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BUSINESS | 17 SPORT | 25 QIB profit grows Sneijder hails Qatar’sar’s by 11.6% to 2022 World Cup QR2.4bn in 2017 preparations

Thursday 18 January 2018 | 1 Jumada I I 1439 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 22 | Number 7410 | 2 Riyals

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Emir meets UN General Assembly President Emir receives Reduction in message from Guinea President DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim road accidents bin Hamad Al Thani received a verbal message from President of Guinea Professor Alpha Conde, about bilateral relations and recommended ways to boost them. The message was conveyed by State Minister THE PENINSULA National Traffic Safety for Investment and Public- Private Partnership of Guinea DOHA: The Fifth Forum of Strategy coordinators’ Ibrahima Kassory Fofana, when Coordinators of the stake- forum recommends the Emir met him at his Emiri holders of the National Traffic emphasis on reduction Diwan office yesterday. Safety Strategy (2018-2022) of severe injuries rate to recommended yesterday to Emir invited to focus more attention on 15 per 100,000 people visit El Salvador reducing accidents in the five by 2020. geographic traffic areas that DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim have more than 90 percent of bin Hamad Al Thani received deaths. Traffic Safety Committee as a yesterday a written message from The forum recommended leading institution in the state President of El Salvador Salvador to emphasise the reduction of to develop policies, monitor Sanchez Ceren, inviting the Emir to severe injuries rate to 15 per implementation and strengthen visit El Salvador. The message was 100, 000 people by the year Qatar’s global position and handed by Minister of Foreign 2020, and to support the strengthening the road accident Affairs of El Salvador Hugo Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met at Emiri Diwan office yesterday with President of the National Office for the imple- investigation system and Martinez, during a reception the UN General Assembly, Miroslav Lajcak, and his accompanying delegation on the occasion of his visit to mentation of the FIFA 2022 building a modern national Emir held for the Minister at Emiri the country. The meeting reviewed issues of mutual concern. plan and ensure timely imple- workforce. Diwan. mentation of the stakeholders. It was stressed to accredit PICTURES ON PAGE 2 It also emphasised on the the traffic accident investi- implementation of pedestrian gation team as a specialised projects on time and lowering body to support the efforts of pedestrian mortality. the General Directorate of QR6bn allocated for roads, infrastructure in Wakrah Brigadier Mohamed Al Traffic, in coordination with the Malki, Secretary of the National National Bureau of Traffic THE PENINSULA reviewed ongoing infrastructure, municipality residents. Engineer infrastructure in Al Wakrah city, Traffic Safety Committee, at the Safety. The forum also recom- highways and other major Saud Ali Al Tamimi, Director of pointing out that two road end of the sessions, declared the mended that the concerned DOHA: The Public Works projects in the area. Roads Projects, and Eng. Bader projects and infrastructure general recommendations parties should implement the Authority (Ashghal) yesterday The meeting was attended Mohammed Darwish and works have been completed in issued by the forum. The work plan (more than 400) of held a meeting with the residents by Mansour Ajran Al Buainain, Assistant of Road Projects North Al-Wukair and West two-day forum concluded yes- their own and follow up the of Al Wakrah city announcing Director of Al Wakrah Munici- Department at the Authority also Mashaf (Phase III), said Engineer terday at The Inter Continental implementation process the completion of four projects pality, Mansour Ahmed Al attended the meeting. Saud Al Tamimi, Director of Doha hotel. He said that the periodically. for the development of roads Khater, Member of the Central The government has allo- Roads Projects. forum also recommended to and infrastructure in the Munic- Municipal Council (CMC) from cated QR6bn for the devel- enhance the role of the National →CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 ipality of Al Wakrah and Al Wakrah and many of the opment of roads and →CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 02 HOME THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018

Emir gets message from President of Guinea Emir gets invite from El Salvador President

Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received a verbal message from the President of the Republic of Guinea, Professor Alpha Conde, pertaining to the bilateral relations and ways to boost and develop them. The message was conveyed by the State Minister for Investment and Public-Private Partnership at the Republic of Guinea, Ibrahima Kassory Fofana, when the Emir met him at his Emiri Diwan office yesterday.

Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received a written message from President of the Republic of El Salvador, Salvador Sanchez Ceren, inviting the Emir to visit the Republic of El Salvador. The message QU-CAS students showcase was handed by Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of El Salvador, Hugo Martinez, during a reception the Emir held yesterday for the Minister at his office at the Emiri Diwan. capstone projects for Fall 2017

THE PENINSULA In all, 24 students cooking-practices on its metal of the Chemistry content”, among many others. Undersecretary DOHA: The Chemistry & Earth & Earth Sciences Dr Al Saad said: “This event is Ford Figo model of Sciences Department at Qatar a testament of the students’ hard visits Doha University College of Arts and Department presented work and perseverance. The 2009-2012 recalled Sciences (QU-CAS) organised on their projects in two department has witnessed a sig- Metro station January 14-15 a ceremony to separate events. nificant increase in the number showcase its students’ capstone of projects in Fall 2017. We are THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA The Ministry said the recall projects for Fall 2017. keen to provide high-quality inte- campaign comes within the Twenty-four students (five and Identification of Diclofenac grated projects through which DOHA: Undersecretary of DOHA: The Ministry of framework of its ongoing males and nineteen females) Prodrugs”, “Synthesis and Spec- students develop their writing, Education Affairs Fouzia Al Economy and Commerce, in efforts to protect consumers showcased and presented their troscopy of Propranolol Pro- presentation and critical thinking Khater and the accompanying collaboration with Ford dealer and ensure that car dealers projects in two separate events, drugs”, “Synthesis and Charac- skills and practical experience.” delegation yesterday visited in Qatar, Almana Motors follow up on vehicle defects and in front of an audience that terization of 3-aminopyridine and He added: “The department’s Doha Metro Mockup station. Company, has announced the repairs. included Chemistry & Earth Sci- 2-Aminopyrimidine amides”, faculty members are also keen to Qatar Rail announced on its recall of Ford Figo model of The Ministry said that it will ences Department Head, Dr “Melamine-Schiff-Bases: Syn- select applied research related to social media sites that during 2009-2012 because affected coordinate with the dealer to Khalid Al Saad, projects’ super- thesis, Partial Characterization, economics and to health and the visit the delegates had a vehicles are fitted with a PAS follow up on the maintenance visors and Exam-Committee Biological Activities and their national security, which will con- closer look on the project (Power Assisted Steering) high and repair works and will com- members. The students’ projects Applications in Visualizing Latent tribute to human and economic progress and the launch of pressure hose that may split, municate with customers to covered a wide range of topics Fingerprints”, and “Evaluation of development in line with the goals Schools Awareness Program resulting in a power steering ensure that the necessary such as “Synthesis the effect of common rice of Qatar National Vision 2030.” was discussed. fluid leak. repairs are carried out. THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 HOME 03

Sheikha Moza Sheikha Moza meets El Salvador FM meets President of UNGA

QNA

DOHA: H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development met yesterday with President of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly, Miro- slav Lajcak. The meeting was attended by the State of Qatar’s permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador, H E Sheikha Alia Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani. The H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of QF, met with Minister of Foreign Affairs meeting discussed a number of H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, of the Republic of El Salvador, Hugo Martinez. They discussed the importance of topics related to education and Science and Community Development, with President of the 72nd session of the quality education for out-of-school children, as well as areas of mutual cooperation protecting the right to education between El Salvador and Qatar Foundation initiatives and the Education Above during conflicts. The meeting also United Nations General Assembly, Miroslav Lajcak and State of Qatar’s permanent All Foundation. PIC: AISHA ALMUSALAM discussed projects of Education representative to the United Nations, Ambassador H E Sheikha Alia Ahmed bin Saif Above All Foundation. Al Thani. PIC: AISHA ALMUSALAM Nod for draft decision on Qatar Quality Mark

THE PENINSULA The Qatar Quality Mark is granting a license to use the Qatar Quality topics on the agenda. No. (12) of 2016 concerning the Official a badge adopted by the Mark, the procedures for obtaining the The Cabinet approved the second Gazette. DOHA: The Cabinet, in its regular weekly license, the procedures of the Quality and periodic report of Qatar on the implemen- A draft decision of the Minister of Jus- meeting yesterday, approved a draft deci- Ministry of Municipality and Conformity Department at Qatar General tation of the Convention on the Elimina- tice determining the electronic publica- sion of the Minister of Municipality and Environment to indicate the Organization for Standardization, the tion of All Forms of Discrimination against tion controls for the Official Gazette and Environment on issuing regulations to conformity of the product duration of the license and the obligations Women (CEDAW), prepared by the con- a draft decision of the Minister of Justice grant the Qatar Quality Mark. of the establishment licensed to use the cerned committee at the Ministry of For- specifying the controls, procedures, and Prime Minister and Interior Minister to the approved standard Quality Mark. eign Affairs, for submission to the secre- value of the annual subscription in the H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Kha- specifications. The establishment may use the Qatar tariat of the Committee of the Elimination Official Gazette, the publishing fees, the lifa Al Thani chaired the Cabinet’s meeting Quality Mark to advertise the licensed item of Discrimination Against Women con- mechanism of sending the copies to the at its Emiri Diwan premises. in advertising means during the validity cerned with monitoring the implemen- subscribers and the prices of their sale to The draft decision was prepared to the Ministry of Municipality and Environ- period of the license. tation of the Convention. non-subscribers were also approved. replace the regulations of granting the ment to indicate the conformity of the After the meeting, Minister of Justice The Cabinet also approved several A draft decision of the Minister of Jus- Qatar Quality Mark issued by the Minister product to the approved standard speci- and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet draft decisions of the Minister of Justice tice specifying the method of saving the of Environment decision No. (191) of 2013. fications. The regulations contain provi- Affairs H E Dr. Hassan Lahdan Saqr Al which were prepared by the Ministry of original copies of the editions of the Offi- The quality mark is a badge adopted by sions concerning the conditions for Mohannadi said the Cabinet reviewed Justice to implement the provisions of Law cial Gazette was also approved. Call for reducing traffic injuries CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 importance of transport sector Experts recommended to plans and major events, especially develop the national traffic related to World Cup 2022, and awareness system in coordina- also development of geographic tion with the awareness and information system by concerned media work group and to adopt authorities in the country. The the concept of the global secu- forum witnessed discussions on rity system, which was revised many topics by international to suit the requirements of the experts. State of Qatar. They urged the Speaking at the forum, National Traffic Safety Office to Antonio Avenoso, Executive handle and complete the new Director of the European Trans- Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, leading a electronic evaluation and port Safety Council, presented a VIP tour of the airline’s Qsuite-fitted Boeing 777. follow-up system to support paper on “Traffic Safety Man- decision makers. They empha- agement in Europe”. He noted sised on the importance of that the Transport Safety Council QA steals limelight at implementing the UN sustain- is an international organization able development goals related of 60 members from Europe and On the second day of the fifth forum of coordinators of National to traffic safety, congestion and other including experts, univer- Traffic Safety Strategy implementing bodies, Brigadier Muhammad Kuwait Aviation Show sustainable cities, and devel- sity professors, accident victims, Saad Al Kharji, Director General of the General Directorate of Traffic, oping road and transport net- researchers and others. The honoured Major General Fahad Al Shuwaei, Assistant Undersecretary THE PENINSULA airline’s fifth destination in works. The forum also recom- council has 27 members after the of Traffic Affairs in Kuwait, Brigadier General Dr Mohammed Awad Al Thailand, set to commence later mended to put emphasis on the exit of Britain. Rawas, Director General of Traffic Department, Sultanate of Oman. DOHA : Qatar Airways stole the this month. limelight on the opening day of “Our participation in this the Kuwait Aviation Show year’s Kuwait Aviation Show yesterday, showcasing its has provided an excellent start patented, award-winning new to 2018, which promises to be Bollywood-themed pop-up shops generate interest Business Class seat, Qsuite, for very busy for us as an airline. the first time in 2018, along with We are looking forward to the RAYNALD C RIVERA “Everything that the airline’s ultra-modern addition of direct service to a THE PENINSULA you see on the ramp extra-wide body Airbus A350- host of key new destinations on that looks luxurious 900. our route network, including DOHA: Bollywood-themed and beautiful is Qatar Airways Group Chief Pattaya, Thailand; Thessaloniki, pop-up shops showcasing because of the Executive, Akbar Al Baker, led Greece and Cardiff, U.K., to various crafts of India, are craftsmen. Having a VIP tour of the airline’s name just a few. As this new generating much interest among given the platform to Qsuite-fitted Boeing 777. VIPs year begins, we are more com- visitors in malls participating in showcase their skill is in attendance included Sheikh mitted than ever to delivering the ongoing Shop Qatar 2018 an opportunity for Mohammad Al Abdullah Al an unparalleled experience to festival. them to feel appreci- Sabah, Deputy Minister of our passengers, providing them The pop-up shops which ated and take great Kuwait Amiri Diwan Affairs; the very finest experience avail- rotate around the 13 partici- pride in it. They are Sheikh Salman Al Homoud Al able in the skies,” said Al Baker. pating malls show live demon- absolutely honoured so Sabah, President of Kuwait’s “We look forward to strations of popular traditional LEFT: Live demonstration at fabric embroidery pop up shop at The Gate Mall are we,” she said. Directorate General of Civil Avi- receiving delivery of the Airbus Indian crafts such as fabric recently. Prominent Indian designer Pallavi Jaipur speaks to reporters at a On the parallelism ation (DGCA); and Abdullah bin A350-1000 shortly, for which embroidery, bangles, cushion recent media event at Mondrian Doha. PIC: RAYNALD C RIVERA / THE PENINSULA between Arab and Nasser Turki Al Subaie, we will be the global launch embroidery, and footwear Indian fashion, she said: Chairman of Qatar’s Civil Avi- customer. This state-of-the art making. “There is some kind of ation Authority. aircraft will allow us to remain “We brought hand embroi- background hailing from the of painstaking challenge for all similarity between Arab and The show marks the start ahead of the curve, proving that dery craftsmen to hold live dem- capital city of Rajasthan known the craftsmen as it’s their source Indian fashion. They are kind of of another busy year for Qatar Qatar Airways always demands onstration showing how we as the city of royals. of livelihood,” she explained. tied together in terms of tradition Airways, following a hugely the best for its customers,” he bring those elaborate and luxu- She expressed gratitude to Pallavi was one of the six and culture. We celebrate our successful 2017, which saw the said. rious embroideries on garments, organizers Qatar Tourism Indian designers whose creations weddings with pomp and gaiety airline continue its rapid expan- Qatar Airways’ impressive scarves and bags,” famous Authority (QTA) for providing the were showcased at the Bollywood in the same way with Arabs.” sion plans with the launch of 11 Qsuite display attracted hun- Indian designer Pallavi Jaipur platform to showcase India’s Fashion Show yesterday night at The fashion show and new destinations, win more dreds of visitors on the first day recently told reporters, adding age-old crafts during the Bolly- Mondrian Doha. Twelve of her pop-up shops are just some of than 50 awards across multiple of the show who were eager to visitors can also purchase some wood Week. unique designs were applauded the events and activities QTA has categories and debut its revo- view the award-winning air- items they brought especially for “It’s a great privilege and on the runway by the audience at lined up for Bollywood Week lutionary new Business Class line’s patented, revolutionary the festival. honour to share the skill and the the show. which has received huge seat, Qsuite. new Business Class seat and the “We got some handy prod- craft of artisans, bringing in The pieces were distinct response from the public. Hun- Year 2018 is set to be just as many features it offers, ucts to sell like scarves, garments together and showing what these among the other designs in the dreds of fans of Bollywood eventful, as the airline prepares including a double bed and and bags which bear the unique art forms are. It is also a way of use of rich fabrics such as singing sensation Sonu Nigam to launch a host of exciting new sliding privacy panels that embroidery techniques of the reviving a dying art, which rep- chiffon, velvet and silk and were are expected to throng his con- destinations, with the start of enable passengers to create skilled craftsmen,” said Pallavi, resents age-old technique of luxuriously embroidered, cert tomorrow at the Doha Exhi- direct service to Pattaya, the their own private suite. who comes from a heritage-rich India as well which takes a lot flaunty, feminine and beautiful bition and Convention Center. 04 HOME THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018

