patients outside pened too much, too quickly. hotspots, but has downplayed New York, once the epicentre some restrictions in place, the BUDAPEST: Hungary will not comply with an EU recommendation approved clinical trials and US Vice President Mike concerns that the new spikes of the US outbreak, has paused worst can be avoided. to lift coronavirus travel restrictions for more countries outside the the approved compassionate bloc, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Thursday, citing a risk use programme, pending a to health. The 27-member EU nalised Tuesday the list of coun- decision on full authorisation tries where coronavirus infections were seen to be low enough to of the drug. Clinicians will Brazil surpasses 60,000 coronavirus deaths allow their citizens to enter the bloc starting on Wednesday. “We monitor any adverse reactions cannot currently implement the EU’s request to allow in citizens to the drug to ensure patient RIO DE JANEIRO: Brazil said on Wednesday. in the world for both cases more than 46,000 new cases, from non-EU countries, with the exception of Serbia,” Orban said safety, the government said. topped 60,000 deaths from The South American coun- and fatalities after the United the country of 212 million in a Facebook video message. Hungary reopened the border with Switzerland had largely got the novel coronavirus after try has suffered the largest States. now has 1.44 million people neighbouring Serbia, which has a large ethnic-Hungarian popula- the virus under control, but, recording more than 1,000 number of daily deaths globally Brazil is showing no signs infected, although analysts tion, in May. But lifting travel restrictions to more nations outside from a low and stable base, fatalities over the last 24 for the last week, and is the of reducing either its number believe the true gure is much the EU “would go against the healthcare interests of the Hungar- has witnessed a resurgence in hours, the health ministry second worst affected nation of daily cases or deaths. With higher. (AFP) ian people,” Orban said. (AFP) cases in the last week or so. Putin wins right to extend his rule until 2036 Biden outraises Trump again with $141 mn gains AFP publican National Committee. of delegates needed to become AFP internal stability and time to WASHINGTON The second quarter of the party’s presidential nomi- MOSCOW strengthen the country and its 2020 was a record haul for nee, were first-time contribu- institutions.” Russians began DEMOCRAT Joe Biden out- both campaigns, with Biden tors, she said. Trump’s cam- PRESIDENT Vladimir Putin Thank you very much for voting last week on the package raised President Donald coming out on top, $282.1 paign reported that it holds a thanked Russians on Thurs- your support and trust ... of constitutional changes pro- Trump’s re-election campaign million against Trump’s $266 $295 million war chest. Team day for voting in favour of con- We need internal stability posed by Putin earlier this year, for the second straight month million for the April-to-June Biden did not report its cash- troversial amendments to the and time to strengthen the including a reset of presidential and for the second quarter period. “This haul means on-hand figures, but Trump’s constitution that could extend country and its institutions term limits allowing him to run of 2020, figures released on for the second consecutive campaign said it maintains a his grip on power, as the op- twice again after his current Wednesday showed, high- month we have outraised “vast” advantage over Biden in position and Western leaders Russian President six-year term ends in 2024. lighting robust enthusiasm for Donald Trump’s campaign cash on hand. voiced criticism over suspect- Vladimir Putin Other amendments the White House challenger. and demonstrates a surge in Fundraising typically kicks ed poll violations. strengthen presidential and Biden, the Democratic Na- grassroots energy to elect Joe into high gear in the six months Russia’s Central Elections see Putin, 67, remain in power parliamentary powers, en- tional Committee and related Biden,” campaign manager before a presidential election, Commission announced early until 2036. that modern Russia was still shrine traditional values in- fundraisers brought in a stag- Jen O’Malley Dillon said in a and the record donations in Thursday that nearly 78 per- “Thank you very much for in the process of being formed. cluding an effective ban on gering $141 million in June, statement. part reflect robust digital and cent of voters had cast their your support and trust,” Pu- “Very little time has passed gay marriage and guarantee the campaign’s best fundrais- Sixty-eight percent of online fundraising efforts by ballot in favour of the changes tin said in televised remarks since the break-up of the Soviet better minimum wages and ing month ever and $10 million Biden donors in June, the the campaigns during the coro- to the constitution that could during which he also warned Union,” Putin said. “We need pensions. more than Trump and the Re- month he reached the number navirus pandemic. Uruguay rides out COVID threat without imposing a lockdown

AFP to 15 countries. amid industry furloughs and when the circulation of the vi- turn of 45,000 construction MONTEVIDEO The list included only one school and border closures, rus within the population was workers. Later, cafes and res- Latin American country: Uru- officials urged people to stay very limited, led to adequate taurants reopened, followed URUGUAY’S president was guay. indoors and strictly adhere to measures being implement- by gyms in May. recently photographed surfing With less than 1,000 regis- social distancing. ed -- even if at the time they Shopping centers reo- in the early morning ahead of tered novel coronavirus cases The message was drilled seemed exaggerated -- right pened in mid-June and foot- a cabinet meeting, symbolis- and just 27 deaths, the coun- home in the media and by at the start of the school year,” ball, the national passion, is ing his government’s relief try of 3.4 million is a notable police helicopters flying over- Galiana said, referring to the due to resume on August 15, that a policy of “freedom with exception in a region that has head. southern hemisphere’s school though in empty stadiums. responsibility” in containing become the epicenter of the The center-right president, year. The economic shock the COVID-19 pandemic is global health crisis. who took office in early March Uruguay’s demographics however has been considera- succeeding. Uruguay currently has just as the pandemic was heating were also in its favor, given a ble: 200,000 people are un- Photos of 47-year-old Luis 83 active cases, while its giant up, has said he opted for “indi- low population density and employed, a massive spike Lacalle Pou emerging from neighbor Brazil is the world’s vidual freedom” rather than “a the absence of large urban from the 10,000 at the start the South Atlantic in a wetsuit worst-hit country after the police regime.” centers outside of the capital of the pandemic. Exports fell with a board under his arm United States. The calls for self-isolation Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou Montevideo. 16 percent in the first half and a smile on his lips hit the This success is especially were widely followed. Uruguay chose to ease of the year, and GDP is ex - newsstands on Tuesday, as remarkable as there never was Infectious diseases special- Uruguay’s success to early “The early appearance of back to normal gradually, be- pected to fall by 3.0 percent Europe reopened its borders an official lockdown. Instead, ist Alvaro Galiana attributes tracing. well known cases, at a time ginning in April with the re- this year. Stocks rally on vaccine hope, US jobs recovery PAGE 9

FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2020

26,035.61 9,211.89 35,843.70 1,777.15 +300.64 PTS +124.13 PTS +429.25 PTS GOLD +0.40% India opens vast railway network to DOW QE SENSEX private players PAGE 9 PRICE PERCENTAGE PRICE PERCENTAGE 18.31 BRENT 43.04 +2.40% WTI 40.60 +1.96% SILVER +0.50% US adds 4.8 million jobs as unemployment falls to 11.1% in June

DPA straight week in which the cords from the first months WASHINGTON US has posted more than 1 of the pandemic. million new unemployment California, Texas and THE official US unemploy- benefit claims, but remains Florida, the three most popu- ment rate for June dropped far below the worst week in lous states, are seeing some to 11.1 percent from a pre- March, which saw more than of the worst infection num- vious 13.3 percent, beating 6 million claims. bers this week. market expectations, the The unemployment rate The Bureau of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics re- is still up by 7.6 percentage Statistics meanwhile noted ported on Thursday. points since February, equal- a small decline in average Some 4.8 million jobs ling some 12 million workers hourly earnings last month, were added in June, while who are out of a job since the which it said was a result of the number of workers listed pandemic hit. lower-wage earners getting The QSE index gained for the second day in a row after Qatari lenders Masraf Al Rayan and al khaliji said they had begun negotiating a potential as being on temporary lay- US President Donald their jobs back. merger. offs fell by 4.8 million to 10.6 Trump gloated, in brief re- The jobs recovery has million. Some two-fifths of marks to reporters, saying likely been helped by federal the job gains came in the lei- the economy was “roaring government economic stimu- sure and hospitality sectors. back” and taking full credit lus programmes, though ex- The Bureau’s methodol- for the gains. panded unemployment ben- QSE outperforms GCC ogy means the figure largely “This is not just luck that efits are due to expire within reflects the first weeks of is happening, this is a lot weeks. Lawmakers and the June. However, the country of talent,” Trump boasted, White House say there are has since seen re-openings adding that the economy “is talks ongoing about whether paused or even rolled back coming back faster and big- to inject more stimulus. due to new spikes in corona- ger and better than we ever Treasury Secretary Ste- peers, jumps 124 pts virus caseloads, threatening thought possible.” ven Mnuchin told reporters the recovery from the reces- Trump downplayed con- that there may be more direct sion. cerns about the coronavi- cash payments and that there Ezdan Holding Group was the total traded value of QR485.5 The figures came as the rus resurging, saying public could be monetary infusions Market capitalisation increases by 1.85% best performing stock for the million. Department of Labor sepa- health experts would “con- to schools to help with get- to reach QR534.6 billion as compared to week, with a gain of 32.7 per- Trading volume increased rately reported 1.42 million tinue to address the tempo- ting pupils back into class, as cent. by 37.2 percent to reach 1.7 initial unemployment claims rary hotspots.” part of a future stimulus bill. QR524.9 billion in the previous week Masraf Al Rayan, Ezdan billion shares against 1.3 bil- for the last week, a fall of just The president did not US stock markets opened Holding and Milaha were the lion shares in the previous 55,000 on the previous week, take questions in his White higher, in part of the jobs SATYENDRA PATHAK ($45.04 billion) in total as- primary contributors to the week. The number of transac- signalling the economic re- House appearance. The report, with the S&P 500 up DOHA sets. weekly index gain. Al Rayan tions rose by 10.8 percent to bound is still facing head- country confirmed a record about 1.3 per cent on the last Masraf Al Rayan that leapt was the biggest contributor to reach 45,571 against 41,137 in winds. 50,000 new cases in a single trading day of the week ahead QATAR’S stock market out- 5 percent in the last session, the index’s weekly gain, add- the previous week. The figures mark the 15th day this week, smashing re- of the long holiday weekend. performed as most Gulf bours- however, eased 0.3 percent. ing 29.2 points to the index. The real estate sector led es ended higher on Thursday. Al Khaliji Commercial Bank, Ezdan was the second biggest the trading volume, account- Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) which is not part of the index, contributor to the mentioned ing for 40.2 percent, followed main index gained 124.13 soared 10 percent, extending gain, piling 19.9 points on the by the banks and financial points, or 1.37 percent, at the gains from the previous ses- index. Moreover, Milaha add- services sector comprising end of Thursday’s trading to sion. ed 17.9 points to the index. 20.4 percent of the overall close at 9,211.89 points. The solid gains made on Trading value during the trading volume. Ezdan was Qatar’s index gained on Thursday also helped the week increased by 49.5 per- the top volume traded stock the back of petrochemical QSE main index to conclude cent to reach QR2.6 billion during the week with total firm Industries Qatar advanc- the weekly trade on a positive against QR1.7 billion in the traded volume of 449.5 mil- ing 4.6 percent and Qatar Na- note. previous week. The banks lion shares. tional Bank, the Gulf’s largest The QSE index increased and financial services sector Foreign institutions end- lender, gaining 2.6 percent. by 26.9 points, or 0.29 per- led the trading value during ed the week with a change The QSE index gained for cent, during the week. Mar- the week, accounting for 33.6 in direction as they net sold the second day in a row after ket capitalisation increased percent of the total trading QR65.3 million against net two Qatari lenders Masraf Al by 1.85 percent to reach value. Real Estate sector was buying of QR0.7 million in Rayan and Al Khaliji Com- QR534.6 billion as compared the second biggest contribu- the previous week. mercial Bank said on Tuesday to QR524.9 billion at the end tor to the overall trading val- Qatari institutions re- they had begun negotiating a of the previous week. ue, accounting for 29.3 per- mained positive with net buy- potential merger that could Of the 47 listed compa- cent of the total trading value. ing of QR153.8 million against The unemployment rate is still up by 7.6 percentage points since February, equalling some 12 mil- create a combined entity with nies, 28 companies ended Ezdan was the top value trad- net buying of QR24 million in lion workers who are out of a job since the pandemic hit. more than QR164 billion the week higher, while 19 fell. ed stock during the week with the week before. S&P reaf rms stable outlook Quarantines hurting Mideast on Commercial Bank aviation recovery, says IATA TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA AFP “Mideast carriers are es- LONDON timated to lose $37 for eve- S&P Global Ratings has an- ry passenger they carry in nounced that it has reaffirmed STRICT quarantine meas- 2020,” while in Africa, the its stable outlook on Commer- ures imposed by African and loss is $42 per passenger, he cial Bank of Qatar, a short- Middle Eastern nations are said. term rating of A-2, and a long- preventing the travel indus- “This pandemic is a black term rating of BBB+. try from getting back off the swan event no one expected, In a statement, S&P said, ground, threatening further impacting travellers and hit- “The ratings on Commercial losses and bankruptcies, ting the airline and travel in- Bank reflect our view of the the International Air Trans- dustry hard,” chief commer- bank’s sound customer fran- port Association warned on cial officer Adnan Kazim said. chise in Qatar as the third- Thursday. Albakri urged govern- largest bank in the system, and Countries in the Middle ments in the region to pro- earnings generation capacity.” East imposed sweeping shut- vide urgent financial help to The ratings agency also downs to combat the spread airlines, saying that world- shed light on the key role of of the coronavirus, halting wide $123 billion had been the Qatari authorities in pro- flights and closing airports. pledged to help the industry, viding support to the bank in Some regional airlines with just $800 million com- case of need. It said, “We clas- have resumed partial opera- ing from Middle Eastern and sify Commercial Bank as hav- tions but with requirements Countries in the Middle East imposed sweeping shutdowns to combat African nations. ing high systemic importance The Commercial Bank plaza in West Bay. including testing and quaran- the spread of the coronavirus, halting ights and closing airports. “Our concern is we are go- and consider the authorities in tine on arrival. ing to lose a lot of these carri- Qatar highly supportive of the despite the challenges asso- clear strategy and strong ex- “Government-imposed “With over 80 percent of are estimated to lose some 56 ers, if life support is not pro- country’s banking sector.” ciated with COVID-19. For ecution.” quarantine measures in 36 travellers unwilling to travel percent of their revenue and vided,” he said. Commercial Bank Group Commercial Bank, this reaf- Commercial Bank current- countries across Africa and when quarantine is required, 55 percent of passengers this Albakri said that a bal- Chief Executive Officer Joseph firmation comes on the back of ly enjoys strong credit ratings the Middle East account for the impact of these measures year compared to 2019. ance should be established Abraham said, “This reaffir- Moody’s similarly unchanged from all the major agencies. In 40 percent of all quarantine is that countries remain in “Losses continue to pile between protecting the mation of a stable outlook by stable outlook last week and addition to S&P’s BBB+ rat- measures globally,” IATA lockdown even if their bor- up, airlines continue to health of citizens and restart- S&P is due to the continued together they show the strong ing, the bank’s long-term out- Vice President for Africa and ders are open,” Albakri said. bleed... it’s an abnormal situ- ing economies, and called on prudent economic manage- confidence of the rating agen- look is rated A by Fitch, and the Middle East Muhammad In its latest forecast re- ation, it cannot be tolerated governments to “implement ment by the State of Qatar cies in the bank’s key capital A3 by Moody’s. All ratings are Albakri told a virtual press leased on Thursday, IATA (and) nobody can survive this alternatives to quarantine on and the Qatar Central Bank and liquidity metrics and its with a stable outlook. conference. said that Middle East airlines lockdown,” Albakri warned. arrival.” Economy & Business Friday, July 3, 2020 09

Consumer groups rap Google’s Fitbit deal Stocks rally on vaccine AFP who are to decide on the BRUSSELS transaction by July 20, are especially concerned with AN international group of Silicon Valley giants buying hope, US jobs recovery consumer groups and NGOs their way into new areas and denounced Google’s bid for then stifling competition. sports smartwatch-maker “Wearable devices could European stocks added to gains, with both Frankfurt and Paris up by more than 2 percent Fitbit Thursday, saying it replace smartphones as the would threaten privacy and main gateway to the inter- AFP grant the search giant unfair net, just as smartphones re- LONDON access to a new market. placed personal computers,” Google’s $2.1 billion ac- the NGOs said a statement. EQUITIES rose on Thursday quisition of the maker of “Google’s expansion into as investors cheered encour- smartwatches and fitness this market, edging out oth- aging news about progress trackers was unveiled in No- er competitors would thus towards a coronavirus vaccine vember and rang alarm bells be significant,” they added. and a solid recovery in US em- among global regulators A Google spokesman re- ployment. over antitrust and privacy jected the claims. The US economy regained worries. “Throughout this pro- 4.8 million jobs in June as Fitbit is a pioneer in the cess we have been clear businesses began to reopen market for connected watch- about our commitment not nationwide, while the unem- es and other physical activ- to use Fitbit health and well- ployment rate fell more than ity sensors that measure the ness data for Google ads and two points to 11.1 percent, the number of daily steps taken, our responsibility to pro- Labour Department reported calories burned or hours of vide people with choice and on Thursday. sleep. control with their data,” the The job creation amid the A group of 20 NGOs spokesman said. coronavirus pandemic was far “have significant concerns” “Similar to our other higher than economists were that the takeover “would be products, with wearables, expecting, and showed the a game-changer not only for we will be transparent about rapid pace of gains as people how people interact with the the data we collect and why. who were laid off returned to online world but also for dig- And we do not sell personal their jobs, especially in hard- ital and related health mar- information to anyone.” hit sectors like leisure and hos- kets,” a statement said. In February, the Euro- pitality, which accounted for “Regulators around the pean Data Protection Board just under half of the increase. world... must therefore give urged Google to make major “The key takeaway from it their utmost attention,” assurances on privacy and the report as far as the market they said, calling it a “test data before it approved the is concerned is that it reflects case” on facing down big buyout. an economy that is bouncing tech firms. Australia’s Competition back from the depths of the The groups include and Consumer Commission COVID-19 shutdown period,” BEUC, which unites EU con- last month raised concerns said market analyst Patrick J. sumer