Prime Minister meets Turkish Minister PM meets UNGA President GAC Chairman receives US Charge d’Affaires

THE PENINSULA

DOHA: The Chairman of the General Authority of Customs, Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Gammal, yesterday received Ryan Kleha, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of the United States in Qatar, on an espe- cial visit to the authority to discuss issues of mutual Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani interest. met with Minister of Customs and Trade of Turkey, Bulent Tufenkci, and President of the The two sides also dis- Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey, Rifat Hisarciklioglu, and the cussed issues related to cus- with President of the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly, Miroslav accompanying delegation, on the occasion of their visit to the country to participate toms work and its role in Lajcak, and his accompanying delegation who are currently on a visit to the country. in the Qatari-Turkish Economic Forum, currently in session in Doha. They reviewed enhancing cooperation The meeting discussed a number of regional and international issues of common the bilateral relations and ways of developing them, especially in the economic and between Qatar and the United interest, including developments in the region. trade fields, as well as issues of mutual concern. States and facilitating trade exchange between them. FM meets GECF Secretary-General HBKU students embark on a mission to aid Rohingya

THE PENINSULA numbers of Rohingya refugee camps. The relief tour con- DOHA: In an education service trip, 16 cluded with a reception held at graduate students at Hamad Bin Khalifa the Embassy of the State of University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Qatar to Bangladesh, where vis- Foundation, went on a mission to Bang- iting team members called upon ladesh where they gained more knowl- Ambassador Ahmed edge about the crisis engulfing Myanmar Mohammed Nasser Al-Dehaimi and Rohingya refugees. and apprised him of their Held in collaboration with Qatar humanitarian mandate. Charity, the trip was preceded by a Executive director of media series of educational workshops on dis- and communication at Qatar aster management, allowing partici- Charity, Ali Ateeq Al Abdullah, HBKU students visit Bangladesh on a service trip. pants to develop an in-depth under- said, “Qatar Charity is pleased standing of the ongoing international to jointly cooperate with HBKU conflict-ridden areas. In Bangladesh, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman conflict prior to engaging in humani- in the field of humanitarian response the HBKU team visited Rohingya camps Al Thani met yesterday with Secretary-General of Gas Exporting Countries Forum tarian efforts on-ground. and international relief work, furthering and donated ready-to-eat meals, food (GECF), Yury Sentyurin Petrovich. The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Led by HBKU Student Affairs, the its graduates’ abilities to play pioneering products, clothes, tents, and hygiene kits. congratulated Petrovich for his appointment as Secretary-General of GECF and expedition began in Dhaka with a group roles in economic and social develop- Additionally, the participants visited wished him success in his new mission. The meeting discussed the ways to briefing, after which the team of grad- ment at home and abroad. hospitals to gain a deeper insight into strengthen cooperation between the State of Qatar and GECF. The meeting also uate students and accompanying staff An objective of the trip was to the unique medical concerns being discussed topics of common interest. proceeded to their relief station in Cox’s expose and educate HBKU students on faced by the displaced Rohingya Bazar, a port city host to significant conditions that may result from community. Parents name first baby boy born at Sidra ‘Tamim’

THE PENINSULA checked in for two-week long respiratory monitoring and pul- DOHA: The first baby boy born monology treatments under the at Sidra Medicine was named care of Dr. Ibrahim Janahi, Divi- ‘Tamim’. Sidra Medicine, a sion Chief of Pulmonology. specialty children’s, young people “The children’s services at and women’s healthcare organ- Sidra Medicine are aimed at pro- ization and member of Qatar viding specialist care for children Foundation (QF), welcomed its who require unique medical care first patients to the main hospital and treatment. We have assem- building this week. bled a team of Qatari and inter- Baby Tamim, born to Suda- national experts including physi- Baby Tamim, born to Sudanese nese parents, was delivered on cians, nurses and allied health parents, at Sidra Medicine. January 15 via an elective C-sec- professionals who are focused on tion. Baby Tamim’s birth was han- making the experience every dled by Senior Attending Physi- Calgary in Qatar. Both Dr Yousuf child and their family has with us cian, Dr Joseph Shumway. and Nurse Maha were sponsored a positive one. We would also like Baby Tamim’s father, a Suda- by Sidra Medicine under its to thank our partner Hamad Med- nese expat who has lived in Qatar National Development ical Corporation who previously for 15 years, said, “I was overjoyed program. handled the majority of children’s that I could be in the delivery Sidra Medicine opened its specialty care and are now tran- room with my wife as we wel- hospital on January 14 with the sitioning these services to Sidra comed our baby boy. We named launch of its inpatient obstetrics Medicine,” said Dr Abdulla Al him Tamim, out of respect and services and several children’s Kaabi, the Executive Chair of Chil- admiration for Emir H H Sheikh services. These include pulmon- dren’s Clinical Management Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and ology, gastroenterology, endo- Group, and Vice-Executive Chief everything he has done for Qatar crinology and non-invasive car- Medical Officer at Sidra and the people living here.” diology services, as well as Medicine. While, the first baby, a Qatari low-risk general surgery, urology, Rashid , who was one of the girl named Maryam, was born on plastic and ear, nose and throat first pulmonology patients to January 14. She was delivered via surgical procedures. Sidra Medi- check in at the new hospital, said, an elective C-section. In line with cine also has elective, low risk “Everything is going well and I am Sidra Medicine’s family-centric C-section deliveries scheduled for happy with the care provided by approach to care, Maryam’s father the first three weeks of the main the doctor and the team here. attended her birth. hospital opening. Because of my condition, I have Baby Maryam’s birth was Six children under went sur- been in and out of hospitals for a handled by Dr Justin Konje, Exec- gical procedures and three pul- long time and I am very comfort- utive Chair of the Women’s Serv- monology patients check in for able with the environment at ices Clinical Management Group, treatment on January 14. Sidra Medicine.” Dr Aisha Yousuf and Maha Al The first paediatric surgery Patients are encouraged to Ghanem. Dr Aisha Yousuf is the patients to be seen at the new continue seeing their regular phy- Director of Reproductive Medi- Sidra Medicine hospital were sicians unless they have a sched- cine and was one of the first batch under the care of Dr David Sigalet, uled appointment at Sidra Medi- of medical students from Weill- Chair of Paediatric Surgery along cine. No Emergency Department Cornell Medicine in Qatar and with Dr Mansour Ali, Vice-Chair (ED) is currently open at Sidra studied abroad to further to spe- of Pediatric Surgery and Dr Mitch Medicine, which will open in mid- cialise in her field. Nurse Maha is Stotland, Division Chief of Cranio- 2018, and emergency cases a Clinical Nurse from the Obstet- facial and Plastics. The six chil- should continue to be seen at rics Diagnostic Department and dren underwent elective day sur- established ED centers throughout graduated from the University of geries. In addition, three patients Qatar. THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 HOME 05 Bedaya Center gears up to launch Winterna

THE PENINSULA work of the employees by accompa- and companies with firsthand expe- nying them throughout the working rience of working environment DOHA: The Bedaya Center for Entre- day and to acquire expertise that which was a real and tangible oppor- preneurship and Career Development would enable them to become suc- tunity for all participants to get (Bedaya Center), a joint initiative by cessful employees in the future as well. acquainted with different fields and Qatar Development Bank and Silatech, On this occasion, Reem Al- businesses. By launching this edition is gearing up to launch its second Suwaidi, General Manager of Bedaya of the winter camp, we seek to pro- edition of winter camp “Winterna”. Center said, “We received an over- vide this experience to the largest The Winterna will start from 21 whelming response for the first edi- number of students who missed the January until 1 February at the cul- tion of the Winter Camp held last year. opportunity to participate in the tural village – Katara. This winter In the last winterna camp we success- camp last year. camp aims to provide high school fully organised sev- and university students the neces- eral planned activ- sary skills required for creative ities like the thinking, project development, team development and work, effective communication educational work- methods as well as teach them lead- shops to highlight ership skills. The camp will impart theoretical con- these skills through workshops, cepts and apply Defence Minister speaks at RUSI Institute activities and field visits to some work skills in a real institutions and businesses. environment.” Deputy PM and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al The Winterna camp will provide On top of that, Attiyah, gave a speech yesterday at RUSI Institute for Defence Studies, addressing participants with the opportunity to the camp helped several regional and international issues of common interest. He also held a discussion experience and experiment a working students have a session at the United Kingdom Parliament. Several regional and international issues environment or what is known as job clear under- were discussed during the session, especially the current Gulf crisis, in addition shadowing in many disciplines and standing about the to issues of common interest and efforts of both Qatar and the United Kingdom sectors. This activity has been designed values, rules and in combating terrorism and extremism. to give the participants a chance to standards adopted Students attending a camp during the first edition. learn more about the nature of the by entrepreneurs Over 40 exhibitors to take part in Chocolate, Coffee and Tea Festival

AMNA PERVAIZ RAO Organised by Four and One, understanding and togetherness they THE PENINSULA the 10-day world-class share. ‘Biryani Festival’ is the upcoming festival which will be held DOHA: A first-of-its-kind — Choco- festival will bring together in Hotel Park as well.” late, Coffee and Tea Festival — will be more than 40 exhibitors, “We are glad to partner with local held from January 25 to February 3 at ready to display and offer festivals working closely with them to the Hotel Park – Sheraton in Doha. support the development of the industry Organised by Four and One, the tasting of their finest in Qatar along with our recommenda- 10-day world-class festival will bring chocolate, teas and coffee tions to build up stronger foundations together more than 40 exhibitors, ready while introducing the latest and more awareness to this specific to display and offer tasting of their finest award-winning products. industry,” he added. chocolate, teas and coffee while intro- The festival will provide seminars ducing the latest award-winning tech- Omran Youser Al Sherawi (fourth left), Partner, Four and One; Fernando De Guama from well-known industry pros and nological products. partners at the event. There will be a (third left), Chief Executive Officer, Four and One; with (from left), Yuksel Mutlu, pioneers, pairings, tastings, cake Perched on the lawns of the Hotel special ‘No Mobile Zone’ for families Treasurer, Qatar Culinary Professionals; Salah Al Eida, CEO, SNS for Trading and making recipes and for the very first Park, the festival is the perfect setting where the families will sit, talk and Services; Mahmood Al Mahmood, Entrepreneurship Adviser, Bedaya Centre; time a social media lounge for blog- for attendees who wish to relax and enjoy.” and Carine Al Hani, Marketing Manager, Jaidah Automotive; addressing a press gers with Wifi connected laptops, enjoy samplings, sipping their favourite “The registrations are open for conference on the first edition of Qatar’s Chocolate, Coffee and Tea Festival, in comfy seats and a collection of free cold or hot beverages and gazing at the people who are willing to participate in Doha yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA coffees and teas. array of dramatic and colourfully illu- the competitions which are on our web- Commenting on Bedaya Centre’s minated high-rise towers of the nearby site. We are aiming to place the festival of the industry. The winners will be to over 160 events and festivals during responsibility, Mahmood Al Mahmood, central business district. as a destination festival to attract local given prizes too. “The title of ‘best barista this year. Entrepreneurship Advisor, said: “The Talking to The Peninsula, Fernando and international clients to experience of the year 2018’ will be given to one of Treasurer Member of Qatar Culinary main objective of Bedaya Center is to De Guama, Chief Executive Officer at the continuous development of the the winners as well,” Fernando said Professionals, Yuksel Mutlu, said: “We enable entrepreneurs in the fields of Four and One, said: “Chocolate, Coffee industry. The competitions are made to while talking about the rewards for the hope that first event of 2018 will be suc- professional development and entre- and Tea Festival is an exclusive combi- identify the hidden-talents , as there are competitors. cessful because all the partners are preneurship through diverse mediums nation that we all have come up with many people with skills which don’t get The 3,500sqm outdoor jamboree strong and have the potential to pull off and methods.” for the public. We have 40 exhibitors till identified and awarded,” Fernando allows free entry and features chil- a wonderful event. “These include workshops for basic now and 10 entrepreneurs from Bedaya added. dren activities, cake decoration com- We have around 110 people par- and advanced skills, which will help Center participating in the competitions The winner will be supported by the petitions, crafting the art of coffee and ticipating in different competitions. them adapt to the local market and which will be held during the festival. Bedaya Center to open up their own tea making, as well as pouring chal- We want families to participate in this launch their projects and products,” he Many gifts will be distributed by our shops which help them become a part lenges. The Hotel Park will play host event and show the level of added. QU and QLC sign MoU for QDB to hold healthcare management exchange of expertise training program from January 20

THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA University and Director of Per- their profession,” said Al formance at the Department Khalifa. DOHA: Qatar University (QU) DOHA: As part of its efforts to of Health in the UK. “At QDB, we are pleased to yesterday signed a memo- bring its world-class capacity “At QDB, we are committed introduce this one-of-a-kind randum of understanding building programs to more to advise and support entrepre- opportunity to the health sector (MoU) with Qatar Leadership disciplines and industries in the neurs at each stage of their in Qatar, and are confident that Centre (QLC) to strengthen country, Qatar Development growth by providing mentoring, upon its conclusion, the pro- collaboration on the develop- Bank will conduct an intensive intelligence and skills needed to gram will make a qualitative dif- ment of human resources Healthcare Management build and manage their busi- ference in the performance of capacity and national compe- training program for the first nesses,” said Abdul Aziz bin the healthcare institutions in the tencies. time in Qatar, from the January Nasser Al Khalifa, Chief Execu- country and the sector as a The MoU was signed by QU 20 to 24, 2018. tive Officer of Qatar Develop- whole,” he added. President Dr Hassan Al Derham The 5-day event, held in col- ment Bank. Enrollees will be equipped and QLC Deputy Manager laboration with Qatar Financial “The world-class program, with a broad range of compe- Director and Director of Admin- and Business Academy (QFBA), which will be conducted by tencies central to the suc- istration and Finance Dr Ali will be delivered by top of the renowned experts in the sub- cessful delivery of integrated Jassim Al Kubaisi in the presence line faculty from Oxford Univer- ject from Oxford University, healthcare solutions which can of officials from both sity and is set to be attended by will provide participants with be found amongst the best institutions. high profile executives in the a greater understanding of how executive officers and general The terms of the MoU country’s thriving Healthcare healthcare organizations work managers in leading include collaboration between sector. and their key role as a man- organisations. QU and QLC in the field of aca- QU President, Dr Hassan Al Derham, and QLC Deputy Manager The course’s comprehen- ager of the institution,” he “Having strong management demic, executive and training Director and Director of Administration and Finance, Dr Ali Jassim sive syllabus has been designed added. capabilities in the healthcare programs, as well as research Al Kubaisi, exchanging documents during the signing ceremony. by Professor Richard Canter, The Healthcare Manage- sector and maintaining the and scientific papers. Both insti- Professor of Surgical Educa- ment training program is highest international standards tutions will collaborate on the Qatar University is committed resources capacity and national tion at Oxford University and designed to provide participants is vital for the cost-effective and exchange of faculty, teaching to equip the labour market and competencies. Chairman of the Heads of with the latest knowledge on high-quality delivery of serv- expertise and the usage of serv- Qatari society with competent Qatar Leadership Centre Schools of Surgery for the how the management of organ- ices,” said Dr Mohammed ices and facilities such as class- graduates who are capable to was established by the Emir United Kingdom. izational systems, strategy, risk, Abdullah Al Emadi, Acting CEO rooms, conference halls and serve their community through H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad The program will be con- human resources, health tech- of QFBA. library. consultancy and research. Our Al Thani to be a national plat- ducted by Professor Canter, nology assessment, and finance “For the first time in Qatar, Other areas of collaboration partnership with Qatar Lead- form for leadership excel- along with a team of out- operate together. QFBA is proudly presenting include the exchange of visits ership Centre will contribute lence, in support of the devel- standing tutors and renowned “It will instil knowledge of top-level executives in the and the organisation of joint ses- to fostering our links and to opment goals of the State of healthcare management how many of the world’s industry a multi-day intensive sions, seminars and driving forward our collabo- Qatar. authorities, namely Senior leading healthcare providers training workshop, designed workshops. ration through the exchange The center is committed to Associate Tutor at Oxford Uni- improve performance while to develop their capacity, by Commenting on the MoU, of expertise and resources.” develop leadership and create versity and former Manage- helping enrollees acquire enhancing and scaling-up the Dr Al Derham said: “It is a Dr Al Kubaisi said: “We are knowledge, in line with the ment Consultant at McKinsey global perspectives and busi- management skills of the pleasure to collaborate with delighted to partner with Qatar human, social, economic and & Company Tom Revington, ness models, new take-away owners and managers of the Qatar Leadership Centre to University, Qatar’s national uni- environmental pillars of Qatar and Richard Gleave, Chief skills and toolsets that place country’s healthcare clinics promote our shared goals. versity, to develop human National Vision 2030.” Operating Officer at Oxford them at the cutting-edge of and centers,” he added. 06 HOME THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 Al Mahmoud meets Speakers QRCS launches food aid drive for South Sudan famine victims