advocates, as well as that the transaction could O’Hare at Briefing.com. the Consumer Federation of “further entrench” Google’s “There are still far too America in the US and digi- dominance and “adversely many people unemployed tal rights groups in Mexico, affect competition in sev- (17.750 million), yet the June Pedestrians wearing face masks walk in front of an electric quotation board showing numbers of the Nikkei 225 index in Tokyo on Wednesday. (AFP) Brazil and Australia. eral digital advertising and numbers are moving in the EU antiturst regulators, health markets.” right direction,” he said in a reported positive preliminary than 50,000 new cases for the draconian than feared and at 26,145.93 note to clients. results from a joint project. first time. could impact its future as an Hong Kong - Hang Seng: UP 2.9 Wall Street’s main indi- “Investors largely are Moreover, several US attractive business hub. percent at 25,145.96 (close) ces shot out of the gate at the shrugging off higher cases... as states imposed 14-day quaran- And while there are wor- Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 0.1 per- opening bell, quickly racking Pfizer reported positive results tines on visitors ahead of the ries about the issue causing cent at 22,145.96 (close) up gains of over 1 percent, with from a vaccine trial,” said Neil July 4 weekend celebrations. further friction between Bei- Shanghai - Composite: UP 2.1 the tech-heavy Nasdaq Com- Wilson at Markets.com. And the World Health Or- jing and the West, markets re- percent at 3,090.57 (close) posite continuing to push into “We have been here before ganization warned that with main positive for now. West Texas Intermediate: UP 1.1 record territory. -- it’s too early to get too excit- more than 10 million known percent at $40.24 per barrel European stocks added to ed -- but a working vaccine is infections worldwide and KEY FIGURES AROUND 1330 GMT Brent North Sea crude: UP 1.2 gains, with both Frankfurt and the holy grail as it would allow more than 500,000 deaths, London - FTSE 100: UP 1.4 percent at $42.55 Paris up by more than 2 per- real normality to return to the the pandemic is “not even percent at 6,246.62 points Euro/dollar: UP at $1.1267 from cent. economy.” close to being over”. Frankfurt - DAX 30: UP 2.6 per- $1.1249 at 2100 GMT Sentiment had already Markets had been rat- In Asia, Hong Kong led cent at 12,579.17 Dollar/yen: UP at 107.60 yen been largely positive after tled in recent days by a surge gains on reopening after a Paris - CAC 40: UP 2.4 percent from 107.43 yen hopes for a vaccine were given of coronavirus infections in one-day break, despite con- at 5,044.78 Pound/dollar: UP at $1.2488 a boost when Germany’s BioN- a number of countries, led by cerns about a new security law EURO STOXX 50: UP 2.7 percent from $1.2468 Tech and US pharmaceutical the United States, which on imposed on the city by China at 3,314.62 Euro/pound: UP at 90.29 pence PwC Middle East promotes giant Pfizer late Wednesday Wednesday reported more that observers said was more New York - Dow: UP 1.6 percent from 90.19 yen 22 new partners in the region TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK US trade de cit widens in May as virus hits exports DOHA The partners have been promoted across all lines AFP caused countries to shut their activity will stage a slow recov- PWC Middle East and Strat- of service, with expertise WASHINGTON borders and order businesses ery in the coming months as egy&, part of the PwC net- in a variety of industries closed, at least temporarily, to global lockdowns ease. How- work, has welcomed 22 newly including government and THE coronavirus pandemic stop the virus. ever, with activity still globally promoted partners across the public sector, financial caused the US trade deficit to “The declines in exports depressed and the US health region, effective from July 1, widen in May as both exports and imports that continued in crisis not under control, down- 2020, the firm said in a state- services and digital and imports fell, the Com- May were, in part, due to the side risks are significant,” Ox- ment on Thursday. merce Department said on impact of COVID-19, as many ford said. The partners have been newest partners, who have Thursday. businesses were operating at The goods deficit widened promoted across all lines of reached this career milestone The rise in the deficit to limited capacity or ceased op- to $76.1 billion, while the service, with expertise in a va- despite uncertain market con- $54.6 billion was worse than erations completely, and the services surplus ticked down riety of industries including ditions. They have demon- expected and came after April movement of travelers across to $21.5 billion. The United government and public sector, strated resilience, the ability to data showed both exports and borders was restricted,” the States’s deficit with the Euro- financial services and digital. quickly adapt to the new nor- imports dropping by a record department said. pean Union fell $1.6 billion to Over 40% of the partners have mal and an unwavering com- amount, sending the trade def- Exports were down 4.4 Broadway theaters stand closed along an empty street in the theater $12.7 billion in May, as both a focus on technology, as the mitment to our clients and icit climbing to an upwardly percent to $144.5 billion, district in New York recently. (AFP) exports and imports dropped. firm prepares for a more digi- our people. We look forward revised $49.8 billion. while imports fell 0.9 percent However the gap with Chi- tal future. to working with our new part- The Commerce Depart- to $199.1 billion. Compared to deficit was 9.1 percent lower. tracting 2.4 percent in May, na widened to $27.9 billion, Hani Ashkar, PwC Middle ners to continue to build trust ment put the blame for the last year, they were down 14 Oxford Economics said and remains still more than a caused by a rise in imports of East Senior Partner said, “We and solve important problems continued drop in activity percent and 13.1 percent, re- in a note that the latest data quarter below its peak. $2.7 billion even as exports are delighted to welcome our in our region.” on the pandemic, which has spectively, though the overall showed trade activity con- “We anticipate that trade also increased $0.7 billion. India opens vast railway network to private players

ernment report that described Asia’s third-largest economy has been the deaths as a “massacre”. clobbered by the pandemic and a months- Asia’s third-largest econo- my has been clobbered by the long lockdown, growing at its slowest pandemic and a months-long pace in at least two decades last quarter Struggling lockdown, growing at its slow- est pace in at least two decades AFP ing bids from firms weeks af- last quarter. MUMBAI ter New Delhi opened up coal economy The shutdown, which put mining to the private sector. Even before Modi announced millions out of work overnight, INDIA has opened up its vast “This is the first initiative the lockdown in late March, is widely expected to plunge railway sector to private com- of private investment for run- the economy was struggling to the country into recession. panies, allowing firms to op- ning passenger trains over In- gain traction with sluggish Fears for the economy erate trains on certain routes, dian Railways network,” the growth, record unemployment prompted the government to in a bid to boost its stuttering, ministry said in a statement. and a urry of bad loans allow many businesses to re- virus-hit economy. “The objective of this ini- sume operations starting last The 167-year-old train net- tiative is to introduce modern making banks reluctant to month despite an ongoing work carries 20 million pas- technology rolling stock with lend increase in infections, which sengers daily but is plagued reduced maintenance, re- The 167-year-old train network carries 20 million passengers daily but is plagued by deadly accidents, have now crossed 600,000. by deadly accidents, rickety duced transit time, boost job rickety infrastructure, lack of modern amenities and poor investment. Even before Modi an- infrastructure, lack of modern creation, provide enhanced “Privatization cannot be nounced the lockdown in amenities and poor invest- safety, provide world class pay the government fixed haul a range of industries that have in a desperate mood to sell construed as a panacea of rail- late March, the economy was ment. In an announcement travel experience to passen- charges and a percentage of been under state control for a great chunk of one of our ways malady”, he added. struggling to gain traction late Wednesday, the railway gers,” it added. profits determined during the decades, sparking criticism largest national asset #Indi- The tottering network is with sluggish growth, record ministry said it would now The project will require an bidding process. from the opposition Congress anRailways,” Congress politi- notorious for accidents, with unemployment and a flurry of permit businesses to run investment of $4 billion and Prime Minister Narendra party. cian Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury 15,000 passengers killed every bad loans making banks reluc- trains along 109 routes, invit- private players will have to Modi has sought to privatise “Now the government is tweeted. year according to a 2012 gov- tant to lend. Chasing a record 7th at Spielberg, Hamilton again says his sport must speak out on FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2020 racism PAGE 12 QATAR’S AMBITIONS GROWING BY THE DAY: ALMOEZ ALI LMOEZ Ali’s career to Copa America. How do you the team are guaranteed Al Wakra, a city known for date can be measured find playing against the South a place in the finals as fishing, and Al Bayt Stadium, by some key footballing American giants and how has hosts? which takes its name from milestones. Qatar benefited from that We want to qualify for the bayt al sha’ar – tents histori- AAfter taking part in the tournament? (2023) Asian Cup as group cally used by nomadic people FIFA U-20 World Cup New Honestly, I’m proud to winners. We played against in the desert. They will also Zealand 2015™, the up-and- have played at a big tourna- some tough teams such as In- get to see the modern Khalifa coming Qatari forward stole ment like the Copa America. dia, who gave us a hard time International Stadium, and the show at the 2019 AFC I remember we were behind in Doha. We also had a hard- Al Rayyan Stadium with its Asian Cup, where he led his in our first game (against won victory against Oman. glowing façade, as well as Al country to their maiden con- Paraguay) when I scored to We think of the qualifiers Thumama Stadium, which is tinental title, finishing as start our comeback (Qatar as finals and, as defending an architectural masterpiece. tournament top scorer. He went on to draw 2-2). It was champions, we want