THE PENINSULA need of help, basically food and livelihood. DOHA: In response to the alarming Insecurity makes it difficult to humanitarian situation in South Sudan, access drought-stricken areas, leaving Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has thousands at risk of death if food aid launched a relief intervention to help is not immediately secured. the victims of famine in the war-torn The programme is done under a country, at a total cost of $300,000. memorandum of understanding (MoU) Co-implemented by Kuwait Red signed between QRCS and WFP in Crescent Society (KRCS) and the World April 2017 to secure technical and Food Programme (WFP), the pro- logistical services through the UN H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud with heads of Parliamentary Councils. gramme involves delivering 187 tons Humanitarian Response Depot of popular food items like maize, QRCS delegate in South Sudan. (UNHRD) network, a preparedness QNA ident of the National People’s Assembly of cereals, and vegetable oil. tool that supports the strategic stock- Guinea-Bissau Cipriano Cassama. The food supplies were procured beneficiaries. The distribution will be piling efforts of the wider humani- TEHRAN: Speaker of the Advisory Council The meetings took place on the side- from neighbouring countries and supervised by QRCS and KRCS tarian community. H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al lines of the 13th conference of the par- stored at WFP’s warehouses, in coor- representatives. Having commenced its opera- Mahmoud met yesterday in separate meet- liamentary union of OIC member states, dination with local authorities. More than 100,000 people are tions there since 2013, QRCS has ings with Speaker of the Turkish Grand which concluded yesterday in Tehran. Yesterday, the first batch of aid facing a widespread famine in several conducted several health, water, National Assembly Ismail Kahraman, Pres- The meetings also reviewed Qatar’s bilat- was airdropped by United Nations air- parts of South Sudan, and 270,000 and sanitation projects in the nas- ident of the Malian National Assembly Issaka eral ties with Turkey, Mali, Algeria and craft onto worst-hit inaccessible areas, children already have severe malnu- cent country, with funding from Sidibe, Speaker of the People’s National Guinea-Bissau. They also discussed the where a WFP team is stationed to col- trition. According to international Qatar Fund for Development Assembly of Algeria Saeed Bouhaja, and Pres- subject on the conference’s schedule. lect and distribute them to the reports, five million people are in dire (QFFD). QFFD and DIGS to provide scholarships for students from conflict zones

QNA Under the MoU, the QFFD Director General Kha- pursuing their university studies lifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari said that at the Doha Institute during the DOHA: Qatar Fund for Develop- QFFD will provide the signing of this agreement next four years, he said. ment (QFFD) signed yesterday a financial support to comes as part of the launch of The QFFD Director General memorandum of understanding international students the Qatar scholarship program said the fund allocated to the (MoU) with the Doha Institute for who complete their with the DIGS, the first special- Qatar scholarship initiative will Graduate Studies (DIGS) to provide ised institute of its kind not only exceed QR100m when more scholarships of approximately graduate studies at in Qatar but throughout the Qatari universities and other QR20m for international students, the DIGS. region. Through the launch of government institutions join the especially those from conflict this program, the QFFD seeks to initiative in the near future. zones who are pursuing their achieve an integrated system of Al Kuwari stressed that the graduate studies at the Institute, within QFFD’s strategy. cooperation with the develop- memorandum aims to exchange during the next four years. Under the MoU, the QFFD will ment institutions and academia expertise in the academic and The MoU was signed by provide financial support to inter- at the local and international research fields which its bene- QFFD Director General Khalifa national students who complete levels, he pointed out. fits will go to the QFFD’s bin Jassim Al Kuwari and their graduate studies at the DIGS. Al Kuwari added that this employees, students in terms of Chairman of the Board of Trus- The two sides will also enhance program reflects the QFFD’s sup- academic aspects and the State tees of the DIGS Dr Azmi Bishara. cooperation in several areas, port for one of the most impor- of Qatar in terms of humani- QFFD Director-General Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari and Chairman The MoU aims at launching including organising joint events tant sectors of its strategy which tarian and development. of the Board of Trustees of the DIGS, Dr Azmi Bishara, exchanging the Qatar scholarship program, related to the QFFD’s external sup- is the education and scientific Dr Hend Al Muftah, Vice-Pres- documents during the signing ceremony. which is adopted and backed by port and conducting research, research in developing countries. ident of Administration and the QFFD in collaboration with conferences and related seminars. The first project launched within Finance at the Doha Institute for Qatar in providing external sup- that the agreement will open new the DIGS and other Qatari uni- The DIGS will provide training the framework of this MoU is the Graduate Studies, said that the port, especially as Qatar was horizons to enhance cooperation versities, to promote academic programs and courses for mem- Qatar scholarship initiative, signing of the memorandum of ranked as the first country in the in the field of academic support cooperation and benefit from the bers of the QFFD in various which aims to support students cooperation and partnership Arab region and the fifth in the and scientific research for inter- common potential of the DIGS administrative and research areas, from developing countries by between the DIGS and the QFFD world in terms of providing national students, especially those and the QFFD to support scien- in addition to special disciplines providing scholarships of is within the framework of insti- external support for global devel- from conflict zones and provide tific research on topics of interest offered by the DIGS’s colleges and approximately QR20m for inter- tutional and community integra- opment. them with opportunities to com- to developing countries and programs. national students who are tion and the efforts of the State of Dr Hend Al Muftah stressed plete their graduate studies. AAB offers Camry 2017 WWRC welcomes patients to at discounted price expanded diabetes clinic

THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA

DOHA: Abdullah Abdulghani & DOHA: Hamad Medical Corpo- Bros Co (AAB), sole agents for ration’s (HMC) Women’s Well- Toyota vehicles, has begun their ness and Research Center Camry 2017 exclusive offer from (WWRC) is welcoming patients January 18 and will continue till to its newly expanded diabetes March 15. This is an opportunity clinic which has relocated from for the customers to purchase Women’s Hospital. the Camry 2017 at a lower price. “With the growing number Limited stock available. of women at risk of, or living The campaign offers the with diabetes, we are happy to customer free registration, in- relocate our clinic to one that is Clinicians from the specialised diabetes clinic. house facility, a three years’ nearly double in size,” said Dr warranty or 100,000km and Faten Al Taher, Senior Con- controlled diabetes pre- or “Our clinic is unique trade-in facility for all Toyota sultant at WWRC. “By intro- post-pregnancy are at a because our multidisciplinary models. Terms and conditions ducing additional clinics, I am higher risk of serious fetal team offers a customized dia- apply. across the doors and rear cabin feels more like a cockpit confident we can help more complications, in particular, betes management program The new Toyota Camry quarter panel, conveying a than anything else, and the women diagnosed with, or at congenital deficits, loss of tailored specifically to the blends an evolution of the car’s sense of motion. driver-focused layout is risk of, type 1, type 2, and ges- pregnancy, high blood pres- needs of each patient,” said Dr values – such as comfort, effi- Sleek new headlamps are designed to reduce distraction. tational diabetes to manage sure, large birth weight Al Taher. “Women referred to ciency, reliability and safety – the eyes in a new Camry face A sleek center stack with 4.2- their condition.” babies, or complications us should expect our clinicians with a more appealing design that makes an immediate inch TFT screen makes it easy Dr Al Taher stated that cur- during delivery, including to offer a continuity of care and engaging driving experi- impression. The new Toyota to access content with an infor- rently the specialized clinic premature birth, fetal death, that will help them achieve the ence. With its striking hood lines Camry offers LED low and high mation layout. receives 1,400 visits a month by larger babies, and cesarean healthiest childbirth experi- and statement-making front beams, and front turn signal The car features a 2.5 liter women who have been diag- section. ence possible in one conven- grille, the car is designed for indicators and LED DRLs are four-cylinder engine that pro- nosed with a thyroid condition According to Dr Al Taher, to ient location.” those who dare to be bold, and integrated for an elegant duces 181 horsepower and 235 and/or diabetes prior to or help women achieve a suc- The new specialised dia- combines refinement and per- appearance. Tail lamps wrap NM of torque, allowing it to during pregnancy. cessful pregnancy, the WWRC’s betes clinic is located on Level formance like never before. around into the tapered rear deliver best-in-class engine per- Dr Mohammed Bashir, an diabetes clinic employs a multi- 1 of the Outpatient Department An aggressive looking front quarters for a more sophisti- formance and quietness. Endocrine Consultant at HMC disciplinary team which focuses of Women’s Wellness and bumper and grille and pro- cated look, while 17-inch wheels The new Toyota Camry con- said, “Women with diabetes on equipping each patient with Research Center. nounced side character lines and an available dual exhaust tinues Toyota’s comprehensive should strive to reach normal the education and tools they Future expansion plans give the new Camry a far more signal impressive performance, approach to safety to ensure blood glucose levels before they need to manage their diet, include the addition of podiatry expressive style. It’s a sleeker helping motorists get the most peace of mind for customers. become pregnant and those who weight, blood pressure and and retina screening clinics and look that’s also slightly longer out of their drive. These include Enhanced Vehicle have been diagnosed with dia- medication. The team also pro- facilities that will offer a com- and communicates a dynamic The new Camry has an inte- Stability Control (VSC), Traction betes should seek a referral to vides women with advice on prehensive inventory of diabetes stance and presence. In pro- rior that thrills before the driver Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake our diabetes clinic as soon as how to increase physical activity medical supplies, ultimately file, a pronounced body line even starts moving. With its System (ABS), Electronic Brake- possible.” levels, and self-manage and providing all diabetic services starts from the Camry’s mus- intuitive top-flight technology force Distribution (EBD), Brake Dr Bashir also warns that monitor their blood glucose in a single, convenient cular front fender and spans and high-contrast stitching, the Assist (BA), and more. women with poorly levels. location. THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 HOME / MIDDLE EAST 07 Teach for Qatar launches national campaign