to make Fans from all over the world then had the rare privilege of an honour for every Qatari the tournament in China to will be impressed by the playing at the legendary Ma- player and for the national prove that last year’s title was unique designs of the stadi- racana Stadium. team as a whole to take part no fluke. We’re going to be ums, which reflect the herit- Despite achieving so much in this prestigious competi- a tough team to beat in the age of the Qatari people. at such a young age, the sky is tion. We learned a lot from coming years. the limit for Ali. The 23-year the Copa America and played What will the team’s goals old forward is determined to well there. We’ve reached a Speaking of the FIFA be when they host the lead Qatar to further success- level we never dreamed of; World Cup, how do you World Cup? es at the FIFA World Cup Qa- we played against a great see Qatar’s hosting of the Our goal is to make His tar 2022™, where he hopes Al team like Argentina. It’s true tournament? Highness Sheikh Tamim Annabi can go as far as pos- that we lost, but we overcame I can say that everyone bin Hamad Al Thani and sible at the first World Cup to the fear inherent in playing who comes to Qatar will be all the Qatari people proud. be staged in the Middle East. against big teams, which will “We want to qualify for the (2023) Asian Cup as group winners. We think of the surprised by what the coun- We want to make everyone FIFA.com sat down with help us in the future. quali ers as nals and, as defending champions, we want to make the tournament in try has done. People will be proud of this team and the Ali to talk about his achieve- China to prove that last year’s title was no uke.” amazed by the world-class generation of players who ments to date, personal ambi- You took part in the FIFA stadiums, such as the shell- have achieved enormous suc- tions, the Qatar 2022 quali- U-20 World Cup in New will ensure we play the 2022 shaped Al Janoub cesses. We have big ambi- fiers and what the national Zealand. What was that World Cup without any fear. Stadium, which tions, but I can’t talk about team hope to achieve at their experience like and what reflects the them now as they’re growing home tournament in two did you learn from it? Qatar are currently top herit- by the day. But I can promise years’ time. World Cup tournaments of Group E in the Asian age of you that we will spring some are very different from conti- qualifiers for Qatar 2022. surprises and go as far as Qatar had a fantastic nental ones, be they qualifying What are your ambi- possible in the tournament. campaign at the 2019 games or competitions like the tions for this campaign, (Fifa.com) Asian Cup. What did you Asian Cup, because they bring especially considering gain personally from that together the best teams in the tournament? world. It was a very tough We started out aiming to tournament and we learned a get past the quarter-finals. Af- lot. As young players, we were ter the group stage, we over- very enthusiastic and moti- came Iraq and Korea Republic vated. Things are different in the toughest tournament Our goal is to make to make the semi-finals, where today. In 2022, we’ll play the for our age group in New (The Emir of the State of we defeated the hosts. At that World Cup in our home coun- Zealand. That event made us point we because more ambi- try, which means we won’t be dream big, something that Qatar) His Highness tious, and we went on to claim intimidated. Moreover, we’ll went unnoticed with us being Sheikh Tamim bin the title. It was such a great have the confidence of play- so young at the time. No one Hamad Al Thani and all tournament. My personal ing on home soil as well as the realised quite how much these goal was to be among the best massive support of our fans. young players loved football the Qatari people proud. strikers there. My experience and their national team, espe- We want to make should motivate young play- Half of the current Qatari cially after reaching a World ers to pursue their dreams, squad participated in New Cup. Our ambitions continue everyone proud of this work hard and possibly do Zealand. To what extent to grow, and we’re no longer team and the generation what I did by playing for their has the harmony between intimidated by the prospect of players who have national team and achieving that group contributed to of playing big tournaments their goals. Al Annabi’s fine perfor- now that we have competed achieved enormous After your stellar perfor- mances? at the U-20 World Cup, won successes. mance at the Asian Cup, you There is great harmony as the Asian Cup and played scored Qatar’s first goal at the a result of our participation the Copa America. All of this

Qatar Racing Limited’s Know It All wins Al Shaqab Racing’s Katara wins GR 3 Derrinstown Stud Fillies Stakes Fillies’ Novice Stakes at Kempton TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK behind her on her seasonal owned and Michael Bell- DOHA bow this year when she fin- trained La Dragontea (GB) is was the rst ished second by a short head (Lope de Vega) was the FOR the silver and maroon at Yarmouth three weeks ago. runner-up with Kieran Shoe- attempt at a mile silks of Al Shaqab Racing, Her imposing win at Kemp- mark in the saddle. Katara (FR) (Deep Impact x ton confirmed that this pro- The Mildmay Racing- for the bay lly Asyad) broke her maiden in gressive filly is one to watch owned and Andrew Balding- after a courageous promising style in the Uni- later this season. trained Horn Of Plenty (GB) bet Extra Place Offers Every She travelled with cover in (Golden Horn) was further 2nd place in June Day Fillies’ Novice Stakes at mid-division before switch- 1½-length behind in third Kempton in Surrey, UK, on ing to the outside in the final under Oisin Murphy. TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Wednesday evening. turn by jockey Jim Crowley, Katara was bred by Al DOHA Trained by Sir Michael who gave her a confident ride Shaqab Racing at Haras de Stoute in Newmarket, the bay throughout. Bouquetot, France. She is THE lightly raced Know It All filly debuted on 11 October She came up to pressure by the Champion Japanese (FR), a winner and Group- 209 as a 2-year-old when, de- the leaders before pulling sire Deep Impact (JPN) placed at 2, notched her spite her obvious athleticism, away impressively to secure and out of New Approach’s first Group win in the Der- she had a bad stumble leaving a 5-length victory 2200m run (IRE) mare. Asyad (IRE), a rinstown Stud Fillies Stakes the stalls which put her out of for 3-year-olds and older. three-time winner herself in (Group 3) for 3-year-olds at contention. She put that all Bartisan Racing Ltd- Al Shaqab Racing colours. Leopardstown in Ireland on Wednesday. Owned and bred by Qatar Know It All (FR), a winner and Group-placed at 2, notched her rst Group win in the Derrinstown Stud Fillies Racing Limited, the bay filly Stakes (Group 3) for 3-year-olds at Leopardstown in Ireland on Wednesday. (IMAGE: RACING POST) came into the race off a coura- geous second place at the be- through a gap to pass the (Sea The Stars) (IRE) was mile, it makes no difference ginning of June in the Leop- leaders in a matter of strides. further 1¼ behind in third to her. She’s a big powerful ardstown Fillies’ Trial Stakes Never in doubt, she put any under Ronan Whelan. filly who travels well and (Gr.3), her seasonal bow. stamina worries behind her Winning trainer Johnny there’s more to come from This was her first attempt running through the line to Murtagh said after the race, her.” Know It All is by the at the distance of a mile, hav- score a 2¼ length-victory in “It’s a great win. She’s really Japanese sire Lord Kanaloa ing only ever run over seven convincing fashion. a nice filly and she ran really (JPN) and was bred by Qatar furlongs previously in her The Newtown Anner Stud well last time out, but was a Racing. She is out of Com- career. Farm Ltd-owned and Mrs bit unlucky and got shuffled mon Knowledge (GB), by Know It All was settled in John Harrington-trained back. She had a tough draw the excellent broodmare sire mid-division by up and com- Celestial Object (IRE) (Gali- today, but Ben gave her a Rainbow Quest (USA), the ing apprentice jockey Ben leo) finished second and was lovely ride. She showed us dam of Group winners As- Coen and once in the straight, partnered by Shane Foley. all the signs at home that trophysical Jet (GB) (Duba- the race opened up perfectly The Aga Khan-owned and she’d come on from her first wi) and Coral Wave (IRE) Al Shaqab Racing’s Katara (FR) broke her maiden in promising style in the Unibet Extra Place Offers Every for the pair. She powered M Halford-trained Ridenza run. Seven furlongs or a (Rock Of Gibraltar). Day Fillies’ Novice Stakes at Kempton on Wednesday. (IMAGE: JOHN HOY) Sports Friday, July 3, 2020 11 Staying connected with the next generation inspires youth across world NASSER AL KHORI where. While social distancing chats with Shaima Abdul- tion, but whether those were DOHA required us to stop our physi- lah, goalkeeper for the Qatar technical issues or ensuring an cal programming, we asked women’s team and a Genera- effective delivery, these chal- THE cheers of fans in a sta- ourselves: “How are we going In this time of crisis, we tion Amazing coach, Amalie lenges helped us to learn im- dium, the laughter of children to keep young people active realised that it was vital that Thestrup, from our partner portant lessons. during a five-a-side game at and inspired at home?” Generation Amazing club, AS Roma, and Lisa Ak- Online sessions can help school or the feeling of con- At the start of April, we at continues with our mission ero from The International us deliver football for devel- nection you get with someone Generation Amazing decided Federation of Red Cross and opment programming beyond on public transport wearing to launch daily football for of using the power of Red Crescent Societies. the schools or communities the same jersey as you when development sessions on our football to connect, The gender equality ses- we are active in. It connects you are heading to a game. social media channels to help empower and unite young sions highlight the achieve- us with parents and offers These are just three simple yet young people in Qatar and people across the world. ments of females in sport, as support at home even beyond important elements of what across the world stay connect- This is our duty towards well as inspiring stories of times of crisis. We have gained makes football the most loved ed, active and inspired. youth everywhere. young women who overcame the experience necessary for sport on the planet. But the on- We designed tailored activ- Nasser Al Khori, Programmes Director at Generation Amazing. obstacles to become who us to continue this delivery going pandemic has changed ities for home settings that are they are today. Generation moving forward, allowing us everything: many community being delivered by our coaches. it is extremely important to and pose questions to their dren. Sport is an important Amazing is working actively to expand our programmes by pitches are empty and children These sessions are suitable for us at Generation Amazing to role models – which provides tool to share values of leader- to achieve a 50% female par- utilising new technology and wait at home to kick a football everyone and designed to help learn from their experiences a memorable learning experi- ship, teamwork and discipline. ticipation rate in our pro- innovative platforms. around with friends, imagining people of all ages. Anyone can and provide young people ence that they can carry with We have also hosted grammes to ensure that young It is the global appeal of the what it would be like to play tune in and perform the exer- with a platform to connect them for the rest of their lives. regular gender equality ses- girls and women can continue beautiful game which helps us for their favourite team. These cises at home by picking the and be able to actively engage Our youth advocates are taking sions that revolve around the to be empowered to lead and to connect young people and young people need the motiva- correct intensity level. Physical with their role models. As the lead across many of these important role that women make positive changes in bridge cultures and overcome tion to stay healthy and active and mental health are inher- such, we began hosting live chats as they listen to advice play in sports and society, their communities. challenging situations so ef- during this difficult time. ently tied to each other and we chats with star players, in- from footballing icons and and the vital need for in- Since our transition to on- fectively. When football is able In this time of crisis, we want to motivate people to get cluding the likes of Xavi Her- learn from their experiences. volving and supporting the line programming we have to safely recover and young realised that it was vital that rid of stress through exercise. nandez, Cafu and Tim Cahill We have worked tirelessly with development female sport- received fantastic feedback people and laughter return to Generation Amazing continues We also recognise the – FIFA World Cup™ legends partners, including Qatar Na- ing participation. Our youth and engagement from our the 30 community pitches we with our mission of using the significance of conversations who are all ambassadors for tional Library and Maktaba advocate, Shouq Al Sulaiti, Qatari and global audiences, have built across the Middle power of football to connect, and how they play a huge role the Supreme Committee for Children’s Library, to deliver has been inspirational as she with over 100,000 views on East and Asia, we will be ready empower and unite young in inspiring young people. So, Delivery & Legacy. educational reading sessions has led our gender equal- our live sessions over 10 excit- once more to continue to serve people across the world. This is while it is fun to watch our Youth from all parts of the of our books which impart ity discussions on Instagram ing weeks. Of course, we faced youth through the inspiration- our duty towards youth every- favorite players on the pitch, world engage in these sessions sporting values to young chil- Live, including empowering challenges during this transi- al power of football. Blades deal major blow AL RAYYAN PLAYERS TAKE TO TRAINING to Spurs’ Euro ambitions AFP curtailed when VAR disal- SHEFFIELD (UK) lowed the goal for a handball by Moura, who had the ball kicked SHEFFIELD United damaged against his arm as he tumbled Tottenham’s bid to qualify for under pressure from several the Champions League and United players. rekindled their own European Mourinho was disgusted The Al Rayyan football team took to a training session on Thursday ambitions after surviving a with what appeared to be an ahead of the QNB Stars League return. Meanwhile, Al Arabi decided VAR controversy in their 3-1 extremely harsh decision and to leave their team hotel for home quarantine after completing the win on Thursday. his mood wasn’t improved second round of coronavirus tests as per the general plan and pro- Chris Wilder’s side took the when already-booked United tocol developed ahead of the resumption of 2019-20 season QNB lead through Sander Berge’s midfielder Oli Norwood es- Stars League. The players and staff signed pledges to adhere to all first half strike at Bramall Lane. caped a red card for elbowing preventive measures stipulated in the general protocol approved by But Tottenham were de- Son Heung-min. the clubs, players and technical as well as administrative staff. The nied an equaliser moments later Tottenham were struggling test process will continue periodically, twice a week, in co-operation when Harry Kane’s goal was to find their rhythm and Unit- with the Ministry of Public Health and Aspetar hospital. chalked off by VAR for a dubious ed nearly doubled their lead handball against Lucas Moura. when David McGoldrick shot Lucas appeared to have the into the side-netting early in ball kicked against his arm in the second half. the build-up to Kane’s strike Ben Osborn was making his and Tottenham manager Jose first Premier League start and Atalanta edge towards Mourinho complained angrily the United midfielder had a key on the touchline. role as they struck again in the CL with Napoli win Lys Mousset and Oli Mc- Shef eld United’s English-born Scottish striker Oliver McBurnie (left) celebrates with teammates after scoring 69th minute. Burnie rubbed salt into Mour- their third goal against Tottenham Hotspur at Bramall Lane in Shef eld, England, on Thursday. (AFP) Breaking into the area, Os- AFP inho’s wounds as they both net- born’s deft pass picked out Enda ROME ted for United after the interval. points above Tottenham into SLOPPY DEFENDING collected the return pass and Stevens and he squared for the Kane’s last minute goal was seventh place, keeping alive Tottenham responded when drilled his low shot into the far unmarked Mousset to slot home ATALANTA made another no consolation for Tottenham, their hopes of qualifying for Eric Dier flashed a header just corner. from close-range for his first step towards next season’s who are now in grave danger European action. wide, with Moussa Sissoko It was the Norway midfield- goal since December. Champions League on Thurs- of missing out on next season’s United had not managed stretching in vain to reach it at er’s first goal since his January McBurnie put the result day after a 2-0 Serie A win Champions League. more than one shot on target the far post. move from Genk. beyond doubt when he tapped over Napoli that extended the They sit nine points behind in any of their previous three Kane couldn’t hit the target Tottenham thought they in from Berge’s cross in the gap between them and the fourth placed Chelsea and seven Premier League matches, going from Steven Bergwijn’s pass had equalised two minutes lat- 84th minute after more sloppy chasing pack. Atalanta’s German defender adrift of fifth placed Manchester without a goal on each occasion. and Tottenham were punished er as Lucas sprinted forward Tottenham defending. Goals from Mario Pasalic Robin Gosens (right) celebrates United after their first defeat It took less than 60 seconds for as Berge put the Blades ahead in and, despite being pushed and Robin Gosens early in the after scoring against Napoli at since the restart. George Baldock to get an effort the 31st minute. over, managed to knock the SCORELINE: Sheffield United 3 second half broke Napoli’s re- the Atleti Azzurri d’Italia stadium The Blades, winners for on target, but Tottenham keeper After spreading the ball ball onto Kane, who cut inside (Sander Berge 31’, Lys Mousset sistance at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo on Thursday. (AFP) the first time in five games fol- Hugo Lloris dived to his left to wide to Chris Basham, Berge and fired home. 69’, Oli McBurnie 84’) bt and put Atalanta on 60 points lowing the hiatus, moved two make the save. broke into the Tottenham area, Kane’s celebrations were Tottenham 1 (Harry Kane 90’). in fourth place, and the final hind Gennaro Gattuso’s team Champions League spot, with after thir last-gasp draw nine matches remaining. with struggling SPAL on Gian Piero Gasperini’s Wednesday while Verona’s side, now unbeaten in nine in 3-2 home success over Parma World Athletics puts Russia’s return on hold the league, are 15 points ahead means they are just a further of sixth-place Napoli and 12 point back. AFP send the global body a $5 mil- send the funds due to a lack of resulted in a new RusAF ad- letics had frozen the process in front of Roma, who host Expected to be an end-to- PARIS lion (4.45 million euro) fine and resources linked to the coro- ministration and we had assur- before allowing 10 Russian ath- Udinese later on Thursday end affair between two of Serie $1.31 million in other costs fol- navirus pandemic. ances and hoped that change letes to compete at the Tokyo hoping to reduce the deficit A’s in-form teams, the open- WORLD Athletics announced lowing accusations it had helped “We recognise these are was on its way.” Olympics in exchange for the back to nine. ing period was an surprisingly on Thursday the provisional 2017 world high jump silver difficult times, but we are very “RusAF is letting its ath- fine being paid. Napoli sit in the last Eu- drab affair. suspension of the process of medallist Danil Lysenko avoid disappointed by the lack of pro- letes down badly. The terms of A month later the World ropa League spot and are now The most noteworthy mo- allowing Russian athletes to a sanction for failing to comply gress made by RusAF in terms of payment of the fine and costs Anti-Doping Agency banned looking over their shoulders at ment of a cagey first half was return to competition after the with anti-doping measures. the requirements set in March,” were clear and unchallenged by Russia from global sporting AC Milan and Hellas Verona when Napoli goalkeeper David country’s athletics federation On Wednesday, RusAF’s World Athletics president Se- RusAF at the time so this issue events, including the next two after their five-match winning Ospina had to be stretchered (RusAF) failed to pay a fine for president Yevgeny Yurch- bastian Coe said. will now need to return to Coun- Olympics and the 2022 World league run was brought to an off with his head bandaged breaking doping rules. enko, appointed in February, “The serious allegations of cil at the end of July,” he added. Cup, accusing Moscow of falsi- end in Bergamo. after he collided with Atalanta RusAF had until July 1 to said it had been unable to breaching the anti-doping rules Last November, World Ath- fying data. Milan are two points be- defender Mattia Caldara.