QNA Through this campaign, the essential element for the the organization aims advancement of the country, DOHA: Teach for Qatar launched a to promote awareness stressing that the organization has national campaign entitled “Be a contributed to the graduation of gen- Teacher”, in which Qatari dignitaries of the educational erations of conscious teachers are invited to teach in Qatar’s private system, highlight the capable of making positive change. and public schools. role of the teacher in Al Jaber pointed out that the Through this campaign, the organ- number of members of “Tech for isation aims to promote awareness of society and shed light on Qatar” in schools currently reaches 53 the educational system, highlight the the importance of this participants and graduates who have role of the teacher in society and shed important profession and chosen to continue the educational Al Muraikhi meets Guinea Minister light on the importance of this impor- the benefits of academic system in Qatar after completing the tant profession and the benefits of aca- “Leadership Journey”, noting that the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met yesterday demic achievement in various disci- achievement in various number of partner schools with the with State Minister for Investment and Public-Private Partnership at the Republic plines. It also highlights the difficulties disciplines. organization is 29 primary and pre- of Guinea, Ibrahima Kassory Fofana, who is currently visiting the country. During and challenges faced by the teacher paratory schools. the meeting, both sides discussed bilateral relations, ways of developing them and in the classroom, in addition to pre- He pointed out that the Teach for matters of common concern. The meeting was attended by a number of Foreign senting the participants in the cam- teacher on the foundations of love Qatar seeks to raise the status of the Ministry officials. paign as an example to the students and honour and reverence for their teacher in society and pay tribute to to inspire and motivate them to join efforts is the duty of society as a their noble role in upbringing tomor- this profession and to create a con- whole. row’s generations by attracting the scious and educated generation that For his part, Dr Khalid bin best cadres of graduates and profes- contributes effectively to the building Mohammed Al Attiyah spoke about sionals and qualifying them to work of this homeland. his experience in this campaign and in public schools for two years within Founder and Chairperson of Teach teaching mathematics in a middle the program to develop teaching and QR6bn allocated for for Qatar and CEO of Qatar Founda- school, saying that his participa- leadership skills, pointing out that the tion H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al tion in “Be a Teacher” campaign is organization aims through the “Be a Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and a great responsibility, and that this Teacher” campaign to change the per- road, infrastructure Minister of State for Defence Affairs experience has reinforced his sense ception of the Qatari society con- H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah, of the importance of this profes- cerning the profession of education Minister of Energy and Industry H E sion and the different challenges and shed light on the importance of in Al Wakrah Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada facing the teacher, especially how teacher’s role and to attract enthusi- Chairman and CEO of Al Faisal Hold- to deliver the information easily to astic leadership cadres to this ings Sheikh Faisal bin Qasim Al Thani, students. profession. Continued from page 1 These projects include and a number of dignitaries and prom- Stressed the importance of patri- Teach for Qatar is a non-govern- Mansour Ajran Al Buainain, Director inent leaders of major institutions in otism, and diligence in working for mental organization working to of Al Wakrah Municipality, expressed his 1,829 housing plots, which the country are taking part in the the protection and advancement of qualify graduates and national and appreciation for Ashghal initiative to are part of the road and campaign. this country, adding that young people resident professionals to work in introduce its future ambitious plan, infrastructure development On this occasion, Sheikha Hind are the wealth of the nation and public schools for two years through projects in Al Wakrah and to involve the plan for more than 10,000 bint Hamad Al Thani said the “Be a people who cannot protect their a program to develop teaching and residents of the municipality. Teacher” campaign embodies the country do not worth living in it, and leadership skills. The training and sup- Albuainain added that Wakrah residential plots of land. firm belief that education is the real Qatar needs all its people to work in port program, known as “Leadership Municipality harnesses all its efforts and gateway to building society and that all fields to ensure the country’s Journey”, provides participants with potentials in cooperation with all gov- teachers are the true creators of development. leadership skills that they can use to ernmental and private sectors in order Road and Infrastructure Develop- change. Sheikha Hind added that For his part, the Chief Executive enhance their chances of success in to contribute to urban development. ment Projects in Western Wakrah the supreme mission of teachers goes Officer of Teach for Qatar Nasser any career path they choose after they Mansoor Al Khater, member of the included the first and third packages beyond the task of equipping stu- Yousuf Al Jaber, at a press confer- have completed their enrollment. CMC, expressed his thanks for the efforts which will serve a total of 1193 plots of dents with knowledge and science ence, called on graduates and pro- Teach for Qatar was founded by made by the authority for the great land for residence, commercial and to build values and behaviour and fessionals, whether citizens or res- HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al-Thani achievements made in the implementa- public uses. The internal road network prepare a conscious, educated gen- idents, to join ‘Leadership Journey’ to be part of the solution to some of tion of projects during 2016 and 2017 as of about 40km through the modernisa- eration to contribute effectively to program provided by the organisa- the challenges facing students in well as projects that will be implemented tion and maintenance of existing roads. the development and giving process tion to develop the teaching and Qatar, and it is the latest of 32 mem- in 2018. Wakrah and Southern Areas Highway in this country, stressing that leadership skills of its members in bers of the global Teach for All net- These projects include 1,829 housing Projects constitute five intersections strengthening the status of the the belief that education is work. (QNA) plots, which are part of the road and which have been opened, along with the infrastructure development plan for more southern part of the Doha Expressway than 10,000 residential plots of land in which has made a significant difference different areas of the country he added. to traffic flows in the area. Eng. Al Tamimi presented overview The southern part of the Doha NHRC Chairman demands Greek of road and infrastructure development Expressway is located in the west of Al projects being developed in Al Wakrah Wakrah city and starts near the Mashaf City which include the development of road northward and extends for 11km to solidarity drive with siege victims about 7km of roads and four intersec- the Mesaieed road in the south. tions with light signals in West Mashaf The main route consists of five lanes (Phase 4). in each direction, and five multi-level QNA violations by the siege countries and The project also includes a number intersections including bridges, tunnels, describing them as unequal and racist. of projects such as the road linking the and pedestrian and bicycle paths with a ATHENS: National Human Rights The report shows that the meas- commercial street and the main Wakrah total length of 87km. The total cost of the Committee (NHRC) Chairman Dr Ali ures taken by the siege countries do road project in the areas 90 to 95 project is more than QR2bn. bin Sumikh Al Marri (pictured) called not differentiate between the govern- including the construction of new roads The 7th Ring Road: The importance for the launch of parliamentary soli- ment and civilians, especially Qatari and improving some existing roads with of the Seventh Ring Road lies in its being darity campaign with the victims of nationals and is dangerous, and the a total length of 55km, he added. a traffic hub providing additional trans- the violations of the siege imposed on economic impact of the siege amounts Eng Saud Al Tamimi said that Ash- portation options and connecting to a the State of Qatar. to economic wars, Dr Al Marri said. ghal’s 2018 projects include the devel- number of highways. It connects with the Speaking on Tuesday during a He added that the report unques- opment of roads and infrastructure in southern part of the Doha Expressway at hearing session at the Greek parlia- tionably reaffirms that the measures the south of Al Wukair and the develop- the Umm Beshr intersection, which con- ment, Dr Al Marri reiterated the taken by the siege countries are arbi- ment of roads and infrastructure in Al sists of four levels and also includes the important and effective role of the leg- trary and unilateral and violate inter- Wukair. highest bridge in Qatar, about 36 meters islative authorities in mobilising for national law and the principles of inter- For his part Eng Bader Darwish, high. popular and official global movement residents in the State of Qatar and the national relations and human rights reviewed highways projects which were The road has great impact on traffic that demands the end of the siege on three concerned Gulf states, which vio- conventions. opened for traffic to serve Al Wakrah, Al in the southern part of the country; it Qatar and condemns its impacts on late all international human rights laws The NHRC chairman stressed that Wukair and Al Mashaf areas and linking extends 22km from Hamad International those affected, noting that the parlia- and covenants. the report asserted that the violations them to the rest of the country. Airport to the orbital highway. It includes mentary calls obtain their credibility He described the report of the UN suffered by the citizens and residents of Infrastructure projects that have been five lanes in each direction as well as from being representatives of High Commissioner for Human Rights as the State of Qatar and the citizens of the completed include roads and infrastruc- about 48km of pedestrian and bicycle peoples. an important reference towards the issue GCC countries are not allegations as ture projects serving 643 housing plots paths surrounded by beautiful Addressing the parliament, the NHRC of a resolution in the European Parliament claimed by the siege countries, but in North Al Wukair. This includes devel- landscaping. chairman highlighted the Greek civiliza- condemning the siege and a strong motive rather are facts confirmed by conclu- opment of the internal road network with Ashghal opened the Orbital Highway tion and humanitarian heritage that does to raise the issue of besieging peoples as sive evidence. a total length of 23km and the construc- in 2017, the first phase of the new orbital not accept the besieging of the people of one of the main violations of modern Dr Al Marri added that the report tion of 12 light-signal intersections. road and the road of trucks with a total Qatar or any other people. He called on times that must be fought. is an important legal reference that Projects in West of Mashaf area length of 125km from Hamad Port to the members of the parliament and govern- Dr Al Marri said that parliaments, will embody diplomatic and legal included the construction of infrastruc- North Road to Lusail and Al Khor. The ment officials to immediately move to especially the Inter-Parliamentary moves at the regional and interna- ture for 1,186 housing units and a net- completion of the orbital route will urge parliaments of European countries, Union, the European Parliament and tional levels. As a member state of the work of internal roads with a total length shorten the driving time by more than the European Parliament and European the Arab Parliament, to issue recom- EU, Dr Al Marri called on Greek mem- of about 28km and 13 light signals. 50%. human rights organizations to form a mendations condemning the siege of bers of the parliament and the Greek rights entity that takes strong steps and peoples and collective punishment. government to urge European parlia- clear stances towards the unjust siege and He added that NHRC will work with ments, the European Parliament and documents the violations by the siege that its partners to urge countries to issue all European human rights institutions were recorded in NHRC reports as well a draft resolution at the European Par- to play their role in promoting the pro- US delegation visits Shafallah Center as those of the international organizations liament and the U N General Assembly tection of peoples from collective pun- as an unprecedented incident for such vio- that adopts a universal declaration to ishment and engaging them in polit- QNA the different departments, the most lations that tore apart the social fabric of protect peoples from siege and not to ical conflicts. He also demanded steps important activities and the services it Gulf peoples. engage them in political differences. and measures to pressure the govern- DOHA: A delegation from the US Chil- provides to its members. The delegation Dr Al Marri stressed the importance Dr Al Marri gave a brief overview of ments of the siege countries to reverse dren’s National Medical Center in Wash- also heard a comprehensive presenta- of exercising diplomatic pressure on the the report of the technical mission of their human rights violations. ington, visited yesterday Shafallah Center tion about the center and the efforts of siege countries to end the siege imposed the Office of the High Commissioner for In the same context, during a bilat- for Children with Special Needs, part of the State of Qatar to address persons with on Qatar, redress the victims, and move Human Rights, which concluded with eral meeting with chairman of the Qatar Social Work Foundation. The visit disabilities. extensively with reference to the report strong and important conclusions, offi- standing committee for national defence took place to exchange expertise and The delegation expressed their of the UN High Commissioner for cially recognising the violations moni- and foreign affairs, the NHRC Chairman strengthen cooperation in fields related appreciation for the center and its tech- Human Rights that affirmed beyond any tored by NHRC since the beginning of handed an official copy of the report of to pediatrics, especially for those with nological aids and services, as well as doubt the need to end the human rights the siege crisis. He stressed that the U N the U N High Commissioner for Human special needs. the efforts of the State of Qatar in this violations and arbitrary and discrimi- report is the first official one con- Rights to the speaker of the Greek During the tour, the delegation toured field. natory measures against citizens and demning the arbitrary measures and parliament. 08 VIEWS THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

EDITORIAL

Centre of excellence

his week Qatar set a major precedent in growth and development in specialist care for children Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani meeting with President of the Republic of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the and women by opening the main hospital of Presidential Palace in Ankara on January 15, 2018. Sidra Medicine, a specialty healthcare Torganisation and member of Qatar Foundation (QF). Through strong partnerships with leading institutions in Qatar and around the world, Sidra Medicine helps to position Qatar as a leading centre Qatar and Turkey together of excellence in healthcare globally. As a landmark project located within Education City, Sidra Medicine is emblematic of QF’s investment in the health and wellbeing of Qatar’s community. continue to achieve success Sidra Medicine includes an outpatient clinic, a main hospital and a research institution. It is also an SALEM BIN MUBARAK AL SHAFI academic medical centre. It will provide comprehensive specialist healthcare services for children and young people and maternity care for women in Qatar and HE fraternal relations between internationally. Sidra Medicine opened its hospital on Qatar and Turkey have January 14 with the launch of inpatient obstetrics developed rapidly in various services and several children’s services. The current Tfields over the past few years. schedule of inpatient services will be ramped up Consensus in visions and harmony in through mid-2018 to include more complex pediatric regional policies between the two surgeries, specialist pediatric services in neurology countries have contributed to a and cardiology, among others, as well as deliveries, qualitative leap in the bilateral focusing on high-risk pregnancies. relationship, especially at the political With the aim of becoming a centre of excellence, level. Sidra Medicine has been designed to the highest Thanks to the vision of Emir H H international standards, with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and state-of-the-art medical the President of the Republic of Turkey, equipment and sophisticated Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in 2014, the laboratories to nurture Supreme Strategic Committee was innovation and clinical founded with the mandate to establish advancement. solid and sustainable relations. Through strong Once fully operational, As a result of joint efforts of the partnerships with Sidra Medicine will handle officials of our countries, over the past leading institutions 275,000 outpatient three years; we times in less than two decades. After we lifted visa requirements, the in Qatar and around appointments, 11,000 have signed Despite the fact that we have freedom of movement for Turkish and procedures, 100,000 more than 40 accomplished this achievement in a Qatari investors in the public and private the world, Sidra emergency attendances and agreements and relatively short time, we are striving to sectors became greater. Thus, they are Medicine helps to deliver over 9,000 babies per memorandums improve economic relations, reflecting now able to diagnose and examine the position Qatar as year, adding capacity to a of the excellence of the bilateral relations right opportunities directly, as well as to a leading center rapidly growing population In the past understanding between the two countries. We want to easily follow up private investments and delivering world-class in politics, raise the volume of trade between Qatar unhindered. of excellence in two years, the specialist care. The hospital relationship economy, and Turkey in the future to $3 billion in Nevertheless, we believe that there is healthcare globally. will include 10 operating security, the first phase, and then to $5 billion also a need to push the private sectors in theatres and 400 beds. It will between Qatar culture, later. We know that it is an ambitious the two countries to expand their own become the leading and Turkey has tourism, goal, but it is not impossible if the two initiatives and partnerships with the children’s hospital in Qatar and will be the only undergone two education, sides work harder, as we think that public sector. Therefore, we are working specialist centre treating pregnant women with foetal health, media there is a real opportunity right now. to help by freeing it from bureaucratic complications. serious and real and a number We believe that the recent Gulf restrictions that may limit or hamper its Medical care at Sidra Medicine is supported by tests. The first of other sectors. crisis has helped speed up this trend. activity, and we are always open to research aimed at advancing the understanding of the concern was the In the past Turkish exports to Qatar increased 51 listening to the private sector’s proposals epidemiology and mechanisms of diseases for the failed coup in two years, the percent in August, while trade in the that may help achieve the ultimate goal people of Qatar. This will help develop personalized relationship first half of 2017 reached about$ 600 of the two countries. preventative, diagnostic and therapeutic tools and Turkey in July 2016, between Qatar million. This means that the volume of In this context, it is possible to say improve the health outcomes of the women, young and the second, less and Turkey has trade between our two countries for that the e-market initiative, which was people and children of Qatar. than a year later, undergone two 2017 will see an increase compared to recently launched in cooperation Sidra Medicine’s research programme will help has been the Gulf serious and real figures from 2016. between the Qatar Postal Services and develop ground-breaking treatments, technologies tests. The first The rapid flow of Turkish goods Turkish Post (PTT), is one of the and techniques, especially in the areas of Maternal crisis with Qatar concern was the and products into Qatar over the past innovative initiatives that contribute to Fetal Medicine, Genetics and Genomics and Maternal and the brutal failed coup in eight months has helped break the the long-term vision that we are talking Diabetes and Metabolic Syndromes. blockade imposed Turkey in July embargo imposed by a few countries about. The e- market will offer many Sidra Medicine has already handled 117 cases by the four siege 2016, and the on us. Through close Turkish-Qatari Turkish products to Qatari consumers at through its international referrals office, since second, less cooperation, we have succeeded in the lowest cost and in a relatively very Outpatient Clinic opened in May 2016. It includes countries. However, than a year turning this challenge into a valuable short time. It will encourage producers referrals from at least 15 regional and international because of our solid later, has been opportunity. We believe that it is to adopt modern and sophisticated countries. With its outstanding standards and services, relations based on the Gulf crisis necessary to build on the above in means to market their products and Sidra Medicine is on a mission to be a beacon of solid foundations, with Qatar and order to establish long-term increase their production through learning, discovery and exceptional care, and to be the brutal partnerships and agreements, e-commerce. ranked among the top academic medical centres of we have been blockade especially as our two countries have There is also a need to facilitate and the world. able to overcome imposed. by the great economic potential to achieve support periodic meetings between difficulties and four siege high-level economic integration. businessmen from the two countries, countries. When it comes to investments, our which will help strengthen the strategic challenges in Qatar However, mutual investments have jumped economic partnership between the two QUOTE OF THE DAY and Turkey. because of our dramatically over the past decade. Our countries. Expo Turkey in Doha is one of solid relations direct investment in Turkey from July the most important initiatives in this based on solid 2002 to July 2017 has reached about field and we hope it will serve as an I view this as a good set foundations, we have been able to $1.5 billion. Today, we have around 121 incentive to create more economic of ideas, a compromise, overcome difficulties and challenges in Qatari companies operating in Turkey opportunities in the future. and a package that Qatar and Turkey, and to continue our in various sectors such as Let me conclude by saying that we both sides (Greece and common path successfully. infrastructure, industry, banking, are very optimistic about the future of Macedonia) should feel Economy is one of the most communication and media technology. economic relations between the two comfortable with and important and fundamental issues for In contrast, there are about 186 countries and we are working hard and our two countries. Almost 13 years ago, Turkish-Qatari companies operating in sincerely so that the results of our efforts lead to a dignified and the volume of trade between Qatar and Doha. Their activities concentrate on are in line with the aspirations and satisfactory solution. Turkey was only about $26 million, infrastructure, contracting, hopes of the two peoples. while in 2016 it reached about $835 construction, engineering and trade. Matthew Nimetz million. This means that we have Turkish companies in Qatar executed (The writer is Qatar’s Ambassador to UN envoy doubled the volume of trade nearly 35 projects worth more than $11.6 billion. Turkey.) THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 OPINION 09 Instilling resilience among students ROBERT CODY ESILIENCE’ country continues in good (ACSDIS), drawing on ACS comfortable moving between might easily be cheer. International’s fifty years of countries and cultures; not confused with From this, we should also experience around the world, simply an industrious worker, ‘Rresistance, or note that resilience is a I strongly agree. Schools and but also readily adaptable to strength. But if enough force learned ability comprising universities have an different approaches to Education in its true sense is applied, even the most several elements. It is a skill important – perhaps essential learning; is deeply familiar is composed in very small resistant entity can be broken. which one can cultivate, – role to play as creators of with the ethos of self-reliance Resilience is different. It is the rather than an innate talent resilience in the next and therefore also capable of part of exams, and in very quality of being able to only granted to a few. generation. trusting in teamwork to large part requires the recover quickly after a Therefore, too, it is a quality If schools in Doha can generate greater and more careful cultivation of each setback or hindrance, to which can be nurtured. educate students to be enduring results than those individual’s unique abilities, If schools in Doha benefit from understan-ding Our Minister of Education resilient, able to tackle life’s which can be achieved alone. it, and then to keep moving and Higher Education, His difficulties with interest and Perhaps most viewpoint, and attitude can educate towards one’s destination. Excellency Dr Mohammed flexibility, then those students importantly, a resilient so that they are confident students to be One of the effects of the bin Abdul Wahed Ali Al will much more successfully student is one who cultivates in building their own and resilient, able recent blockade has been to Hammadi, speaking recently meet the challenges of an the critical analytical skills to others’ success in life. make Qatar more resilient. on self-reliance, quoted the increasingly unpredictable perceive challenges, observe to tackle life’s We have been obliged to Emir His Highness Sheikh and fast-changing world. A what’s important, and work difficulties with re-think our resources and Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani resilient youth helps us feel with those observations of life skills, and the activation of interest and engage more deeply with our as saying that challenges can confident of a future in which towards helping generate a their native qualities of observation, flexibility, then roles and responsibilities as only be overcome through the new generation will new and better situation in problem-solving, and resilience, is citizens of the world. By self-reliance, creativity, continue to find constructive future. Resilience embodies a the heart and soul of good those students consciously adopting an independent thinking, ways forward. Our students ‘growth mindset’ – an education. There is no school will much more attitude of positivity and constructive initiatives, at ACSDIS enjoy the cultural entrepreneurial attitude examination which can prepare a successfully meet constructive response to a focusing on education in all and social advantages of a towards learning which is body of young people to deal the challenges of national challenge, we have fields, and many other values diverse student body boasting opportunistic, innovative, effectively and humanely with the succeeded in devising considered part of sixty-nine nationalities and self-motivating, and kinds of political, social, and an increasingly creative, cooperative educational outcomes. many mother tongues. They persistent. technological surprises which await unpredictable and solutions to immediate As head of Qatar’s well- study a mixed curriculum Importantly, a resilient every human being born in this fast-changing world. problems. After nearly four established ACS Doha comprising International student knows through century. months of blockade, the International School Baccalaureate and American personal experience that Education in its true sense is high school. failures and wrong answers composed in very small part of As H E Dr Mohammed bin are not roadblocks but exams, and in very large part Abdul Wahed Ali Al Hammadi milestones along the road to requires the careful cultivation of pointed out, our mission as real competence. each individual’s unique abilities, educators is to equip our One of the great rewards viewpoint, and attitude so that they children with knowledge and of working in ACSDIS is that are confident in building their own values. These are not so easy we are explicitly tasked with and others’ success in life. Our to impart as information and encouraging lifelong learning students’ mindful and justified rules, yet it is vital to make and enabling achievement as confidence in their own ability to the extra effort necessary to a personal goal. We help our forge a better future is our best do so. students encounter the guarantee that that future can come This is the foundation of challenges of their intellectual about. ACSDIS’s ongoing mission to environment with instil an ethos of self-reliance mindfulness and interest, so The writer is head of school at ACS founded in active learning they can emerge from each Doha International School. and continual development. encounter a little wiser and Our programme is more capable of finding their challenging and highly own path forward. We rewarding, and it enables provide appropriate individuals to achieve success assistance whilst maintaining and fulfillment in life. a student-centred approach What does resilience in a to problem-solving through student look like to us? It partnership, respect, embraces both academic and responsibility, and gentleness D-RING ROAD social buoyancy. A resilient towards self and others. POST BOX: 3488 student is not just able to The unfolding of each DOHA - QATAR speak another language, but individual’s unique repertoire [email protected]

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE THERE are currently 8,000- From time to time, PYD/PKK TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 10,000 terrorists in Afrin pushes the triangular Azaz, Aleppo and FAX: +974 4455 7758 region in Aleppo, near the Jarabulus regions to be effective TTurkish-Syrian border, which against Syrian Turkmen living in those MANAGING EDITOR has been besieged by the PYD/PKK areas. Because of this, civilians in Azaz The mountainous TEL: 4462 7505 terrorists. had to experience mortar shelling from Terrorists are now hiding in Afrin. geography of Afrin DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR shelters and pits in residential areas in poses advantage for the TEL: 4455 7769 Afrin — a region bordering Turkey’s First nest of PYD/PKK terrorist organisation, Hatay and Kilis provinces — after While other Kurdish political despite being besieged by LOCAL NEWS SECTION Turkey pointed out the region was a movements organised themselves TEL: 4455 7743 nest for terrorists. around Haseke region during Hafez opposition forces in Syria SELEN TEMIZER & According to intelligence gathered al-Assad regime between 1971 and from south and east. BUSINESS NEWS SECTION

LEVENT TOK by Anadolu Agency correspondents, 2000, terrorist leader Abdullah Ocalan TEL: 4462 7535 ANATOLIA the population in the region increased chose Afrin. nearly 400 percent, due to migration Many business organisations, Afrin is a region where PYD/PKK SPORT NEWS SECTION which began in 2012. including olive and olive oil businesses, uses Amanos Mountains to sneak TEL: 4455 7745 were established because of PYD/ ammunition and weapons to plot PKK’s capital investments. terrorist actions in Turkey. ONLINE SECTION After Bashar Al Assad left Afrin to The security sources who spoke to TEL: 4462 7501 PYD/PKK without putting up a fight in Anadolu Agency on condition of [email protected] ‘Terror nests’ in 2012, it became a ‘terror nest’ — anonymity say PYD/PKK gathered following Mount Qandil near Iraq-Iran heavy weapons due to Assad regime’s PUBLIC RELATIONS border. hell since October 2015. TEL: 4455 7613 Afrin pose threat The area became a ‘terror nest’ for Turkey will continue to fight [email protected] PYD/PKK, especially during the civil against terrorism along its southern war in Syria. The organisation borders with an operation in the ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT unilaterally declared their government northern Syrian region of Afrin, TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 to Turkey in Afrin, and Amude and Ayn-ul-Arab President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said FAX: 4455 7870 (Kobane) districts in January 2014 on Sunday. [email protected] The 2,290-square-kilometre calling them ‘cantos’. “In the coming days, God willing, (1,422.94-square-miles) area used to No US soldiers are currently in we will continue with Afrin [operation] CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT have 178,000 inhabitants. This number Afrin, while around 100 Russian — that we started first with Euphrates TEL: 4455 7857 rose to nearly 750,000, according to military police are located in Tel Rifat, Shield Operation — to purge terrorism [email protected] local sources. Tel Acar and Kefer Cenne areas. from our southern borders,” Erdogan The eastern part of Afrin comprises The terrorist organisation said in the central Anatolian Tokat SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION of two districts: Tel Rifat — which is continued to become powerful because province. TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 occupied by PYD/PKK terrorist of the Assad regime and Russia’s The Afrin operation will follow FAX: 44557819 From time to time, organization, and Azez — controlled by tactical support in the eastern part of Turkey’s successful seven-month [email protected] PYD/PKK pushes opposition forces, which also control Euphrates River. Operation Euphrates Shield, which Idlib province. ended last March. the triangular The Afrin district is important as it Geographical advantage On Saturday, Turkish security All thoughts and views Azaz, Aleppo and borders Assad regime forces in its forces hit several PYD/PKK targets in for terrorists expressed in these Jarabulus regions to south. the Afrin district of Syria’s Aleppo columns are those of the be effective against It also lies northeast to Idlib and The mountainous geography of province to prevent a “terror Aleppo cities, a stronghold of Afrin poses advantage for the terrorist corridor” from forming along writers, not of the Syrian Turkmen opposition forces. organisation, despite being besieged by Turkey’s borders. newspaper. living in those The opposition forces also control opposition forces in Syria from south The PYD/PKK is the Syrian areas. Because Azaz district, bordering Turkey. and east. offshoot of the PKK, which is listed as All correspondence of this, civilians PYD/PKK targets Azaz district in There are many fruit gardens and a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the order to strengthen their terror olive trees in the area, as well as US and EU. regarding Views and in Azaz had to network to Afrin and Ayn-ul-Arab industrial infrastructure that was Since the PKK launched its terror Opinion pages should be experience mortar districts. established in the 80s and 90s, campaign in 1984, an estimated send to editor-in-chief shelling from Afrin. Therefore, Afrin stands out as a therefore the organisation does not 40,000 people have been killed in training and logistic hub for terrorists. have to depend on other regions. Turkey in related violence.. office or mailed to the [email protected] 10 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 Trump’s Jerusalem policy ‘sinful’: Abbas

AP is that the American Embassy fear and the absence of security “will be moved far faster than and stability, God forbid, if it is CAIRO: The Palestinian presi- what we think ... in the course of not,” Abbas said. “It’s the gate for dent yesterday again blasted the year.” peace and war and President Donald Trump in a fiery and American officials have said Trump must choose between the emotional speech, saying the US it’s unlikely the embassy in Jeru- two.” leader’s decision to recognise salem would open before the end Abbas met Egyptian Presi- contested Jerusalem as Israel’s of Trump’s term in office. dent Abdel-Fattah Al Sissi later capital was “sinful” and “ill- A long-time opponent of vio- yesterday. The Egyptian presi- fated.” lence, Abbas said the Palestin- dential spokesman said el-Sissi Mahmoud Abbas, who has ians “will continue to peacefully reassured Abbas of Egypt’s con- openly cursed Trump over his pursue our demands until we tinued efforts toward the crea- policies, told a conference in win back our rights.” tion of an independent Pales- Egypt that the United States has His comments at a confer- tinian state with east Jerusalem disqualified itself from contin- ence on Jerusalem held in Cairo as its capital. Egypt was the first uing as a broker in the long- came ahead of a weekend visit Arab nation to make peace with stalled Israeli-Palestinian peace to the region by Vice President Israel, in 1979. process, a role America has had Mike Pence, the most senior Jerusalem “is our eternal Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (left), Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed Al Tayeb (centre), for decades. American official to visit the capital, to which we belong, just and Egyptian Coptic Pope Tawadros II attend Azhar’s International Conference in Support of Jerusalem, Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Middle East since Trump’s Jeru- as it belongs to us,” said Abbas. at the Al-Azhar Conference Center, Cairo, yesterday. Minister Benjamin Netanyahu salem decision in December. He also renewed his call on Arabs said yesterday he was certain the Pence will visit Egypt, Jordan and and Muslims to visit Jerusalem, US Embassy in Israel would be Israel, but won’t meet with adding that doing so would not support to the city, amount to the Al Azhar’s grand imam, a year in which we offer moral moved to Jerusalem sometime Palestinians. amount to “normalization” with protection of its holy sites and Sheikh Ahmed Al Tayeb, and material support to the this year, much sooner than The Palestinians want east Israel. “Visiting the prisoner does give support to its (Arab) described Trump’s Jerusalem people of Jerusalem,” he said. Trump administration officials Jerusalem as the capital of their not mean normalization with the residents.” decision as “unjust,” and said it Tayeb and Pope Tawadros have estimated. future state. jailor,” he said. The Cairo conference was must be countered by a revival II, the spiritual leader of Egypt’s Netanyahu told Israeli “Jerusalem will be a gate for “Don’t abandon us,” he organised by Al Azhar, the pri- of awareness of the Palestinian Orthodox Christians, have said reporters traveling with him in peace only if it is Palestine’s cap- pleaded. “Visits by Muslims, mary seat of learning for the struggle. “We want this year, they will not meet with Pence India that his “solid assessment” ital, and it will be a gate of war, Arabs and Christians lend world’s Sunni Muslims. 2018, to be the year of Jerusalem, when he visits Cairo.

Syria talks in 10 dead, many injured in Nigeria suicide attacks Vienna on

AFP Joint Taskforce (CJTF), which “Moments later, the second tered with blood and flesh.” Wednesday’s attacks comes January 25-26 assists the military with security bomber set off her explosives in There was no immediate after Boko Haram jihadists killed KANO: Ten people were killed against Boko Haram. the crowded part of the market. claim of responsibility for the nine people on Monday in two AFP and dozens injured yesterday in Liman initially gave the That was where most of the cas- attack but Boko Haram has separate attacks -- one in the a double suicide-bomb attack in death toll as three but he added: ualties were recorded.” repeatedly used young girls and Ngala area of Borno and the UNITED NATIONS: The the northeast Nigerian city of “Seven more bodies were Liman’s account was sup- women as suicide bombers to second in neighbouring United Nations will host a Maiduguri, a civilian militia brought in from the UMTH (Uni- ported by local resident Dahiru attack civilian “soft targets”. Adamawa. new round of peace talks on leader and a resident said. versity of Maiduguri Teaching Bulama, who said soldiers had IDP camps, including the one The attack in Ngala saw six Syria next week in Vienna, a The blasts happened in the Hospital). cordoned off the area as the at Muna Garage, markets and people shot dead as they col- UN statement said yesterday, Muna Garage area of the Borno “Now the number of injured injured were evacuated to hos- mosques have been hit. Army lected firewood to sell to IDPs. just days before Russia opens state capital, in a market used is 52,” he said. pital for treatment. and CJTF security posts have also Civilians have borne the a conference on ending the mainly by internally displaced “Two under-aged girls, aged “The attack was really bad. been targeted. brunt of the casualties in the war. people (IDPs) from a nearby about 13, struck at the market at The casualty toll could be high. Twelve people were killed on nearly conflict, with at least The January 25-26 talks camp. about 4:10pm (1510 GMT) -- a We were not allowed to go near,” November 15 when four suicide 20,000 killed and more than 2.6 will be followed by a peace “I can confirm that 10 people peak hour. The first bomber set he added. bombers -- two men and two million others made homeless congress in Russia’s Black Sea have died in the attack,” said off her explosives in a sparsely “But I saw one car parked women -- blew themselves up since 2009. resort of Sochi on January 29 Ibrahim Liman, of the Civilian populated part of the market. across the road that was splat- in the Muna area of Maiduguri. and 30 aimed at finding a set- tlement to the nearly seven- year war.