Up to 20,000 spectators to attend French Open each day AFP ber 27 and finish on October 11, organisers will refund any having been suspended since on show courts, with a maxi- PARIS with tickets to go on sale for the supplementary tickets sold,” March. mum group of four people general public on July 16. the FFT added. Several exhibition tourna- allowed to sit together, with THE French Open will allow up “The number of spectators The US Open in New York ments have gone ahead since, every other seat to be vacant to 20,000 people to attend each allowed inside the stadium will is set to be the first Grand with mixed success, including on outside courts. day of this year’s tournament be 50 percent to 60 percent of Slam since the coronavirus Novak Djokovic’s ill-fated Adria “General public” tickets despite the coronavirus pan- its usual capacity, allowing us lockdown, starting on August Tour which had to be ended will be accessible to spectators demic, organisers announced to ensure the barrier measures 24, but is to be played behind early after the world number around the world, without “pur- on Thursday. are respected,” the FFT said in closed doors, while Wimble- one and three other players chase discrimination”, said FFT The French Tennis Fed- a statement. don was cancelled for the first tested positive for the virus. president Bernard Giudicelli. eration (FFT) also said that It also warned rules regard- time since World War II. But FFT director general up to 10,000 people would ing attendance could be tight- The French Open was WEARING MASKS OBLIGATORY Jean-Francois Vilotte stressed be able to watch the finals ened in the event of another pushed back from its traditional Spectators will have to ad- that people should “know the and that it may increase the outbreak in the country. slot in the calendar in late May here to social-distancing rules risks” related to their coun- capacity should the situation “However, if the situation and early June after France en- at the French Open and wear- try of residence and will not with COVID-19 continue to requires more stringent hy- tered a near two-month lock- ing a mask while on the Roland be able to be reimbursed for improve in France. giene standards that force us down on March 17. Garros site will be obligatory. their ticket if the health au- The French Open Grand Slam event is set to start on September 27 The clay-court Grand Slam to reduce the number of spec- The ATP and WTA Tours One seat will be left empty thorities prohibit them from and nish on October 11. event is set to start on Septem- tators on site, the tournament are set to restart in August, between each group of fans travelling to France. 12 Friday, July 3, 2020 Sports Eerie atmosphere for early arrivals at belated F1 opener AFP ‘We’re making progress’: Russell backs SPIELBERG (AUSTRIA) beleaguered Williams to bounce back EARLY arrivals at the Red Bull SPIELBERG: George Russell one of the most famous and Ring on Thursday faced an ee- said he was optimistic that the successful teams in F1 his- rie and unprecedented scenar- beleaguered up for sale Wil- tory, had their worst season io as they donned protective liams team can improve this on record last year, scoring masks and went in search of season and ignite a recovery. only one point. their workplaces. The highly-rated young The team said it was look- Signs at the entrance made British driver, who is partnered ing for new investment or a clear safety face gear is com- with Canadian Nicholas Lati , buyer after suffering nancially pulsory for all entering the the only rookie in the eld this due to the coronavirus pan- paddock for this weekend’s be- year, said on Thursday that the demic lockdown. lated season-opening Austrian team’s car was a big improve- “We are making progress,” Grand Prix. ment on last year’s. said Russell. “It’s very dif cult Inside, there was none of “We made some steps when you come from so far the once-usual hubbub of gos- last year, but it was a really behind the rest of the pack, sip as team members and jour- dif cult car to drive,” Russell but I think we’ll judge our nalists obeyed social distanc- told a controlled of cial news performance based on the ing protocol and remained in conference by video ahead of others. defined ‘bubbles’ in the sun- this weekend’s season-open- “Let’s see how we hope- shine of the Styrian Alps. ing Austrian Grand Prix. fully have closed Outside, there were no “I really tried to push it to the gap to fans gathering in hillside the limit, but was snapping on P9 in the campsites. Instead the fields me. I was losing the rear end construc- were filled with grazing cattle. and losing con dence. tors and Tents and canopies re- “We’ve only been to Barce- the rest of placed the usual high-rise lona so far (in testing) but the the mid eld team motor homes as the F1 car was pleasant to drive so I and go from circus came together for the McLaren’s mechanics practice a tyre change on the car of British driver Lando Norris on Thursday, on the eve of the rst practice session at the think that for me and for there.” first time in seven months Austrian Formula One Grand Prix in Spielberg, Austria. (AFP) Nicholas it’s going to (AFP) following the COVID-19 pan- give us con dence demic. and bring more The teams arrived at near- performance.” by Zeltweg on private charter Hamilton again says his sport must speak out on racism Williams, flights before being trans- ferred to hotels from which SPIELBERG: Lewis Hamilton if I was targeting drivers,” “This is a time to help message. Following the killing Williams’ Canadian driver they are shuttled to the circuit. has said “now is not the time said Hamilton of his criti- spread the message, the time of George Floyd last month, Nicholas Lati attends the Under a strict protocol, to be silent” and explained cism of those who remained to pull together. We need as Hamilton said: “I see those driver’s press conference in the teams are not allowed why he criticised Formula One silent and did not speak out many voices as we can to push of you who are staying silent, Spielberg, Austria, on to meet and mix and within as he set out to rally the sport against racism. for change.” some of you the biggest of Thursday. (AFP) each team ‘mini-bubbles’ of against racism. “But I really wasn’t. It was Hamilton and his Mercedes stars, yet you stay silent in the staff function separately to In a video released by targeted at the whole industry. team-mate Valtteri Bottas will midst of injustice.” minimise the risk of contact. Mercedes’ parent company And it’s been something I’ve wear black overalls and race in His comments were and uses a sealed room for the place for that!” The news media contin- Daimler on the eve of this been aware of for a long, long a black liveried car this season followed by statements controlled news conferences. Even UK rights-holders gent, amounting in the past weekend’s belated season- time --and I’ve not really seen following Mercedes move to from rival F1 drivers, back- “Media scrums and live Sky were operating under to more than 300 people, is opening Austrian Grand Prix, anyone doing anything about it. back the efforts for greater ing the Black Lives Matter questions are out,” said Noble. restrictions with Sky Sports severely pruned with only the six-time world champion “People being silent is diversity in motorsport. movement and condemning “Everything is being done re- News reporter Craig Slater around 20 journalists confined made clear that his comments something that I’ve experi- The Mercedes cars, racism, and this weekend is motely.... Media have to pre- back in London, instead of at to the media centre - all reliant were not directed at any rival enced for such a long time famously known as the “silver expected to see all of the submit questions to be asked the track, hosting reports with on video interviews without Formula One drivers. -- and now is not the time to arrows”, will be emblazoned drivers on the grid kneel be- by the host. Zero risk is being Sky Sports’ Ted Kravitz. any direct contact with drivers “People perceived it as be silent. with the team’s “End Racism” fore Sunday’s race. (AFP) taken in terms of mixing the This weekend’s race is or teams. social bubbles.” the first of two on successive Everyone had passed a Reporting on the Autos- weekends in Austria, followed coronavirus swab test before test than the start of a sea- security outside the venue, On arrival, all went identity check. port website, he added secret by the Hungarian Grand Prix travelling. son,” said Jonathan Noble of but pleas for fans to stay away through temperature tests Inside, the media centre chats with team people were a week later as F1 holds nine “It is more like a private Autosport. “There’s not much seem to have worked.” and a hand-wash before a final operates a one-way system out, too. “WhatsApp will be races in 11 weeks.