Palestinian teen to remain in Three dead in detention until trial’s end Turkey military REUTERS The soldiers had deployed plane crash during a weekly Palestinian WEST BANK: A 16-year-old protest in the village against Palestinian girl, hailed as a hero Israeli policy on settlements in AFP by Palestinians for hitting and the West Bank, one of the most kicking Israeli soldiers outside heated issues in efforts to ISTANBUL: A Turkish mili- her home, will remain in deten- restart Israeli-Palestinian peace tary transport plane yesterday tion until the end of her trial for talks, frozen since 2014. crashed in southern Anatolia, alleged assault, an Israeli mili- London-based Amnesty claiming the lives of three tary court ruled yesterday. International noted the alter- army personnel on board, the Ahed Tamimi was arrested cation took place on the same Turkish army said. after she was filmed con- day Tamimi’s 15-year-old The plane, carrying two fronting an Israeli officer and a cousin was hit in the head by a pilots and one technician, soldier outside her home in a rubber bullet fired by an Israeli crashed in the southern village in the occupied West soldier. Isparta province, the Turkish Bank on December 15 following Right-wing Israelis have Armed Forces (TSK) said, what Israel says was a stone- debated whether the troops had offering condolences to the throwing assault on its troops. appeared weak by opting not families of “our heroic com- A video of the encounter to strike back. The Israeli army rades” who were killed “as a showed Tamimi slapping an said they acted professionally result of a tragic accident.” officer and punching a soldier by showing restraint. The case next to him in the face. Both has made Tamimi into a potent men, who were also kicked by symbol for Palestinians, and a Caged lives Somalia to probe the teenager, wore helmets and commentator in the Israeli left- evictions of combat gear and tried to deflect wing newspaper Haaretz said Syrian children are seen near a bird cage in a tent camp, built by Prime Minister’s Disaster and her blows, but remained largely Israel risked turning her into Emergency Management Presidency in Suruc district of Sanliurfa, Turkey, yesterday. displaced families passive. the “Palestinian Joan of Arc”. REUTERS

NAIROBI: The Somali government responded to widespread criticism by aid Ethiopia frees prominent opposition leader agencies yesterday, prom- ising to investigate reports AFP Prime Minister Hailemariam everyone equally,” he told the consensus and widen the dem- that thousands of families Desalegn announced earlier this state-affiliated Fana Broadcast ocratic platform.” fleeing drought and conflict ADDIS ABABA: Prominent Ethi- month that Ethiopia would Corporate after his release from Merera was taken into cus- were forcefully evicted from opian opposition leader Merera release an unspecified number a prison outside the capital Addis tody in 2016 shortly after more than 20 informal Gudina (pictured) was freed of jailed “politicians.” Ababa. Merera is among 528 returning from Europe where he camps. from jail yesterday after the The detention of Merera, people Ethiopia’s attorney gen- spoke out at the European Par- The United Nations and government dropped charges chairman of the opposition eral dropped charges against this liament in Brussels about the groups such as the Somalia against him as part of a wider Oromo Federalist Congress week. Most of the others were state of emergency. NGO Consortium say more prisoner amnesty, state media (OFC), had become a cause accused of involvement in ethnic The government, saying he than 4,000 families, or about reported. celebre for members of the clashes in the country’s south. had violated the conditions of the 20,000 people, had their In his first reported com- Oromo ethnic group. In 2015, In an early January press state of emergency, charged him homes bulldozed last month ments after his release, Merera they began months of anti-gov- conference alongside top offi- with a range of offences inside settlements on the out- urged the government to hold ernment demonstrations that cials from the ruling Ethiopian including inciting riots and plot- skirts of the capital of Mogad- “honest negotiations” with polit- spread across Ethiopia, leaving government conducts honest People’s Revolutionary Demo- ting a coup. Rights group ishu. Some aid workers who ical organisations to consolidate hundreds dead and prompting negotiations with political forces cratic Front, Hailemariam Amnesty International wel- witnessed the evictions said a national consensus. parliament to declare a nation- which have widespread support, announced that jailed “politi- comed Merera’s release but uniformed government sol- Merera is the first high-pro- wide state of emergency. in order to create a democratic cians” would be freed “in order called for Ethiopia to free other diers were involved in the file dissident to be freed since “It would be be good if the Ethiopia that incorporates to improve the national “prisoners of conscience”. demolitions. THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 ASIA 11 Competitive bidding sought for Haj travel

IANS The Muslim bodies direction to the government in 2012 to withdraw the subsidy, NEW DELHI: A day after the unanimously said various Muslim organisations Narendra Modi government that the money in the made this demand,” Maulana announced withdrawal of Haj name of Haj subsidy — Usman said. “It was time the subsidy, prominent Muslim that amounted around government implemented it, organisations, including Jamat- and we are sure the cost of e-Islami Hind (JIH), All India Rs200 crore last year travel would come down,” he Muslim Personal Law Board — went to Air India added. (AIMPLB) and Jamiat Ulema-e- only and that Muslim When IANS asked Union Hind, yesterday reiterated their pilgrims did not get Minority Affairs Minister demand for competitive bidding Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi after he among airlines to ferry Haj any direct benefit announced the withdrawal of Malabar Gold opens showroom at Mannarkkad in Kerala pilgrims between Delhi and from it. Haj subsidy on Tuesday, as to Panakkad Sayed Hyderali Shihab Thangal inaugurating the 209th showroom of Malabar Gold and Jeddah. whether with the government Diamonds at Mannarkkad in Kerala in the presence of Mannarkkad MLA, N Shamsudheen; Malabar The Muslim bodies unani- pilgrims. The government must planning to sell its controlling mously said that the money in float a global tender for hiring share in Air India, would it con- Group Chairman, MP Ahammed; Malabar Gold and Diamonds India Operation MD, Asher O; Group the name of Haj subsidy — that an airline for Haj,” he added. tinue to enjoy the monopoly Executive Directors, KP Veerankutty, AK Nishad, Mr Abdul Majeed; Regional Head, Abdul Jaleel R; amounted around Rs200 crore AIMPLB General Secretary over Haj contract, Naqvi said other management officials and well-wishers. last year — went to Air India Maulana Wali Rahmani said he that these modalities will be only and that Muslim pilgrims could not understand why Air “worked out at a later stage”. did not get any direct benefit India charged something Haj 2018 is likely to be cost- from it. between Rs 65,000 to over Rs lier than last year but not JIH Secretary-General one lakh from Indian Haj pil- because of the abolition of Spirit of innovation brings Muhammad Salim Engineer said grims, depending upon the subsidy. the “abrupt” withdrawal of sub- embarkation point, for return The cost is likely to go up sidy “is bound to increase the ticket to Jeddah. thanks to rise in expenses overall cost” of performing Haj “In normal days, the return incurred in Saudi Arabia during India, Israel closer: Modi which will impact many pilgrims ticket to Jeddah from Delhi costs the Haj such as accommodation, from the poor and deprived sec- something around Rs 35,000 to transport, food and the like. IANS to the Indian needs.” He said with a power-breakfast with top tions of society. Rs 40,000. Now, if you book the Notably, the government sub- water conservation, agriculture Indian CEOs and head honchos “A false impression is being tickets three months in advance, sidy did not cover these AHMEDABAD: Innovation has production, storage facilities, plus attending a business forum created that this subsidy was an and in bulk, for close to two lakh expenses and was limited to the played a major role in bringing food processing, less-water of Israeli and Indian business appeasement of the Muslim people, the cost should ideally airfare. India and Israel closer, and farming in deserts and cyber persons. Israeli Prime Minister community and a drag on tax come further down,” Rahmani Haj Committee (HCI) sentiments of mutual develop- security were among the issues Benjamin Netanyahu was payers’ money. But the reality said. Chairman Mehboob Ali Kaiser ment is crucial for a better future where India could partner with present at the event. is that this subsidy was a pay- JUH President Maulana Syed told IANS that it was bargaining of both countries, Prime Minister Israel. Israel Prime Minister “Israel has proved that it is ment taken from the Indian Qari Mohammed Usman, too, hard with Saudi authorities to Narendra Modi said yesterday. Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in people’s dedication and not the Hajis and given to the national was for competitive bidding keep the cost in check but local “Innovation has played a Mumbai from Ahmedabad size of a country that takes it for- carrier Air India, which had a among airlines for ferrying the factors may result in the rise of great role in bringing the people around 6.15pm yesterday on a ward,” Modi said monopoly for ferrying Hajis to pilgrims. Haj expenses this year. of India and Israel closer,” Modi two-day visit, officials said. Modi said: “This kind of Saudi Arabia,” Salim said. “The subsidy was being In 2017, the HCI charged Rs said after the inauguration of Today, Netanyahu will have cooperation and sentiments of “We urge the government to shown as a favour to the Mus- 200,000 for Haj with ordinary iCreate centre here. a packed schedule. He will mutual development are very spell out how it plans to permit lims, which is not true. We have accommodation (Azizia) and Rs “Israel’s technology and cre- interact with the best of both the important for a bright future of other airlines to fly Hajis from been demanding this (open ten- 234,000 for deluxe accommo- ativity influence the entire worlds Mumbai has to offer - both countries.” He added that India given the exorbitant prices dering) for years, and especially dation (Green), which is closer world. Innovators in India can business and glamour. there were enormous opportu- Air India charges Indian after the Supreme Court to the Haram in Mecca. benefit from the areas related His official day will start nities in “waste to wealth” area.

CBSE shifts Physical ‘Padmaavat’ producers move SC against ban Education exam date to April 13 IANS Justice nodded but did not say Haryana are among the states Certification (CBFC) for grant of CBFC,” the court had added. The anything. Mahesh Agrawal was that have announced they will a certificate, nobody holding a top court had earlier rejected a IANS NEW DELHI: The Supreme flanked by senior counsel not let the Sanjay Leela Bhansali responsible position should plea for blocking the release of Court is likely to hear today a Harish Salve, who is likely to directorial hit the screens. It is comment as it would amount to “Padmavati” -- as it was titled NEW DELHI: The Central plea by the producers of argue the petition when it is slated to release on January 25. violation of the principle of the before the CBFC asked its pro- Board of Secondary Educa- “Padmaavat” challenging the listed before the court. In November last year, the rule of law”, the court had said ducer to drop “i” in the title. In tion (CBSE) yesterday shifted ban on the controversial movie “Padmaavat” has been Supreme Court had dismissed on November 28. the past, the top court has not the date for Physical Educa- in Gujarat, Rajasthan and caught in a row over alleged dis- a plea against release of the Taking exception to com- appreciated the banning of the tion exam for class 12 from Haryana. tortion of facts -- a contention movie -- earlier titled “Padma- ments by the political leaders film by the states. April 9 to April 13. When the producers’ over which some Rajput organ- vati” -- outside India. cutting across the political spec- These included Prakash The board cited “admin- counsel Mahesh Agrawal, men- isations including Karni Sena The top court had on trum, the court had said: “When Jha’s “Aarakshan” based on istrative reasons” for the deci- tioned the matter yesterday have demanded a nationwide November 28, 2017 deprecated a matter is pending for consid- caste reservation, “Dam 999” by sion of rescheduling the date before a bench comprising Chief ban on the film. The Central the people discussing the issue eration before CBFC, how can the Tamil Nadu government and of the paper. Justice Dipak Misra, Justice A M. Board of Film Certification had in public and critically com- persons in public authority “Sadda Haq” allegedly for glo- “All other examination Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. approved the film with some menting on “Padmavati”. comment on whether CBFC rifying the extremism and its dates for class 10 and class 12 Chandrachud and sought an modifications in December. “When the matter is pending should issue certificate or not? leader during the turbulent days remain same,” it said in a expeditious hearing, the Chief Rajasthan, Gujarat and before the Central Board of Film It will prejudice the decision of in Punjab in the 1990s note. The board exams for class 12 are scheduled to start from March 5 and will continue till Bangladesh hosts April 13. Aadhaar a over 1m Rohingya giant electronic leash: SC told AFP brigadier general with the Bangladesh army who heads IANS COX’S BAZAR: Bangladesh has the Rohingya registration counted more than a million project. NEW DELHI: The Supreme Rohingya refugees living in The figures are higher than Court yesterday was told that camps near the border with those provided by the UN, Aadhaar was “an electronic Myanmar, higher than previous which estimates there are leash” to which every resident estimates, the head of its regis- 962,000 Rohingya living in of India was tethered, and tration project said yesterday southeast Bangladesh, near the was violative of the Constitu- as preparations for their return Myanmar border. tion as it reduces the recog- got under way. That includes the 655,000 nition of an individual to a The Bangladesh army the UN estimates have entered number. began biometric registering of the country since August 25, R-Day rehearsal Asserting that Aadhaar the refugees last year after the when the Myanmar military Members of Mounted Police take part in a rehearsal for the Republic Day parade on a foggy winter reduces the individual iden- latest mass influx of Rohingya launched a violent crackdown morning in Kolkata, India, yesterday. tity to a numerical, the five- from Myanmar, where the in Rakhine state following judge constitution bench Muslim minority have faced attacks by Rohingya militants. headed by Chief Justice Dipak decades of persecution. Doctors Without Borders Misra was told the “govern- The registration is aimed has said at least 6,700 Rohingya ment has rolled out a little partly at aiding repatriation of Muslims were killed in the first Police shoot dead seven in Rakhine understood programme that the refugees -- a controversial month of the crackdown. seeks to tether every resident issue as most say they do not Refugees in Bangladesh REUTERS township in the northern part of been clamouring for autonomy of India to an electronic want to return. have alleged mass rape and Rakhine to mark the end of the since independence from Britain leash”. Bangladesh says it wants to widespread arson at the hands YANGON: Myanmar police shot Arakan kingdom, the secretary in 1947. Some 4,000 people sur- “If the Aadhaar Act and start sending them home next of soldiers and the Buddhist dead seven demonstrators, of the Rakhine state govern- rounded a government building programme is allowed to week and has reached an ini- majority in Rakhine. while 12 were injured in trou- ment, Tin Maung Swe, told after the annual ceremony operate unimpeded it will tial agreement with Myanmar Some of the refugees have bled Rakhine State, after a local Reuters. marking the demise of the hollow out the Constitution, to complete the process within been living in Bangladesh for gathering celebrating an ancient The violent demonstration Arakan kingdom over 200 years particularly the great rights two years. “So far we’ve regis- many years, but the repatria- Buddhist Arakan kingdom underscores the challenges ago, Tin Maung Swe said. Organ- and liberties it assures to cit- tered 1,004,742 Rohingya. They tion agreement only covers turned violent. facing Myanmar leader Aung izers did not seek approval from izens,” said Divan appearing are given biometric registration those who have arrived since The demonstrators gathered San Suu Kyi in a country where local authorities for the gath- for the petitioners challenging cards,” said Saidur Rahman, a October 2016. late on Tuesday in Mrauk U dozens of ethnic groups have ering, he said. Aadhaar Act. 12 ASIA THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 Afghan refugees to leave Pakistan soon

INTERNEWS “There will be no Joseph Votel, “Pakistan is under- has registered 700,000 undoc- have three parts, including prep- “The return of refugees is not extension after taking multiple actions through umented Afghans during the six aration of lists, identification of possible until peace is restored ISLAMABAD: The stalemate in Operation Raddul Fasaad to deny months long campaign, which refugee hosting areas and how in Afghanistan,” said Malik Abdul the Pakistan-US relations has January 31 and they any residual capacity to terror- began in last August. to send them back. Ghafar Shinwari, member of the brought millions of Afghan (refugees) will have to ists of all hue and colour for Sources in the Safron min- The bad days for Afghan shoora. nationals, including 1.4 million go to their country,” a which return of Afghan refugees istry said the contingency plan nationals, including those He said the elders would registered refugees, into the Safron official said. is an essential prerequisite.” would be framed after consulta- holding the Proof of Registration meet senior officials, politicians spotlight again as the federal Chief Commissioner Refu- tion with the authorities of the cards, began after US President and other stakeholders to seek government has decided to gees Saleem Khan said the rele- four provinces and political Donald Trump’s diatribe against their support for extending stay prepare a contingency plan for after which the federal cabinet vant authorities would prepare leadership. Pakistan on the eve of the New of refugees in the country, adding their return. extended their stay in the country a return plan before putting it up One official said the return Year. The Pakistan-US relations that the situation in Afghanistan A senior official in the State by one month only. to the federal cabinet for of millions of Afghans was not reached the lowest ebb following was not conducive for living a and Frontier Region (Safron) According to the initial plan, approval. an easy task and that it required Trump’s statement. normal life. ministry said that the govern- the Safron ministry had sug- He said the refugee repatri- at least one year. The federal cabinet’s unilat- He said officials of the ment would not give another gested to grant one-year stay to ation plan would be worked out “Under the tripartite agree- eral decision worried Afghan cit- Afghanistan Ministry of Refugees extension to registered refugees registered refugees. after consultation among ment, the government cannot izens and the United Nations and Repatriation were in con- for their stay in the country. The sources said the National stakeholders. force them (refugees) to leave High Commissioner for tact with their counterparts in “There will be no extension Security Committee had made The official estimates show Pakistan,” he insisted. Refugees. Islamabad and a high-level del- after January 31 and they (refu- the decision about not giving that over 2.5 million Afghan The official said the proposed Elders of the refugees in egation would come to Pakistan gees) will have to go to their one-year extension to Afghans. nationals, including 1.4 million contingency plan would provide Peshawar expressed resentment to discuss the issue. country,” he said. Army Chief General Qamar registered refugees, are living in a roadmap for the dignified at it and formed a ‘shoora’ to The UNHCR has also The legal stay of the refugees Javed Bajwa in a recent meeting the country. return of Afghan nationals. begin a campaign to pressure the expressed concern about the expired on December 31, 2017, told Centcom Commander Gen In addition, the government The contingency plan will government for review. cabinet’s decision.