Stokes and Anderson make ball ‘talk’ in England warm-up Quick read Unwell Curran isolating after bowing out AFP “I played with Dan all win- LONDON ter, I went to India with him LONDON: England all-rounder Sam Curran went into self-isolation before Christmas and he was and had a test for the coronavirus after illness forced him out of NEW captain Ben Stokes and England’s all-time with the Lions in Australia,” the team’s lone warm-up match on Thursday ahead of next week’s James Anderson both made leading Test said Bracey. rst Test against the West Indies. Curran was 15 not out at stumps the ball “talk” according to wicket-taker “He was outrageous when on Wednesday’s opening day of three at the Ageas Bowl, also the one of the batsmen who faced James Anderson we went over there. He’s re- venue for the rst of a three-Test series. them on the first day of Eng- in action at the ally good at going through the But he experienced sickness and diarrhoea overnight. Following land’s intra-squad clash at the Ageas Bowl on gears but it’s really important medical protocols established for the bio-secure campaign, Curran Ageas Bowl on Wednesday. Wednesday. to know he’s got a really good remained in his room at the on-site hotel and took no part in Thurs- This is England’s lone fix- defensive game that comes day’s play. “Sam Curran has had sickness and diarrhoea overnight,” Kumar Sangakkara arrives at ture before next week’s be- with it. He’s definitely got the said an England and Wales Cricket Board statement. the Special Investigation Unit to hind closed doors first Test technique to go with it and to- “He is feeling better this afternoon, and has been self-isolating in be interviewed by the police in against the West Indies at the day we saw more of that as he his room at the Ageas Bowl. (AFP) Colombo on Thursday. (AFP) same ground. was able to get into his stride.” Uncapped wicketkeeper- This match, as will be the Sangakkara batsman James Bracey top- case with the series itself, is England-West Indies Simmons won’t be scored with a hard-earned 85 taking place without a crowd Test dedicated to sacked over funeral grilled in World as Jos Buttler’s side posted and Bracey admitted playing Strauss charity attendance 287 for five against a team in front of no spectators at all Cup fixing probe led by Stokes, who will cap- had led to a debate among the LONDON: The third Test be- LONDON: West Indies coach Phil tain England in the first of a players over whether to liven tween England and the West Simmons was told on Wednesday AFP three-match Test series in the up the atmosphere in the man- Indies will be dedicated to he was in no danger of losing his COLOMBO absence of Joe Root. ner of a one-day game. the work of the Ruth Strauss job after the Barbados Cricket As- Regular skipper Root is “It was very, very quiet Foundation, which raises money sociation president said the former SRI Lanka legend Kumar San- currently with his wife, who tralia. number four, if only for one obviously and strange for all for families facing the death of Test batsman should be sacked gakkara was questioned for is due to give birth to the cou- It would appear Rory game. of us,” he said. “There were a a parent from cancer. for attending his father-in-law’s nearly 10 hours on Thursday ple’s second child this week, Burns, Dom Sibley and Zak Dan Lawrence, like Bracey couple of suggestions: getting The second day of the funeral. Simmons is currently in by detectives probing explosive with health protocols around Crawley are vying for the yet to play Test cricket, did his crowd noise in like the foot- match at Old Trafford, July self-isolation at the team’s on-site allegations the 2011 Cricket England’s bio-secure ‘bubble’ opening berths but there is prospects no harm with an in- ball, maybe getting music in 25, will see the return of the hotel at Old Trafford ahead of next World Cup final was fixed under meaning he won’t be allowed a vacancy to replace Root at nings of 58. between overs.” #RedForRuth initiative, which week’s rst Test against England at his captaincy. back in time for the start of the began during last year’s Ashes Southampton after being granted Sangakkara, 42, was called first Test on July 8. clash at Lord’s and raised more a request for compassionate leave in to the police Special Inves- But all-rounder Stokes England to wear #BLM logo as Windies than £550,000 ($690,000) for before the squad left for Britain. tigation Unit (SIU) examining and paceman Anderson, Eng- the charity. But while that match Simmons temporarily left the West the conduct of the final, which land’s all-time leading Test star says taking knee ‘cosmetic’ saw a capacity crowd of 28,500, Indies’ protective bubble to attend Sri Lanka lost to India at Mum- wicket-taker, are both set to the absence of spectators from the funeral, which took place in bai’s Wankhede Stadium. be involved. LONDON: England will join the West Indies in that message is not an endorsement, tacit or this month’s bio-secure series Britain. Simmons has twice tested “I came here to give a state- As a precaution against the wearing “Black Lives Matter” (#BLM) logos on otherwise, of any political organisation, nor the means fans will instead be en- negative for the coronavirus and ment because of my responsi- coronavirus, bowlers are cur- their shirts during their three-match Test se- backing of any group that calls for violence or couraged to dress in red as they will rejoin the squad if he’s given bility to the game and respect rently banned from using sa- ries, but the England and Wales Cricket Board condones illegal activity. follow the play from Manchester the all-clear following another test for cricket,” Sangakkara said liva to shine the ball. insisted Thursday that “it is not an endorse- “We are aware of certain aspects of the at home. (AFP) carried out on Wednesday. (AFP) after the end of his marathon Bracey, however, insisted ment of a political organisation”. movement that promote their own political questioning by detectives. Anderson was still tough to The tourists had previously announced they views, and their actions are not supported in “I hope at the end of this face all the same. would be wearing the logo which is also being any way by the ECB and our players.” Australia revert to using the Kookaburra investigation, the truth about “There was a long spell worn by Premier League footballers. It is understood, however, that the England balls but only in domestic cricket the allegations made by (former from Jimmy at the start of the The ECB said its decision had been “fully squad will not take a knee ahead of the rst sports minister) Mahindananda day and another through the supported” by England players led by Test cap- Test, which starts in Southampton on July 8. SYDNEY: Australia on Thursday announced plans to ditch the Aluthgamage will come out.” middle as well so it was really tain Joe Root and stand-in skipper Ben Stokes. West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite, English Dukes ball in domestic cricket and revert to using only the He did not discuss the nice to be able to combat one ECB chief executive Tom Harrison made it who will be commentating on the series for the traditional Kookaburra for the next Shef eld Shield season. line of questioning by the SIU of the world’s best and know clear, however, the move showed support for BBC, said, however, it would require more than Cricket Australia introduced the Dukes ball in 2016 and they were which later announced San- that I’ve got the capabilities to “progress and societal change” and did not taking a knee to tackle deep-rooted racism. used in the second half of each Shield season to try to accustom gakkara’s then vice captain get through those tough peri- extend to explicit backing for any wider political “For me it’s just cosmetic -- that may rufe players to conditions in England, where Australian batsmen had Mahela Jayawardena will be ods,” said Bracey. aims.“It has become a message of solidarity a few feathers,” said Brathwaite, the star of the often struggled. Dukes balls tend to have a more pronounced questioned on Friday. Their “Ben Stokes and Jimmy and a drive for progress and societal change,” West Indies’ 2016 World Twenty20 triumph. seam, enabling them swing further and for longer when new than opening batsman at the final, made it talk,” added the he said. “There can be no place for racism “The biggest change needs to be legisla- the Australian-made Kookaburras. Cricket Australia’s head of opera- Upul Tharanga, was the first 23-year-old, who impressed in society or our sport, and we must do more tive and needs to be the reprogramming of the tions Peter Roach said reverting to the Kookaburra was the right player to be questioned for over for the second string England to tackle it.” But he added: “Our support of wider society.” move at this time. (AFP) two hours on Wednesday. Lions on their tour of Aus- The Last Word Friday, July 3, 2020 13

AMIR, ERDOGAN DISCUSS STRATEGIC TIES BETWEEN QATAR AND TURKEY

IMF chief: Countries Sharp decline in active COVID-19 cases TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK measures to tackle COVID-19 DOHA in Qatar have succeeded in flattening the curve and limit- THERE was a sharp drop in ing the spread of the virus. The need to invest more active COVID-19 cases in Qa- number of new daily cases and tar on Thursday with the re- hospital admissions has grad- covery rate continuing to rise. ually declined over the past A total of 894 people few weeks, it added. tested positive for coronavi- “We are seeing a rise in the in people, economies rus on Thursday with 2,632 number of deaths in recent more people recovering from weeks and this is due to the the disease, bringing the total people who were infected at At a Harvard Business Review event supported by QF, number of people recovered the peak of the virus several from the disease in Qatar to weeks ago,” the ministry said. Kristalina Georgieva talked about protecting people as 86,597. “There has been an in- well as economies during the COVID-19 pandemic However, three people crease in cases among fami- aged 57, 58 and 67 succumbed lies. This is of great concern as TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK to the virus, bringing the death this population group includes DOHA toll in the country to 118. the highest percentage of the The number of active COV- In a statement, the Minis- receiving necessary healthcare elderly and people with chron- FOR the world to be prepared ID-19 cases in Qatar declined try of Public Health (MoPH) according to their health sta- ic conditions. Now more than for future global crises like the to 11,182 on Thursday from said all new cases have been tus. ever, we must be careful and COVID-19 pandemic, coun- 12,923 a day before. introduced to isolation and are The ministry said the protect the most vulnerable.” tries need to invest in people as much as in their economies, Head of the International Mon- etary Fund (IMF) said during a live event sponsored by Qatar Foundation (QF). QM shares info with Cultural Pass members Kristalina Georgieva out- lined her views at ‘The Outlook for Global Business’, which Speakers at the Harvard Business Review event, which was supported to support ‘Plastic Free July’ movement discussed the global economic by Qatar Foundation. landscape during the COV- AILYN AGONIA The material also in- ID-19 pandemic and how it can strengthened prior to the vac- shrinks the price of what you DOHA cludes a link to the Philip- recover from the crisis moving cine being ready – and that can pay by one-third to three-quar- pine documentary film Alon forward. only be achieved by empower- ters. In other words, you ben- QATAR Museums (QM) (Wave), which has bagged “Protecting lives and pro- ing people. efit tremendously. So, we need shares various information three nominations at the tecting the economy and live- She also emphasised that to make sure we don’t lose the materials on plastic pollu- 2020 London International lihood go hand-in-hand,” said another important factor in benefit of trade that has served tion with the Cultural Pass Cinema Festival, including Georgieva during the talk, recovering from the crisis eco- the world for thousands of members, including links to for Best Foreign Language hosted by the Harvard Busi- nomically is to prepare for a years.” documentary films and fea- Documentary. The film fol- ness Review and supported by digital future. She also highlighted the ture articles in support of lows the narrative of surf- QF. “For the world to be agile “One thing this crisis is importance of capitalising on the global movement ‘Plastic ers and shows scenes from and resilient in the next crisis, telling us is that the digital environmentally sustainable Free July’. surfing communities in the it is so critical that people are transformation is accelerat- economic growth to prevent The special announce- Philippines greatly contami- healthy, have access to health- ing. So, you do need to think similar crises in future, some- ment gives Cultural Pass nated by plastic packages care, are able to function in an about equality through access thing she said she is already op- members in depth insight and containers. agile manner and can learn re- to digital. Anything that is digi- timistic about post-COVID-19. into the impact of plastic Another featured film is motely. tally enabled wins,” she said, “We would see more atten- pollution on the environ- Plastic Wars by PBS Front- “Return to growth (post- adding that trade agreements tion to sustainable agriculture ment and what are the sim- line which aired on March pandemic) will be on the basis and government policies need and to everything that is con- ple steps residents can take 31, 2020. The film investi- of massive digital infusion for to account for the expanding nected to more sustainable to be more mindful of their gates the fight over the fu- businesses and underlying that scale of e-commerce to become lifestyles,” she said. “And hope- use of plastics. ture of plastics, the crisis of is investing in people.” more agile. fully — with the right policies in “Plastic Free July was an water pollution, and whether According to Georgieva, the Georgieva stressed the place — green growth and in- initiative launched by Re- the plastic industry used re- solutions proposed around the need to continue global trade vesting in low-carbon, climate- becca Prince-Ruiz (Founder cycling to sell more plastic. world to fight the pandemic, and international cooperation resilient development will be a of Plastic Free Foundation) A series of facts to under- whether medically or economi- to mend the economic dam- winner.” back in 2011. This movement stand why Plastic Free July cally, cannot be implemented age caused by the coronavirus, Georgieva told the event’s has now become a global ini- is an important movement, without people executing these especially to underprivileged audience that all of these miti- tiative, with many people par- such as ‘Countries Polluting solutions. She said that even af- communities. gation practices need to be im- ticipating each year to reduce The Oceans The Most’ and ter a vaccine for COVID-19 be- “It is very straightforward plemented right away and not plastic consumption and also coalition.org), such as the and Parks, which replicates ‘Plastic Statistics’ and links comes available, for instance, and simple: when we trade after the crisis is over. go beyond July,” according to public art installation called single-use plastic cups and to reusable items such as cof- many countries do not have with each other, we are all bet- “Forget about the hope that the Cultural Pass newsletter. ‘Natural Plasticity’ created bottles on a massive scale; as fee cups, water bottles and the adequate medical staff or ter off. When we don’t, costs go we will get rid of the pandemic The Qatar Museums in- by Jane Cruder and Matthew well as the New Roots Mural tote bags are also included to facilities to administer the up, incomes go down, and pov- and then start the recovery,” formation materials also fea- LaPenta, in collaboration by Lila Roo Duncombe and better guide the residents on vaccine among people, and so erty spreads,” said Georgieva. she said. “We have to move ture the 12 inspiring works with the city of Los Angeles communities in St Vincent taking small steps to switch healthcare systems need to be “If you’re poor, global trade with recovery while the pan- of art (www.plasticpollution- Department of Recreation and the Grenadines. to a plastic-free lifestyle. DFC reopens all retail outlets as COVID-19 restrictions eased

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK siasts can get their favourite on a weekly basis. Robust code, and should wear a face the mall to provide an extra DOHA dishes and refreshing drinks cleaning and sanitisation op- mask during their whole time layer of protection for shop- for takeaway and home de- erations during mall trading in the mall. Furthermore, pers and mall visitors. AS part of the second phase livery from the variety of hours, and all seating areas security personnel will be In line with the Ministry of the lifting of COVID-19 re- restaurants, cafes and food and lifts are constantly re- walking around the mall with of Commerce and Industry’s strictions in Qatar, Doha Fes- stalls in the mall, including viewed and sanitised every handheld signs reminding directives, opening hours will tival City (DFC), Qatar’s one Five Guys, Maison du Sushi 30 to 45 minutes. 127 hand visitors to keep their masks on be Sunday to Thursday from and only destination for shop- and Eately. sanitising stations have also and adhere to social distanc- 8am to 10 pm. Monoprix re- ping, has expanded its reopen- Families can now enjoy been installed in the areas ing. mains open Sunday to Thurs- ing capacity to welcome back their summer shopping ex- that have commonly touched Entry and exit points are day from 8am to 11pm, and shoppers to its favourite shops periences with children aged surfaces such as entry and now segregated by single entry Friday and Saturday from and brands. 12 years and above allowed exit points, customer service and exit doors to avoid close 8am to midnight, while M&S Visitors can now shop from inside the mall, while taking desks, offices, inside of eleva- contact between visitors, and Food Hall remains open dai- all their favourite fashion, into consideration all the pre- tors and washrooms. Smok- have been set up to screen in- ly from 9am to 10pm. Boots home decor, electronics, ac- cautionary measures in place. DFC visitors can now shop from all their favourite fashion, home ing areas have also been coming visitors and to ensure Pharmacy will remain open cessories and beauty brands, Children are required to show decor, electronics, accessories and beauty brands, with an extended moved far from the entranc- that they comply with entry from 9am to 10pm on week- with an extended capacity of their green code on the Ether- capacity of up to 50 percent of the regular mall capacity. es to avoid contact between requirements. days, and from 9am to 11pm up to 50 percent of the regu- az app and must be accompa- people not wearing masks Parking spaces have been on weekends, and Kulud lar mall capacity, while still nied by their parents, they also Go Sports are now open and duced stringent health and and visitors coming in or out reduced to 50 percent to en- Pharmacy will be open daily maintaining the preventive always must wear masks while ready to welcome shoppers. safety measures throughout of the mall. sure they do not exceed the re- from 8am to midnight. Bank- measures of social distancing in the mall. In line with the preventa- the mall for its staff and visi- At the entrance to the mall stricted 50 percent capacity of ing and telecommunications in each store. Favourite brands includ- tive measures set out by the tors. This includes a thorough and all shops, visitors must the mall. Touchless pedal bins branches will be open Sun- In addition, food enthu- ing Harvey Nichols, FNAC and authorities, DFC has intro- mall disinfection treatment show their green Ehteraz QR are also located throughout day to Friday.