Pakistan toughens cybercrime law INTERNEWS “The cabinet approved granted approval to necessary amendment in the amendments to sections 507 and ISLAMABAD: The federal 509 of the PPC which deal with cabinet of Pakistan yesterday Schedule of FIA threatening any person through approved criminalising certain Act, 1974. After the anonymous communication and offences under cybercrime and amendment, certain harassment, respectively. its related laws that were previ- offences under the Previously, the threats com- ously proceeded against under municated through the internet the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). Pakistan Penal Code were typically categorised under Those include hurling committed through cybercrime and with the threats and harassment through cyber/electronic amendments to the aforemen- any form of electronic commu- means/IT systems tioned sections of the PPC, any nication (in addition to the kind of threats or sexual harass- internet). The approval was would be included in ment by means of using dif- granted during the weekly cab- the Schedule of FIA ferent modes of electronic com- inet meeting presided over by Act, 1974 .” munication including the Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan electronic media, telecommu- Abbasi. nication and other communica- “The cabinet approved IT systems would be included tion tools would fall under the amendment in the Schedule of in the Schedule of FIA Act, 1974,” purview of cybercrime. FIA Act, 1974. After the amend- a statement from the Prime Min- These crimes would be pro- Members of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines hold placards during a protest outside the ment, certain offences under the ister Office said. ceeded against in the light of Presidential Palace, in Metro Manila, yesterday. Pakistan Penal Code committed Official sources privy to the Cybercrime Act and Schedule of Govt orders criminal probe through cyber/electronic means/ issue said that the cabinet FIA Act 1974, the sources said. Pakistani official escapes Police arrest into Philippine news portal suspect in REUTERS operations, despite not owning violations. assassination attempt any shares. “We are going to see if there AP Kasur rape, MANILA: The Philippines’ Rappler is permitted to con- are other laws violated by any- justice department ordered tinue operating pending appeal, body in connection with this KARACHI: Pakistani police say a senior officer known for murder case investigations yesterday into but the SEC decision prompted decision of SEC,” Aguirre told leading raids on militant hideouts escaped assassination when possible criminal liability of outrage among human rights reporters yesterday. a suicide bomber riding on a motorcycle blew himself up near REUTERS Rappler, a news site known for and media groups, which According to a department his vehicle in the port city of Karachi. challenging the government that accused President Rodrigo order seen by Reuters, Aguirre The police say the officer, Rao Anwar, was unhurt in the LAHORE: Pakistani author- has been dubbed a “fake news Duterte of punishing Rappler for also granted the National Bureau attack, which took place late on Tuesday. The bomber had an ities yesterday arrested a outlet” by the country’s contro- its reporting. Duterte has denied of Investigation (NBI) the unknown number of accomplices who opened fire at Anwar’s suspect in the rape and versial president. that and his aides say media authority yesterday to investi- car after the explosion. His guards returned fire, killing two of murder of a 7-year-old girl The Securities and Exchange freedom is not under attack. gate and build a case against the gunmen. that ignited nationwide Commission (SEC) announced on Justice Secretary Vitaliano Rappler “and if evidence war- The police have mounted a hunt for the rest of the attackers. protests and outrage over Monday it had revoked Rappler’s Aguirre said Rappler had clearly rants, to file the appropriate Yesterday, Pakistani Taliban spokesman Mohammad allegations of government licence for violating the consti- broken an anti-dummy law cases against those found liable”. Khurasani claimed responsibility for the attack. inaction, two police officials tution’s restrictions on foreign under existing corporate regu- Rappler’s acting managing The Taliban have been waging a war on the Pakistani gov- said. ownership of media, ruling that lations, so it was necessary for editor, Chay Hofilena, described ernment for years, a conflict that has killed tens of thousands Police found Zainab one of its American investors had it to be thoroughly investigated it as “a fishing expedition, and of people over the last decade. Ansari’s body in a garbage the power to influence its by the department for other pure and simple harassment.” dumpster in Kasur district near the eastern city of Lahore last week, four days after she was reported missing. Military to help fight Malaysian sultan gets Flintstones car Residents of the area have said the murder was the 12th AFP such incident in a year, and health crisis in Papua has fueled fears a serial rapist KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian killer might be on the loose. REUTERS Moeloek said, blaming similar sultan has been given a life-size Two people were killed in previous incidents on several replica of Fred Flintstones’ car Kasur last week when police JAKARTA: Indonesia is factors. from the classic cartoon, fired at hundreds of angry deploying military paramedics “There is a link between the although the modern update has protesters, who said negli- to carry food and vaccines to a malnutrition and (catching) an engine so he won’t tire out gence on the part of the remote part of its easternmost other diseases,” Moeloek added. his regal feet. authorities was behind the province of Papua, where “If you’re undernourished, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan repeated killings. reports say at least 61 infants you will get those diseases.” Iskandar of Johor, one of Malay- The two police officers died from malnutrition and The ministry said it was still sia’s most powerful and wealth- said authorities had arrested diseases such as measles. trying to estimate the number iest state rulers, received the a man who was being treated Papua is one of Indonesia’s of deaths but daily newspaper belated birthday gift from a fellow as a prime suspect, after poorest provinces despite being Kompas on Monday said at least high-ranking royal this week. police had questioned dozens rich in resources and President 61 infants had died. The model of the car from of people in the case. Joko Widodo pledged to speed Many Papuans, who are “The Flintstones”, the sultan’s “Evidence we’re getting its development when he came predominantly Christian and a favourite cartoon, is an accurate leads us to believe that he is to power in 2014. minority in the Muslim- likeness of the original, with a the man,” said one officer, The situation in the remote majority country, criticise the wood-like finish on the sides, A vehicle replicating the Flintstones car given to Sultan Ibrahim who declined to be identified Asmat regency was an “extraor- government in Jakarta for stone-like finish on the wheels Sultan Iskandar of Johor by Pahang's Regent Tengku Abdullah because he was not author- dinary incident”, the health neglecting Papua and instead and cloth roof. Sultan Ahmad Shah is seen in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. ized to disclose investigation ministry said in a statement, being too focused on the It will take pride of place in details. adding that it was sending 39 densely-populated island of a house he built in the southern from the crown prince of along the ground. Shahbaz Sharif, the chief health workers there. Java. coastal town of Mersing inspired Pahang state. But the Facebook post said minister of Punjab province The Indonesian military has The province has also had by the Flintstone’s home from In the Hanna-Barbera ani- that “unlike the original, this visited the town and held a sent 53 personnel including a long-running and sometimes the 1960s cartoon. mated series, which follows the working version of Fred Flint- meeting with officials on the paramedics, besides medical violent separatist movement “Yabba, dabba, doo,” said a lives of Fred and Wilma Flint- stone’s car has its own motor, investigation. equipment, vaccines and 11,100 since it was incorporated into post on the sultan’s Facebook stone and their neighbours the meaning the driver and pas- Sharif has offered a packages of instant food.” Indonesia after a widely criti- page Monday, using Fred’s Rubbles in the Stone Age, the senger won’t have to rely on reward of $90,000 for “We are handling the situ- cized UN-backed referendum favourite catchphrase to wooden and stone cars were their feet to power the prehis- anyone who provides infor- ation,” Health Minister Nila in 1969. announce the arrival of the gift powered by drivers running toric ride”. mation about the killer. THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 EUROPE 13 Britain appoints ‘minister for loneliness’ AFP “For far too many people, people say they are always or Cox, a lawmaker for the opposi- would be saying ‘let’s get to loneliness is the sad reality of often lonely, out of a popula- tion Labour party who was mur- work!’” the Foundation added. LONDON: Britain appointed a modern life,” May said. tion of 65.6 million, according dered by a far-right extremist. The prime minister was to “minister for loneliness” “I want to confront this to the British Red Cross. “Jo experienced and wit- host a reception on Wednesday yesterday to tackle what Prime challenge for our society and The charity describes lone- nessed loneliness throughout to celebrate the legacy left by Minister Theresa May described for all of us to take action to liness and isolation as a “hidden her life especially as a new stu- Cox, whose killing just days as “the sad reality of modern life” address the loneliness endured epidemic” affecting people dent at Cambridge University ahead of the 2016 Brexit refer- affecting millions of people. by the elderly, by carers, by across all ages at various and separated from her sister endum shocked the nation. Tracey Crouch (pictured), those who have lost loved moments in their life, such as Kim for (the) first time,” the Jo Britain’s loneliness initiative a junior minister for sport and ones—people who have no one retirement, bereavement or Cox Foundation wrote on will see a strategy published civil society, will take on the to talk to or share their thoughts separation. Twitter. later this year, with input from role as part of a broader and experiences with,” the The ministerial appointment “She would be delighted by national and local government, strategy to combat loneliness prime minister added. follows a recommendation from Tracey Crouch’s new job as public services, the voluntary in Britain. More than nine million a committee in memory of Jo minister for loneliness and sector and businesses. France, UK to unveil new migrant treaty

AFP “Specific Europe’s migrant crisis by cre- engagements” will ating a huge backflow of PARIS: France and Britain plan also be announced migrants in the area, lured by a to announce today a new treaty belief that it is easier to secure on how to handle the thousands to respond to asylum asylum and work permits in of migrants hoping to cross the and other requests Britain. English Channel from the “within a few days”, A French human rights com- northern French coast, as the the source said. mission in 2015 said the accord two countries look to bolster had made France the “police relations as Brexit looms. branch” of Britain’s immigration The new deal will “amend” Britain and an improvement in policies. the 2003 Le Touquet accord and the situation on the ground on Macron made a renegotia- which effectively put Britain’s the French side,” it added. tion of the Le Touquet deal one border on French soil at Calais, The original Le Touquet text, of his campaign pledges, and which has since become a sore which came into force in Feb- Interior Minister Gerard Col- point in relations between the ruary 2004, implemented joint lomb signalled Tuesday that Romania’s designated Prime Minister Viorica Dancila and Social Democrat Party leader Liviu Dragnea two countries. controls at coastal ports in both Paris would ask Britain to take arrive for a press briefing in Bucharest, yesterday. President Emmanuel countries as Britain, which is not in more refugees from northern Macron and British Prime Min- part of Europe’s Schengen visa- France and increase its funding. ister Theresa May will unveil the free zone, looked to bolster “It’s in their interests that “new treaty” as the French efforts to keep migrants out. things go well,” Collomb said. Romania names new premier leader makes his first official Later changes led to Britain In November, Collomb said visit to London today for a financing some of the controls there were about 300,000 summit meeting. and security operations in undocumented migrants in AFP (PSD), Liviu Dragnea. prime minister, adding that he The details are “still being Calais, just across the English France, and the government Dancila, 54, who is seen as would not make the same “mis- finalised”, a source in the French Channel from its own port in registered a record 100,000 BUCHAREST: Romania’s pres- close to Dragnea, both coming take” this time. presidency said yesterday, but Dover. asylum claims last year. ident named yesterday Viorica from the same region, still has “President Iohannis chose the deal will include measures Migrants hoping to stow The French-British summit, Dancila, a little-known MEP, as to be approved by parliament. stability since provoking a polit- on how to manage unaccompa- away on trucks bound for to be held at the Sandhurst Mil- the EU country’s third prime But this is seen as a formality ical crisis would have been very nied minors, asylum requests Britain have long been drawn to itary Academy south of London, minister in seven months, and with the PSD-led government bad for Romania,” Dragnea said. and family regroupings. France’s northern coast, with will also focus on a series of also its first female premier. holding majority in parliament. Dancila, a former engineer “Specific engagements” will the squalid “Jungle” camp near measures aimed at deepening “After weighing all the argu- Tudose was the second PSD- in the oil and gas sector who is also be announced to respond Calais once housing some military and intelligence coop- ments I have decided to give the appointed premier to go after far from a household name in to asylum and other requests 10,000 people before it was eration, along with cooperation Social Democrats another his predecessor Sorin Grind- Romania, is a “decent, agreeable “within a few days”, the source bulldozed by the government in in other core matters such as cli- chance and to nominate the eanu’s government was torpe- and very competent woman.” said, asking not to be named. late 2016. mate change. person they proposed,” said doed by the party filing a no- Dragnea said that parlia- Britain will also commit to Hundreds of migrants “The British have the same centre-right President Klaus confidence motion last June. ment will convene to vote on a a “major” financial contribution remain in the area, with police determination as us to say, Iohannis, a fierce critic of the Both appeared to have fallen motion of confidence in the new as part of a “reinforcement of routinely breaking up makeshift ‘Brexit is one thing, it’s taking up government. “I hope the new out with Dragnea, 55, who is government on January 29. French-British police coopera- camps of people hoping to head all our energy, but the determi- government will get to work himself barred from public The PSD returned to power tion on border management”, it to Britain, a favoured destina- nation of both sides is to main- quickly to sort things out.” office because of an electoral in December 2016 after a said. tion for Afghans and east tain, develop and cultivate this Late Monday Mihai Tudose fraud conviction, but who still thumping election victory on “Significant results have Africans. partnership” in terms of defence, resigned as prime minister after calls the shots as party head. promises of boosting wages and already been seen, including French officials argue the Le a French government source a power struggle with the head Dragnea said Monday he pensions, but it almost immedi- fewer asylum requests in Great Touquet deal has worsened said. of the ruling Social Democrats had “made two bad choices” for ately hit problems.

Arson attack hits Czech cabinet resigns office of Russian rights group after confidence vote AFP AFP on top in October’s general election, winning 78 seats in the MOSCOW: Two masked men PRAGUE: The minority Czech 200-member parliament. set fire to the office of top cabinet of Andrej Babis resigned In the confidence vote on Russian rights group Memorial yesterday, a day after losing a Tuesday, only the 78 ANO law- in volatile Ingushetia a week confidence vote as lawmakers makers voted in favour of the after the arrest of its director turned their backs on the cabinet comprising ANO mem- in neighbouring Chechnya, the tycoon who is fighting charges bers and unaffiliated technocrats, group said yesterday. of EU subsidy fraud. while 117 deputies were against. Computers and docu- President Milos Zeman, a Potential coalition partners ments were destroyed in the Babis ally who is up for relec- have snubbed Babis, a Slovak- attack, according to a state- tion on January 26-27, has born billionaire, suspicious of ment on Memorial’s website. vowed to give the tycoon a his communist past and recent Memorial said a CCTV second chance to form the cab- police charges over alleged camera recorded the two men inet if he proves he has the nec- fraud. entering its office building at essary backing in parliament. The mogul, dubbed the night in Nazran, in the North “The cabinet has approved “Czech Trump” and whom Caucasus, and throwing can- its resignation and I will ask the Forbes pegs as the second isters into the group’s work Dutch businessman John Fentener van Vlissingen (left) and the director of the Van Gogh Museum Axel president for an appointment wealthiest Czech citizen, has place through an internal Ruger (centre), unveil a new drawing attributed to Van Gogh at the Singer Museum, in Laren, Netherlands. to deliver the resignation in been charged with breaking EU window. person,” Babis told reporters. subsidy rules back in 2007. A footage shows a man in Zeman will receive Babis Babis allegedly pulled the a balaclava using a ladder to this week, said his spokesman Stork Nest farm out of his adjust a security camera on Van Gogh artworks go on display Jiri Ovcacek. sprawling Agrofert chemicals, the building. Under the constitution, the food and media holding in 2007 The group published president has two attempts to to make it eligible for an EU photos of the aftermath of the AP Art Foundation was recently his vibrant oil paintings. decide who will form the gov- subsidy granted to small com- fire, including a photo of a confirmed as a work by the The two artworks entitled ernment, leaving the third and panies, before eventually bottle it believes contained a NETHERLANDS: Two drawings Dutch master based on exten- “The hill of Montmartre with final try to the parliament returning it to the holding. flammable substance. of a hill in Paris have been sive research into its “subject, quarries” (De heuvel van Mont- speaker, who is a member of The 63-year-old premier Last week, Chechnya confirmed as works by Vincent style, technique, materials and martre met steengroeve) and Babis’s ANO (YES) movement. asked parliament to strip him detained the director of the van Gogh and are going on provenance.” “The hill of Montmartre” (De The constitution also allows of immunity, insisting that “no local Memorial branch Oyub display at a Dutch museum. Based on that research, a sim- heuvel van Montmartre), both Babis’s cabinet to continue as a one stole anything, there was Titiyev for drug possession The Van Gogh Museum in ilar drawing in the Van Gogh dating from 1886, are part of an fully-fledged government. no corruption. We live in a that activists say are bogus. Amsterdam said that a year 1886 Museum’s own collection also has exhibition titled “Impressionism Campaigning on an anti- country with bodies that can The case has received inter- drawing of Montmartre owned been confirmed as an original by & Beyond. A Wonderful Journey,” corruption, anti-euro and anti- lead an independent national condemnation. by the Van Vlissingen the Dutch artist most famous for at the Singer Laren Museum. migrant ticket, ANO came out investigation.” 14 AMERICAS THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 Migration tensions roil US Congress

AFP

WASHINGTON: With just two days before the US government runs out of money, and President Donald Trump feuding with Democrats over immigration, Republican congressional leaders were left scrambling yesterday to avoid a federal shut- down. A bipartisan deal on immi- gration that would shield some 700,000 people from deporta- tion lay in tatters after the pres- ident’s reported use of vulgar language during a tense White US House Speaker Paul Ryan (centre) with Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Majority House meeting last week set off Deferred Action for Childhood (DACA) holder is arrested by the leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), addressing reporters in Washington, yesterday. clashes between Trump and key New York Police Department (NYPD) as she and a group of amnesty Democrats. “Dreamer” activists staged a “sit-in” at Senator Chuck Schumer’s poorly a shutdown will reflect on including chief of staff John Kelly Both parties have warned The opposition party has said office, in New York , yesterday. the Republican Party, which con- in a bid to find a permanent solu- that passing a continuing reso- it wants any final budget agree- trols both houses of Congress and tion for the “Dreamers.” lution -- funding government at ment to include a deal protecting Republicans are government down,” the Minne- the White House, just months Trump has made their mis- 2017 rates -- would hurt the mil- the so-called “Dreamers” who angling for a temporary sota lawmaker said. ahead of crucial mid-term elec- sion no easier, taking to Twitter itary as it would not allow for were brought to the country ille- bill that extends But even the Republican tions in November. Tuesday to say “the Democrats extra funding to improve defense gally as children. stop-gap measure could face Ryan insisted he wanted to want to shut down the Govern- readiness. But with a Friday midnight federal spending into opposition from far-right con- resolve the immigration issue ment over Amnesty for all.” Meanwhile, Schumer said deadline looming, Republicans mid-February and servatives in the House. before expiration of the Deferred The Senate’s top Democrat, senators would unveil the text of are angling for a temporary bill re-authorises funding “There is currently not Action for Childhood Arrivals Chuck Schumer, pinned the their bipartisan plan on immi- that extends federal spending enough support for the latest (DACA), a program implemented blame on Republicans, saying gration, the one savaged by into mid-February and re- for a threatened leadership initiative,” con- during the Obama administra- any shutdown would rest on Trump at a White House meeting authorises funding for a threat- children’s health gressman Mark Meadows, tion but rescinded by Trump, on their and “the president’s when he reportedly demanded ened children’s health insurance insurance scheme for chairman of the conservative March 5. shoulders.” to know why the United States scheme for six years -- with no six years -- with no House Freedom Caucus, said. “We want to fix DACA in a Schumer said the latest needed to accept immigrants immigration-related measure Ryan will have to win over balanced way so that we don’t Republican budget bill proposals from “shithole” countries. included. immigration-related key skeptics to get the tempo- have the same problem down the offer no help for fighting opioid The plan aims to address the “I feel that it makes no sense measure included. rary spending bill passed, par- road,” Ryan said, adding that addiction, no extra funding for four issues insisted on by Trump: for Democrats to try and bring ticularly if Democrats unani- “good faith negotiations are veterans or pensioners, and little a reasonable DACA fix; limits to us to a shutdown,” House mously oppose a bill with no underway” between congres- in the realm of boosted defense the green card visa lottery and Speaker Paul Ryan told a press will prevail on this.” agreement to protect the sional leaders from both spending. the family reunification program briefing, seeking to pin the blame Congressman Jason Lewis, a “Dreamers.” parties. Ryan insisted that the House also known as “chain migration;” on the minority as the deadline rank-and-file Republican, made The speaker, one of Trump’s Meanwhile, members of the bill that is coming together would and improved border security. loomed. a more direct pledge. most important lieutenants on Congressional Hispanic Caucus indeed address military Republicans were already “I think cool heads hopefully “We’re not going to shut the Capitol Hill, is well aware of how met with White House officials spending. declaring the deal dead. Former classmate Bannon strikes deal to avoid grand jury testimony faces charges for REUTERS an attorney present during his about Donald Trump Jr, the pres- the attorney who represented appearance, as lawyers are not ident’s eldest son, for meeting Bannon for yesteday’s House death of student WASHINGTON: Former White permitted in grand jury rooms. during the campaign with a Rus- appearance, William Burck, is AP House strategist Steve Bannon Bannon was a close adviser sian lawyer who was said to have not representing him in connec- (pictured) has struck a deal to during Trump’s campaign and damaging information on Dem- tion with Mueller’s investigation. SANTA ANA: A former high be interviewed by US Special in his first months in office, but ocratic candidate Hillary Clinton. The person did not believe school classmate of the Counsel Robert Mueller’s team he was fired from his White Mueller is investigating alle- Bannon had hired a counsel for University of Pennsylvania rather than appearing before a House job in August as the pres- gations that Russia interfered in that yet. student found stabbed and grand jury, CNN reported, citing ident sought to bring more order the 2016 campaign to try to tip Two other Trump associ- buried in a Southern Cali- sources close to Bannon. to his staff operations. the vote in Trump’s favour, as ates, White House Deputy Chief fornia park was charged Bannon had been subpoe- Earlier this month, Trump well as any potential collusion of Staff Rick Dearborn, and yesterday with the murder, naed to testify before a grand attacked Bannon for comments by Trump’s campaign with former campaign manager according to a criminal jury in Mueller’s probe of alleged campaign, according to a person he made to Michael Wolff, the Moscow. Russia denies any Corey Lewandowski, were due complaint. Russian meddling in the 2016 US familiar with the matter. author of a book highly critical attempt to interfere. to appear before the House Samuel Woodward, 20, presidential election and any ties An interview with prosecu- of the president and his family. According to a person panel behind closed doors killed 19-year-old Blaze with President Donald Trump’s tors would allow Bannon to have They included scathing remarks familiar with the arrangement, yesterday. Bernstein with a knife, the complaint said, while Bern- stein was visiting his parents on college’s winter break. Orange County prosecutors Mexico leftist set to win election: Poll Puerto Rico cracks down also filed a so-called REUTERS points from a December poll. formally elect its candidate on enhancement which would Jose Antonio Meade, who is February 18. on minor offences allow them to seek more jail MEXICO CITY: The leftist front- seeking the nomination of the Running second in the survey time for Woodward if he is runner for Mexico’s presidency ruling Institutional Revolu- of 1,000 voters was the conserv- AP homicide reported before dawn convicted. has retained his lead ahead of tionary Party (PRI) for the July ative National Action Party’s in the northern city of Caguas Authorities have said this year’s election while the election, trailed in third place at (PAN) Ricardo Anaya, who heads SAN JUAN: Federal and local where two men were found Bernstein went to the park ruling party hopeful failed to 18.2%, down 1.2 percentage a left-right coalition of opposi- authorities in Puerto Rico said burned to death inside a car. with Woodward on January gain traction during the festive points from the Mitofsky poll last tion parties, polling 20.4%. That that they will implement a Earlier this week, a 20-year- 2. season and slipped back slightly, month. was an improvement of 0.4 “broken windows” policing old university student working His body was found in a a poll showed yesterday. Meade’s lackluster polling points from December. campaign to fight a surge in at a food truck was fatally shot shallow grave at the park a Former Mexico City mayor figures could aggravate grum- Mitofsky said the poll had a killings across the US territory, during a robbery. week later. Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador blings among party members margin of error of 3.1 percentage which has reported 46 homi- No one has been arrested Woodward was arrested of the National Regeneration that the former finance minister points. Worryingly for Meade, cides so far this month - double in any of the killings this month, and told investigators he Movement (MORENA) had 23.6% - who is not a PRI member - is the poll showed that 58.8% of the number at the same point although a handful of arrest became angry after Bernstein support in a survey by polling failing to energize the campaign, respondents said they would last year. warrants have been issued. The kissed him the night they firm Mitofsky for newspaper El and cannot take his nomination never vote for the PRI, up 1.4 “The plan is to crack down cities of Carolina and Caguas went to the park. Economista, up 0.6 percentage for granted. The PRI is due to points from the previous survey. on all types of violations, down are tied for the highest number to minor ones like traffic infrac- of killings at nine, followed by tions and illegal tints on car the capital of San Juan with windows, in an effort to get eight. criminals off the street and pre- Puerto Rico’s homicide rate All of Sao Paulo state vent bigger crimes,” Justice Sec- is roughly 20 killings per retary Wanda Vazquez said. 100,000 residents, compared “We are an island of law with 3.7 per 100,000 residents at risk for yellow fever and order, and we will behave on the US mainland. as such.” The spike in killings comes REUTERS not cause it to change its advi- The “broken windows” phi- amid a widespread power sory that only travelers going to losophy was implemented by outage left by Hurricane Maria BRASILIA: The World Health rural areas need to get then New York City Mayor Rudy and an increase in absences Organization said that the whole vaccinated. Giuliani in the 1990s with the among police officers who are of Sao Paulo state, which Deputy Health Minister idea that cracking down on protesting, among other things, includes Brazil’s largest city, Sao Antonio Carlos Nardi said Car- minor offenses. Critics contend millions of dollars owed in Paulo, should be considered at nival celebrations in February the strategy is not effective and overtime pay this year fol- risk for yellow fever and recom- were in urban areas and that vis- targets minorities. lowing the storm. More than mended foreign travelers get itors would not be at risk if they Nearly all the victims in 2,000 police officers were vaccinated before visiting. stayed in cities. Puerto Rico’s homicide surge calling in sick daily, compared But Brazil’s Health Ministry Nardi said the number of A health agent vaccinates a child during a campaign of immunisation have been young men in their with an average of 600 on a said the WHO recommendation, cases had risen again this year against yellow fever, in Sao Paulo, yesterday. 20s who were shot to death, normal day, forcing dozens of coming just weeks before Car- but that there was no outbreak with police saying they believe police stations to close for hours nival when tens of thousands of of yellow fever in the country. speaking of an outbreak but an in the states of Sao Paulo, Rio de most cases are drug related. The or days at a time during the tourists descend on Brazil, would “We are not at this time increase in the number of cases Janeiro and Bahia.” most recent case was a double holidays. THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018 HOME 15 16 HOME THURSDAY 18 JANUARY 2018

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ZUHR 11.44 am MAGHRIB 05.09pm ASR 02.47 pm ISHA 06.39pm WEATHER TODAY

Kareena walks the ramp Tourists flock to Qatar Bollywood superstar Kareena Kapoor Khan walks the ramp at the Shop TUI Mein Schiff 5 arrived yesterday at Doha Port on its fifth call during the 2017-18 Qatar Bollywood Fashion Show with Vikram Phadnis, yesterday. cruise season carrying more than 3,500 tourists of different nationalities. A view PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA of the cruise from Doha Corniche yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN / THE PENINSULA 173 diverse artworks on display at Katara expos RAYNALD C RIVERA represent the completion of a massive THE PENINSULA joint artwork of the artists. Also launched on Tuesday at DOHA: Art enthusiasts and avid collec- Katara Art Center was “Untitled Faces”, tors will enjoy immersing themselves a solo exhibition featuring 18 paintings in a wide collection of pieces on display by Algerian artist Hamza Bounoua. o o at three exhibitions which recently The artist used different artistic launched at the Cultural Village Foun- techniques to reflect the Arab citizens 15 C 24 C dation- Katara. as they face issues and reach their Minimum Maximum The exhibitions showcase 173 art- dreams and aspirations. works by 14 artists who belong to “I have worked to get from the Hazy to misty/foggy at places at first, be- diverse backgrounds and art schools. human features a mode that reflects comes mild daytime with some clouds The Al Markhiya Gallery at Katara their psychological, cultural and social and cold by night. Art Center opened the ‘12/120’ exhibi- status as well as their feeling of chaos. tion on Tuesday featuring 120 art For example, in one of my paintings, I

HIGH TIDE 06:15 – 17:00 LOW TIDE 13:30 – 23:00 pieces by 12 artists from different focused on the refugees issue where COURTESY: Qatar Meteorology Department nationalities. the frightening features are present but Executed in various styles and also showcases hope and belief in media, the works were a product of change,” explained Bounoua. Anas Ktit (right) of Al Markhiya Gallery shows Katara General Manager Dr. creativity and imagination of Manar Yesterday the ‘Engraving on Wood’ Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti (left) and other guests the variety of art pieces Al-Muftah and Salman Al-Malik from exhibition by Qatari artist Abdelaziz on display at ‘12/120’ exhibition which opened on Tuesday at Al Markhiya Qatar; Jamal Abdul Rahim from Bah- Al-Kuwari opened at Building 19. Gallery at Katara Art Center. rain; Leila Shawa and Mohammad Al- The exhibition includes 35 pieces Wahibi from Palestine; Bachir which embody outstanding craftsman- The exhibition highlights the aes- nature. All three exhibitions were Mohammed, Edwar Shahda and Fateh ship inspired by Qatari heritage. The thetics of sculpture and wood inaugurated by Katara General Man- Moudarres from Syria; Mohammed artist utilised high quality wood from engraving. The wood engraving is con- ager Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti Quraish from Iraq; Amr Kafrawy from Germany, the US, Africa, and India in sidered one of the oldest arts in his- in the presence of the artists and Egypt; Hamza Bounoua from Algeria creating the pieces of different sizes tory, which was famous in the past as Doha’s art community. and Meshail Faisal from Kuwait. ranging between the exterior doors of they were used to decorate buildings ‘Untitled Faces’ will continue until The artists delved into various the Qatari houses, the clothing and jew- and homes, in addition to the Mosques February 17, the ‘12/120’ is scheduled topics such as childhood, the past and elry boxes, as well as the furniture pieces and the Holy Quran, boxes and wooden until the end of February and the psychological changes that people that were used in the palaces and houses door frames, adorned with geometric ‘Engraving on Wood’ runs until Jan- go through in life. The artworks of former rulers and dignitaries in Qatar. decorations and other shapes from uary 30.